1982 HONDA XL250R MOTOSPORT

FRAME-UP RESTORATION – REBUILT ENGINE

MUSEUM QUALITY STUNNING CLASSIC ENDURO

70 HOURS OF SHOP LABOR @ $150 PH + PARTS = OVER $11,500 JUST INVESTED

absolutely gorgeous and beautifully restored example of one of Honda's most legendary dual-sport motorcycles.

Finding a 1982 XL250R in this condition is becoming nearly impossible. Finding one retaining its original factory fuel tank paint, original seat cover, original exhaust, original handlebars, original aluminum skid plate, factory equipment, and beautifully preserved cycle parts is something truly special.

This motorcycle spent its previous life being ridden exclusively on the street rather than subjected to the abuse typically associated with off-road motorcycles. As a result, it survived with exceptionally well-preserved original components.

When this XL250R arrived at Kaplan Cycles, we recognized what we had: an outstanding original survivor deserving of a comprehensive professional restoration.

Our technicians extensively disassembled the motorcycle, rebuilt its engine top end, serviced and refinished its chassis, completely Restored the Forks, reconditioned the wheels, restored the fuel and intake systems, and meticulously detailed the motorcycle from front to back.

This is a spectacular 1982 Honda XL250R that looks, runs, and rides beautifully!

LEGENDARY HONDA FOUR-STROKE PERFORMANCE

The 1982 Honda XL250R represents an era when Honda was building some of the most durable, versatile, and enjoyable dual-sport motorcycles ever produced.

Powered by Honda's legendary air-cooled 249cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine and equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, the XL250R offers an exceptional combination of reliability, simplicity, and versatility.

The six-speed gearbox is particularly enjoyable. With its tall sixth gear, the bike is perfectly suited to cruising back roads at 50–60 MPH, while its low-end torque makes it equally enjoyable riding around town or exploring country roads.

The engine has that classic Honda four-stroke character: smooth, responsive, easy to control, and packed with usable torque.

Whether you want a vintage street-legal trail bike, a dependable classic for weekend rides, or a collectible motorcycle to add to your collection, this XL250R checks all the boxes.

ENGINE TOP-END REBUILD & MECHANICAL RECONDITIONING

comprehensive engine top-end overhaul was performed using quality components, including genuine OEM Honda gaskets.

Engine work included:

• New piston and piston rings

• New genuine OEM Honda cylinder base gasket

• New genuine OEM Honda cylinder head gasket

• New cylinder head stud gaskets

• New valve cover gaskets

• Replacement engine seals

• New spark plug

• Fresh engine oil

• Valve adjustment

• Cam chain adjustment

• Transmission and lubrication-system servicing

• Engine exterior professionally cleaned, prepared, and repainted

• Aluminum valve cover professionally polished

• Engine cases and side covers refinished

• Complete operational testing and tuning

Special attention was paid to the engine's appearance, with the original castings, side covers, and polished aluminum components carefully refinished to complement the rest of the restoration.

This engine has been thoroughly reconditioned, professionally tuned, and runs exceptionally well.

COMPLETE FUEL SYSTEM & ORIGINAL AIRBOX RESTORATION

Unlike so many vintage dual-sport motorcycles that have been modified with aftermarket intake systems and missing factory components, this XL250R retains its original Honda airbox assembly.

The fuel and induction systems received extensive attention.

Work included:

• Original factory fuel tank carefully preserved

• New fuel petcock

• New fuel lines

• Carburetor completely rebuilt

• New carburetor drain lines

• Original airbox completely disassembled and reconditioned

• New air filter

• New airbox mounting bolts

• New airbox cover collars

• New airbox seals

• New airbox cage and related components

• Original airbox cover restored and retained

• Complete intake system inspected, serviced, and reassembled

The complete fuel and intake systems have been professionally serviced to maintain the motorcycle's original factory configuration and running characteristics.

COMPLETE FRONT SUSPENSION RESTORATION

The front end was disassembled and extensively rebuilt.

Front suspension and steering service included:

• Front forks removed from motorcycle

• Fork assemblies disassembled and rebuilt

• New fork seals

• New fork oil

• New fork boots

• Steering head bearings inspected and serviced

• Original fork lowers professionally polished

• Original triple clamps cleaned and polished

• New front fender installed

• The polished fork lowers look outstanding and complement the beautifully preserved original Honda equipment.

