I own an 87 kx250. What I want to do is get rid of the original kawasaki rims and lace the original hubs to newer light weight aluminum rims. Is it possible to do?

Yes, search for "lacing rims" in the general forum. You'll need rims and new spokes. Most aftermarkete spokes are larger diameter so you'll have to drill the hub to accept the new spokes.

Good luck on finding rims that are drilled to fit that lacing pattern and style, plus proper spoke length (if you are going for aftermarket).

Are they those oddball patterns where 3 spokes cross each other or something? I thought that was honda?

they are standard style i guess. two spokes cross. im running an 18 inch rear and not sure of the front as of right now. if i have to drill out the hubs for larger spokes, i will. thanks everyone for your input.

Check the length of the spokes. "I WISH"!! they made an easy aftermarket kit for the 1987 models.

The older models were more of a "9 this way, 9 that way, 9 over here, 9 over there" style.

EDIT: Wow. I didn't even congratulate you on having a 1987 KX250. I must be slipping. I have been looking for one for a good while now. If you have some pictures, please post them.

I see on the diagram that there are 9 spokes of one kind and 27 of another. The 27 fit a few years, but the 9 are for 1987 KX125 / 250 / 500 only.

I think the problem areas would be the angle of the spoke head and the angle of the nipple holes in the rim.

Maybe he'd be better off fitting a newer set of wheels? Kawi says the rear rim is 1987 250/500 only! Front is 87-89 or something like that. Looks like Buchanan can give you the spokes and maybe the rims, although I would call them first.

It's special-like, you see. :)

I wonder what the hub width and rim dish would be like compared to the '90's rear wheel. Ah, the joy of working on a 23 year old bike. :)

I can't believe the rim was only used on 87 250/500. There must be something stupid changed on it like a second rim lock hole.