1985-1986 Honda ATC250R Classics Test

A historical look and modern day review of the greatest mass produced three-wheeler of all time. the legendary 1985-1986 Honda ATC250R with commentary from former Pro racers, Kawasaki's Jimmy White and CT Racing's Allen Knowles.

[@lothre]

My unrestored / never rebuilt 1985 250r is still killing it to this day. Legendary machine!

[@dankstankle9946]

Same here! Got a 84 200x Still running OEM

[@wildestcowboy2668]

​@@dankstankle9946 four strokes are for sissy boy's who get down wit they buddies.....

[@_357_]

@@dankstankle9946 Got an 87 200X. Nice bikes btw!

[@MsStephanie190]

Have owned 5 over the years and still have 1 in the barn.Rode them when they were new when I was a teenager and at 45 I still love them.the 4-wheelers will always seem like a kids bike to me.

[@paulclancy2404]

you mean compared to trikes I'm 42 myself thinking letting it go for a boat which probably be worthless in near future

[@jasonmiller4046]

@@paulclancy2404 wanting to trade bass tracker 17' boat for one

[@paulclancy2404]

@Joshua Dowling lol I had honda xr 100 , i rode it till the wheels fell off , also a 70cc i put about 30k trails and urban assault 🚗🚀

[@paulclancy2404]

@@jasonmiller4046 I give it some thought, I love my 3 wheeler but it's not enjoyed or appreciated way should be what year and size motor ? Can it be used on salt water ?

[@paulnokio1199]

4 wheeler s are just trikes with a training wheel

[@OTAlucard]

I still can't believe this video was released 7 years ago. Damn time flys. Long live the 250r. Best bike ever. And I've ridden a lot of different bikes

[@ronaldtartaglia4459]

This is so well done I probably watched it a hundred times. And it never gets old. The whole timeline of how the 250R was born and the competing machines makes this is a great little mini mini-doc. I wish you'd do more of them.

[@ATVonDemand]

We know this comments old but we just saw it this morning when reading another new comment. Thanks. Made our day.

[@halfnelson6115]

Restoring a 250r is on my bucket list. 30years later and it still looks bad ass. Any other moto 30 years old looks old and dated. If that was released this year I would look like a modern machine.

[@skeet25s]

We used to have a lot of fun on these. These are the only things I have ever operated that I managed to run myself over with multiple times. LOL. The old foot bounce off the peg, and grabbed by the rear wheel routine. Good times for an over-active 11yo. I miss that thing, but am well satisfied with 4 wheelers.

[@Sonos45]

The 86 atc250r is the most capable off-road machine ever built period. Not the fastest on a track but these things put many quads to shame climbing and muddling. It truly is incredible how well they work. Also if they are unmolested they blow smoke rings like crazy.

[@devodar2579]

The Honda 1986 250R three wheeler was so far ahead of its time, if it were to come out today in 2016 for the first time, it would be in its actual time release.

[@newyorkfarmer146]

Devo Dar I agree just beacause of its design the 80s fourwheelers are just coming alive now

[@cmmguy99]

Very true.

[@SuzukiLTZ-]

Devo Dar no I feel that in the late 90s it would fit in because the regular forks not the newer style of inverted forks and it still had some lacking suspension

[@Noxfinance]

Devo Dar lol I have one in perfect condition I can tell you it’s a flash back in time

[@Davido50]

Devo Dar Yea Honda shouldve stayed a motorcycle company. There cars & SUVs always made me gag.

[@Stu650Zuk]

I'm 50yrs. old and you guys are making me feel nostalgic for these days. Who remembers the starting lines were a sea of red, and not orange as it is today? Motocross at least,,I liked all japanese mx and enduro bikes especially growing up. I only owned one trike, I just had to try one..I got a great deal on a 1983 ATC250r air cooled machine. While way down on power compared to my motorcycles,,,they were great fun. Riding all seasons in the snow was a hoot too. I liked how Honda knew how to create the perfect "powerband" for the ATC's and the early 250r 4 wheeler. They ran very similar to a enduro bike. Good low end, strong midrange, and then fall off on the very top...Great engine set up for trail riding, small tight race tracks etc. I had many a motocross bike that were basically light switch power curves...none to radical..hahaha! Honda always did better than most in that regard with the 2 stroke engine..Mind you they weren't the fastest on top end speed, but the mixture of a good chassis, suspension, and a broad running two stroke that didn't tire you out was a winning combination...I really miss my 83 CR480r,,I was always more a bike guy than the atc guy, but enjoyed both.

