QuestionFrom what I have been able to devise from a few sources ie; ( http://www.motorera.com/honda/h0250/xl250.htm )is that the 1974 model engine serials should begin with XL not SL. So what the hell do I have for a motor? It's stamped 248cc, it's 5 speed 4 stroke and the engine serial starting in 2xxxxxx is correct for year 1974, so you can understand my confusion. If you could help shed some light on what I actually have for a motor I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks. Please find my serials below for reference.
1974 Honda XL250 K1
Frame Serial: XL250-2011531
Engine Serial: SL250SE-2016344
AnswerI do have some dim recollection about this issue, but seldom ever deal with these models.
I have corrected more than a few typos/mistakes on their site over the years, so the information is not infallible.
Being the they are both -2XXXXX numbers indicate that they are both from the same years. Honda street bikes usually have numbers fairly close together, but dirt/enduros may not follow that kind of sequencing.
I would check with www.xrsonly.com and www.powroll.com who both have a lot of experience with the little thumper motors.
Checking around Ebay and the web seems to show that both designators were used during that time. The bikes are usually released in Japan the year before they come to the US market. Because they were already building SL100-125-175 machines by then, that may have been how it was release domestically.
It isn't the first time that Honda has done things like this. The "late" model CA77 Dreams have CA78 chassis numbers.
I would use http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-xl250-motosport-250-k1-usa_model838/partslist/ for parts references.
Found this test... http://www.oldrice.com/XL250%20Cycle%20Illus%2012-72%20roadtest.jpg
on http://www.oldrice.com/xl_page.htm
Bill Silver
