The hugely popular Honda TLR200 Reflex isn’t rare, but examples like the one recently sold on eBay are getting harder to find.
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In the early 1980s, Honda was determined to make a success of four-stroke motors in the Trials Riding World Championships - opens in new window or tab.. It met that goal with a 1982 title for the Honda RTL360. To encourage junior riders, the engine configuration and body style of the 360 were carried over for the TLR200.
Both 1986 and 1987 TLR200 models were available, though all the US-market bikes landed in 1986. Both years were identical. They remain hugely popular on the Trials/Enduro scene.
Power comes from the ubiquitous and extremely dependable 194-cc Honda XR200 engine - opens in new window or tab.. It was a development of the old CB125 - opens in new window or tab. unit used by Honda for many years in many different small machines. A six-speed gearbox made the most of the strong-but-unexciting motor. Power peaked at just 13.5 horsepower. That was plenty to give a junior rider a taste of Trials riding, but not ideal for the bike’s other use.
Dual Purpose
If the rider was old enough, they could legally use a TLR200 on the street. Gearing would need to be altered from competition specification, and smoother tires would work better on the pavement. Speeds of over 50 mph were achievable, and the TLR’s lights and turn indicators made short road journeys possible.
Despite its appearance, the saddle contains more padding than a strictly-Trials bike. It still doesn’t look like a comfy place to sit for too long. However, the TLR was praised for finding grip off-road where other bikes struggled. It also enjoyed superior build quality.
Too Nice to Ride?
This Honda TLR200 Reflex recently sold in Colorado Springs, Colo., reportedly covered a mere 935 miles from new to the time of sale. The seller described almost every aspect of it as immaculate, saying:
This is so nice that I wouldn’t ride it.
For a buyer who would, it was ready to go after a full disassembly and thorough service. New parts fitted included:
Immaculate Condition
The photos show the immaculate condition of the plastics - opens in new window or tab., forks, wheels, and the striking red frame. The battery box - opens in new window or tab. is the only area not up to snuff. That said, the battery box is typical of the parts available for classic trials bikes on eBay.
The instrument cluster - opens in new window or tab., which sometimes faded after many days in the sun, is in sensational condition. It reflects the bike’s low mileage and the care afforded by previous keepers.
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