2002 HONDA CR250R

FULL FRAME-OFF RESTORATION

70 HOURS LABOR – $14,251 INVESTED

WIZARD-BUILT – RICKY CARMICHAEL REPLICA

PRO CIRCUIT – RACE READY!

AN END-OF-AN-ERA TWO-STROKE LEGEND! ONE OF THE FINAL FULL RESTORATIONS BY KAPLAN CYCLES' LEGENDARY MASTER TECHNICIAN, "THE WIZARD"!

Feast your eyes on this absolutely spectacular 2002 Honda CR250R, a legendary two-stroke motocross machine that has undergone a comprehensive, professional, frame-off restoration by one of Kaplan Cycles' most experienced master technicians, affectionately known as "The Wizard."

This is no ordinary vintage motocross bike. This is an extensively rebuilt, meticulously detailed, Ricky Carmichael-inspired CR250R with 70 hours of professional restoration labor, $3,751 in new parts, and a total documented investment of $14,251!

From the completely rebuilt engine with a brand-new Hot Rods crankshaft and Millennium Technologies Nikasil-plated cylinder to the rebuilt Showa suspension, custom red anodized hubs, Pro Circuit exhaust, fresh Dunlop MX34 tires, and Ricky Carmichael replica graphics, this Honda represents an extraordinary amount of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and investment.

And here's what makes this one particularly special: This is expected to be one of the very last complete frame-off Honda two-stroke restorations performed by The Wizard.

After decades of turning out extraordinary motorcycles and routinely working 40–60 hours per week at Kaplan Cycles, The Wizard has entered semi-retirement, now working only approximately 8–12 hours per week.

His specialty has always been Honda two-stroke motocross motorcycles, and this CR250R represents the culmination of a lifetime of mechanical experience, craftsmanship, and passion.

Opportunities to purchase motorcycles built to this standard by this particular craftsman are becoming increasingly rare.

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2002 HONDA CR250R – THE RICKY CARMICHAEL ERA

The 2002 Honda CR250R occupies a special place in motocross history.

This was the era when Honda's legendary two-stroke CR250R was among the most formidable competition motorcycles on the planet.

The 2002 model featured Honda's electronically controlled RC exhaust power-valve system, an advanced aluminum twin-spar frame, Showa suspension, and an incredibly powerful 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine.

It was also the beginning of Ricky Carmichael's legendary Honda years.

In 2002, Carmichael captured both the AMA Supercross Championship and the AMA 250cc National Motocross Championship, accomplishing an incredible feat in the outdoor nationals: a perfect season, winning all 24 motos across 12 rounds!

His dominance helped cement the Honda CR250R's reputation as one of the most iconic motocross machines of its generation.

Honda would ultimately discontinue the CR250R after the 2007 model year, making these late-generation aluminum-frame two-strokes increasingly desirable among enthusiasts, collectors, and riders who appreciate the unmistakable sound, power delivery, and character of a high-performance two-stroke.

This beautifully restored 2002 CR250R pays tribute to that legendary era with its Ricky Carmichael replica graphics, carefully selected performance components, and factory-inspired presentation.

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COMPLETE ENGINE REBUILD – BRAND-NEW CRANKSHAFT, REPLATED CYLINDER & MUCH MORE!

The centerpiece of this motorcycle is its professionally rebuilt 249cc two-stroke engine.

This wasn't simply a top-end refresh or a carburetor cleaning.

The entire engine was removed, disassembled, the crankcases split, and the engine rebuilt from the crankshaft up.

