[unslow1]

Hello. I am not new to motosports nor Hondas, but this one has me stumped.
Have owned my CRF250X for about 5 years now (purchased from private party w/out paperwork).
Was sold as a 2005, the 10th digit is 3... but the 250X wasn't available until 2004.
The frame is definitely an "X" frame, as it's molded for a sidestand and the top tripletree is specific for the headlight.
I see no evidence of the frame having been replaced, but I haven't ruled it out either... improbable though.

Do any of you experts have any ideas as to what I have?

IMG_20180826_073903edit.jpg

[Aussiecrf230]

Hi unslow1 and welcome to the site.
I believe a 250x should be JH2ME11 prefix.

Does the pad it is stamped on appear to be tampered with?
It looks ok in photo but photos can lie as you don't get depth perception.

I assume the metalised label with the VIN is missing and the photo is from the right hand side of frame.

The 2004 250X was shown at bike/ motor shows at end of 2004.
Could this frame be from a motor show mockup built by August 2003.
To bring it in to country Honda still may have to given it a VIN so made something up. Just a thought!

[Leardriver]

That VIN stamping looks pretty bush league for a manufacturer like Honda. Maybe sanded down and re-stamped with a made up number? I have a 250X service manual. I'll go get it and see if there is a specific page that discusses VINs.

[unslow1]

I appreciate the replies, fellas. If I didn't clarify before, we're located in New York, USA. I wouldn't rule out something like it being an "early release" or prototype, but it's unlikely. From the images I received before the PO (previous owner) installed the graphics kit, the model designator (250X) on the factory graphics was in YELLOW, which I believe is exclusive to production year 2003 (as is my wife's 230F *s well).

This isn't that big of a deal, but I've been curious since I brought it home several years ago.