1976 Kawasaki KX250
SOLD
THIS UNIT HAS SOLD AND IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
Description
1976 Kawasaki KX250 A4 – Frame-Off Restored | HPI Ignition | Pro Form Pipe | Low-Hour Survivor
The Golden Age of Motocross
Fifty years ago, you could roll up to virtually any motocross track in America—whether it was a local scrambles event or an AMA National—with a brand-new Kawasaki KX250 and know you had a machine capable of running at the front of the pack. The 1976 Kawasaki KX250 represented the cutting edge of Kawasaki's rapidly evolving motocross program and featured one of the strongest 250cc two-stroke engines of its era.
Introduced only two years earlier in 1974, the KX250 was still in its infancy, and by 1976 Kawasaki had made major improvements to the suspension, braking system, handling characteristics, and engine performance. Producing horsepower in the high-30 range, the KX250 earned a reputation as a fast, competitive, and beautifully balanced motocross machine.
Today, finding an original low-hour example is nearly impossible.
Finding one restored to this level is rarer still.
What you're looking at here is a no-expense-spared Kaplan Cycles frame-off restoration completed on an exceptionally original, low-hour survivor.
Extensive Professional Restoration
This KX250 underwent a complete frame-off restoration and mechanical refurbishment with over 60 hours of professional shop labor invested and more than $11,600 documented in restoration costs, not including the acquisition cost of the motorcycle itself.
Engine & Performance Upgrades
The engine was completely serviced and refreshed, including:
-
Cylinder bored first oversize
-
Genuine Kawasaki OEM piston installed
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
New spark plug
-
New clutch basket
-
Complete new clutch pack and springs
-
New clutch gasket
-
Countershaft seal replaced
-
Engine professionally cleaned and refinished
Performance upgrades include:
-
Modern Mikuni two-stroke carburetor
-
New Uni Air filter
-
Pro Form Racing expansion chamber
-
Brand-new HPI electronic ignition system
The result is a motorcycle that starts easily, runs exceptionally clean, and performs significantly stronger than a stock KX250. Compression currently measures an impressive 160 PSI, and the cylinder still displays visible crosshatch marks.
This bike is an absolute ripper.
Remarkably Original Foundation
One of the most impressive aspects of this motorcycle is the originality of the core machine.
Features believed to be original include:
-
Original fuel tank
-
Original wheel set
-
Original DID rims
-
Original chain guide
-
Original forks
-
Original front fender mud flap
-
Original shocks (believed original)
-
Original brake lever
-
Original foot pegs
-
Original airbox
In fact, the DID rim still retains its original factory decal—something almost never seen after five decades of use and cleaning.
The cylinder fins and head remain in outstanding condition with no broken cooling fins, while the engine covers show none of the gouges and crash damage commonly found on vintage motocross bikes.
Fuel Tank & Graphics
The original green fuel tank is one of the highlights of the motorcycle.
The tank was carefully hand wet-sanded and machine buffed to preserve its beautiful factory finish. We are approximately 99% certain the paint is original. If it was repainted at some point, it would have had to be very early in the bike's life because the original graphics beneath showed authentic age cracking and fading.
To preserve the original appearance, our in-house graphics specialist Christy reproduced the factory graphics precisely and applied them over the original decals.
In the interest of complete transparency, one side decal was positioned slightly higher than intended during installation, leaving a small portion of the original graphic visible underneath. A corrected replacement decal is currently being produced and will be installed prior to delivery. We will gladly provide photos showing the original factory graphic beneath the reproduction decal.
No surprises. Full disclosure. That's how we've earned our reputation and 100% positive customer feedback.
Chassis & Suspension Restoration
Every major chassis component was professionally restored, refinished, or rebuilt, including:
-
Frame refinished
-
Swingarm refinished
-
Fork lowers refinished
-
Front forks rebuilt
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
New fork sliders
-
Shocks refinished
-
Triple clamps cleaned and detailed
-
Steering stem bearings serviced and renewed
-
Front and rear hubs refinished
-
Rear brake drum refinished
-
Brake arms polished
-
Brake pedal polished
-
Gear shifter polished
-
Kick starter polished
-
Hardware cleaned and detailed throughout
Everything is tight, straight, and functions exactly as it should.