Engine restoration highlights:

• Brand-new Hot Rods crankshaft assembly

• Brand-new crankshaft main bearings

• Complete engine seal replacement

• Complete engine gasket replacement

• Cylinder professionally replated with Nikasil by Millennium Technologies

• Brand-new ProX standard-bore piston

• New ProX clutch components

• Brand-new clutch springs

• New VForce reed cage

• New Boyesen reed components as listed in the restoration work

• Keihin carburetor professionally cleaned and rebuilt

• New carburetor drain hoses

• New fuel lines

• New Twin Air / performance air filter

• RC power-valve system cleaned and restored

• Power-valve cover refinished

• Water pump serviced and restored

• New engine case bolt kit

• New OEM Honda shift lever

• Complete cleaning and detailing of engine cases

• Refinished ignition and clutch covers

• Refinished water-pump cover

• High-temperature, 500-degree gloss-black engine enamel on selected components

The attention to detail is immediately apparent.

The engine cases were thoroughly cleaned and carefully detailed while the engine was removed from the chassis. The ignition cover, clutch cover, power-valve cover, and water-pump housing were refinished to give the engine an exceptionally clean, factory-inspired appearance.

The new Hot Rods crankshaft and Millennium-replated cylinder represent major mechanical investments that provide a solid foundation for years of enjoyment with appropriate maintenance.

This is the level of engine restoration typically associated with a serious competition build, not an ordinary used motocross bike.

PRO CIRCUIT PERFORMANCE EXHAUST – THE SOUND OF A LEGEND!

Nothing captures the excitement of a classic 250cc two-stroke Honda quite like the sound of a properly tuned CR250R.

This motorcycle is equipped with a performance Pro Circuit exhaust system featuring a Pro Circuit Factory Sound 304 stainless-steel-series silencer.

The combination of the rebuilt engine, upgraded reed intake components, rebuilt Keihin carburetor, and Pro Circuit exhaust delivers the crisp throttle response and unmistakable two-stroke exhaust note that made these motorcycles legendary.

This CR250R is an absolute ripper!

The motorcycle has been operated using VP Racing fuel and Maxima Super M two-stroke oil.

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COMPLETE FRAME-OFF CHASSIS RESTORATION

When The Wizard restores a motorcycle, he doesn't simply clean the visible parts and call it finished.

He approaches each project with the same fundamental philosophy employed by professional race teams: Strip it down, inspect everything, rebuild it properly, and pay attention to the details most people never see.

For this restoration, the motorcycle was disassembled down to its aluminum frame.

The frame was thoroughly power-washed, steam-cleaned, carefully Scotch-Brite finished, and inspected, including its critical welded areas.

With the engine removed and the chassis disassembled, the restoration included extensive attention to the frame, swingarm, linkage, suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and controls.

Chassis and suspension restoration:

• Complete frame-off disassembly and detailing

• Aluminum frame thoroughly cleaned and inspected

• Frame welds visually inspected

• Swingarm removed and restored

• Brand-new swingarm bearing kit

• Brand-new suspension linkage bearing kit

• Front forks serviced and restored

• Rear suspension serviced and restored

• Refreshed Showa suspension appearance

• New Showa and Dunlop fork decals

• New fork-lower detailing components

• New rear shock mud flap / protector

• Reassembly with extensive new hardware

The result is a remarkably clean, meticulously detailed motocross machine with a presentation that reflects the tremendous amount of time invested.

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CUSTOM WHEEL SET – RED ANODIZED TUSK HUBS, BLACK RIMS & NEW DUNLOP MX34 TIRES!

One of the most striking visual features of this CR250R is its beautiful custom wheel package.

The motorcycle features a set of red anodized Tusk aluminum hubs, new spokes, and black rims, providing an outstanding factory-race-inspired appearance.

These wheels perfectly complement the Honda red plastics and Ricky Carmichael graphics.

Wheel and drivetrain upgrades:

• Red anodized Tusk aluminum wheel hubs

• Black rims

• New spokes

• Brand-new Dunlop MX34 front tire

• Brand-new Dunlop MX34 rear tire

• New tire tubes and rim strips

• New Renthal front sprocket

• New black Renthal rear sprocket

• New gold drive chain

• New chain guide

• New chain rollers

• New chain slider

• New rear axle nut and washer

The entire rear drivetrain was addressed as part of the restoration.

From the sprockets and chain to the rollers, sliders, guides, and swingarm bearings, the amount of new equipment installed is truly impressive.

