Vintage Dirt Bike Q & A

Has anybody converted their Elsinore to a PVL ignition? How does it work?

J

_________________
#829 The "Factory Novice"

1988 Honda CR250RJ
1983 Honda CR480
1981 Can-Am 250 MX6-B
1979 Honda CR250RZ
1979 Kawasaki KX250 A5
1978 Husky 250CR
1978 Honda CR250R
1977 Yamaha YZ400D
1977 Suzuki RM125B

I converted my 73 CR250M to a PVL ignition two years ago and that was the last time I've ever had any ignition problems to worry about. I love it! It is expensive, but if you don't want to hassle with your ignition at a race, its well worth the $$$.

I have read good things about these ignitions on the discussion boards from people who should know. Remember you only get the analog version not the digital version that has multiple ignition maps that can be changed with a lap-top computer (that wouldn't exactly be period-correct would it?). Nonetheless if you have any doubts about your current ignition this might be the way to go instead of picking up another "un-known" one on eBay. I fortunately have a very reliable preferred E-model set-up so I have held off on this and put it on the "christmas list". John Astleford at http://www.jastco.com will do the needed mods to your rotor cover, and may be selling the ignitions too. Call and check.

_________________
Michael Stiles
1979 Honda CR250R Elsinore | 2006 Husqvarna SM510R | 2007 Service Honda CR500R-AF

I've had my PVL for about three years and just love it!!! Seem to have better spark at lower RPM's. No kickback as you can retard the timing. (I run mine at anywhere from 1.7-2.0mm BTDC whereas the point ignition calls for 2.3mm BTDC.) No need to readjust point gap and timing. No condensor's failing in the middle of a race. etc etc etc...

Pricey yes but as I tell everyone who looks over my bike and asks why I've put so much into it: "It's either this or I'll just drink it up at the bar."

Loren