New Components & Upgrades
This KX250 received numerous high-quality upgrades and replacement components throughout the restoration:
-
Renthal handlebars
-
Kawasaki crossbar pad
-
Works Connection clutch perch
-
Works Connection front brake perch
-
Quick-adjust polished aluminum levers
-
Rotating unbreakable lever mounts
-
New ODI grips
-
Domino throttle assembly
-
New kill switch
-
New fuel lines
-
New vent lines
-
New drain lines
-
New seat cover
-
New chain guard
-
Brand-new gold chain
Nightmare Racing Plastics
The bike was fitted with premium reproduction components from Nightmare Racing, including:
-
Front fender
-
Front number plate
-
Side number plates
-
Rear fender
Finished in a beautiful high-gloss finish, these parts look every bit as good—or better—than the originals did when new.
The machine is further enhanced with a stunning Steiger Designs graphics package.
Wheels & Tires
The original wheel set was retained and carefully restored.
Features include:
-
Original DID rims
-
Detailed spokes
-
New tubes
-
New rim locks
-
Brand-new Dunlop tires front and rear
The tires have only been ridden a handful of times up and down our driveway during testing.
Riding Impression
The combination of the fresh top end, OEM piston, HPI ignition, modern Mikuni carburetor, Uni Air filter, and Pro Form Racing expansion chamber transforms this motorcycle into an incredibly responsive vintage racer.
It starts easily, idles cleanly, pulls hard throughout the powerband, and delivers the kind of top-end rush that made the KX250 a serious contender during motocross's golden era.
Simply put:
This motorcycle performs better than a stock 1976 KX250 ever did.
Summary
Finding a 1976 KX250 is difficult.
Finding one with this level of originality is rare.
Finding one with over $11,600 invested in a professional restoration while retaining so many original components is nearly impossible.
Whether you're a serious Kawasaki collector, vintage motocross enthusiast, museum curator, or racer looking for one of the finest KX250s available today, this motorcycle deserves your attention.
The reserve is set well below restoration cost and this motorcycle will be sold.
May the best bidder win.
For additional information, high-resolution photographs, walkaround videos, and shipping assistance, contact Kaplan Cycles directly.
Worldwide Shipping Available
Financing Available
Trades Considered
Sold with a Bill of Sale
Thank you for your interest and God Bless America.
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
1976 Kawasaki KX250 A4 – Frame-Off Restored | HPI Ignition | Pro Form Pipe | Low-Hour Survivor
The Golden Age of Motocross
Fifty years ago, you could roll up to virtually any motocross track in America—whether it was a local scrambles event or an AMA National—with a brand-new Kawasaki KX250 and know you had a machine capable of running at the front of the pack. The 1976 Kawasaki KX250 represented the cutting edge of Kawasaki's rapidly evolving motocross program and featured one of the strongest 250cc two-stroke engines of its era.
Introduced only two years earlier in 1974, the KX250 was still in its infancy, and by 1976 Kawasaki had made major improvements to the suspension, braking system, handling characteristics, and engine performance. Producing horsepower in the high-30 range, the KX250 earned a reputation as a fast, competitive, and beautifully balanced motocross machine.
Today, finding an original low-hour example is nearly impossible.
Finding one restored to this level is rarer still.
What you're looking at here is a no-expense-spared Kaplan Cycles frame-off restoration completed on an exceptionally original, low-hour survivor.
Extensive Professional Restoration
This KX250 underwent a complete frame-off restoration and mechanical refurbishment with over 60 hours of professional shop labor invested and more than $11,600 documented in restoration costs, not including the acquisition cost of the motorcycle itself.
Engine & Performance Upgrades
The engine was completely serviced and refreshed, including:
-
Cylinder bored first oversize
-
Genuine Kawasaki OEM piston installed
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
New spark plug
-
New clutch basket
-
Complete new clutch pack and springs
-
New clutch gasket
-
Countershaft seal replaced
-
Engine professionally cleaned and refinished
Performance upgrades include:
-
Modern Mikuni two-stroke carburetor
-
New Uni Air filter
-
Pro Form Racing expansion chamber
-
Brand-new HPI electronic ignition system
The result is a motorcycle that starts easily, runs exceptionally clean, and performs significantly stronger than a stock KX250. Compression currently measures an impressive 160 PSI, and the cylinder still displays visible crosshatch marks.
This bike is an absolute ripper.
