xlr 250?

[rdlckris]

Hi, I am Going to look at a Xlr 250R tomorrow and i was wondering if anybody could give me any points what to look for? This is my first step into the enduro style bike I have recently sold my cbr600. I travel 30 miles a day to work and back all year round so i am hoping this bike would be for me. Does anybody recommend the xlr? Any info on reliability and mpg? its a 1991 model and info would be great thanks kris.

[Herb]

rdlckris,
30 miles is a rather long commute for a bike that size, but it can be done. The bike will be fine at around 95-100 km/h. More than that and you may see some oil leaks. I used to do a similar commute on a 1983 XL185S, and often had automobiles riding my tail. I now ride a 1983 XL600R with no autos in the mirrors! A 1991 may do a little better than my 1983, however.

As far as reliability, the smaller XL's are wonderful, reliable bikes. First kick starts are normal. They really do well off road because of their light weight. You might expect better than 300 km on a tank of fuel, so you will be doing well in that department.

Things to look for: check for play in the wheel bearings, as well as the swing arm, and handlebars. Many Hondas have rubber dampeners in these locations that can get worn out. Also, listen for timing chain rattle when the engine is running. This is another expensive fix.

I have a 1979 XL250S that shakes, rattles, and is generally worn out. But it still starts first kick. What a fun bike! I do not think I would want to face traffic on a bike that worn however, so I only use it off road.

Herb

[Herb]

rdlckris,
30 miles is a rather long commute for a bike that size, but it can be done. The bike will be fine at around 95-100 km/h. More than that and you may see some oil leaks. I used to do a similar commute on a 1983 XL185S, and often had automobiles riding my tail. I now ride a 1983 XL600R with no autos in the mirrors! A 1991 may do a little better than my 1983, however.

As far as reliability, the smaller XL's are wonderful, reliable bikes. First kick starts are normal. They really do well off road because of their light weight. You might expect better than 300 km on a tank of fuel, so you will be doing well in that department.

Things to look for: Check for play in the wheel bearings, Honda charges a small fortune for these. Checkfor play in the swing arm and handlebars as well. Many Hondas have rubber dampeners in these locations that can get worn out. Also, listen for timing chain rattle when the engine is running. This is another expensive fix because of the may gaskets and and gears that need to be replaced along with the chain.

All this said, I have a 1979 XL250S that shakes, rattles, and is generally worn out. But it still starts first kick. What a fun bike! I do not think I would want to face traffic on a bike that worn however, so I only use it off road.

Herb