In the early 1970s, Honda separated itself from its competitors and became the world’s largest motorcycle company relying on the strength of its four-stroke engines. But in the US, two-stroke motorcycles still ruled, so Honda responded with two-stroke Elsinores in 125cc and 250cc displacements. The 250 Elsinore was immediately used by Honda`s team rider Gary Jones to win the AMA 250 national championship, followed a year later by Marty Smith on the CR125.
In a period review, Cycle News said: “the CR125M is so uncompromised that in execution, it actually exceeds the 250 Elsinore. While the motor is like a mini-Elsinore, the chassis components are different and designed specifically for the 125. In the end, the lessons learned, and the weight saved through careful design have produced a bike that decidedly out-handles the 250 Elsinore…”
Manufactured in July 1973, this example is VIN: CR125M1007946. The seller acquired it in 2010 as part of a package deal of 3 Honda CR motorcycles.
The seller has not ridden the bike during his ownership. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
“It is not a perfect restoration piece. It is very nice. It starts and runs good. It shows very nice. It would be a rider as is…it would make a good vintage race bike or would be a very good base for a 100% restoration as all the hard to find parts are there.”
Maintenance:
“In the last 30 days, the carb cleaned, air filter replaced, transmission oil changed, front tube replaced.”
Mechanical Issues:
“Typical early CR125’s the kick start does not engage every time. Fork seals are leaking slightly.”
Modifications:
“It is all original with the exception of the “Air Caps” on the forks.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop/Cheng Shin tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“This is an older restoration. The paint work on the frame has some dry spots under the tank (hardly noticeable). The gas tank has a couple small marks visible in the photos. The Green color on the tank is not the correct color green to be period correct.
The hubs have some missing paint.
The restoration was good but it is not a 100 point perfect show bike. But very nice.”
Currently located in Butte, Montana, this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Elsinore CR125M stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
