1989 Honda CR250 Torque Specs: Late-80s MX Fastener Reference

Shop parts for a 1989 Honda CR250 Dirt Bike.

The 1989 Honda CR250 is a mature, highly capable production MX machine that closes out a decade of significant development for the CR250 line. The 250cc two-stroke HPP engine is well-developed and delivers strong, broad-powerband performance, while the chassis provides the handling confidence that Honda had built into the CR250 through the mid-to-late 1980s. For riders who compete with the 1989 CR250 in vintage classes or ride it recreationally, this torque spec reference covers all the major fastener systems.

Engine Hardware

Two-stroke premix, no oil drain plug. 1989 CR250 engine fasteners:

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)

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)

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)

Brakes

Front disc and rear drum on the 1989 CR250.

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)

Decade-End CR250 Maintenance Summary

The 1989 CR250 represents the culmination of a decade of continuous development for Honda’s 250cc MX line. By this point, the CR250 had evolved from the raw, simple Elsinore machines into a sophisticated production race bike with HPP power valve, Pro-Link rear suspension, and well-developed chassis geometry. Maintaining this bike correctly means regular top-end service (every 10–15 hours), annual linkage pivot inspection and re-greasing, seasonal brake system inspection, and fastener verification at every interval. These practices keep the 1989 CR250 performing at the high standard Honda achieved by the end of the decade.

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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.