Cold Start Video:
Riding Video:
Sold in the US for three years, the Honda VTR250 has become a cult classic for riders that love small bikes. The liquid cooled 250cc engine was good for a claimed 26 horsepower and it was paired with a six-speed transmission. As Cycle World emphasized in their review: “Let’s get one thing straight right from the start. Honda’s VTR250 is not a beginner’s bike. It’s a full-sized, technologically sophisticated motorcycle designed to be unintimidating and easy to ride. And though those characteristics will help novices and beginners appreciate the machine, experienced riders will find the VTR a blast to ride. too.”
If you want something different than the usual Ninja 250/300, this is truly a great small displacement all-arounder. You could attain 90 mpg if you babied it, but still get 90+ mph if you needed it. Cycle World continues, “as much as the amount, it’s the kind of power, and the sound of the engine, that makes the VTR so much fun. The lumpity-lump feel that the V-Twin produces makes the engine seem larger than it is, and while the motor throbs in its lower registers. its power pulses are, for the most part smooth, with little vibration to tingle the rider. Also, the exhaust note, while quiet. is of a pleasant tone, sounding vaguely like the V-Four Superbikes Honda campaigned several years ago.”
Manufactured in September 1989, this example is VIN: JH2MC1518LM200242. The seller acquired it eight months ago from a private party on Craigslist.
The odometer shows 4,450 miles. During his ownership, the seller has covered 0.8 miles. “The tires are really old and cracked. Although I did provide a short riding video to confirm that the bike can move itself and shift for the next owner.”
“I bought this bike locally off of CL. I mainly bought it for the bodywork to resell figuring the engine would be seized or wiring chewed through. After some diagnosing and cleaning it proved to be recoverable. Time to prove my limited capabilities! The bike was not supposed to be a rebuild, but once I found cylinder movement and compression I knew it was worth saving from the scrap yard. It was unexpected project bike, that has some nostalgia as I got my moto license on the same kind of bike. I just prefer larger displacement motos. I believe with a minimal amount of new parts and elbow grease you could ride before the summer is over.”
Maintenance:
“Oil/filter change
Coolant flush
Carbs have been completely cleaned/rebuilt and leak tested.
Adjusted valves, painted and re-sealed valve covers.
Inspected, painted and re-sealed clutch cover.
Performed compression test (see photos).
Forks have been rebuilt with new seals. Bushings look great.
Turn signals have been swapped, keeping the standard bulb in newer shells (the old ones were rotted).
Fuel tank was internally cleaned and externally powder coated. I recommend professionally sealing the inside. I did repair the underside of the tank and add heat shielding to protect the repair.
Fuel hoses and o-rings have been replaced.
Aftermarket petcock with 3D printed petcock lever installed.
Inspected water pump, changed o-ring.
Rebuilt front caliper. Front pads have plenty of life.
Flushed front break line. I highly recommend replacing the original brake line for a SS.
Detailed cleaning and lube of mechanical levers.
Chain is original but without kinks (rolls smoothly).
Adjusted rear drum brake.
Adjusted tire pressures, but the bike will need tires immediately.
New battery AGM installed with battery tender leads.”
Mechanical Issues:
“The bike needs tires, front brake line, possible master cylinder seal kit, and recommend professionally sealing the fuel tank. Also recommend a new air filter.”
Modifications:
“Bike is original except for the new battery and repaint of fuel tank.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Cheng Shin tires that have aged out.
The sale includes 1 ignition key and 1 helmet lock key.
“I am including a bunch of spare parts including a much nicer frame (with some title paperwork) if you want to show the bike or take it to the next level for your collection.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Some scratches on bodywork. All tabs and bungs appear to be present on each panel. Frame has rust present. Wheels have weathering. I don’t believe the bike has been wrecked as the cases, exhaust, and handle bars are undamaged. Bodywork is also very good shape.”
Currently located in Morro Bay, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration that expired in March 1999.
The California DMV website estimates that it would cost $158 to make registration current through March 2027.
Have any VTR250 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
