What to Know About the Honda Recon 250: Specifications and Full Review

For the Honda Recon 250, simplicity is the name of the game. True, this entry-level quad does not have any significant features under its sleeves. Instead, this machine carries the typical components that you’d usually find in a Honda ATV. And that, perhaps, is what makes the Recon 250 tick. 

Launched in 1997, the Honda Recon 250 is part of the FourTrax series. The vehicle sports the same longitudinal engine, which gives the quad the same compact features present in the ATVs that belong in the FourTrax lineup. 

As a lightweight utility quad, the Recon is quite an agile powerhouse regardless of the terrain, which is why a lot of ATV buffs love this four-wheeler. A reliable workhorse, the Recon 250 is a hard worker that can accomplish backbreaking chores like ploughing snow, towing bales of hay, or even a considerably-sized game. 

With its electric start system and automatic clutch transmission, the 250-cc, two-wheel-drive Recon appealed to both consumers and enthusiasts,  thanks to its straightforward, beginner-friendly characteristics. In fact, this four-wheeler is one of Honda’s best-selling quads and is still in production up to this day. And that says a lot.

Though the Honda Recon 250 isn’t much of a legend in its own right, since it does not possess any outstanding features. There’s no doubt that Honda tried to play it safe with the Recon. Somehow, that strategy seemed to have paid off since the Recon 250 has become one of the manufacturer’s highest-selling ATVs. 

Unlike the Foreman, this four-wheeler has not fallen victim to the trend of product upgrades, such as a higher displacement. And that’s worth noting, considering that this utility vehicle has remained true to its uncomplicated nature. For that reason, we can say that the Recon 250 is the embodiment of the aphorism that goes: “Simple is always better.”

What Are the Different Trims of the Honda Recon 250?

Released in 1996 as a 1997 model, the Honda Recon 250 belonged to Honda’s FourTrax lineup which began in 1986. At that time, another Fourtrax sibling, the Honda Foreman 400, dominated the lineup. So it wasn’t surprising that the Recon sported the same longitudinal engine as the 400-cc Foreman. 

In the beginning, from 1997 to 2000, Honda manufactured Recons with the manual shift configuration only. Then in 2001, the Japanese firm started producing trims with the electric shift configuration. The tables below contain the years and models of the Honda Recon 250 with the manual and electric shift transmission:

As one of Honda’s most popular ATV lineups, the Recon is still in production. Surprisingly, nothing much has changed in the 2022 Honda Recon 250 as compared to the earlier models. It’s reported that the newer version has the same specifications, such as the 22-millimetre carburettor, fuel tank capacity, suspension, and braking systems. 

Cost

Currently, the 2021 Honda FourTrax Recon 250, which was released in May of the same year, has a manufacturer’s suggested retail cost of $4,299. On the other hand, the 2021 ES trim costs $250 more at $4,549. Both the 2020 Recon 250 manual and electric shift trims share the same MSRP as that of the 2021 variant. Meanwhile, the 2022 manual and ES trims are priced at $4,499 and $4,749, respectively.

Given the reliability and popularity of the quad, there’s no doubt that the price of older models is still on the hefty side. For instance, the price of the 2010 Recon TRX250TMA costs around $3,899, which is nearly a hundred bucks shy of $4,000. The same can be said of the 2015 model, which costs $3,949. The cost of a used Recon would depend on the condition of the unit. Of course, any mods or upgrades installed would contribute to its value as well. 

The trade-in values for a pre-used Recon that’s in good condition and lightly used (probably around 250 miles in a year) could fetch anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500. However, models starting from 2014 onwards cost more than $3,000. 

Purchasing a pre-owned Recon may be a more favourable option, considering that you have more negotiating power and the availability of affordable aftermarket parts. However, be advised of hidden mechanical problems which might cost you more than expected. Thus, practising due diligence in buying a used Recon 250 is highly recommended.  

The table below consists of the suggested list price of the different trims of the Honda Recon 250. Also included are the different low and average retail price lists for each unit. All details provided are based on www.nadaguides.com. 

Generally, there tends to be a $200 to $250 price difference between the manual shift and ES models, which isn’t a lot. That’s perfect for those who are considering the electric shift feature over the manual without having to worry about adding a larger sum. 

