1987 Honda TRX 250 Manual

The 1987 Honda TRX 250 is a four-wheel all-terrain vehicle featuring a 246cc four-stroke engine, electric start, shaft drive, front and rear suspension, front and rear hydraulic drum brakes, automatic clutch, and reverse gear. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for proper use and care of your ATV.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Assembly 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Maintenance 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 246cc OHC four-stroke engine, electric starter, shaft drive system, front and rear suspension, hydraulic drum brakes.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	246cc air-cooled 4-stroke OHC single cylinder
Starting System	Electric starter with backup recoil
Drive System	Shaft drive with reverse gear
Suspension	Front: Independent double wishbone, Rear: Swingarm
Brakes	Front and rear hydraulic drum brakes
Transmission	5-speed with automatic clutch
Fuel Capacity	2.6 gallons (9.8 liters)
Weight	386 lbs (175 kg)
Tires	Front: 22x7-10, Rear: 22x10-9
Dimensions	Length: 71.7 in, Width: 42.5 in, Height: 42.1 in

Installation & Assembly

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble following these steps:

Install handlebars: Position and tighten clamp bolts to specification.
Install front wheels: Mount tires and secure with lug nuts.
Install battery: Connect positive then negative terminals.
Add fluids: Engine oil and coolant as specified.
Check all fasteners: Ensure proper torque on all bolts.

WARNING! ATV is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Ensure all connections are secure before operation.

First-Time Operation

Before first ride, complete these steps:

Pre-ride inspection: Check tires, brakes, controls, and fluids.
Fuel up: Use unleaded gasoline with octane rating of 86 or higher.
Start engine: Turn key to ON, set choke, press start button.
Warm up: Allow engine to reach operating temperature.
Test controls: Verify brakes, throttle, and steering function properly.

CAUTION! Always wear approved helmet and protective gear. Never operate on public roads.

Specifications

Engine: 246cc 4-stroke OHC single cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 74.0mm x 57.8mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Carburetor: 26mm piston valve
Ignition: CDI electronic ignition
Transmission: 5-speed with automatic clutch
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension Travel: Front: 5.9 in, Rear: 6.7 in
Ground Clearance: 7.1 inches
Fuel Consumption: Approximately 30 mpg

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Handlebar controls, foot pedals, instrument panel.

Handlebar Controls: Throttle, front brake lever, ignition switch, light switch, starter button, choke lever.

Foot Controls: Rear brake pedal, gear shift lever.

Operation: Turn key to start position, set choke for cold starts, press starter button. Use gear shift for forward/reverse. Apply brakes gradually. Use lights for visibility.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Service Item	Every 100 mi	Every 500 mi	Every 1000 mi
Engine Oil	Check	Change	Change
Oil Filter	-	Replace	Replace
Air Filter	Clean	Replace	Replace
Spark Plug	Check	Replace	Replace
Brake Fluid	Check	Change	Change
Tire Pressure	Check	Check	Check
Drive Shaft	Lubricate	Lubricate	Lubricate

Engine Maintenance

Proper engine care ensures reliable performance.

Oil Change: Drain old oil, replace filter, refill with 10W-40 motorcycle oil.
Air Filter: Clean foam element in solvent, re-oil with air filter oil.
Spark Plug: Clean and gap to 0.6-0.7mm, replace if worn.
Valve Clearance: Check and adjust every 1000 miles.
Cooling System: Check coolant level, inspect for leaks.

WARNING! Engine parts are hot during and after operation. Allow to cool before maintenance.

Safety Features

Key safety systems: Brake light, neutral safety switch, engine cut-off switch.

Safety Equipment: Always wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots.

Operating Guidelines: Never carry passengers, avoid paved surfaces, ride only in designated areas, never operate under influence of drugs/alcohol.

Care & Storage

Clean after each use with mild soap and water. Dry thoroughly.

Storage Preparation: Fill fuel tank, add fuel stabilizer, change oil, remove battery, inflate tires to maximum pressure, store in dry location.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure spray; avoid direct water contact with electrical components.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured by Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Meets EPA emissions standards for off-road vehicles. Copyright © 1987 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. For technical support, contact authorized Honda dealership or American Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug, battery charge, choke position
Poor performance	Air filter, carburetor	Clean air filter, check carburetor settings, fuel quality
Brakes weak	Fluid, pads	Check brake fluid level, inspect brake pads for wear
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Test battery voltage, check all electrical connections
Overheating	Coolant, airflow	Check coolant level, clean radiator fins, ensure proper airflow

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for major repairs.

Support: 1-800-999-1009; www.honda.com