The 1985 Honda ATC250R was the most advanced three-wheeler of its time. Honda took lessons from racing in Baja when developing its 246cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a gear-driven balancer.
The two-stroke engine used reed-valve induction - opens in new window or tab. instead of the power valve that many of its competitors employed. The three-wheeler recently listed on eBay is particularly fast because its two-stroke engine has ported cylinders and Boyesen Rad valves - opens in new window or tab..
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A 35mm Air Striker carburetor - opens in new window or tab. and FMF Fatty pipe - opens in new window or tab. will help the ATC kick up nasty rooster tails at the dunes. The ATC stands for “all-terrain cycle.”
Total Performance Package
The 1985 Honda ATC250R’s suspension was also state-of-the-art for the period. The 39mm fork is air-adjustable—and its Pro-Link rear suspension - opens in new window or tab. is compression- and rebound-adjustable.
The three-wheeler’s aluminum wheels and disc brakes were advanced for 1985, too. The ATC250R’s fork rocks racy BDT Racing Wurks decals and was shortened four inches. As a result, the rake is tightened.
Honda upgraded the stock back end with a West Coast swing arm and a complete DuraBlue package, including a 4-inch axle, carrier, adjustable strut, and anti-fade nut. Meaty Hoosier T-20 compound tires - opens in new window or tab. out back make the stance of the already formidable ATC250R even more aggressive. Requisite ATV upgrades like AC Racing nerf bars, a DC grab bar, and Fly low bars also provide off-road attitude.
This 1985 ATC250R’s performance package is impressive. It still has the original motor, frame, seat, and plastics—adding to its desirability.
Risk and Reward
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The Honda ATC, especially the 250R, still has a devoted legion of fans. After all, it’s arguably the most fun you can have on three wheels. Durable and well-built, the ATC250R at one time was considered the most powerful Honda three-wheeler ever made. So it’s no wonder that hardcore riders fell in love with it.
Despite its enthusiastic fanbase, the ATC has a tarnished history. Shortly after its release, the model became embroiled in legal battles over high accident rates. In 1986, Honda ceased production - opens in new window or tab. after reaching an agreement with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The government’s mandate went as far as instructing US dealers to remove motors and other common parts from remaining models and then to cut the frames in half to prevent new sales. By the beginning of 1988, American regulators banned sales of new three-wheel all-terrain vehicles because of high injury rates.
That said, there are no laws against riding them today. But, of course, you should exercise the highest degree of prudence and practice. That said, with the proper precautions, the 1985 ATC250R is still a hoot to ride. A sweet complement of go-fast goodies make this all-terrain cycle wicked fun for mobbing around in the dirt. Just be careful.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.