1979 HONDA CR250R ELSINORE “THE RED ROCKET”

SHOW-QUALITY FRAME-OFF RESTORATION

$21,777 RESTORATION INVESTMENT

DG PIPE – FOX AIR SHOCKS – RACE TECH SUSPENSION – KAPLAN CYCLES BUILT

A LEGENDARY HONDA RED ROCKET – COMPREHENSIVE NUT-AND-BOLT RESTORATION – PERIOD-CORRECT PERFORMANCE UPGRADES –

INVESTMENT-QUALITY VINTAGE MOTOCROSS MACHINE!

FEAST YOUR EYES ON THIS ABSOLUTELY SPECTACULAR RED ROCKET!

This is one of the most iconic, historically significant, and visually stunning motocross motorcycles ever produced. Honda's legendary Red Rocket revolutionized motocross racing in the late 1970s, and nearly five decades later, its unmistakable bright red finish, aggressive stance, and race-bred engineering still make it one of the most desirable vintage motocross machines in the world.

This particular example has undergone an extraordinary, comprehensive frame-off, nut-and-bolt restoration by the professional restoration team here at Kaplan Cycles.

With 89 hours of professional labor and $4,227 in parts, this motorcycle represents a documented $21,777 restoration investment, NOT INCLUDING THE ORIGINAL COST OF THE MOTORCYCLE!

Including the acquisition of a pristine, restoration-worthy original motorcycle, the total investment replacement cost approaches $25,000.

The result is an absolutely breathtaking, professionally restored 1979 Honda CR250R that looks spectacular, runs fantastic, starts easily, and has been painstakingly rebuilt with the finest available components, including a number of desirable period-style performance upgrades.

This is a serious, comprehensive, professional restoration performed by the most experienced vintage motorcycle restoration operation in the country.

THE LEGEND OF THE HONDA RED ROCKET

When Honda introduced the original CR250M Elsinore in 1973, it set an entirely new standard for production motocross motorcycles.

Lightweight, powerful, and purpose-built for competition, the original Elsinore quickly earned a reputation as one of the most influential motocross machines of its era.

However, by the middle of the decade, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki had dramatically advanced their motocross technology. Honda needed something revolutionary to reclaim its position at the front of the pack.

Honda's response was the legendary RC factory racing program, which helped establish the design direction for an entirely new generation of production motocross machines.

When the radically redesigned CR250R debuted for 1978, the motocross world took notice.

The new Red Rocket featured aggressive works-inspired styling, a lightweight chassis, a powerful two-stroke engine, and dramatically improved suspension and handling.

It looked like a factory racing motorcycle because that was exactly the image Honda intended.

The 1979 model continued this legendary design and remains one of the most instantly recognizable motorcycles of the golden age of American motocross.

Nearly 50 years later, the Red Rocket is still one of the most beautiful motocross motorcycles ever manufactured.

And when restored to this level, it's truly a work of art.

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COMPREHENSIVE KAPLAN CYCLES FRAME-OFF RESTORATION

89 HOURS PROFESSIONAL LABOR – $17,550

NEW PARTS AND COMPONENTS – $4,227

TOTAL RESTORATION INVESTMENT – $21,777

This motorcycle was completely disassembled down to the bare frame.

The engine was removed, the entire chassis was dismantled, and the restoration began with an exceptionally clean original motorcycle.

One of the most important factors in a high-quality restoration is the condition of the original machine.

This CR250R had an outstanding foundation:

• Pristine original frame rails

• Excellent original frame down tubes

• Straight, undamaged chassis

• Exceptionally clean original swingarm

• Excellent original engine cases

• Original Honda components worthy of professional restoration

The underside of the frame is particularly impressive, with beautiful, straight frame rails showing the quality of the original motorcycle.

The frame refinished in the correct original Honda factory-style red finish.

The swingarm received the same comprehensive treatment.

Every major assembly was disassembled, inspected, cleaned, serviced, rebuilt, restored, or replaced as required.

Throughout the restoration, original factory Honda hardware was preserved wherever practical, professionally cleaned and re-zinc plated, while numerous other fasteners were replaced with new hardware.

This attention to detail extends to areas most restorations never address.

From the steering stem to the rear axle, from the engine mounting hardware to the chain rollers, the quality of the workmanship is evident everywhere you look.

ENGINE – COMPLETE MECHANICAL RECONDITIONING

The legendary Honda 250cc two-stroke engine received extensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration.

