Andy wrote:The simple answer is no, they are not interchangeable.
The 87 triples are a lot narrower than the 88~97, and the MC16 also has a drive for the odometer built into the wheel.
The easiest option is a complete front-end transplant from a later model; triples, forks, wheel, discs, calipers, fender, clip-ons, the whole lot!
If it's a street bike, you will either need an electronic odometer, or transplant a later transmission and LHS flywheel/sprocket cover as the 88-93 cable is driven off the transmission output shaft.
It's all doable, and it's all easy using only OEM NSR250 parts. But it's not just a case of swapping a wheel. There are other niggles to overcome too, but it's a worthwhile conversion in my opinion.
Andy, thank you so much for the post. In the interim of that post and now, I have decided to keep my MC16 original, and when I sell my current Miata restoration project, I will be building my own custom NSR. I am very excited.
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If the needle isn't bouncing off the limiter, it's not time to shift yet.