[@russellcaldarola9707]

I'm 60 and miss my 250R had 660 raptor rather ride the Honda .

[@davidinnaplesflorida]

30 years later and I got a 1986 Honda 250R and I will never get rid of it. Love It.

[@ATVonDemand]

Welcome to the club!

[@paulclancy2404]

nice brother anyone from N.Y. own trike

[@chadfabian3143]

Here I am 21 years old. Got my first three wheeler at 19. A 1985 honda atc 200s. Built it back together love it and rise it daily. Going out this weekend to look at a 200x so excited to pick it up. Never been excited about a 4 wheeler or bike ever the three wheelers is what truly makes my blood pump and shoot my adrenalin through the roof. I wish that honda would come out with a new 3 wheeler the ban on three wheelers was a 10 year ban. Watched all old three wheeler races I could find. Going to try to go to ama this year and enter a race with the atc 200x. I hope someday manufacturers will realize there is still a market for them. They truly are amazing unique machines with lots of personality.

[@paulclancy2404]

Nice enjoy my son 21 and he dont want me to sell my 85 ATC

[@francotemplet7313]

You are so right about people not willing to be responsible for their actions. Sad but true, and things have gone down hill from there. Mine was early 80's 250R, hundreds of hrs of joy,, NO INJURIES. Why?? Mine always had BREAKS that FUNCTIONED!!! And I NEVER let a novice ride my bike.

[@disinfecting7169]

Franco Tramble brakes*

[@jimkolesinski3078]

Franco Tramble still ride the three wheeler every weekend haven't got hurt yet just gotta be careful and respect the bike

[@paulclancy2404]

@@jimkolesinski3078 still ride it?😁

[@russellcaldarola9707]

All way had a blast on my 250R

[@dosbox907]

Always loved how you guys lay'd it down at 0:36 "for our nation, it (atc250R) is perhaps symbolic of a cultural shift. from rugged individualism, to a culture of individuals. unwilling to accept personal responsibility for their decisions and actions" PREACH IT BROTHER!!!! Usually people would be timid of saying such things in a public video but, hell naw, we should never be timid with the truth.

[@ATVonDemand]

We completely agree. Thanks for the outspoken support.

[@troyellison8422]

I was born in 90 but the big red and 200s is all my dad would ride and still have them in the garage

[@ronaldtartaglia4459]

Absolutely great comment

[@ericandrews1661]

So true

[@VforVengeanceIV]

it should be noted that more injuries were sustained by riders by not applying a proper riding technique, and lack of wearing proper safety gear such as helmets and riding boots. In a search conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, it was determined that "no inherent flaw was found in the three wheel design". it was also determined in a CPSC study that three-wheelers are no more dangerous than other ATV's. I would like to thank the people who didnt wear helmets and had no experience in riding a three- wheeler for the ban of a truly great and timely Offroad Vehicle.

[@ATVonDemand]

So it is noted! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@kennethrogers3687]

I am confused. If they were as good and safe as four wheelers, what happened to them. I seen a Suzuki quad kill three wheelers in the corners. Complete annihilation. It looked like a old supercross race. Is that what happened. They simply could not keep up.

[@davidbrennan5]

I will give my honest opinion, 3 wheels was a good design but 4 is better. The frames and suspension on all 3 wheelers was bad even on the racing machines they flexed a lot and could not handle the power the machines had, (motorcycles from the 80's had the same problem) that said a good rider on a trike can beat a good rider on a quad in some cases because the trike is lighter and easier to throw around say in tight woods or on a track without monster jumps, Trikes were very good in the sand as well. The quads could land easier after a big jump (even if landed badly) and they were 10 x better in whoops because of those advantages they were much quicker at the mx track everyone switched to quads because they were quicker.

[@HighlanderNB]

thank-you. my words exactly. I had a 200x, 200m and a 250r. I'm currently riding a 200s and a 250sx at 52 years old I've never broke a bone and never buying a 4 wheeler. respect what you ride!!!

[@dondominy5052]

Are you out of your mind stupidity hurt our trikes quads are ugly and trikes are as safe as the rider been riding trikes a long time 82 never been hurt on but i took proper safty precautions helmet gloves boots chest protecter and was always aware of my surroundings if it was a familliar spot i rode cautious till all clear once over inspection of terrain un familiar respect till i knew inside out never attempt stunts or climbs decents beyond comfortability and last but not least never drive any machine under the influance if you drink consume what ever after day of riding complete and bikes safly put away my opinion now the quadzilla and the banshee by the way quads 2 of the most dangerous machines ever manufactured

[@TailgunnerATC]

As I've told you guys before, fantastic work. It is awesome to see these machines compared to modern day standards and how well they stack up. It's amazing to see that these 30 year old machines can still hold their own against many machines out today. Looking forward to any three wheeler videos you'll be releasing in the future.