FRONT WHEEL & BRAKE RESTORATION

The original front wheel was removed and completely reconditioned.

Work included:

• Original wheel disassembled for service

• Aluminum hub vapor-honed and restored

• Brake components cleaned and serviced

• Brake backing plate refinished

• Original spokes individually cleaned and polished

• Hub refinished

• New front tire installed

• New inner tube installed

• Wheel reassembled and inspected

The brand-new front tire still retains its molding nubs.

The front wheel, brake, and fork assemblies present beautifully and reflect the considerable attention to detail invested in this restoration.

REAR SUSPENSION, SWINGARM & REAR WHEEL RESTORATION

The rear of the motorcycle received the same extensive attention as the front.

Restoration work included:

• Rear wheel removed and reconditioned

• Original swingarm cleaned, prepared, and repainted

• Rear suspension components inspected and greased

• New Pro-Link swingarm decal installed

• Original rear wheel hub vapor-honed and refinished

• Original spokes cleaned and polished

• Brake components cleaned and reconditioned

• New rear tire

• New rear inner tube

• Brand-new gold drive chain

• Original passenger footpegs retained

• Original chain-guide and related hardware preserved

Honda's innovative Pro-Link rear suspension was an important feature of its early-1980s off-road and dual-sport motorcycles, and the system remains one of the bike's distinctive period-correct features.

ORIGINAL FACTORY PAINT – A REMARKABLE SURVIVOR!

One of the most outstanding features of this XL250R is its beautifully preserved original factory-painted fuel tank.

This is not a reproduction tank with modern replacement paint.

It is the original Honda tank, still wearing its factory finish!

That is exceptionally rare on an XL250R approaching 45 years of age.

Most surviving examples have been scratched, dented, repainted, or extensively modified after decades of trail riding.

Because this example was used exclusively on paved roads by its previous owner, the factory tank and numerous other original components survived in remarkable condition.

Additional preserved original components include:

• Original factory fuel tank and paint

• Original seat cover in excellent condition

• Original Honda handlebars

• Original tachometer

• Original headlight assembly

• Original Honda handlebar controls

• Original front and rear turn signals

• Original mirrors and levers

• Original aluminum skid plate

• Original footpegs and brake controls

• Original swingarm

• Original exhaust system

• Original exhaust heat shields

• Original rear luggage rack

• Original taillight assembly

• Original license plate bracket

• Original factory steering-stem identification and emissions labels

The original aluminum engine skid plate is particularly impressive.

On most surviving XL250Rs, this component is heavily dented and gouged from decades of riding through rocky trails, woods, and uneven terrain.

This example is exceptionally well preserved, providing further evidence of how carefully the motorcycle was used throughout its life.

Even the original handlebars remain in outstanding condition, something rarely encountered on a vintage trail motorcycle of this age.

New handgrips were installed during the restoration.

ORIGINAL EXHAUST SYSTEM PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED

The original Honda factory exhaust system was preserved and carefully restored rather than replaced with an aftermarket unit.

The exhaust was cleaned, refinished, and repainted in its factory-style black finish.

Both original heat shields were retained and refinished with the appropriate contrasting finish.

The result is a clean, factory-correct appearance that complements the rest of the motorcycle.

This XL250R retains the classic look and character that made these early Honda dual-sport motorcycles so desirable.

FRAME & COSMETIC RESTORATION

The motorcycle was extensively disassembled to facilitate the restoration, with particular attention paid to preserving its original character.

Unlike motorcycles that have undergone unnecessary complete repainting, this example retains many exceptionally well-preserved original finishes.

The frame was cleaned and carefully touched up in areas where normal rider contact had worn the finish, particularly around the lower frame rails and footpeg areas.

Other refinishing work included:

• Engine cases and covers repainted

• Swingarm restored and repainted

• Brake components refinished

• Exhaust system restored

• Fork lowers polished

• Triple clamps cleaned and polished

• Aluminum components cleaned and detailed

• Fasteners and hardware cleaned and restored

• Original equipment meticulously preserved

The result is a motorcycle with the appearance of a professionally restored classic while retaining much of its original Honda authenticity.

CUSTOM-RECREATED SIDE NUMBER PLATE COVERS

A unique detail of this restoration is the custom-recreated side number plate covers.

These were painstakingly recreated by Christy, who developed templates to reproduce the original appearance.

