1978 Harley-Davidson Other

Condition:	Used
Year:	1978
Mileage:	n/a
Manufacturer:	Harley-davidson
Exterior Color:	Orange
Model:	Other
Engine Size (cc):	250
Sub Model (Optional):	MX 250
Type:	Motocross
Vehicle Title:	Clear
:	“Fully restored using most original parts.”
Price:	US $4,501.00
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1978 Harley Davidson MX 250
WhileHarley 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 partof the AMF conglomerate and had as it’s bedmate the Italian Aermichi Motorcyclecompany.  Harley used its link toAermichi to tap into the burgeoning two-stroke off-roaders world by creating avariety of models from the late 60’s to late 70’s, with the MX 250 representingthe pinnacle of those attempts.  Unfortunately, Harley was bit late to the party, and theJapanese and European manufacturers making regular and aggressive advancementsto their dedicated motocross offerings. Harley reportedly ordered 1000 units of the new MX 250, but ultimatelyonly 800 were made as the machine failed to catch on in the fast-movingBoomer-driven motocross market. With the passage of time, however, it is clear the limited run of thisvery pretty machine has made it favorite with collectors of all types. Thisparticular machine was acquired as very good condition core from Arizona in2008 and has remained in California since that time.  The motorcycle was in excellent shape for 40 year-oldmachine, and that included original tires, number plates with unused backgrounds,handlebars, levers, tank belt and most of the bits that would normally bebroken or worn with any kind of regular use.  The bike was missing the original fenders and grips but wasotherwise complete.  Thedecision was made to affect restoration of the machine and the project wascompleted by Vintage Iron at their Yorba Linda, CA shop in 2010.  With instructions to maintain as muchoriginality as possible, the machine was disassembled, the frame and tank wererepainted 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 ratherthan usage were replaced.  Thecases and barrel were repainted and the engine has not been started sincereassembly.  The exhaust pipe wasundented 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 wasnot.  Grips were replaced withsurgical rubber Maguras (one of which has split from shrinkage).  Afterreassembly, the MX 250 was not started and the tank has not had gas in it. Themotorcycle has been stored with collection in California since itsrestoration. Themost daunting task facing us during the restoration was locating properfenders:  one of the MX 250’s mostnotable features was the Harley Davidson logo embossing on the front and rearrenders.  Ultimately, and aftermuch 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 thesurface of the top centre portion appear scuffed.  We decided that an NOS original fender is still better thannone at all.  The search went onbut no better example has been found since then. Themotorcycle is sold on bill of sale and is located and available for pick up in San DiegoCounty, California.  We will assistin shipping. All prices are in US dollars.  

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