[@nicholasrui1611]

This video put a smile on my face that i couldnt get rid of. Remembering all my bikes, places, and most of all the people that ya met on the trails and all the exsploreing with me and my group of rag-tag 3 wheeler friends. What goodtimes those were, thank u.

[@ricko9879]

When you think back to being 14 years old and riding the 250r for the first time. After motocross riding and being used to putting your foot out in corners, it really hurts when that foot gets sucked under the back wheel!!

[@ATVonDemand]

Yes it does.

[@tyronekiddjr4505]

U know your an 80s guy when you wear a donkey Kong shirt

[@jeremylewis3204]

He rode an 83 in 82?

[@joepaulwelding]

Yeah 😜

[@frankyalvarez7160]

@@jeremylewis3204 Same way you buy a 2021 vehicle in 2020.

[@stirfrybry1]

We bought these machines for nothing back in the 90s. I got a 350X for $700 in '92 and rode it for 5 years before selling it for $500. Three wheelers are the most fun type of offroad riding. Bring it back

[@ZacksRides]

This video is still my favorite atv videos out there. It does a great job explaining the history of the machine and the model itself. Very interesting and entertaining. I would love to see more that are along these lines showcasing other iconic machines. Yes I know you have other classics on KZbin and I love them too. I know these take a lot of time to make and maybe we will not see more in the future. I hope we do though. Thanks for the ones that have been released to this point.

[@jerryleroy9187]

I have a 1981 200 Honda and it's still a blast after almost 40 years of riding. Never replaced rings or anything. everything is stock from the day of purchase except for the cord for the pullcord. Awesome friggin machine. Pulled moose out of the bush, hauled enough wood out of the bush to burn for many many winters, pulling out the ice hut, and just plain bombing around. This vid makes me want to go out to my dads and take a ride on ol' Betsy. Getting emotional now so I will stop typing now. LOL PEACE!

[@mrtraumaboyy4098]

Had a Yamaha 175 which looking back was a total piece of manure but posters of the 250R and Tecate decorated my wall for years. Tried to kill me a few times but thank the LORD I survived. Appreciate this great video!!

[@wheels-n-tires1846]

So many flashbacks... I still have all those issues of 3wheeling Magazines you used in the vid!!...as a teen i drooled all over the 1984 200x and 250r, although i was only riding an ATC110. Wasnt til 22 years later that I finally got the 85 250R id always wanted... Was worth the wait!!

[@ArthurPereira1974]

great review video, i owned 3 years of these atv's, 84' 85' and 86'. always a great performimg machine, even against modern much larger displacement four strokes. Thank you for bringing back good memories.

[@ricknelson4764]

Back in 1985 I bought an atc 250 r brand new. I desert raced it, flat tracked and ice raced it. I loved it and would buy another in a heart beat. It was a fantastic machine

[@ATVonDemand]

Good times! Wish you had some video to share. Love to see it.

[@Yagerzsuzuki]

Amazing work Atv On Demand! Learning the history behind the machines and having a true appreciation for them can be almost as fun as riding one. It's incredible that a well known name like yours has the appreciation for the ancestors that have brought us the machines we know today. I can almost guarantee that you'll be getting tons of requests for new vintage videos from everyone who watches this one, and if you could take my request into consideration it would be amazing. Do a vintage Suzuki Quadracer video on the first racing Atv ever made (Lt250r) along with the fastest Atv ever made (Lt500r). It would be a great sequel to the three-wheelers and could spark even more publicity. Anyways, please consider the video idea and just continue to keep shooting out awesome videos! By the way, if you guys would be up for a Quadracer video I might be able to break into the ol' private collection and provide any year of any old Quadracer you all might need. But again great work and keep it up!

[@evannelson6069]

The subtitles in this video are hilarious! Very cool video to watch. Thank you to whoever put it together.

[@cbr600rrturbo]

This is a classic review that was needed to be done,thank you. One just as important is a Trx250r, please, please

[@derekdreke4990]

It was fun as hell a few years ago when I lived out in the country tons of restored machines these included. Good to see people bringing them back

[@longlivethe80s]

1:21 now there's an 80's brother I can salute! ATC in the background and donkey kong t-shirt! Kick ass!

