To Buy, or Not To Buy; 1985 Honda ATC250ES "Big Red" 3-Wheeler

**Outlaw** · 01-03-2005, 02:55 AM

There's a guy that I'm talking to in North Carolina with a 1985 Honda ATC250ES "Big Red" 3-Wheeler. It's like brand new, except for one small crack in the rear fender. He priced it to me for $1,200. Is it worth that?

I will have to drive just under 500 miles to get it, so I'll be out at least $100-$150 in travel expenses. You might as well say that it's going to cost me around $1,500 total. What do you guys think?

I currently have an ATC125M that I just adore, but my 200lb., 6'2" body just doesn't adore it that well... It has enough power for me, but I'm looking for something a bit bigger.

Anything special that I need to ask and/or look for on this Big Red? I would like to get it within the next couple of weeks if you fellas think it's a good buy. It sounds kinda high, but he said that everything works like brand new. I've got pictures and everything and he's right... It does look brand new!

Thanks ya'll!

Outlaw

**marshallfester^australia** · 01-03-2005, 09:51 AM

Can not help you with the price outlaw, but it shouldn't have any problems hauling you around, I am 6'1 and 110 kg (sorry don't know how much that is in pounds) and my 250es gets me around fine. I don't know if you guys in the states have the same problems with the 250 es but most of the ones I have seen down under rust out on the right hand lower frame under the motor...Good luck!

**BIGRED_87** · 01-03-2005, 10:20 AM

Get it! $1500 is worth it. Definately!

**Maine_Triker** · 01-03-2005, 10:23 AM

1500 is worth it if it is that good in condition.

**Pistonhead** · 01-03-2005, 11:17 AM

Yep, I'd dish out 1500 for one in good shape, that is if I had 1500!

**ScottZJ** · 01-03-2005, 12:07 PM

You will never ride that other trike again once you get it. The big red is just a great trike and will work hard for you. That is about the average price for them around here and they arent even mint. I just picked up a super nice "almost" mint one for around 1300$ so I say do it.............peace

**ClayW** · 01-03-2005, 12:48 PM

Good buy. No doubt. Ones that go for less than that look beat. I have been offered $1800 for my Cherry 87 BigRed. Turned it down. Just too comfortable to ride. Gave up my SX and kept it. Im 6'3 285lbs. Fits me just fine. I would recommend a set of SX handlebars for it. Makes it easier to handle. THe stock bars just have too much pullback for me. I love my BigRed. Check the bottom edge of the tank for puff rust spots. Potential leak if so. Thats about all I that would concern me other than obvious mechanical issues. Buy it. Your 125M will feel like a ATC 70 when you sit on the BIGRED!!!

**ClayW** · 01-03-2005, 12:57 PM

I might add that BigReds, 350X's and some 250R's bring alot more money than the other hondas.

**patblkwell** · 01-03-2005, 01:23 PM

The Bigred is the "Cadillac" of 3 wheelers. I'd buy it right away...especially if it is in great shape. Good luck man

**bigredhead** · 01-03-2005, 02:18 PM

rear suspension makes a big difference...

i have an 85 SX, and it's almost the same as that big red.

check for bearing play, rust on frame, brake cables, choke cable, you know. the usual. if all that checks out.. grab it. plastic is just plastic, the rest is what gets you around.

I'd haggle... always sould. 1000 $.. cash.

**Kintore** · 01-03-2005, 04:46 PM

bigredhead thats what I do to, haggle always gets the price a little lower and yah I would check the tank and thats it, good find!

**Outlaw** · 01-03-2005, 09:45 PM

Wow! Thanks for all of the replies!

I have started working him down on his price... I asked him his down-right low paid with cash money through an e-mail that I just sent.

He did tell me just a few minutes ago that there are some *MINOR* dents on the left-side of the fuel tank. They're so minor that you can't even see them in the pictures... That doesn't really bother me anyway.

I am going to haggle with him and see what comes out of it. Either way, I'm prepared to give $1,200 and a 16-hour road trip for this Big Red!

Outlaw

**slb** · 11-26-2009, 12:52 PM

I have seen more Mint Big REds than any other trike I would go get that sucker if I was you Because I'll guarantee it is the toughest trike ever built and the most dependable

**oldtime3wheeler** · 11-26-2009, 01:02 PM

I would buy it. You will love the Big Red. I have one and love it. I use it almost daily around my property.

**85Tecate** · 11-26-2009, 01:08 PM

This thread is 4 yeards old!

Thread: To Buy, or Not To Buy; 1985 Honda ATC250ES "Big Red" 3-Wheeler

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To Buy, or Not To Buy; 1985 Honda ATC250ES "Big Red" 3-Wheeler