1986 Honda TRX250R Manual

The 1986 Honda TRX250R is a high-performance sport ATV featuring a liquid-cooled 246cc two-stroke engine, 5-speed transmission with manual clutch, Pro-Link rear suspension, front dual A-arms, front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, and aggressive sport tires. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Service 8. Suspension Adjustment 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Liquid-cooled 246cc two-stroke engine, manual 5-speed transmission, Pro-Link rear suspension, front dual A-arms, hydraulic disc brakes.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type246cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single
Transmission5-speed manual with wet multi-plate clutch
Front SuspensionDual A-arms with 7.1 inches travel
Rear SuspensionPro-Link single shock with 8.1 inches travel
Front BrakesDual hydraulic disc
Rear BrakesHydraulic disc
Fuel Capacity2.6 gallons
Dry Weight324 pounds
Tire Size Front22x7-10
Tire Size Rear20x10-9

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform pre-ride inspection for safety.

  1. Check fuel level and fuel/oil mixture (32:1 ratio recommended)
  2. Inspect tires for proper pressure and damage
  3. Test brakes and throttle operation
  4. Check chain tension and lubrication
  5. Verify all lights and controls function properly

WARNING! Never operate without proper safety gear including helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.

Basic Operation

Starting procedure and basic riding instructions.

  1. Turn fuel valve to ON position
  2. Pull choke knob for cold starts
  3. Shift to neutral, pull clutch lever, press start button
  4. Allow brief warm-up period before riding
  5. Use clutch for smooth gear changes
  6. Gradually apply throttle and brakes

CAUTION! This is a high-performance machine. Always ride within your skill level and obey local laws.

Specifications

Controls and Instruments

Handlebar controls and instrument functions.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, choke knob, lighting switch, horn button

Right Handlebar: Front brake lever, throttle, engine stop switch, start button

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, neutral indicator, high beam indicator

Foot Controls: Gear shift lever, rear brake pedal

Fuel Valve: Three positions (ON, RES, OFF)

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Service ItemEvery 6 monthsEvery 12 months
Engine oil change
Air filter cleaning
Spark plug replacement
Brake fluid change
Chain adjustment
Wheel bearing inspection
Suspension inspection

Engine Service

Basic engine maintenance procedures.

  1. Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace with 1.6 quarts 10W-40
  2. Spark Plug: NGK BR8ES, gap 0.024-0.028 inches
  3. Air Filter: Clean with solvent, oil with foam filter oil
  4. Carburetor: Clean jets and passages, adjust idle speed 1300±100 rpm
  5. Cylinder: Check compression (120-150 psi normal)

WARNING! Engine components get extremely hot. Allow proper cooling before servicing.

Suspension Adjustment

Adjusting suspension for riding conditions.

  1. Preload Adjustment: Rear shock has 5 positions for rider weight
  2. Damping Adjustment: Compression and rebound adjustable on rear shock
  3. Front Suspension: Preload adjustable via collar rings
  4. Ride Height: Adjust via preload settings front and rear

Tip: Softer settings for rough terrain, firmer for high-speed operation.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage procedures for extended periods.

  1. Add fuel stabilizer to full tank
  2. Drain carburetor float bowl
  3. Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil, crank engine
  4. Clean entire machine thoroughly
  5. Inflate tires to maximum pressure
  6. Store in dry, covered location

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor as it will varnish and clog jets.

Safety Information

Important safety warnings and precautions.

Always wear approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots. Never carry passengers. Avoid paved surfaces - this machine is designed for off-road use only. Never operate under influence of drugs or alcohol. Ride only in designated areas. Complete approved training course. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. This machine is for experienced riders only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hard startingFouled plug, stale fuelReplace spark plug, drain old fuel mix
Poor performanceClogged air filter, carb issuesClean air filter, service carburetor
OverheatingLow coolant, lean mixtureCheck coolant level, adjust carburetion
Chain noiseImproper tension, lack of lubeAdjust chain slack to 1.2-1.6 inches, lubricate
Brake fadeContaminated pads, air in systemReplace pads, bleed brakes
Transmission issuesLow oil, worn clutchCheck oil level, inspect clutch plates

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for major repairs

Parts: Use only genuine Honda parts for optimal performance

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