[@dougharlow6037]

My father has a Suzuki LT 185 at his cabin in Lake Tahoe. I had so much fun up there when it snowed also in the trees in summer. Then I borrow a 1986 Honda ATC250R and took it up there, I didn’t just have fun but a blast!!! Then I took it to a track setup by the locals and wow, one of the best rides ever. Thanks for the memories.

[@rollercharger]

Dear ATVonDemand its me again, Thank you to your team. You offer so much insight and provide quality information that I feel is correct and accurate. You never cease to amaze me at the things you are able to put together. It was interesting to see that they put 3 and 4 wheels together in races and competitively the 3 was no match for 4. I also like to see the people that helped pioneer the sport and Allen is one of the coolest people. Thank you. Something this good only comes around in a great while, thank you. Ps Is there going to be a vintage ATC,ATV shootout ATC250r, Trx250r,Lt250,Lt500,ATC350x,Banshee? like your 450 videos? Maybe old school vs new school shoot out? And just a thought there is a video called "worlds greatest drag race" done by motortrend Where they take awesome cars and line them all up and drag race them all at the same time. It was beyond cool. Was just an idea to see all, if not most of the ATV,ATC old and new, 200cc-700cc, line up and drag race or all the UTV's drag race. If Anyone could make it possible you could. "The worlds greatest off road drag race ever"

[@ATVonDemand]

We love your enthusiasm and appreciation for our vintage tests. We may at some time in the future do an old vs new shootout, however we feel the magazines of the time did a good job of putting the machines in prospective so the winner then should be the winner now. The fun part is showing people who may not know, the history behind these machines and seeing how they perform from a modern day prospective. If you noticed the White ATC250R near the end of the video, you know what is coming next, an ATC250R project test. We know you will be watching and that's why we will keep cranking them out.

[@Tigerloco70]

Good ol days , atc , 2 stroke and heavy metal 🤘🏻

[@davidparker170]

🤘🤘🤘💰💰💰

[@north773]

Still live this way

[@ronaldtartaglia4459]

I had so much hope for this channel. Hoping for more classic content. Gone just like the three wheeler.😥

[@Dudemieser]

LOVE THIS! Thanks for putting it up!

[@ATVonDemand]

Our pleasure.

[@Dudemieser]

I graduated high school in 1985, and a brand new 250r was my graduation present from my grandfather. I went on to own two more 85s and and an 86. I found the 86 under a old truck topper. Someone had put the 310 kit on it when they took delivery of it. They rode it three times before they just parked it.

[@Monkeypumper420]

Thank you for this very important and entertaining video showing where the sport we know today originated. Makes me more proud to be an TRX250r owner, amongst the many other classic Honda enthusiast's/owners.

[@ATVonDemand]

Coming from an owner of perhaps the greatest sport ATV in history that is quite a complement. Thank you!

[@Monkeypumper420]

ATVonDemand. I also forgot to comment on the quality of your videos. I'm a hard sell, and am subscribed. Thanks again!

[@ATVonDemand]

Monkeypumper420 We work hard to try and separate our video quality from the rest. We really appreciate your subscription and positive feedback. Hopefully we continue to improve.

[@lucascady4992]

Very well done documentary!

[@HotRodDave]

I love these old 3 wheelers and hope to have one soon.

[@jeffsparman8369]

Lived in PHX AZ my two young sons, Wife and myself made many trips to Yuma and Glamis Dunes. Had soooo much fun. I had a 86 250R stock with paddles there was nothing I couldn't climb. Also spent countless hours desert riding. Sure miss those days.

[@mrdave777]

My favorite ATC. I never drove a Banshee, but this bike rocks!

[@ATVonDemand]

The two ATC250R is just as radical in its own way

[@exilesurfer6916]

I would absolutely LOVE to have another one of these bikes..... they are nothing shy of awesome!!!!

[@Kenny_K2323]

STILL have my 85! Since.... 85! 😊

[@ATVonDemand]

Not many people can claim that.. That's sweet.

