1986 Yamaha YZ250
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1986 Yamaha YZ250 – Full Frame-Off Restoration – Ultra Rare & Pristine Showroom Condition– Loaded With New & Premium Performance Upgrades
DETAILS
-
YEAR - 1986
-
MILEAGE - 10
-
MAKE - YAMAHA
-
MODEL - YZ250
-
VIN - JYA1LU0040A007309
-
TITLE - NO (ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM)
Absolutely stunning 1986 Yamaha YZ250 — a fully restored, frame-off example of one of the rarest and most sought-after Japanese two-stroke motocross bikes of the mid-1980s.
If you’re a fan of vintage motocross, you already know how difficult these bikes are to find in restored condition. In fact, this is the first full frame-off restored 1986 YZ250 we’ve had here at Kaplan Cycles. Most of these bikes were ridden hard, raced heavily, and ultimately destroyed over the years because they were simply excellent motorcycles. The YZ250 was famous for its broad powerband, incredible low-end torque, and highly effective Yamaha power valve system that made these bikes outstanding both on the motocross track and in off-road competition.
This particular YZ250 has undergone an extensive, no-expense-spared restoration and mechanical refurbishment. The bike was completely dismantled down to the bare frame and rebuilt properly from the ground up using quality components throughout. The result is a motorcycle that is as close to brand new as you’re likely to find anywhere in the country.
Restoration Highlights
Engine & Performance
-
Complete engine rebuild
-
New piston and rings
-
New crank seals
-
New shifter seal
-
New kicker seal
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
New spark plug
-
New reed valves
-
Carburetor completely rebuilt
-
All new carb drain lines
-
New Twin Air filter
-
Runs flawlessly
-
Filled with VP 94 fuel
The engine starts easily, idles cleanly, pulls hard, and delivers the legendary torque these YZs were known for. The transmission shifts perfectly and the clutch engagement is smooth and precise.
The bike breathes through a gorgeous:
-
FMF Gold Series expansion chamber
-
FMF PowerCore silencer
The exhaust setup gives this YZ250 an absolutely incredible sound and performance package.
Chassis & Suspension
The frame was refinished in the original factory fire-engine red color and remains exceptionally clean throughout, including the frame rails underneath.
The suspension and running gear have all been serviced and rebuilt:
-
Forks rebuilt with new seals and fresh fork oil
-
New fork gaiters
-
Front brake master cylinder rebuilt
-
Front brakes serviced
-
New chain guide
-
New hardware throughout
Wheels, Tires & Drivetrain
The wheel set has been completely redone:
-
Brand new gold rims
-
New spokes front and rear
-
New wheel bearings
-
New front tire
-
New rear tire
-
New tubes
-
New rim strips
-
New rim locks
-
New sprocket and chain
Cooling System
The cooling system has also been fully refreshed:
-
New aluminum radiators
-
Fresh coolant throughout
Cosmetics
This YZ250 presents beautifully and has the aggressive factory race-bike look that made these legendary in the 1980s.
New components include:
-
New front fender
-
New rear fender
-
New radiator shrouds
-
New side panels
-
New graphics kit
-
New seat cover
-
New front number plate
-
New Clark fuel tank
-
New Renthal handlebars
-
New ODI grips
-
New Yamaha crossbar pad
The original engine cases, kicker, and brake lever are all in excellent condition, preserving the authenticity of the motorcycle while elevating the overall presentation.
Why This Bike Matters
You simply do not see many restored 1986 YZ250s. For every handful of CR250s and KX250s on the market, there may be one YZ of this caliber available — if that. These bikes were raced hard because they performed so well, making surviving examples incredibly scarce today.
To restore a motorcycle like this correctly at a professional shop level is extremely expensive:
-
70+ labor hours
-
Over $10,500 in labor alone at standard restoration shop rates
-
$3,000+ in parts and components
-
Plus the cost of sourcing a clean original core bike
This is not a quick cosmetic refresh. This motorcycle has been properly sorted, mechanically dialed-in, and professionally assembled with no surprises.
We see many vintage restorations from well-known builders come through our shop needing extensive corrections and mechanical sorting. This one is done right.
Ready For:
-
AMA Vintage Days
-
A serious vintage motocross collection
-
Display in a museum or private collection
-
Vintage racing
-
Weekend riding and enjoyment
This bike is turnkey and needs nothing.
Check out the detailed photos and video, and feel free to contact us with any questions.
From our family to yours — thank you for supporting vintage motorcycling and God Bless America.
Kaplan Cycles Concierge Package
When you purchase a motorcycle from Kaplan Cycles, you’re buying from one of the most experienced vintage motorcycle restoration and sales facilities in the country. Our team services, refurbishes, and restores hundreds of motorcycles annually and stands behind the machines we sell.