The low and average retail prices of the ES models, meanwhile, depend on the overall condition of the quad. A unit with considerable wear and tear and may require the buyer to invest in mechanical repair would be appraised with a low retail cost. On the other hand, a quad that’s in good condition, both mechanically and physically, and has low to average mileage could be appraised with an average retail cost. 

Specifications and Other Technical Features of the Honda Recon 250

Engine

The Honda FourTrax Recon 250 gets its power from a four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled, overhead valve engine. The 229-cc engine is longitudinally mounted so the driveshaft is aligned with the quad’s rear-drive, making the ATV appear compact at the same time. 

This four-wheeler has a bore of 68.5 millimetres (2.7 inches) and a stroke of 62.2 millimetres (2.4 inches). Along with an oiled double urethane foam air filter, the 22-millimetre (0.8 inches) piston-type Keihin carburettor delivers the proper fuel-air mixture into the engine. The cylinder has a compression rate of 1,275 kPa (185 PSI) and an impressive compression ratio of 9:1. Overall, the engine has a dry weight of 34.6 kilograms (76.3 lbs). 

Fuel

The Recon 250 only takes in unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number (PON) of 86 and up or a research octane number (RON) of 91 and up. This quad has a fuel capacity of 9.1 litres (2.4 US gallons) and a reserve of 2.4 litres (0.63 US gallons). 

Lubrication

To keep the metal components inside the engine well-lubricated, the Recon 250 uses the Honda 4-Stroke or any equivalent with a viscosity of SAE 10W-40. The lubricant should have an API service classification of SE, SF, and SG. Depending on the ambient temperature, 5W-30 engine oil is also an acceptable option. 

For oil capacity required when changing the oil is 1.6 litres (1.7 US quarts). The total oil capacity for the Recon 250 is 1.8 litres (1.9 US quarts). As for the gear oil, use hypoid oil with an SAE 80 viscosity. The gear oil capacity is 80 cubic centimetres (2.7 US oz).

Ignition

This vehicle uses an alternate current capacitor discharge ignition (AC-CDI) system. A convenient, push-button start switch instantly brings this utility ATV to life. The engine switch acts as a safety button, which prevents the engine from accidentally going off. Alternatively, a recoil starter acts as a backup in case the initial starter system fails to operate. 

As for the spark plug, the Honda Recon 250 uses the standard NGK DPR8EA-9 or the Denso X24EPR-U9. You may also use either the NGK DPR7EA-9 or Denso X22EPR-U9 if you live in a region with a cold climate or the NGK DPR9EA-9 or Denso X27EPR-U9 in case you prefer to drive your Recon at high speeds. As for the battery, the Honda Recon uses a 12-BS battery type with a 12-volt, 10-ampere hour capacity. 

Transmission/ Drivetrain

This recreational utility is a two-wheel-drive vehicle with a five-speed automatic clutch transmission inclusive of a reverse gear. Since this quad is part of the FourTrax lineup, the Recon has a maintenance-free drive shaft that is aligned to the gear axle, thanks to the longitudinally-mounted engine. This configuration allows this four-wheeler to deliver power directly to the rear shaft. 

The Electric Shift Program (ESP) models are equipped with two push-button switches for shifting gears instead of the left-foot operated clutch pedal. This feature is a great addition to the Recon’s entry-level design. 

In addition, this four-wheeler has a primary and secondary reduction of 3.087 and 3.692, respectively. The table below shows the Recon 250’s gear ratios: 

Suspension and Brakes

The TRX250 is fitted with an independent double-wishbone front suspension and a swingarm rear suspension with a single shock absorber. The front suspension has wheel travel of 130 millimetres (5.1 inches), while the rear has 125 millimetres of travel (4.9 inches). Plus, with a turning radius of 8.5 feet (102 inches), this vehicle does well in tight corners. 

Additionally, the Recon 250 has dual-sealed hydraulic front drum brakes and single sealed mechanical rear drum brakes. The front brake is left-hand lever operated, while the rear brake is operated using the right-hand lever and right-foot pedal. 

Tyres

The stock Honda Recon 250 comes with a set of M9803 Maxxis AT 22 x 7 – 11 front tyres and M9804 Maxxis AT 22 x 10 – 9 rear tyres. The size of the front and rear rims are 5.5 x 11 and 8 x 9, respectively. 