[@paulclancy2404]

Nice

[@paulclancy2404]

I strive for my son to the same stability and sentimentality

[@kylepez604]

God damn, I wish I was around for the 80s. at least my dad and uncle were lucky enough to experience such an amazing decade and ride atc's

[@kylepez604]

@Dirtyd23 Ya i heard of those types of companies ther is one near where i live called BVC trikes but ther kits are so expensive ): and the bike that i have is my dads kx 125 which i cant and will never convert into a trike. but maybe one day i will convert a bike or buy a trike

[@juliawilliams2097]

Thats back when honda know how to build a fun and damn good looking atv

[@ATVonDemand]

Julia Williams yes and don't forget about affordable

[@isaacnelson9464]

@Sean Raymond not really

[@jimini1976]

I still have 2 beautiful 85 Tri-Z 250's and a 83 YTM 200 covered up in my garage.Thumbs up for all trikes👍😁. edit, I won all 4 motos at Trikefest in 2004 on a borrowed 350x, Thanks Matt.

[@hhstarwars]

Dang!! I love the tri-z’s probably get hated for it but even more than the 250r. Your a lucky man to have 2 in your possession! I have 3 Honda 200x’s and a ytm225dx that I’ve got running. I really long for the 2-strokes but they’re hard to find where I’m at.

[@akrocuba]

AWESOME!!!! I HAVE A 250SX AND I LOVE IT! I wish I could get my hands on one of these!

[@stevehoeffner8819]

Loved my 86 TRI-Z. Kicked ass. Loved my 2002 Banshee too. Two of the fastest around.

[@ATVonDemand]

We've done the Banshee in the past. Superfast!

[@whatsthebigfndeal]

My best friend's older brother had one of these things when I was a kid. Man, that thing was a beast!

[@jamesc6137]

Excellent video as always

[@ATVonDemand]

Glad you enjoyed it. We love doing the vintage tests when we have time.

[@nathanmcbride881]

Have an 84 with extended flat track axels. Take the turns and blast out. Nothing like a honda 250r 3 wheeler. My dad has talked a couple times on getting rid of. Can't let it happen. We grew up on them. First one I rode was in 93 when I was 5. 1979 atc 70. Still have it to. My dad paid 250 for it. All three of us learned to ride it. Got his money out of is say. Would love to get it redone and teach my kids how to ride it.

[@tomkruze2749]

I FKN love 3 wheelers! My parents gave me a 1985 Yamaha 225dx for Christmas in 1985. Still have it Still Ride it 2022!

[@ATVonDemand]

It is so cool that you still own and ride the machine that your parents got you way back then. Great stuff. Made our morning.

[@comandercoconut4921]

More vintage builds please!

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I rode a few Honda 90 and 110 Three wheelers then my friend let me ride his 350-X I took off across the yard and hot such a high speed I thought I would be dead when I hit a drop off at the end of the yard.. I had been over this spot many times at a way lower speed on a 110 cc tri.. To my Astonishment I went over the drop off no problem .. the suspension handled it like a dirt bike would have.. It put a big smile on my face .. I had not crashed and was still in prefect control of the machine.. Wow suspension really helps ..

[@BarnStangz]

Great video, I'd be cool to see the TRX250R like others have mentioned.... I can remember when I was younger a neighbor of mine telling me that riding a 250R was like riding a real bull in a rodeo, unlike quads, he referred them as the "mechanical bull" version....

[@davidd3377]

I guess this is a recommended video because I just got an ATC 110 that sat outside for over 35 years and searched for some carburetor and clutch information. I really enjoyed going back to being a kid and seeing the different year changes. Only one of my friends could afford the 250 and the rest of us had 110 and 185. I had a 200x as a young adult and kept up with the banshee and quadzilla 500 in tight trails. I am disabled and 55 years old so the 110 is a lot of fun but it leaves me wanting my old 185s or 200x when I am climbing the river banks after riding the sand. Even in low range it can be a little scary wondering if it will make it up or leave me in the Ohio River. Great video.

[@ATVonDemand]

Glad we could take you back. We cant afford a 250R anymore. The prices have gone up so much since we made this video. i'm sure we could have a ball climbing some river banks on a 110. We're only a few miles from the Ohio river in Cincinnati.

[@davidd3377]

ATVonDemand I am at the end where Kentucky and Illinois meet.

[@OYisit]

Cool time capsule, I now have a lot more respect for my 82 250R that old girl has always worked hard and never let me down two stroke trikes do require your full attention and respect and in return offer a truly unique riding experience.

[@juliusdream2683]

Tecate spelled it wrong because I haven’t even thought about it in almost 40!years ago wow. That 86 Honda was just beautiful.

[@shanejohnson437]

Still loving the doc, I watch it over and over. Amazing job, been riding and wrenching for over 25 years. I’ve never had one of these, but plenty of banshees, more fat boy friendly lol. You measure the lifespan of these motors in hours if you ride hard and lean, pun intended

[@jaydub5515]

BVC Trikes makes some of the most amazing modern day dream machines. A Dirtbike conversion kit is like $6 grand, but they are the best and have mass amounts of experience. They've even made modern KTM Enduro trikes, and my favorite, an AT-CR500

[@ATVonDemand]

We have seen their videos.

