Please note: VIN Data incorrectly describes this as a 2018, this is because the tenth digit in the VIN is repeated every 30 years.
The roots of Honda’s XL185S trace back to the street-oriented “Scrambler” designs of the late 1960s, which gradually transitioned into true dual-sport off-roaders with the introduction of the SL series. Recognizing the need for lightweight, versatile bikes capable of both city streets and rugged trails, Honda launched the XL series in the 1970s, starting with popular models like the XL175. Introduced in 1979 as the direct evolutionary successor to the XL175, the XL185S refined the platform by trimming weight, expanding displacement, and introducing a single-cylinder design that set the standard for mid-range dual-sports.
At the heart of the XL185S is an air-cooled 180cc, four-stroke, single paired with a five-speed transmission. Fuel is delivered through a single 24mm Keihin carburetor, generating roughly 16 horsepower. The motor is equipped with an automatic decompression mechanism linked directly to the kickstarter, eliminating the typical kick-back..
The engine comes housed in a semi-double cradle frame fitted with long-travel air-assisted Showa forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Rolling on a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, the XL185S boasts excellent ground clearance. Thanks to its roughly 240-pound dry weight, the Honda offers a top speed of almost 70mph.
What made the 1983 XL185S unique was its balance of durability, accessible lightweight handling, and street-legal practicality. It perfected Honda’s “do-it-all” philosophy, offering ample dependability, commuter-friendly fuel economy, and genuine off-road capability in one machine.
This example is VIN: JH2MD0211DK400372.
The odometer shows 5,601 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection, our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok (Age Unknown)
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Worn
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: Drum, Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: Drum, Ok
Forks: Slight weep
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 25/17
Tire Date Code Rear: 40/19
Tire % Remaining Front: 80%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 80%
Tire Press. Front: 23 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 28 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 6.2V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 6.8V
Running Condition: Ok, runs on bench
Test Ride Completed: Yes
Test Ride Distance: 2 miles, unit operates as designed
-Side cover zip tied on
-Chain guard broken off at the welds of the swingarm
-Front and Rear Tire are aged
-Clutch cable has internal drag, it should be replaced
-2.75-21
-4.10-18
-New Yuasa battery
-Carb serviced
-New clutch cable
-Tires (aged)
-Repair Chain Guard
Modifications:
ProTaper grips.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko Trial tires with date codes of 2517 and 4019.
The sale includes 1 ignition key.
The sale also includes a small number of spares.
Cosmetic condition
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean California title.
Per the California DMV website, it would cost $165 to make registration current through August 2027.
Have any Honda XL stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
