1987 Honda XR250R Manual

The 1987 Honda XR250R is a four-stroke, single-cylinder dual-sport motorcycle featuring a 249cc air-cooled engine, 5-speed transmission, front and rear drum brakes, and dual-purpose tires. This manual covers essential information for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and technical data.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Operation Guidelines 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Basic Troubleshooting 8. Storage Recommendations 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: 249cc four-stroke engine, 5-speed transmission, dual-purpose tires, front and rear drum brakes, kick starter.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	4-stroke, air-cooled, single cylinder OHC
Displacement	249cc
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Starting System	Kick starter
Brakes	Front and rear drum
Fuel Capacity	2.4 gallons
Suspension	Telescopic front fork, swingarm rear
Tires	Dual-purpose 3.00-21 front, 4.60-18 rear
Weight	262 lbs (dry)
Seat Height	34.6 inches

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform these checks before riding.

Check fuel level: Ensure adequate fuel for planned ride.
Inspect tires: Check pressure and condition for wear/damage.
Test brakes: Verify front and rear brake operation.
Check controls: Ensure throttle, clutch, and brake levers function properly.
Verify lights: Test headlight, taillight, and turn signals.
Check chain: Inspect tension and lubrication.

WARNING! Never ride without proper safety gear including helmet, gloves, and protective clothing.

Operation Guidelines

Starting and riding procedures for optimal performance.

Starting procedure: Turn fuel valve ON, set choke for cold starts, kick start firmly.
Warm-up: Allow engine to warm for 2-3 minutes before riding.
Shifting: Use clutch smoothly when changing gears.
Braking: Apply both brakes evenly for controlled stopping.
Off-road riding: Adjust riding style for terrain conditions.

CAUTION! Avoid high RPM during break-in period (first 500 miles).

Specifications

Engine: 249cc 4-stroke single cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 73.0 x 59.5mm
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Carburetor: Keihin PD61A
Ignition: CDI
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Frame: Semi-double cradle steel
Ground Clearance: 11.6 inches
Fuel System: Gravity feed

Controls and Instruments

Main controls located on handlebars and nearby areas.

Right Handlebar: Throttle control, front brake lever, engine stop switch

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, light switch, horn button

Instruments: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator light

Foot Controls: Gear shift lever (left), rear brake pedal (right)

Other Controls: Kick starter, fuel valve, choke lever

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Service Item	Every 600 mi	Every 2,400 mi	Every 4,800 mi
Engine oil change	✓	✓	✓
Oil filter cleaning		✓	✓
Air filter cleaning	✓	✓	✓
Spark plug inspection		✓	✓
Valve clearance check			✓
Chain adjustment	✓	✓	✓
Brake inspection	✓	✓	✓

Basic Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel valve, spark plug, and kick start technique
Poor performance	Dirty air filter or carburetor	Clean air filter and carburetor jets
Hard shifting	Clutch adjustment or oil level	Adjust clutch cable and check oil level
Brakes weak	Worn pads or contaminated drums	Inspect brake pads and clean brake drums
Chain noise	Loose or dry chain	Adjust chain tension and lubricate

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage procedures for extended periods.

Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer or drain carburetor and tank
Battery: Remove and store in cool, dry place
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure and elevate off ground
Engine: Change oil and run engine briefly to circulate
Exterior: Clean thoroughly and apply protective coating

Tip: Store in dry, covered area away from direct sunlight.

Safety Information

Essential safety guidelines for all riders.

Always wear DOT-approved helmet and protective gear
Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs
Follow all traffic laws and regulations
Maintain safe speed for conditions
Keep both hands on handlebars while riding
Regularly inspect motorcycle before each ride
Take safety training course for proper riding techniques

Warranty & Support

Honda limited warranty coverage and support information.

Standard warranty: 12 months unlimited mileage from date of purchase. Coverage excludes normal wear items, improper maintenance, and accidents. For technical support, contact authorized Honda dealership or Honda Customer Relations at 1-800-999-1009. Always use genuine Honda parts for maintenance and repairs.