[@jaydub5515]

@@ATVonDemand anybody in your Trike circle mess with the original Missle kits to convert to the Fat Cat? After seeing BVC's new Fat Tire builds, I've been wanting to ride one of them. I'm in Alaska, and I've only seen 2 of them, and I think they were for a 200x and a Big Red

[@jaydub5515]

Or maybe it was a R

[@DJ9iron]

So awesome. Nice job guys.

[@MrHondatrxex]

Very good video. I loved the fact that you have video from Smith Road Raceway in Medina ,Ohio. I was not expecting to see that track on a video that also has Jimmy white and Allen Knowles in it. Smith Road Raceway fully supports 3wheeler riders of any age or skill level. They usually have an A class and a B class for 3wheelers and also have classes that peewee can race in. if your looking to race your 3wheeler and your near Cleveland Ohio, look up Smith Road Raceway on Facebook. Smith Road has 3 races a year, memorial day, July 4th and labor day.

[@Superflow66]

Awesome video by the way.

[@davidjohnston330]

I owned an 86 250R ATC! Wish I still did. Fastest dirt machine I ever owned!

[@crazyflyboy30]

I can remember that back in the day this was my dream ATV but years later I got a LT 500 Racer but now I have a Sportsman XP 1000 that's a real Dream come true.

[@xSPACEGAMERZx]

I ride my 1983 ATC 250R on the daily. Only rolled it once, and that's when I just got it(this was my first trike by the way) I'm still alive and I have no intentions of stopping riding trikes, in my opinion the ATC is the greatest ATV ever made, so ahead of its time.

[@adamadams6740]

Miss Trikes sooo much! I grew up in the 90’s with these from a Honda 110 to a Honda 185 then 200x and 250R!!!(had a couple Tri-Z’s also,want to find another.had 350 odyssey also there getting “retro popular” again where i live in Arizona witch is making the price go up.

[@LuxeXx]

Those are some deep thoughts in your intro...

[@ATVonDemand]

LuxeXx keeping it real.

[@jamesmana5247]

You did an excellent job, Wish I would have seen this b 4 I did it the hard way. LOL do have 1 on tuning the carb. Mine is running to rich. Thanks

[@1Heyfred]

Built a bad ass 350x back in the day. Fitted big bore and XR500 head on 350X bottom end. Torque monster. Starting at the base of the dunes, no problem.

[@ATVonDemand]

We have heard of people doing that motor setup on the X. That would be a monster!

[@ricknelson4764]

The 1985 atc250r was my first 3 wheeler, I flat tracked it, ice raced & cross country raced it and while I had a few crashes here and there none of them where serious. 2 years later 4 wheeler's came out and I could no longer race the 250r I was never as fast on the 4 wheelers and gave it up. Im now 57 and ride a sportsman 850 so and yes I ride it way to fast...I'll never grow up.

[@ATVonDemand]

You would like Steve McQueen on your 250R. Riding a little bit of everything it sounds like.

[@ricknelson4764]

@@ATVonDemand I have always been a fan of Steve McQueen and he has been a great influence on my life He was a good family man, a Christian(at the end) and a patriot . I never had the pleasure of meeting him but I did wave at him during a race at the San Jose mile, he waved and smiled back. Growing up in N. Idaho Evil Knievel was always around and while I thought he was an obnoxious and egotistical man, he did personally teach me how to ride block long wheelies on my Can Am MX2 (I was 14) the last time I saw him was around 2002, he wasn't doing very well, in fact he knocked over a row of bikes at the H.D. shop. He had mellowed quite a bit and was actually pleasant to talk to. He remembered me and said that as a kid I was a punk who rode way above my skill level. I guess I still ride that way only now I'm more of an A-hole than a punk. My "career" never amounted to much, I had a parts rides and local sponsorships and maybe it would have been different if I had stuck to one type of racing but I wanted to ride anything and everything with a motor and I really have no regrets, I had a lot of fun and did things most only dream about. If you ever want want to experience N.Idaho and our 1000's of miles of mountain fire roads look me up.

[@goodfriend7609]

I bought a brand new 1986 Honda 250SX, rode that thing for 32 years, me, the wife and my kids loved it.....none of us ever hurt seriously thank God, lol.

