Nice bikes. CamShafts are the same for both. The Camshaft in the (XL250 is slightly bigger). The XR has a 2mm Bigger Carburetor, no battery so the airbox is bigger. Better Exhaust and yes lighter flywheel (AC, no DC) resulting +5 to 7hp

If you dont use one of those contact me I'd be interested in some suspension parts. Thanks!

We had one of these on Rock Island. The mechanics gutted all the hand tools. It was set to be DRMO'd. They used to call them hot dog carts back in the day. The new SEMS are a lot better/roomier. They're just not as easy to transport

I greatly appreciate the side by side comparison! So the take away here, that I was unaware of, is that the XL is merely a street legal version (is that the case over the following years?). I am tinkering on an '82 XL500, which has the "Pro-link" suspension, but when consulting sites like Motosport and what not, nobody lists the XL as a model. (I DO understand there is NO expectation of finding OEM components for these old bikes; I was merely using the filter for seeking out "exact fit" aftermarket components, or POSSIBLY diagrams) What they DO list is the XR model. So is it safe to assume the majority of the 2 bikes ARE the same? Do you have any good sources of information on these old bikes regarding diagrams/parts lists/etc? Thanks for the video! I love seeing videos on these old bikes!

My second motorcyle, 1980 XR 500, excellent machine and an interesting project. Thanks.

Great project! can't wait to see more.

Might want to put on a Big Cat 😺 winch

8ft6 inch is legal in california unless im wrong.