In the 1950s and 60s, lightweight two-strokes from the likes of Bultaco, CZ, and other European manufacturers dominated the dirt market. The svelte frames and throaty power output made them ideal choices for riders wanting to leave the beaten path. Before too long, Japan took notice of the trend — Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha all introduced their own competitors before the turn of the decade.
Honda, being a steadfast supporter of its four-stroke powerplants, had stuck with models such as the CL77 and the XL250. By the 1970s, however, the Big Red decided it was high-time to cash in on the two-stroke craze. The CR250M Elsinore arrived in 1973, a dedicated motocross machine built for the sole purpose of going fast on the track. Then, just a year later, Honda introduced the MT250.
In contrast to its racier sibling, the MT was intended to be an approachable, dual-purpose trail bike. Accordingly, Honda outfitted it with the front suspension and hubs from the XL250, beefed up the frame with sturdier steel, swapped out the CR’s aluminum gas tank for one made of steel, and affixed a set of plastic body panels. Of course, the MT250 also incorporated enduro-specific running gear like lights, turn signals, gauges, and even a horn.
Manufactured in October 1974, this example is VIN: MT2502004694.
The odometer shows 4,121 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. We fitted a new chain and both the front and rear sprockets.
Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: FAIL
Engine Oil Level: OK
Engine Oil Quality: OK
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: New Chain
Headlight High Beam: OK
Headlight Low Beam: N/A
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: OK
Tail Light: OK
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): OK (Only)
Plate Light: OK (Tail)
Horn: N/A
Kill Switch: OK
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: DRUM
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: DRUM
Forks: OK
Shock/s: OK
Tire Date Code Front: 1717
Tire Date Code Rear: 1415
Tire % Remaining Front: 99%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 99%
Tire Press. Front: 23
Tire Press. Rear: 6
Battery Standing Voltage: 6.05
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM:
Running Condition: Ran on Bottle
Test Ride Completed: N/A
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Modifications:
The bike appears to be OEM with no modifications.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Continental TKC 70 tires with date codes of 1415 and 4717.
The sale includes three ignition keys and two steering lock keys.
Original owners manual.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration current through May 2026.
Do you have any MT250 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