[@MrThenry1988]

I know of 4 people that have life changing injuries from 3 wheelers. One gal lost an eye and won a large settlement. Shortly after you could buy a 3 wheeler. Blast to ride. We all got suzukis after that. One bud got a quadzilla. The 500 was insane. The 250 was a blast. We all went back to bikes after that. Still on them. Haspin is a blast.

[@kindbud]

alright so i rode dirt bikes as a kid (11-13) a few times a year for a few years. i wasnt a pro or a noob, got maybe a total of 150 hours of riding in total of 3 years. it was always a camping thing, never had my own. Now today im 21 i got to ride this beast. I had no idea about the history of this atv but i knew it was honda and i love honda cars, so i enjoy honda bikes sometimes as well. I ripped this thing like i stole it for 2 days, i rode it like i had a death wish on all terrains. I almost fell, ate shit, and died quite a few times but it didnt make me slow down. I loved this thing. I was riding a honda quad for a few hours (maybe 5) and it was quite slow in lower gears getting stuck in sand. where this ripped in the sand pike it was nothing! I got it up to top speeds on 3 different terrains, sand, loose gravel/sand road, pavement road, and it was all fun on all 3! It made me start saving for one, I cant until the day I do!

[@billbright1755]

I still ride my 82 Kawasaki KLT 250 all year round to this day. 250 four stroke, one carburetor, one head pipe, chain final drive, solid rear axle, drum drakes front and rear. Very fuel efficient. Link dual shock front suspension. Five speed no reverse motor cycle engine powered many types Kawasaki bikes and I love that power plant solid as a rock for long life. Vacuum fuel pump works fine. Pulled a track and field drag for many years now retired from that service just joy rides now days. " three wheelings a good feeling" It is a time proven work horse that plays just as well. It has given me many years of fun. And I will keep it in service as long as I can. I added very bright led lighting for night riding, they are truly all terrains as snow mud ice sand water dirt pavement rocks night day make little difference to it. The safety police can take a hike because if I'm not hurting anybody I'll do as I ### well please!

[@johnnalenzy1937]

I used to have an 86, last yr they made them. SO WISH I never got rid of it !!

[@roflstomps324]

I grew up on these. I was three the first time I drove an ATV. I did until this day and have never, ever been hurt. The key was not being a moron who would get hurt at most anything attempted... banning these was a disgrace.

[@ronaldtartaglia4459]

I wish you would do a series on the Fourtrax 250r, the quadracer, and the tecate 4

[@heathhalfhill6401]

I had one of these and got hurt so many times. Quick and powerful. Grease up your seat and gone man! I ended up addicted to opioids thanks to my own stupidity and all the bad wrecks I had on this 3 wheeler. I was the only kid in my neighborhood with one, everyone else had 90s to 200Ms they couldn't keep up with it because of its quickness. If I could go back in time I would have put a 4th wheel and made it into the sickest 4 wheeler around!

[@martydriscoll1402]

I'd still love to have one!

[@867diesel]

I raced my buddies 250r three wheeler in 2002 when my 250r 4wheeler blow the top end during practice . he asked me how big of balls I had because he would run back to his house to get the 3 wheeler . I was 14 at the time and came in 2nd out of 8 racers lol best race of my life . damn I miss racing moto cross

[@ATVonDemand]

867diesel well, how was it?

[@867diesel]

ATVonDemand one of the most memorable moments I had on the track . came in second out of 8. Man the dudes behind me were pissed lmao they had 450 4strocks

[@wallochdm1]

I've got a bone-stock 1985 ATC 250R. Glad I never messed with it.

[@ATVonDemand]

The value of that thing is going up faster than the stock market. Lucky!

[@josephp3403]

Badass. Awesome video. What else in in the plans? Any chance of doing the first generation racing quads? What about Tiger ATV?

[@TailgunnerATC]

They picked up a 1984 200X not that long ago to clean up and do a video on. Then someone volunteered their 1986 200X to do a head to head comparison between the first and second generation 200X's. On their list is also the 250SX and the LT500R Quadzilla.

[@ourkid2000]

Great video, loved these things. Just curious if anyone has any idea what the rider did wrong there towards the end when he crashed on that jump? Nothing seemed off to me but it went pretty bad when he landed. What did he do wrong?

[@3rdofthree]

Absolutely love the phrase - culture changed from rugged individualism to individuals unwilling to accept responsibility for their decisions and actions. What a good start to this video!