This was a labor-intensive process requiring considerable precision and attention to detail.

The finished pieces closely replicate the original factory appearance and are a beautiful finishing touch on an already exceptional restoration.

LESS THAN 100 MILES SINCE RESTORATION!

Following completion, this XL250R was professionally road-tested, tuned, and inspected.

It has accumulated less than 100 miles since the restoration, primarily during our testing and tuning process.

The motorcycle runs beautifully and operates as intended.

The electrical equipment, including the headlight, turn signals, horn, and taillight, has been tested and is functioning properly.

This is not a neglected old motorcycle pulled from storage and given a quick carburetor cleaning.

This is an extensively serviced, professionally restored, mechanically reconditioned classic Honda.

RESTORATION INVESTMENT – OVER $11,500!

Our technicians invested approximately 70 hours of professional shop labor restoring and reconditioning this motorcycle.

At Kaplan Cycles' current shop labor rate of $150 per hour, that represents:

Professional labor: 70 hours × $150 = $10,500

New parts and restoration materials: Over $1,000

Total restoration labor and parts value: Over $11,500

That figure does not include the original acquisition cost of the motorcycle.

The total investment reflects the quality of the work performed and the extraordinary amount of time required to restore a vintage motorcycle properly.

We are offering this beautiful XL250R for sale at a price below our investment in the restoration.

For collectors who understand the true cost of professionally restoring a classic motorcycle, this represents an exceptional opportunity.

AN APPRECIATING CLASSIC HONDA COLLECTIBLE

The 1982 Honda XL250R is a landmark example of Honda's early dual-sport engineering.

With its durable four-stroke engine, six-speed transmission, Pro-Link rear suspension, street-legal equipment, and unmistakable early-1980s Honda styling, it represents a special era in Japanese motorcycle history.

These motorcycles were built to be ridden and enjoyed, and most were used exactly that way.

Consequently, exceptionally clean, original examples are becoming increasingly difficult to locate.

This motorcycle combines the desirable characteristics of a preserved original survivor with the confidence of extensive professional mechanical restoration.

The original paint, original exhaust, preserved factory labels, original cycle parts, and comprehensive service history make it particularly appealing to the serious Honda enthusiast or vintage dual-sport collector.

Whether displayed in a private collection, brought to vintage motorcycle shows, or enjoyed on weekend back-road rides, this XL250R is guaranteed to attract attention.

It is a beautiful example of Honda's legendary engineering and a classic motorcycle we are proud to have saved for future generations.

NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM – KAPLAN CYCLES

This motorcycle is offered by Kaplan Cycles, located at the historic New England Motorcycle Museum complex in Rockville, Connecticut.

Our facility houses an extraordinary collection of vintage, classic, and collectible motorcycles, along with our growing family of motorcycle dealerships.

This XL250R is worthy of museum display and will be available for inspection at our facility.

We encourage serious collectors and enthusiasts to visit and inspect this beautiful motorcycle in person.

NATIONWIDE ENCLOSED SHIPPING AVAILABLE

We regularly ship motorcycles throughout the United States using licensed, insured, enclosed motorcycle transportation.

Our trucks are constantly traveling across the country delivering motorcycles to their new owners and collecting additional motorcycles for our inventory.

Whether you are located in New England, California, Texas, Florida, or anywhere in between, we can help arrange safe, professional delivery directly to your door.

IN-HOUSE FINANCING AVAILABLE!

Contact our sales department to discuss financing options and transportation arrangements.

CONTACT KAPLAN CYCLES TODAY!

KAPLAN CYCLES / NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

Phone: 860-454-7024

Website: www.kaplancycles.com

Location: Rockville, Connecticut

Call and ask for Ken Kaplan Jr. or a member of our sales team.

We are happy to answer questions, discuss the restoration, provide additional photographs, and assist with nationwide transportation.

DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY TO OWN AN EXCEPTIONALLY PRESERVED AND EXTENSIVELY RESTORED 1982 HONDA XL250R!

Original factory paint. Original seat. Original exhaust. Original factory equipment. Rebuilt engine top end. Rebuilt front suspension. Restored wheels. New tires. New chain. Fully serviced fuel system. Approximately 70 hours of professional restoration labor.

A BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF HONDA MOTORCYCLE HISTORY, READY FOR ITS NEXT CARETAKER.

Another classic Honda preserved by Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum.

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.