Engine restoration highlights:

• Engine removed from chassis for comprehensive restoration

• Original engine cases professionally vapor honed

• Engine cases and covers refinished

• Cylinder professionally refinished

• Brand-new piston

• Brand-new piston rings

• New cylinder base gasket

• New cylinder head gasket

• New spark plug

• Clutch rebuilt with new clutch components and springs

• Ignition side cleaned, inspected, and restored

• Carburetor completely rebuilt

• New carburetor jets

• New carburetor drain lines

• New intake components

• New reeds

• Brand-new Twin Air air filter

• Fresh fuel lines

• Original engine mounts cleaned, vapor honed, and restored

• New or professionally re-zinc-plated engine hardware

• New cylinder head and base fasteners

• New intake mounting hardware

• Restored original kickstarter with new mounting bolt

• Brand-new shift lever

The engine was carefully assembled, tuned, and tested by our experienced technicians.

THE RESULT? THIS THING IS AN ABSOLUTE ROCKET SHIP!

It starts easily, runs crisp and strong, and delivers the thrilling two-stroke performance that made the Honda Red Rocket a legend.

The carburetion has been carefully dialed in, and the engine runs exceptionally well.

DG PERFORMANCE EXPANSION CHAMBER – FACTORY WORKS APPEARANCE

One of the most striking performance upgrades on this motorcycle is its gorgeous DG aftermarket expansion chamber.

This pipe is a work of art in its own right.

Rather than simply installing the exhaust, our restoration team performed a specialized cosmetic treatment designed to replicate the appearance of a period factory works racing pipe.

The metal was carefully treated and polished using abrasive finishing wheels, and the welds were heat-colored with a torch to create the distinctive factory works appearance.

The finished exhaust has beautiful contrast, visible weld detail, and a brilliant metallic sheen.

The DG expansion chamber is larger than the original factory exhaust and provides a desirable period-style performance upgrade.

The accompanying silencer was also polished and restored, with fresh mounting hardware installed throughout.

The combination of the DG expansion chamber and freshly rebuilt 250cc two-stroke engine makes this Red Rocket sound and perform every bit as good as it looks!

REAR SUSPENSION – FOX AIR SHOCK-STYLE PERFORMANCE UPGRADE

This motorcycle has been upgraded with an exceptionally desirable set of Vintco reproduction Fox Air Shocks.

These shocks replicate the distinctive appearance and adjustable air-spring concept of the legendary Fox Air Shocks that were popular among serious motocross racers during the late 1970s.

They are a beautiful finishing touch on this restoration and perfectly complement the Red Rocket's works-inspired appearance.

The shocks are currently set up for approximately a 190-pound rider, with adjustable air pressure to accommodate different rider weights and preferences.

The air suspension can be adjusted according to the rider's needs and intended use.

Additional suspension restoration includes:

• Fully restored original swingarm

• Refinished swingarm in factory-style red

• Renewed swingarm bearings

• Restored original swingarm pivot hardware

• Re-zinc-plated swingarm pivot bolt

• Re-zinc-plated original shock mounting hardware

• New chain slider

• New upper and lower chain rollers

• New chain roller mounting hardware

• Original chain guide cleaned and restored

The entire rear suspension assembly presents beautifully.

FRONT SUSPENSION – RACE TECH INTERNALS

The original Honda front forks were completely disassembled and rebuilt.

Importantly, the original fork tubes were found to be in exceptionally good condition.

Many vintage motocross motorcycles suffer from damaged, pitted, or badly worn fork tubes after decades of hard use.

Not this one.

The original fork tubes are beautifully preserved, and the fork lowers have been professionally restored and refinished.

Front suspension restoration includes:

• Complete front fork disassembly and rebuild

• Race Tech suspension components installed internally

• New fork seals

• Fresh fork oil

• Restored original fork sliders

• Professionally refinished fork lowers

• Original fork tubes in excellent condition

• Restored and refinished upper and lower triple clamps

• Renewed steering head bearings

• New or restored mounting hardware throughout

The Race Tech components provide a desirable modern internal upgrade while retaining the original vintage Honda appearance.

The front end looks factory fresh and has been professionally serviced for proper operation.

COMPLETE REAR WHEEL RESTORATION – EXCEL RIM & BUCHANAN SPOKES

The rear wheel was completely disassembled and professionally rebuilt.

Rather than reusing a tired original rim, we installed a brand-new Takasago Excel rim, one of the most respected names in motorcycle wheel components.

The wheel was professionally assembled using new Buchanan spokes.

