1987 Honda CR250 Torque Specs: Late-80s MX Fastener Reference

Shop parts for a 1987 Honda CR250 Dirt Bike.

The 1987 Honda CR250 builds on the redesigned 1986 platform with further engine and suspension refinements. The 250cc two-stroke HPP engine received development updates for 1987, and the chassis continued to benefit from Honda’s engineering investment in the 250cc class. By the late 1980s, the CR250 had become a seriously capable production MX machine that could compete with the best in the class. This torque spec reference covers all the key fastener systems for the 1987 CR250.

Engine Fasteners

Two-stroke premix, no oil drain plug. 1987 CR250 engine hardware:

FastenerTorque
Spark plug20–25 Nm (15–18 ft-lb)
Cylinder head bolts25–30 Nm (18–22 ft-lb)
Cylinder base bolts/nuts18–22 Nm (13–16 ft-lb)
Flywheel/rotor nut48–58 Nm (35–43 ft-lb)
Clutch hub nut50–60 Nm (37–44 ft-lb)

Brakes

Front disc and rear drum on the 1987 CR250. Keep caliper and disc hardware at spec for reliable stopping power.

FastenerTorque
Front caliper mounting bolts25–30 Nm (18–22 ft-lb)
Front disc bolts8–12 Nm (6–9 ft-lb)
Rear brake anchor bolt22–28 Nm (16–21 ft-lb)

Suspension & Chassis

FastenerTorque
Fork clamp bolts (upper)22–28 Nm (16–21 ft-lb)
Fork clamp bolts (lower)22–28 Nm (16–21 ft-lb)
Handlebar clamp bolts22–28 Nm (16–21 ft-lb)
Swingarm pivot bolt/nut65–75 Nm (48–55 ft-lb)
Rear shock upper mount35–45 Nm (26–33 ft-lb)
Rear shock lower mount35–45 Nm (26–33 ft-lb)
Linkage pivot bolts30–38 Nm (22–28 ft-lb)

Wheels & Drivetrain

FastenerTorque
Front axle nut40–50 Nm (30–37 ft-lb)
Rear axle nut70–80 Nm (52–59 ft-lb)
Rear sprocket nuts25–30 Nm (18–22 ft-lb)

Fork Leg Height Verification

After any fork service on the 1987 CR250, verify that both fork legs are set to equal height in the triple clamp before final clamping. Unequal fork leg height changes front-end geometry and creates handling asymmetry that becomes apparent through corners. Use a tape measure to check the distance from the top of each fork leg to the upper triple clamp surface—these should be identical within a millimeter. Set equal height, verify alignment, then torque the clamp bolts to spec in the correct sequence.

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Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.