Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1537759
The Honda XR200R fit a wide variety of riders from serious compe tors to entry-lev- el newbies. Being an '83 model, the XR200 was in its second year of single-shock, rising-rate, linkage-equipped rear suspen- sion, known as the "Pro Link". The remote reservoir Showa shock offered adjustable pre-load and four rebound se ngs with just under 10" of travel. Forks, also by Showa, are spindly compared to today's standards at 35mm and also offer about 10" of bump absorp on. The ground clearance is impres- sive, even when compared to modern bikes, measuring over 13 inches, With a short 54.5" wheelbase, the bike is flickable and rather effortless to ride. With a big comfy seat of 35" in height, it begs for longer leisurely rides. Exhaust note is pleasant and quiet, as were most thumpers of the day. Unoffensive might be a good descrip on. Li le touches, such as dog-leg levers and quick-release wheels and O-ring chain are things we take for granted today. Back in 1983, these innova ons were game changers. The riding posi on is also unique. Taller riders don't feel cramped, yet smaller riders seem to fit just fine too. In fact, the only modern bike that might compare in this category could be the Beta 300 X-Trainer. As for power, even though it's only a 200cc four-stroke, it's got plenty of get-up-and-go. The bike loves slow technical climbs and doesn't back down to much. I find it inter- es ng how quickly dirt bikes evolved during the 1970s and into the early 1980s. However, as far as suspension design goes, other than fork tube diameters, the rising rate, rear suspension (linkage) system seems to have hit a wall in terms of development. Not much has changed in over 40 years since its incep on. The Honda XR200R retailed for $1,548, equivalent to just over $5,000 in today's dollars. Interes ngly enough, Honda has kept entry-level bike prices in check, with the 2025 CRF250F priced at $4,999. Hats off to Honda for con nuing to produce reasonably priced entry-level bikes that get the job done without drama! Yes, the seller might have been right when it comes to riding this me capsule but the bo om line will always be they are more fun to ride than look at! -Kurt