1985 200x or 1986 200x?

[Derek]

I have the choice to buy an 1985 200x or i could buy 1986 200x. I wanted to know how much better the new engine on the 1986 200x was like vs the old 200s looking engine. Can someone help me out?

[edog]

I would get the 86 200X.

[TwoHundredEx]

From what I've read, the '86 is a far better machine. Better handling, much faster, better frame design, worth more, and sportier looking. (although I personally prefer the '83/5 style looks)
Parts are harder to come by, but if it's in decent shape, you should'nt have to worry too much about that.

[tri-Z ripper]

dont know yet getting an 85 tomorrow ill let you know how it is!

[Dirtcrasher]

The 86 is far superior!!!!!

The motor alone on an 85 is half the motor.....

Let the arguments begin

[oldskool83]

they say 86-87 is better but...only thing better i can see if the motor and the rear swingarm/carrier set up.

personaly 86-87 is harder to find parts...

ive always like the 83-85 style a bit more, how ever i will say the swingarm and chain adjustment set up was one of hondas worst ideas. i just had a 300ex style swingarm built fit the old 200x and yeah way more better and better suspestion then the 86-87 style also.

most people wont do what i did...but thats my .02 cents.

[The Goat]

the 86 87 is better power, handling and so on. the older ones are just easier to get parts for.

[Dirtcrasher]

Aside from above....

How about -

Superior valve adjustment set up
Better kickstarter gears - no more casesplitting kiddies!!
Better rear brake setup
Silent cam chain
Better shifting mechanism
A voltage regulator
Better cam chain tensioner
A cam that rolls in an actual BALL BEARING!!
Brighter headlight
6 Speeds
Better suspension
Square designed frame

Need more? I got em all!!

Solid metal front master cylinder
Easy access oil drain on the side of the engine.

Still more..... LOL!!

[3Wheelers4Life]

the 86-87 is better in stock performance, handling, ride, 6 speed trans (85 has a 5 speed), rare factor.
the 83-85 is better in parts availability, performance part options, common factor (lots of units made).
if your going to beat it, ride it hard, or get into serious performance such as stroking, hc piston, valves, valve springs, etc. i would go with the 85 because parts are more available, both stock and aftermarket. but if you going to ride it nice, and keep it stock go with the 86.
personally id go with the 86, but im happy with my 84.

[tri-Z ripper]

easy dirtcrasher! man he was trying to get the facts you act like your defending a case in court but man from what ive heard the 86 sounds awsome but lets face it if you get either of them your gonna have a good time! its still a 3 wheeler!

[Derek]

i agree its still a 3 wheeler. thanks guys!

[Dirtcrasher]

Well..... You asked and I'm telling you, How would you like me to explain it??

Yes, you will have just as much fun on ANY 3 wheeler.

They make plenty of performance cams, valve springs and high compression pistons for the 86 also.

The reason I try to be clear and thorough is so you don't end up like my buddy who has 2500$ into an 85 and loves riding my 86 much more.
We both agree the handling, suspension and overall feel is much better.

They really are night and day and I wish you guys owned both and could make your own decision.

I can only think of one single negative and thats the used parts market.

EDIT - Not to mention, you dump 2000$ into an 85. A month later the kickstarter slips, what ya gonna do? You have to remove and tear down the entire engine. That costs you at least a gasket set and 4 hours if your good. If you don't have a nice spare set of gears your done, the upgrade kit is discontinued. And if you can't split a case, your out at least 300$ in labor alone and most shops won't touch ATC's.

[super90]

There really is a huge difference between them. The 2nd gen. just has a completely different feel to them. One thing I hate about the older ones is the kick starter goes the whole way to the ground and takes a longer kick to get it going rather than just kicking it to the pegs. The suspension is about the same I think, couldnt really tell any difference there. Theres so many upgrades its hard to list all of them. But another thing I hate is the chain tensioner, you would be sitting there for a good 20-30 mins. or less if you know how to do it easily, while I pull out my allen wrench and loosen 2 bolts, turn the carrier and go.

[The Goat]

and if you're dropping 300 on labor, you may as well just buy a new Lifan..or a new engine from rpm_atv.

i have newfound respect for the lifan...it has held up to a water torture test.

[tri-Z ripper]

this is making me nervous im picking up an 85 tomorrow! what is weak on the kickstart the splines the kicker what?