The scoop on Yamaha’s TW200

The little brother in Yamaha’s dual-purpose motorcycle family has it all

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A guy sitting on a bike at a dealership.

Larry Till was all smiles when he picked up his Yamaha TW200 from T&T Power Sports Ltd. in Bonnyville, Alberta. — Terry Coulombe photo

Two weeks ago, he bought this bike from our dealership, which made me beyond ecstatic. I’ve been stalking this bike since the moment I first saw it. What drew me to the TW200 initially was its fat tires and low seat height. It was a great dual sport in my mind for I’d be able to commute comfortably to work and zip off the trail to enjoy dirt squirting and sand shredding on the trails around us.

I named one of the remaining T-Dubs Norm, for everyone loves it. You’ll get the guys who rave about dual sports, such as the Suzuki 400 DRZ, the KTM 500 EXC, Kawasaki's KLR 650 and the Honda CRF 650L. Each of the above-mentioned bikes is awesome, but unfortunately for me, those bikes are much too tall for someone of my height and experience. At 5’9” I’d be able to navigate these bikes on road, but there’s no way I’d be able to participate in any single-track adventures. I want to feel safe and comfortable, which brings me back to Norm.

The TW200 has it all. Till explained that his 40-kilometre commute to work each day is more than comfortable. He’s able to cruise along at a comfortable speed on the road and—here’s the super bonus—his butt is always comfortable. No sleepy cheeks on this bike, baby! He’s had his bike off road and enjoyed every minute. It sucks up the bumps like riding on a marshmallow. The bigger tires on his T-Dub provide excellent traction as well. 

If you’re looking for a dual sport with an accommodating seat height and comfort features, I’d highly recommend the Yamaha TW200. Since 1987, this bike has been a favourite of many who enjoy adventure and comfort.

2013 TW200 Specs

Specifications:

Motorcycle type: Dual Sport/Adventure
Price (base MSRP): C$4,999 (check for current rebates too!)
Carburetion type: Carbureted
Curb Weight: 278 pounds
Displacement: 196-cc
Engine Type: SOHC
Final Drive: Chain
Front Brake: 220-mm single disc
Fuel Capacity: 7 litres
Rear Brake: 110-mm drum
Seat Height: 31 inches
Transmission: Constant-mesh 5-speed; multi-plate wet clutch
Wheelbase: 52.2 inches

Engine details:

Displacement: 196-cc
Combustion Cycle: 4-stroke
Cooling System: Air-cooled
Bore x Stroke: 67.0 mm x 55.7 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Valve train: SOHC 2 valves per cylinder
Ignition: CDI
Fuel System: Mikuni® 28 mm
City Miles per Gallon: 78 mpg
Highway Miles per Gallon: 78 mpg

Drivetrain details:

Transmission: Constant-mesh 5-speed; multi-plate wet clutch
Final Drive: Chain

Chassis details:

Front Suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension: Single shock
Front Suspension Travel: 6.3 inches
Rear Suspension Travel: 5.9 inches
Front Tire Size: 130/80-18
Rear Tire Size: 180/80-14
Front Brake: 220-mm single disc
Rear Brake: 110-mm drum

Weight and dimensions:

Curb Weight: 278 pounds
Wheelbase: 52.2 inches
Seat Height: 31 inches
Length: 82.3 inches
Width: 32.3 inches


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