This is far beyond what you would typically find on a used CR250R.

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FULLY RESTORED FRONT & REAR BRAKING SYSTEMS

The braking system received the same extensive attention as the engine and chassis.

Both the front and rear brake calipers were removed, cleaned, professionally detailed, and rebuilt.

The calipers and master cylinders received careful baking-soda blasting to restore their appearance without the aggressive surface damage associated with harsher abrasive blasting methods.

Brake restoration includes:

• Front brake caliper rebuilt with new components

• Rear brake caliper rebuilt with new components

• Front and rear caliper rebuild kits

• Master cylinder exterior detailing

• Front and rear brake systems flushed and bled

• New DP front brake pads

• New OEM Honda rear brake pads

• New OEM front disc protector

• New OEM rear caliper protector

• New front brake lever

• Red anodized Works Connection master cylinder caps

Important disclosure: The front brake rotor remains the original Honda component. During testing, a slight pulsation was noticed under front braking. The rotor was considered serviceable during the restoration, but a purchaser seeking absolutely perfect brake feel may elect to replace it. We believe in disclosing these details so buyers know exactly what they are purchasing.

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PREMIUM CONTROLS, HANDLEBARS & FACTORY-INSPIRED DETAILS

The Wizard is known for his custom touches and attention to detail.

This CR250R features a collection of premium aftermarket components and subtle race-inspired upgrades that make the bike particularly special.

Handlebar and control upgrades:

• Renthal RC70 handlebars

• Renthal crossbar pad

• ODI Lock-On grips

• ProTaper quick-adjust clutch perch and lever

• Works Connection clutch perch protection components

• Brand-new clutch cable

• Brand-new throttle cable

• New OEM Honda shift lever

• New front brake lever

• ProTaper Radius oversized footpegs

• Red anodized steering-stem nut

• Additional red anodized hardware

• Custom drilled-washer detailing

• Red anodized Works Connection master cylinder caps

The oversized ProTaper footpegs provide a substantial platform, while the Renthal handlebars, ODI grips, and premium clutch controls give the bike a comfortable, purposeful race-machine feel.

Small touches like the anodized steering-stem hardware and carefully detailed fasteners are signatures of The Wizard's craftsmanship.

These are the kinds of details that distinguish a professionally prepared machine from an ordinary restoration.

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RICKY CARMICHAEL REPLICA GRAPHICS & NEW BODYWORK

The visual presentation of this Honda is nothing short of spectacular.

The motorcycle features a beautiful Ricky Carmichael-inspired appearance, paying tribute to one of the greatest motocross racers in history.

Cosmetic restoration and upgrades:

• New front fender

• New rear fender

• New side number plates

• Cycra Stadium front number plate

• New rear shock mud flap

• Throttle Jockey Ricky Carmichael replica radiator-shroud graphics

• Throttle Jockey gripper seat cover

• New plastic mounting hardware

• Fresh Showa fork decals

• Fresh Dunlop fork decals

• Refinished engine covers

• Beautiful red anodized hardware accents

• Custom black-rim and red-hub wheel package

The combination of the bright Honda red plastics, factory-inspired graphics, black wheels, red anodized hubs, polished aluminum frame, and beautifully restored engine creates an absolutely stunning machine.

This CR250R is equally at home as the centerpiece of a serious Honda motocross collection or as a machine to enjoy on the track.

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THE WIZARD'S LEGACY – ONE OF HIS FINAL COMPLETE HONDA TWO-STROKE RESTORATIONS

At Kaplan Cycles, we've been fortunate to have some exceptionally talented technicians on our team.

The Wizard has been one of our most dedicated and experienced craftsmen, and Honda two-stroke motocross motorcycles have always been his specialty.

For years, he regularly put in 40–60-hour workweeks, meticulously restoring classic motorcycles and building some truly remarkable machines.

Now in his mid-60s, he has largely retired, working only a limited number of hours each week.

This CR250R represents one of his final complete frame-off restoration projects.