The recommended air pressure for both the front and rear tyres, with or without cargo, should be 20 kPa (0.20 kgf/cm², 2.9 PSI). On the other hand, the recommended minimum and maximum tyre air pressure should be 17 kPa (0.17 kgf/cm², 2.5 PSI) and 23 kPa (0.23 kgf/cm², 3.3 PSI), respectively. 

Dimensions

Overall, the Recon 250 has a length, width, and height of 1,794 millimetres (70.6 inches), 1,034 millimetres (40.7 inches), and 1,054 millimetres (41.5 inches), respectively. In addition, the curb weight of the TRX250 is 188 kilograms (414.5 lbs), while the dry weight is 180 kg (396.9 lbs).

This ATV has a wheelbase of 1,131 millimetres (44.5 inches) and a ground clearance of 152 millimetres (6 inches). The seat height is 777 millimetres (30.6 inches), which is just perfect for the height of the handlebar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the ride.  

Capacity

The Honda Recon 250 has a maximum load capacity of 175 kilograms (386 lbs), which includes the weight of the cargo, rider, and accessories installed on the quad. A storage box located by the rear fender can store loads of up to 15 kilograms (33 lbs).

Meanwhile, the front and rear racks have a weight capacity of 15 kilograms (33 lbs) and 30 kilograms (66 lbs), respectively. The vertical weight limit for the tongue hitch is 14 kilograms (30 lbs), while the combined load on the tongue and hitch should not exceed 30 kilograms (66 lbs). The Honda Recon 250 can haul a maximum weight of 225 kilograms (500 lbs).

External Features

The exterior of the TRX250 is composed of a steel frame chassis with an 8° caster angle and a track width of 42 millimetres (1.65 inches). A stock Honda Recon 250  comes with a standard set of front and rear fenders, fender flair, and bumpers, as well as hand grips, floorboards, and a brush guard.

As for the electronics, the Recon sports a pair of 12-volt 25/25-watt headlights and three LED tail light bulbs. The indicators for the neutral and reverse gears, on the other hand, use 12 volt – 1.7-watt bulbs each. The quad also has a row of indicators that show which gear position the operator is in.

The switches on the left handlebar are composed of the engine stop switch, headlight switch and dimmer switch, horn button, reverse selector knob, and the rear brake lever. Though the manual shift models have a left-foot operated clutch, the ES models have a pair of push-button switches for upshifting and downshifting on the left handlebar instead. On the right handlebar, you will find the throttle lever and the front brake lever. 

What Are the Pros and Cons of Having a Honda Recon 250?

With the Honda Recon 250 still in production, there’s no doubt that this quad has set the bar for Honda’s lightweight utility ATVs. The longitudinally-mounted engine which has become the signature of the FourTrax lineup gives the Recon that sleek, compact look. This feature adds to the quad’s rugged aesthetics, which definitely appeal to both consumers and enthusiasts. However, there’s more to the Recon 250 than meets the eye. With that said, the pros and cons to this four-wheeler are as follows:

Pros:

Fuel Efficiency

One of the impressive features of the Honda Recon 250 is its high compression ratio. Clocking in at 9:1, the Recon’s high compression ratio translates to better fuel consumption and cleaner emission. For that reason, this quad is a remarkable option for those who prioritise fuel consumption. Also, it’s suitable for people who prefer a rec-utility vehicle with a lower emission rate. 

Reliability

For a lightweight utility all-terrain quad, the Honda Recon 250 is a beast. This vehicle does an impressive job in ploughing snow, towing heavy loads like wild game, hay bales, and even a farm trailer. For a compact ATV with a 2WD driveline, the Recon exceeds all expectations. With a production run that continues even up to this day, there’s no reason to doubt the Recon 250’s capability. 

Electric Shift Program (ESP)

The TRX250TE trims offer a smoother ride, particularly to people who have no prior experience in riding an ATV. Coupled with the quad’s user-friendly controls, the ES-capable Recons make great entry-level quads. For that matter, this 2WD four-wheeler is an ideal quad both for first-time learners and experienced riders, alike. 

Additional Pros:

• Straightforward operation; requires zero learning curve
• Engine sound does not exceed 85 decibels; considered as one of the quietest ATVs in the market today
• Seat height offers a satisfactory riding position
• Versatile and multifunctional
• Ideal ATV for younger riders, thanks to the entry-level configuration
• Great for areas like ORV state parks because of their low noise and fuel-efficient features 
• Low ground clearance makes the quad less tippy
• Controls are tailored to provide that convenient feel

Cons:

Stiff Seat

One of the noticeable drawbacks that most owners have about the Honda Recon 250 is that the seat feels too stiff. Though you can get a comfier aftermarket seat and replace the stock for a few bucks anytime, to some, this proposition may sound like a tough deal. Nevertheless, this issue isn’t much of a deal-breaker, since it’s a Recon we’re talking about here. 

