Left-foot-operated return system (Forward: N-S/L-1-2-3-4 Reverse: N-R)Ĭhain and Sprocket 13:39, 520 O-ring chain Wet multi-plate, semi-automatic, centrifugal type Additionally, a gear-driven counter-balancer and a ball-and-race-bearing steering system make for the quad’s excellent handling and power delivery. The 250-cc wheeler transfers power to the wheels through a 5-speed semi-auto transmission with a reverse gear and a super-low 1st gear – perfect for light- to medium-weight loads. Engine Brand Name, Typeġ0 L/2.6 US gal (reserve – 2 L/(0.5 US gal) of unleaded gasoline of at least PON 86 or RON 91, containing MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether), < 10% ethanol, or < 5% methanol w/ appropriate cosolvents and corrosion inhibitorġ9.9 Nm (2.03 kgf-m, 14.7 ft-lb 6,000 RPM)Ģ.5 L (2.6 US quarts) of SAE 10W-40 4-stroke engine oil w/ an API grade of SJ Alternatives: SAE 5W, 10W-30, 20W-40, 20W-50 w/out graphite or molybdenum additives and meeting JASO T903 MA, MB Everything else about its engine configuration did not seem to change – even for later-year Honda TRX250s.
Its carb size of 27 mm is slightly smaller than the 1986 model’s 34-mm carburetor, lending to its lower top speed rating of 53 mph. The FourTrax 250 engine’s OHC design delivers an easy-to-use powerband, despite being a detuned version of the iconic ATC250 powerplant. 1985 Honda FourTrax 250 Specs & Features Engine While there were no changes to the 1985 Honda FourTrax 250 plastics, upgrades were evident in the 4×4’s brake system, lighting position, and drivetrain components. This resulted in the boom of parts businesses throughout North America and pushed the Japanese firm to make further enhancements to future releases. So, for the succeeding FourTrax 250 year models, Honda focused on improving the hybrid functionality of the machine that ultimately led to its success.ĭespite taking a backseat to Suzuki’s frontrunner, riders used the Honda FourTrax 250 predominantly for racing in the ’80s and early ’90s. But as soon as the vehicle launched, Honda realized it was premature to compete with the pure-sport Quadracer. In a way, it seemed to have served as a guinea pig for the former, aimed at going against the then industry-leading Suzuki Quadracer. While most off-roaders are only familiar with the 1986-1989 models, only true-blue enthusiasts would be able to point to the ’85 version as the beginning of the TRX250R/X era.įeaturing the same 246-cm 3 air-cooled power mill, rear suspension, and 20-hp power output as the ’86 version, the 1985 Honda TRX 250 was initially more popular with farmers than with adventurers. This small, rack-equipped ATV laid the foundation for the FourTrax™ run and, essentially, Honda’s ongoing line of sport-rec utility vehicles.
Unknown to many, the 1985 Honda FourTrax 250 was behind the celebrated 250-cc FourTrax series (or TRX250R/X). Stick around, as this guide lets you in on the specs and praiseworthy characteristics of the 1985 Honda FourTrax 250. So much so that the four-wheeler is highly sought-after even to this day. Incredible agility, predictable handling, and reliable power delivery are only a few of the good stuff the vehicle has to offer. It also set the groundwork for Honda’s line of top-notch utility machines. This 4×4 featured a powerful 246- cm 3 engine, front-and-rear cargo racks, and rugged styling.
The 1985 Honda FourTrax 250 was a sport/rec quad that came before the “ATV of the Century” – the 1986 Honda TRX250R.
Continue reading this article and get to know more about this underdog. It was not until the industry began shifting to four-wheeled machines that the FourTrax line made a buzz with consumers.
But because that same year had the Honda “Big Red” ATC250R dominating the scene, few people noticed the small wheeler. Contrary to popular belief, the Honda FourTrax 250 did not start in 1986 – it was a year before that.