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Honda Big Red

1987 Honda ATC250 Big Red
A Full Revival

For collectors and vintage ATV enthusiasts, the 1987 Honda ATC250 Big Red needs no introduction. It represents the final era of Honda’s legendary three-wheelers — built with purpose, durability, and unmistakable character.

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When this Big Red came into our shop, we understood one thing immediately: this wasn’t just a rebuild. It was a preservation of history.

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The Big Red is an icon. Built tough, simple, and reliable, it earned its reputation as one of Honda’s most dependable three-wheelers. But after decades of use, time had taken its toll. Rust, wear, faded plastics, tired components — it needed more than a touch-up. It needed a complete restoration.

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And that’s exactly what we set out to do.

Honda Big Red

Complete Disassembly – Starting From the Frame Up

​We began with a full teardown. Every nut, bolt, bracket, and component was carefully removed. Our goal was simple: restore it properly, not cosmetically. Once stripped down to the bare frame, we:

  • Removed rust from all affected parts

  • Inspected every mechanical component

  • Repaired or replaced worn hardware

  • Prepped surfaces for refinishing

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This stage is where true restoration begins — when you see the machine for what it really is.

Powder Coating & Refinishing & Mechanical Restoration

To ensure durability and a factory-fresh look, most metal components were powder coated. This not only restored their appearance but also added long-term protection against corrosion and wear.

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The wheels were refinished and painted, giving them a clean, renewed look. To complete the transformation, we installed brand-new tires — bringing back the aggressive, ready-for-any-terrain stance the Big Red is known for.

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Beyond cosmetics, we made sure this ATC performs as good as it looks. Everything was inspected and serviced. Components were repaired where possible and replaced when necessary. The result is not just a restored machine — it’s a fully functional, dependable three-wheeler ready for work or collection.

Bringing Back the Original Honda Red

One of the most important aspects of this project was authenticity. All red body parts were carefully repainted in the original Honda red color, matching the factory tone as closely as possible. The goal wasn’t to customize — it was to preserve the legacy. Damaged and faded decals were replaced with new, factory-style graphics, restoring the classic “Big Red” identity that defines this model.

The Final Result

The transformation speaks for itself.

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What once showed years of wear now stands proud again — clean, bold, and true to its 1987 roots. The bright Honda red, fresh decals, refinished wheels, and new tires bring this Big Red back to life exactly as it should be.

 

This project represents what we believe restoration should be:

  • Respect for originality

  • Attention to detail

  • Craftsmanship that lasts

 

The 1987 Honda ATC250 Big Red isn’t just restored — it’s revived.

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