[@ATVonDemand]

3rdofthree after recording it I got goosebumps the first time I listened to it back. We really believed it represented a profound shift in American culture. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@toddacton4400]

atc's rock ,still riding my 86 350 x

[@nomoremr.niceguy4778]

In 1981 I managed a trip to the ER after flipping a warmed over 110 at about 45 mph which is flat out while trying to slide through a corner. Now almost 40 years later no way do I blame the trike. Totally driver error. A Newbie in over his head. But I got out with just a broken thumb and some bruises because I had my gear on! Every warm weekend I miss the Mod 185s thAt replaced it . Someday I’ll find another 1982 185S and build a replica of what I raced. Just great fun.

[@fivebooks8498]

I was hoping this video would take us through 89 and go into the 250r quads also

[@ATVonDemand]

That would be for another video.

[@koreysmith7183]

A 3 wheeler might not be as fast on the track but there a lot more fun to ride then a quad imo. Plus not everyone has one And it actually takes a little skill to ride efficiently.. I got my first 3 wheeler when I was 3 year's old in 1997 and been in love ever since. Long live the A.T.C !

[@paulnokio1199]

250r could rip but I prefer the 350x

[@juliawilliams2097]

My cousin had the 250r three wheeler and 250r 4 wheeler back in the early 90s i was about 9 or 10 years old riding both of them putting around

[@gtashepards6928]

Great video very entertaining good job! One question though Do you guys plan on making a vid about the tecate 3? That'd be sick!

[@ATVonDemand]

Yes, we are supposed to film one this June at Trikefest.

[@schigara]

Will it be a 1st gen 84/85 or the 2nd gen 86/87 Tecate 3? I am a Tecate nut that has owned many 1st gens but recently got my first late body 86 model. The first gens are a dime-a-dozen compared to the 86/87's.

[@ATVonDemand]

We are scheduled to film an 86. Should be fun!

[@danborsos3826]

Im 14 and ride a atc 250r everyweekend and never got hurt. Its the first and only thing ive ever ridden

[@dennism103]

I has a 3 wheeler it was awesome luved it.

[@danhambrick6331]

Man I wish I still had mine....

[@ramjam6]

Awesome. I like the sound track too.

[@minibikemadman]

the flat track kits they made for the atc 250r are so cool...ive got the golden boy a 88 trx 250r.

[@oscarlopez3217]

Could you guys do a classics test on the Suzuki LT500?

[@miketee2444]

On the 3 or 4 wheeler, in the 80s the best way I could describe them was that when sitting on the Hondas it felt like you were in them or part of them. Several of my frieyfell for the kawie but they were like sitting up on a bar stool going 70 mph.

[@justsomeone6835]

A couple riding legends 👍🏻 right there

[@patrickrodriguez320]

Atc 250r is the KING of 250s Its THE 250 The 250 that keeps up with the newest biggest most high performance 250s and 450s around. Its notoriety is UNDENIABLE Alot of these dudes today think 3wheeler culture is a bunch of old guys stuck in the past....well ...thats horse shit! Ive rode 3wheelers for years and i truly believe that older quads of the 80s are TRASH when it comes to maneuverability. Quads have great hp but are nothing but a heavy turd with a sluggish sway in front end for "steering" vs. Atc that whipps YOU in and out of turns sharply.....and thats coming from a guy who owns a fourwheeler.

[@patrickrodriguez320]

a little over done lol. i really enjoy my quads but atc is a totally different animal. still think atc 250r is the 250 of all time

[@patrickrodriguez320]

dang! must be one of a kind ive never seen a 250 outlander or a zilla....oh wait thats right they dont exist, you just started talking out your ass comparing a 250 to a 1000 and a 500. just like all the other wannabes who cant live with the fact that the honda 250r is the best 250 of all time. thats funny, bro. it kind of reminds me of the yamaha fan boys who have to compare it to a banshee, because the tri z is trash. ciao!!

[@austinwallace6943]

Hes a idiot honda 250r is a legend

[@cmmguy99]

LOL... clearly you dont know how to ride an ATC.

[@MoparSammy]

Patrick Petrie lmao my 85 250r keep up with a banshee that had $800 Toomey 5 pipes, bigger carbs and k & n air filters. All I had was a FMF pipe with stock bore 😂 here's the race kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKjMn3SYit-LZqM if I wanted to kill it bad all i would need is a big bore kit lol

[@boatlover2296]

I’m so glad I got to grow up in this era. It’s seriously sad that lawyers ended these incredibly fun machines. So many incredible bikes in those days

[@ATVonDemand]

All true.