Remarkably Original Foundation
One of the most impressive aspects of this motorcycle is the originality of the core machine.
Features believed to be original include:
-
Original fuel tank
-
Original wheel set
-
Original DID rims
-
Original chain guide
-
Original forks
-
Original front fender mud flap
-
Original shocks (believed original)
-
Original brake lever
-
Original foot pegs
-
Original airbox
In fact, the DID rim still retains its original factory decal—something almost never seen after five decades of use and cleaning.
The cylinder fins and head remain in outstanding condition with no broken cooling fins, while the engine covers show none of the gouges and crash damage commonly found on vintage motocross bikes.
Fuel Tank & Graphics
The original green fuel tank is one of the highlights of the motorcycle.
The tank was carefully hand wet-sanded and machine buffed to preserve its beautiful factory finish. We are approximately 99% certain the paint is original. If it was repainted at some point, it would have had to be very early in the bike's life because the original graphics beneath showed authentic age cracking and fading.
To preserve the original appearance, our in-house graphics specialist Christy reproduced the factory graphics precisely and applied them over the original decals.
In the interest of complete transparency, one side decal was positioned slightly higher than intended during installation, leaving a small portion of the original graphic visible underneath. A corrected replacement decal is currently being produced and will be installed prior to delivery. We will gladly provide photos showing the original factory graphic beneath the reproduction decal.
No surprises. Full disclosure. That's how we've earned our reputation and 100% positive customer feedback.
Chassis & Suspension Restoration
Every major chassis component was professionally restored, refinished, or rebuilt, including:
-
Frame refinished
-
Swingarm refinished
-
Fork lowers refinished
-
Front forks rebuilt
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
New fork sliders
-
Shocks refinished
-
Triple clamps cleaned and detailed
-
Steering stem bearings serviced and renewed
-
Front and rear hubs refinished
-
Rear brake drum refinished
-
Brake arms polished
-
Brake pedal polished
-
Gear shifter polished
-
Kick starter polished
-
Hardware cleaned and detailed throughout
Everything is tight, straight, and functions exactly as it should.
New Components & Upgrades
This KX250 received numerous high-quality upgrades and replacement components throughout the restoration:
-
Renthal handlebars
-
Kawasaki crossbar pad
-
Works Connection clutch perch
-
Works Connection front brake perch
-
Quick-adjust polished aluminum levers
-
Rotating unbreakable lever mounts
-
New ODI grips
-
Domino throttle assembly
-
New kill switch
-
New fuel lines
-
New vent lines
-
New drain lines
-
New seat cover
-
New chain guard
-
Brand-new gold chain
Nightmare Racing Plastics
The bike was fitted with premium reproduction components from Nightmare Racing, including:
-
Front fender
-
Front number plate
-
Side number plates
-
Rear fender
Finished in a beautiful high-gloss finish, these parts look every bit as good—or better—than the originals did when new.
The machine is further enhanced with a stunning Steiger Designs graphics package.
Wheels & Tires
The original wheel set was retained and carefully restored.
Features include:
-
Original DID rims
-
Detailed spokes
-
New tubes
-
New rim locks
-
Brand-new Dunlop tires front and rear
The tires have only been ridden a handful of times up and down our driveway during testing.
Riding Impression
The combination of the fresh top end, OEM piston, HPI ignition, modern Mikuni carburetor, Uni Air filter, and Pro Form Racing expansion chamber transforms this motorcycle into an incredibly responsive vintage racer.
It starts easily, idles cleanly, pulls hard throughout the powerband, and delivers the kind of top-end rush that made the KX250 a serious contender during motocross's golden era.
Simply put:
This motorcycle performs better than a stock 1976 KX250 ever did.
Summary
Finding a 1976 KX250 is difficult.
Finding one with this level of originality is rare.
Finding one with over $11,600 invested in a professional restoration while retaining so many original components is nearly impossible.
Whether you're a serious Kawasaki collector, vintage motocross enthusiast, museum curator, or racer looking for one of the finest KX250s available today, this motorcycle deserves your attention.
The reserve is set well below restoration cost and this motorcycle will be sold.
May the best bidder win.
For additional information, high-resolution photographs, walkaround videos, and shipping assistance, contact Kaplan Cycles directly.
Worldwide Shipping Available
Financing Available
Trades Considered
Sold with a Bill of Sale
Thank you for your interest and God Bless America.
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.