Rear wheel restoration includes:

• Brand-new Takasago Excel rear rim

• Brand-new Buchanan spokes

• Original rear hub professionally restored

• Hub vapor honed and refinished

• Correct-style semi-gloss black hub finish

• New rear wheel bearings

• Rear brake assembly restored

• New rear brake shoes

• Restored and refinished brake backing plate

• Original rear axle professionally re-zinc plated

• Re-zinc-plated axle components

• Brand-new rear sprocket

• New sprocket mounting hardware

• Brand-new gold drive chain

• Restored original brake arm

• New or re-zinc-plated related hardware

The finished rear wheel assembly is absolutely gorgeous and complements the restored chassis perfectly.

FRONT WHEEL – ORIGINAL HONDA RIM PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED

The front wheel is another outstanding feature of this restoration.

The original factory Honda front rim was found to be exceptionally straight and in excellent structural condition.

Instead of replacing it, we preserved this desirable original component.

The rim was completely dismantled and professionally polished to an extraordinary finish.

It shines beautifully.

Front wheel restoration includes:

• Original factory Honda front rim retained

• Rim professionally polished

• Brand-new Buchanan spokes

• Original front hub completely restored

• Front hub refinished in the correct-style semi-gloss finish

• New front wheel bearings

• Front brake completely serviced

• New front brake shoes

• New front brake cable

• Cleaned and restored brake backing plate

• Restored and re-zinc-plated axle hardware

The attention to detail on both wheels is exceptional.

FUEL TANK, PLASTICS & SEAT – SHOW-QUALITY FINISH

The iconic Honda Red Rocket fuel tank has been professionally restored and refinished.

The tank presents beautifully, with a brilliant finish that perfectly complements the restored chassis and matching red bodywork.

Fuel tank restoration includes:

• Original fuel tank professionally restored

• Beautifully refinished exterior

• Fuel tank thoroughly cleaned inside and out

• Brand-new fuel petcock

• New fuel line

• Renewed mounting hardware

• New tank mounting bolts

• Replacement rubber bushings and mounting components where needed

The bodywork has also been completely refreshed using high-quality reproduction components.

Cosmetic restoration highlights:

• Brand-new premium reproduction front fender

• Brand-new premium reproduction rear fender

• New reproduction side number plates

• New seat foam

• New seat cover

• New seat mounting hardware

• Fresh Honda World Championship-style rear fender decal

• New front number plate

• Correct period-style front number plate mounting arrangement

• Restored airbox

• New airbox and side-panel mounting hardware

The iconic red bodywork gives this motorcycle its unmistakable appearance.

The proportions, finish, and overall presentation are absolutely outstanding.

This is the kind of motorcycle that stops collectors in their tracks.

CONTROLS, HANDLEBARS & CHASSIS DETAILS

Virtually everything from the triple clamps upward has been replaced or restored.

New handlebar and control components include:

• Brand-new handlebars

• New crossbar pad

• Brand-new throttle cable

• New throttle tube

• New throttle grip

• New handlebar grips

• New front brake cable

• New front brake lever

• New front brake perch

• New clutch cable

• New clutch lever

• New clutch perch

• New engine kill switch

• New control mounting hardware

Additional chassis components include:

• New foot pegs

• New foot peg mounts

• New foot peg springs

• Re-zinc-plated original mounting hardware

• Brand-new shifter

• Restored original kickstarter

• New rubber mounting components where required

• Restored original rear brake lever

• Professionally re-zinc-plated brake and chassis hardware

• Cleaned and restored engine mounting components

• Rebuilt steering head bearings

• Rebuilt swingarm bearing assemblies

• New front and rear wheel bearings

Everywhere you look, there is evidence of the extensive time and effort invested in this motorcycle.

The finish on the engine cases, the restored hardware, the polished wheels, the new spokes, the freshly painted chassis, and the meticulously detailed controls combine to make this one of the finest examples of the legendary Red Rocket.

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$21,777 DOCUMENTED PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION INVESTMENT

Restoring a vintage motocross motorcycle to this standard is an extraordinarily labor-intensive process.

Our professional restoration team invested 89 hours in this motorcycle.

At our current shop labor rate, combined with the extensive parts investment, the restoration costs are as follows:

The labor figure reflects the documented work-order amount provided. All restoration costs are separate from the original acquisition cost of the motorcycle.

Think about that for a moment.

Over $21,000 was invested in restoring this motorcycle, not including the cost of acquiring an exceptionally clean original 1979 Honda CR250R.

And that's precisely why you don't see very many restored to this standard.

It's simply not economically practical for most professional motorcycle dealerships to dedicate this level of labor to a nearly 50-year-old motocross motorcycle.

