1978 Harley-Davidson Other

Condition:	Used
Year:	1978
Type:	Motocross/Off road
Manufacturer:	Harley-davidson
Exterior Color:	Orange
Model:	Other
Engine Size (cc):	250
Warranty:	Vehicle does NOT have an existing warranty
Vehicle Title:	Clear
Sub Model (Optional):	MX 250
:	“Pristine restoration with original parts.”
Price:	US $6,000.00
Got questions?	Ask here!

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Times}p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Times; min-height: 18.0px}1978 Harley Davidson MX 250


While Harley Davidson has never been well known for its production of motocross motorcycles, it’s few dalliances into the sport in the 70’s produced the iconic MX 250.  At the time, Harley Davidson was part of the AMF conglomerate and had as it’s bedmate the Italian Aermacchi Motorcycle company.  Harley used its link to Aermacchi to tap into the burgeoning two-stroke off-roaders world by creating variety of models from the late 60’s to late 70’s, with the MX 250 representing the pinnacle of those attempts.  Unfortunately, Harley was bit late to the party, and the Japanese and European manufacturers making regular and aggressive advancements to their dedicated motocross offerings.  Harley reportedly ordered 1000 units of the new MX 250, but ultimately only 800 were made as the machine failed to catch on in the fast-moving Boomer-driven motocross market.  With the passage of time, however, it is clear the limited run of this very pretty machine has made it favorite with collectors of all types.
This particular machine was acquired as very good condition core from Arizona in 2008 and has remained in California since that time.  The motorcycle was in excellent shape for 40 year-old machine, and that included original tires, number plates with unused backgrounds, handlebars, levers, tank belt and most of the bits that would normally be broken or worn with any kind of regular use.  The bike was missing the original fenders and grips but was otherwise complete.  
The decision was made to affect restoration of the machine and the project was completed by Vintage Iron at their Yorba Linda, CA shop in 2010.  With instructions to maintain as much originality as possible, the machine was disassembled, the frame and tank were repainted and all metal services were cleaned and polished.  The engine was also disassembled but, given its light use, only parts likely to require replacement from age rather than usage were replaced.  The cases and barrel were repainted and the engine has not been started since reassembly.  The exhaust pipe was undented and was merely cleaned and repainted.  The handlebars were replated, but other important surfaces (fork legs, triple clamps, springs, etc.) were cleaned and/or polished.  Cables were replaced, but the chain was not.  Grips were replaced with surgical rubber Maguras.  After reassembly, the MX 250 was not started and the tank has not had gas in it. The motorcycle has been stored with collection in California since its restoration.
The most daunting task facing us during the restoration was locating proper fenders:  one of the MX 250’s most notable features was the Harley Davidson logo embossing on the front and rear renders.  Ultimately, and after much digging, original fenders were located and purchased through the Primm Collection, but they were neither perfect nor cheap.  While new, the front fender bears production flaw that makes the surface of the top centre portion appear scuffed.  We decided that an NOS original fender is still better than none at all.  The search went on but no better example has been found since then at least not for less than $1000.
The motorcycle is sold on bill of sale and is available for pick up in San Diego County, California.  We will assist in shipping.




Also published at eBay.ca