The 1987 Honda XR250R is a dual-sport motorcycle featuring a 249cc air-cooled four-stroke engine, 5-speed transmission, front disc brake, rear drum brake, electric start, and dual-purpose tires. This manual covers operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for proper care and optimal performance of your XR250R.
Key components: 249cc air-cooled four-stroke engine, 5-speed transmission, front disc brake, rear drum brake, electric start system, dual-purpose tires.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 249cc air-cooled four-stroke single cylinder |
| Transmission | 5-speed constant mesh |
| Starting System | Electric start with kick start backup |
| Front Brake | Hydraulic disc brake |
| Rear Brake | Mechanical drum brake |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.4 gallons (9.1 liters) |
| Seat Height | 34.6 inches (880mm) |
| Dry Weight | 249 lbs (113 kg) |
| Tire Size Front | 3.00-21 |
| Tire Size Rear | 4.60-18 |
Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble handlebars, controls, and accessories.
WARNING! Motorcycle is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure all fasteners are torqued to specification.
Prepare motorcycle for initial operation.
CAUTION! Always wear proper protective gear when operating motorcycle.
Familiarize yourself with all controls before riding.
Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, horn button, high/low beam switch, turn signal switch, engine kill switch.
Right Handlebar: Front brake lever, throttle grip, electric start button, headlight switch.
Instrument Cluster: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators.
Foot Controls: Gear shift lever (left), rear brake pedal (right), kick start lever (left).
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
| Service Item | Every 600 mi | Every 2,400 mi | Every 4,800 mi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil change | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Oil filter replacement | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Air filter cleaning | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Spark plug replacement | ✓ | ||
| Valve clearance check | ✓ | ||
| Chain adjustment | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake inspection | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Proper engine maintenance is critical for performance.
WARNING! Engine components get extremely hot; allow to cool before servicing.
12-volt DC system with battery and charging system.
CAUTION! Disconnect battery before performing electrical work to prevent shorts.
Proper cleaning maintains appearance and prevents corrosion.
CAUTION! Avoid high-pressure water near bearings and seals. Do not direct water at air intake or electrical components.
This motorcycle meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for 1987 model year. Designed for on-road and off-road use where permitted by law. Always obey local traffic laws and wear approved safety equipment. Honda and XR are registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. For technical support, contact authorized Honda dealership or Honda Customer Relations.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Fuel, spark, or compression issue | Check fuel valve, spark plug, compression; use choke when cold |
| Poor performance | Dirty air filter, clogged carb | Clean air filter and carburetor; check spark plug condition |
| Hard shifting | Low oil, worn clutch | Check oil level; adjust clutch cable; inspect clutch plates |
| Electrical failure | Battery, fuse, or wiring | Check battery voltage, main fuse, and wiring connections |
| Brake issues | Worn pads, air in lines | Inspect brake pads; bleed hydraulic system if spongy |
| Chain noise | Loose or dry chain | Adjust chain tension; clean and lubricate chain |
Service: Contact authorized Honda dealership for major repairs.
Parts: Use only genuine Honda parts for optimal performance and safety.