Here at Kaplan Cycles, we operate a large professional motorcycle dealership and restoration facility with approximately 30 employees, multiple motorcycle franchises, and experienced technicians capable of everything from modern dealership service to comprehensive vintage restorations.

Our shop labor rate is $195 per hour, and our technicians have extensive training and experience.

Vintage motorcycle restoration is becoming something of a lost art.

Many of the craftsmen who specialized in these motorcycles have retired, and the number of professional facilities capable of undertaking this level of restoration continues to be limited.

Replacement original-equipment parts are becoming harder to locate, good original engine cases and cylinders are increasingly valuable, and the availability of untouched, restoration-worthy motorcycles continues to diminish.

Finding a complete example with straight frame rails, undamaged original engine cases, and excellent original components is becoming increasingly difficult.

Then comes the challenge of finding the parts, professionally restoring the components, rebuilding the engine, restoring the wheels, refinishing the chassis, and assembling everything correctly.

On this motorcycle, all that work has already been completed.

You don't have to hunt down dozens of increasingly rare components.

You don't have to coordinate multiple machine shops, painters, suspension specialists, and wheel builders.

You don't have to spend months or years attempting to complete a restoration.

THIS RED ROCKET IS FINISHED, PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED, AND READY TO BE ENJOYED!

A COLLECTOR'S DREAM – BUILT TO DISPLAY OR RIDE

This Honda offers the best of both worlds.

Its restored original components, show-quality finish, and incredible attention to detail make it a spectacular addition to any serious vintage motocross collection.

At the same time, its rebuilt engine, upgraded suspension, professionally restored wheels, fresh bearings, and performance exhaust make it a machine that can actually be enjoyed.

Whether your goal is to add a centerpiece to your motorcycle collection, display it alongside other legendary motocross machines, or experience the incredible performance of a classic Honda two-stroke, this CR250R represents an outstanding opportunity.

It has the look, the sound, the performance, and the craftsmanship that made the Honda Red Rocket famous.

IT LOOKS FANTASTIC. IT RUNS FANTASTIC. AND IT IS A FANTASTIC MOTORCYCLE!

WHY BUY FROM KAPLAN CYCLES?

At Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum, vintage motorcycles are our passion.

We have built our reputation around acquiring, servicing, restoring, and preserving some of the most desirable motorcycles ever produced.

Unlike buying a motorcycle from a private seller with little or no history, this machine was professionally restored by our own team.

We know the motorcycle.

We know exactly what went into it.

We know the quality of the workmanship because we performed the work ourselves.

Our commitment does not end when the motorcycle leaves our facility.

We pride ourselves on customer service, our ability to assist our customers after the sale, and standing behind the quality of our work.

Buyers receive the added confidence of dealing with an established, professional motorcycle dealership and restoration facility.

We can also assist with motorcycle shipping directly to your door.

Contact us to discuss delivery arrangements, restoration details, or any questions you may have about this extraordinary Honda.

FINAL THOUGHTS – A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A LEGEND

The Honda CR250R Red Rocket is one of those rare motorcycles that truly deserves its place in motocross history.

Its aggressive appearance, legendary two-stroke performance, and works-inspired styling make it an icon of the sport.

This 1979 example has received the kind of comprehensive, professional restoration that is increasingly difficult and expensive to duplicate.

With its beautifully restored factory Honda chassis, rebuilt engine, DG factory-style expansion chamber, Reproduction New Fox-style Air Shocks, Race Tech fork upgrades, Excel rear rim, Buchanan spokes, and exceptional attention to detail, this is a seriously impressive motorcycle.

89 HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION LABOR.

$4,227 IN PARTS.

$21,777 DOCUMENTED RESTORATION INVESTMENT.

APPROXIMATELY $25,000 TOTAL INVESTMENT INCLUDING THE MOTORCYCLE.

All invested in preserving and improving one of the most recognizable motocross motorcycles of the 1970s.

You simply cannot duplicate this level of work inexpensively.

If you're looking for a spectacular 1979 Honda CR250R Elsinore to add to your collection, YOUR SHIP HAS COME IN!

Opportunities to acquire a professionally restored Red Rocket of this caliber don't come around every day.

DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO OWN THIS ABSOLUTELY STUNNING PIECE OF HONDA MOTOCROSS HISTORY!

KAPLAN CYCLES / NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

Rockville, Connecticut

Professional Vintage Motorcycle Sales, Service & Restoration

Nationwide shipping assistance available.

THANK YOU FOR WATCHING, AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!

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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”

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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

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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.

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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.