Cold Start:
Headlights/Horn Functionality:
Launched in 1983, Honda’s XL600R was a hit with buyers much like the 500R before it. Sold for many years until finally being replaced by the long running 650L, the street-biased big thumper from Honda gave lots of riders a bike that not only could perform well both on and off the road but also had the looks of a motocrosser that many people desired. Usually adorned in Honda red, this 1987 was an offering of the classic red, white, and blue scheme that has been a mainstay for many Honda models over the years. In addition to the tricolor paint, silver fork lowers, wheels, and swingarm rounded out the package along with an engine painted in red.
The XL600R featured a 589cc, 45 horsepower engine – Cycle World claimed they were able to hit 103 miles per hour with it. The XL shared many components with the off-road oriented XR bike, like the frame, brakes, Pro-Link rear suspension, Showa forks, skid plate, and more. The twin carbed RFVC radial valve air cooled engine could be difficult to start if you were not aware of the correct procedure, but it was bulletproof and easy to maintain.
A 5 speed transmission helped the bike during highway stints and the big XL could return over 45 mpg which made it a good commuter. A testament to Honda engineering is the fact that so many of these 1980’s era XLs are still on the road and in use today, clean ones are hard to find since many saw offroad duty, but Honda loyalists have managed to keep some very nice examples both in and out of collections over the years.
This example is VIN: JH2PD0317HK401110, Engine #: PD03E-5402931.
The odometer shows 26,361 miles.
Maintenance:
“Valve adjustment, oil and filter changes, new air filter, new spark plug, new chain, new sprockets, forks inspected (found to be in good condition), cleaned carbs, new throttle cable, new gaskets. Most of the above work performed by Honda of Glendale (CA), using OEM parts when available. Also installed new grips, new bars, and tires (Dunlop D606, front and rear).”
Modifications:
Renthal handlerbars, Renthal bar pad.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop D606 tires with date codes of 3019 and 3319.
The sale includes two keys, the tool box, tool kit, pegs, and owner’s manual.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Los Angeles, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration current through April 2025. Have any XL600R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