Complicated Reverse Gear Operation

Similar to the Rancher, the Recon 250 requires a series of steps when getting into reverse, which can be a concern especially if you are in a rush. Moreover, the reverse selector knob is located at the base of the left-hand lever. Unless you have long hands, this layout may not sit well, and the operation could prove to be even a bit more complex than expected. 

• How to Put the Honda Recon 250 in Reverse?

1. Stop the ATV and shift to neutral gear. Make sure the neutral indicator light is turned on to be certain. 
2. Push down the reverse selector knob.
3. Squeeze the rear brake lever. 
4. Press the shift lever down. If you are using an ES model, press the downshift button once. 

Additional Cons:

• Even for a lightweight quad, the shocks feel somewhat stiff
• ES trim does not shift in gear
• Older models lack odometer and other digital display
• Stock shocks do not have an adjustable fork preload system, but aftermarket shocks can resolve this issue

What Is the Top Speed of the Honda Recon 250?

The Honda Recon 250 has a top speed of 45 MPH and has a power of 15.6 HP. Some owners reported going above 47 MPH, while others boast of having reached the 50 MPH mark on a bone-stock unit. In cases like these, the condition of the terrain and the weather contribute to the Recon’s top speed. 

Though this figure may not seem much for this 2-wheel drive ATV, it’s worth noting that this four-wheeler belongs to the small-bore category. Besides, the Recon is meant to accomplish backbreaking tasks, despite its compact and lightweight features. 

If you want your Recon to go beyond its 45 MPH limit, regular maintenance is key. With that said, keeping the air filter clean and replacing spent spark plugs help improve this four-wheeler’s performance. 

Improving the Top Speed of the Honda Recon 250

There are several ways to get your TRX250 to run like a beast. If you’re a speed junkie yourself and love to see your Recon race like a Baja baddie, you might want to consider any of these options:

1. Quality Air Filters

When air filters get clogged, your engine does not get the right amount of air to burn the fuel inside your engine. High-grade air filters do not get clogged up easily, so they are often used by ATV enthusiasts. These components help improve the fuel-air mixture inside your engine, which leads to better performance and speed. K&N filters are one of the popular brands that you can get for your Recon. 

2. Higher Octane Fuel

The TRX250 uses 91 RON or higher, which is a good thing if you want your four-wheeler to race like a winner. Higher octane gasoline is known to improve engine performance. Apart from that, such fuel variants provide better mileage and protect your engine from corrosion. 

3. Big Bore Kit

There’s also the pricier option, which could either be a big bore or a top end rebuild kit. A big bore kit costs almost a grand, which can be a setback for some rebuilders who choose to take the budget-friendly option. However, with this alternative, you are sure to get the best results from your Recon. A 270-cc big bore kit can add a considerable 3 HP to your engine.

About the Manufacturer

Being one of the world’s biggest motorcycle and automotive manufacturers, Honda Motors Co., Ltd. is at the vanguard of technological innovations in automotive engineering.  This Japanese company is not just manufacturing motorcycles and automobiles, but it also produces power vehicles, like the all-time popular and best-selling Honda Recon 250. Being an esteemed corporation, Honda prepares itself as it sets its eyes to improving the future of the automotive industry through ‘decarbonization’ and other consumer-oriented plans. 

Final Takeaway — Honda Recon 250

Whether you are the adventurous, outdoorsy type or one of the hard-working folks looking for a proper ATV, the Honda Recon 250 is an ideal four-wheeler that’ll meet our needs. Lightweight and compact, thanks to its engine configuration, this ATV isn’t just great for towing heavy loads like a grunt, but it also does a great job at the trails. 

Also, with its easy-to-use, entry-level features, the Recon is an outstanding choice for ATV enthusiasts, beginners, and female consumers alike. No wonder production is still ongoing for this quad. A rugged and tough utility vehicle borne of simplicity and downright awesomeness. For sure these words aren’t enough to describe the Recon 250 once you get to know this workhorse.