We offer:
-
Nationwide shipping assistance
-
Full walk-around videos
-
Mechanical inspection and road testing
-
Financing options available
-
Decades of vintage motorcycle expertise
-
Friendly, honest service before and after the sale
Buy with confidence from a trusted name in the vintage motorcycle community.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1986 Yamaha YZ250 – Full Frame-Off Restoration – Ultra Rare & Pristine Showroom Condition– Loaded With New & Premium Performance Upgrades
DETAILS
-
YEAR - 1986
-
MILEAGE - 10
-
MAKE - YAMAHA
-
MODEL - YZ250
-
VIN - JYA1LU0040A007309
-
TITLE - NO (ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM)
Absolutely stunning 1986 Yamaha YZ250 — a fully restored, frame-off example of one of the rarest and most sought-after Japanese two-stroke motocross bikes of the mid-1980s.
If you’re a fan of vintage motocross, you already know how difficult these bikes are to find in restored condition. In fact, this is the first full frame-off restored 1986 YZ250 we’ve had here at Kaplan Cycles. Most of these bikes were ridden hard, raced heavily, and ultimately destroyed over the years because they were simply excellent motorcycles. The YZ250 was famous for its broad powerband, incredible low-end torque, and highly effective Yamaha power valve system that made these bikes outstanding both on the motocross track and in off-road competition.
This particular YZ250 has undergone an extensive, no-expense-spared restoration and mechanical refurbishment. The bike was completely dismantled down to the bare frame and rebuilt properly from the ground up using quality components throughout. The result is a motorcycle that is as close to brand new as you’re likely to find anywhere in the country.
Restoration Highlights
Engine & Performance
-
Complete engine rebuild
-
New piston and rings
-
New crank seals
-
New shifter seal
-
New kicker seal
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
New spark plug
-
New reed valves
-
Carburetor completely rebuilt
-
All new carb drain lines
-
New Twin Air filter
-
Runs flawlessly
-
Filled with VP 94 fuel
The engine starts easily, idles cleanly, pulls hard, and delivers the legendary torque these YZs were known for. The transmission shifts perfectly and the clutch engagement is smooth and precise.
The bike breathes through a gorgeous:
-
FMF Gold Series expansion chamber
-
FMF PowerCore silencer
The exhaust setup gives this YZ250 an absolutely incredible sound and performance package.
Chassis & Suspension
The frame was refinished in the original factory fire-engine red color and remains exceptionally clean throughout, including the frame rails underneath.
The suspension and running gear have all been serviced and rebuilt:
-
Forks rebuilt with new seals and fresh fork oil
-
New fork gaiters
-
Front brake master cylinder rebuilt
-
Front brakes serviced
-
New chain guide
-
New hardware throughout
Wheels, Tires & Drivetrain
The wheel set has been completely redone:
-
Brand new gold rims
-
New spokes front and rear
-
New wheel bearings
-
New front tire
-
New rear tire
-
New tubes
-
New rim strips
-
New rim locks
-
New sprocket and chain
Cooling System
The cooling system has also been fully refreshed:
-
New aluminum radiators
-
Fresh coolant throughout
Cosmetics
This YZ250 presents beautifully and has the aggressive factory race-bike look that made these legendary in the 1980s.
New components include:
-
New front fender
-
New rear fender
-
New radiator shrouds
-
New side panels
-
New graphics kit
-
New seat cover
-
New front number plate
-
New Clark fuel tank
-
New Renthal handlebars
-
New ODI grips
-
New Yamaha crossbar pad
The original engine cases, kicker, and brake lever are all in excellent condition, preserving the authenticity of the motorcycle while elevating the overall presentation.
Why This Bike Matters
You simply do not see many restored 1986 YZ250s. For every handful of CR250s and KX250s on the market, there may be one YZ of this caliber available — if that. These bikes were raced hard because they performed so well, making surviving examples incredibly scarce today.
To restore a motorcycle like this correctly at a professional shop level is extremely expensive:
-
70+ labor hours
-
Over $10,500 in labor alone at standard restoration shop rates
-
$3,000+ in parts and components
-
Plus the cost of sourcing a clean original core bike
This is not a quick cosmetic refresh. This motorcycle has been properly sorted, mechanically dialed-in, and professionally assembled with no surprises.
We see many vintage restorations from well-known builders come through our shop needing extensive corrections and mechanical sorting. This one is done right.
Ready For:
-
AMA Vintage Days
-
A serious vintage motocross collection
-
Display in a museum or private collection
-
Vintage racing
-
Weekend riding and enjoyment
This bike is turnkey and needs nothing.
Check out the detailed photos and video, and feel free to contact us with any questions.
From our family to yours — thank you for supporting vintage motorcycling and God Bless America.
Kaplan Cycles Concierge Package
When you purchase a motorcycle from Kaplan Cycles, you’re buying from one of the most experienced vintage motorcycle restoration and sales facilities in the country. Our team services, refurbishes, and restores hundreds of motorcycles annually and stands behind the machines we sell.
We offer:
-
Nationwide shipping assistance
-
Full walk-around videos
-
Mechanical inspection and road testing
-
Financing options available
-
Decades of vintage motorcycle expertise
-
Friendly, honest service before and after the sale
Buy with confidence from a trusted name in the vintage motorcycle community.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
