1988 Honda NX 250 Owners Manual

The 1988 Honda NX 250 is a dual-sport motorcycle featuring a 249cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine, electric start, six-speed transmission, dual-purpose tires, and versatile on/off-road capabilities. This manual covers safety information, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for proper ownership and care of your motorcycle.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Basic Maintenance Procedures 7. Troubleshooting 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 249cc OHC engine, electric starter, six-speed transmission, front disc brake, rear drum brake, dual-purpose tires, and comprehensive instrumentation.

Feature	Description
Engine	249cc four-stroke single-cylinder OHC
Starting System	Electric starter with backup kick starter
Transmission	6-speed constant mesh
Brakes	Front hydraulic disc, rear mechanical drum
Fuel Capacity	2.4 gallons (9.1 liters)
Suspension	Telescopic front fork, Pro-Link rear suspension
Tires	Front 3.00-21, Rear 4.60-17
Seat Height	33.7 inches (855mm)
Dry Weight	264 lbs (120kg)
Instrumentation	Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, indicator lights

Safety Information

Always wear proper protective gear and follow safe riding practices.

Always wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing
Perform pre-ride inspection of tires, brakes, lights, and controls
Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs
Observe all traffic laws and speed limits
Be aware of road conditions and weather

WARNING! Motorcycles offer no crash protection. Ride defensively and assume other drivers may not see you.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before riding.

Starting: Turn key ON, ensure transmission in NEUTRAL, pull clutch lever, press starter button
Shifting: Clutch in, shift up/down using foot lever (1-down, 5-up pattern)
Braking: Use both brakes simultaneously for maximum stopping power
Lighting: Headlight on/off switch, high/low beam, turn signals, brake light
Fuel: Use unleaded gasoline with octane rating of 86 or higher

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before riding, especially in cold weather.

Specifications

Engine Type: 249cc air-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder OHC
Bore x Stroke: 73.0 x 59.5mm
Compression Ratio: 9.3:1
Carburetion: 30mm constant velocity
Ignition: CDI electronic ignition
Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: O-ring sealed chain
Frame: Semi-double cradle steel
Ground Clearance: 10.2 inches (260mm)
Fuel Consumption: Approximately 70 mpg

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Item	Every 600 mi	Every 2400 mi	Every 4800 mi
Engine Oil	Change	Change	Change
Oil Filter	-	Replace	Replace
Air Filter	Clean	Clean	Replace
Spark Plug	Check	Replace	Replace
Drive Chain	Adjust/Lube	Adjust/Lube	Adjust/Lube
Brakes	Check	Check	Service
Tires	Check pressure	Check pressure	Check wear

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Engine Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 1.7 quarts SAE 10W-40

Air Filter: Remove side cover, clean foam element in solvent, re-oil with air filter oil
Chain Adjustment: Maintain 1.2-1.6 inches free play, lubricate with chain lube
Tire Pressure: Check cold - Front 21 psi, Rear 25 psi (adjust for load/conditions)
Spark Plug: NGK DR8ES-L, gap 0.024-0.028 inches
Battery: Maintain fluid level, keep terminals clean and tight

Tip: Use only Honda Genuine Parts or equivalents for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel level, spark plug, battery charge, kill switch position
Poor performance	Dirty air filter, clogged carburetor	Clean/replace air filter, inspect carburetor jets
Hard shifting	Chain tension, clutch adjustment	Adjust drive chain, check clutch cable free play
Electrical issues	Battery, fuse, connections	Check battery voltage, inspect fuses, clean connections
Brake problems	Worn pads, air in lines, adjustment	Inspect brake pads, bleed hydraulic system, adjust rear brake

Emergency: Carry basic tools and tire repair kit when riding.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

Add fuel stabilizer to full tank, run engine for 5 minutes
Change oil and filter
Remove battery, store fully charged in cool, dry place
Clean motorcycle thoroughly, apply wax to painted surfaces
Inflate tires to maximum pressure, elevate off ground if possible
Cover with breathable motorcycle cover

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in carburetor float bowl to prevent varnish buildup.

Warranty Information

1988 Honda NX 250 includes limited warranty coverage. Contact authorized Honda dealer for warranty claims. Keep maintenance records for warranty validation. For technical support or dealer locations, contact American Honda Motor Co., Inc. at 1-800-999-1009 or visit www.honda.com.