While he may complete a few additional projects, the days of his producing full restorations on a regular basis are coming to an end.

He currently has a personal collection of approximately nine motocross motorcycles in this category, including several particularly unique machines.

This 2002 CR250R is one of the first being offered for sale.

For a collector who appreciates not just the motorcycle itself but the individual craftsmanship behind its restoration, this is a rare opportunity.

This motorcycle represents 70 hours of The Wizard's expertise, decades of two-stroke Honda knowledge, and an extraordinary commitment to doing the job properly.

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RESTORATION INVESTMENT – OVER $14,000 IN PARTS & LABOR!

The documented investment in this motorcycle is substantial.

That's right — $14,251 invested in the restoration alone!

And that does not include the original acquisition cost of the motorcycle.

Consider what it would cost to reproduce this build today:

A complete engine rebuild with a new crankshaft, replated cylinder, piston, clutch, and reed system; a restored aluminum chassis with fresh suspension bearings; professionally rebuilt brakes; premium new wheel components; performance exhaust; all-new tires and drivetrain; upgraded controls; fresh plastics; and the dozens of hours of meticulous cleaning, preparation, refinishing, and reassembly.

The expense adds up quickly.

The good news?

THIS MOTORCYCLE WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE AT A FRACTION OF THE TOTAL RESTORATION INVESTMENT!

The Wizard has authorized a very reasonable reserve, making this an extraordinary opportunity for the next owner.

You simply couldn't commission this caliber of professional restoration for what we're expecting this motorcycle to sell for.

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WHY THIS 2002 HONDA CR250R IS SPECIAL

• Legendary 2002 Honda CR250R, from the Ricky Carmichael championship era

• One of The Wizard's final complete frame-off Honda two-stroke restorations

• 70 hours of professional restoration labor

• $3,751 in new parts

• $14,251 total documented restoration investment

• Completely rebuilt engine with brand-new Hot Rods crankshaft

• Millennium Technologies Nikasil-replated cylinder

• New ProX piston and clutch components

• Upgraded reed intake and rebuilt Keihin carburetor

• Pro Circuit performance exhaust and Factory Sound 304 silencer

• Fully serviced and restored suspension

• New swingarm and linkage bearings

• Rebuilt front and rear brakes

• Red anodized Tusk hubs, black rims, and new spokes

• Brand-new Dunlop MX34 tires

• New Renthal sprockets and gold chain

• Renthal RC70 handlebars and ODI Lock-On grips

• ProTaper oversized footpegs and clutch controls

• Ricky Carmichael-inspired Throttle Jockey graphics

• New Cycra Stadium front number plate

• New bodywork and extensive factory-inspired detailing

• Beautiful presentation from top to bottom

• Built by one of Kaplan Cycles' most experienced two-stroke Honda specialists

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A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED TWO-STROKE HONDA LEGEND!

There is something truly special about the final generation of Honda CR250R two-strokes.

The incredible power-to-weight ratio, the razor-sharp handling, the sound of the exhaust, and the unmistakable connection to one of motocross racing's most exciting eras make these motorcycles an absolute joy to own.

This particular CR250R takes that experience to another level.

With a completely rebuilt engine, extensive chassis restoration, beautiful Ricky Carmichael replica presentation, and over $14,000 in documented restoration work, this is a machine that would be exceptionally difficult and expensive to duplicate.

Whether you're a serious Honda collector, a two-stroke enthusiast, a Ricky Carmichael fan, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship, this motorcycle deserves your consideration.

Don't miss your chance to own one of The Wizard's final masterpieces!

The reserve is reasonable, and the motorcycle will be sold for substantially less than the investment required to build it.

Please review the photographs and video carefully to appreciate the quality of the restoration, the incredible attention to detail, and the extensive upgrades.

Questions? Contact Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum. We're happy to discuss this spectacular machine.

BID WITH CONFIDENCE – KAPLAN CYCLES / NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

Thanks for watching, and as always...

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.