Yamaha TW200 On and Off Road Test Ride: The Most Charming Dual Sport Motorcycle Ever

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  • Опубликовано: 3 окт 2024
  • On paper, the Yamaha TW200 doesn't really make sense. It's an outdated, decades-old design, it's underpowered, and it lacks pretty much anything even resembling a modern motorcycle feature like ABS, traction control, or even a digital display.
    And yet...there's a reason this modern classic dual sport motorcycle keeps hanging on. I had a blast test riding the Yamaha TW200 off road and on the pavement and I came away with the hugest smile on my face. This bike is uniquely charming and one that I'd absolutely like to own. That is...if I could find a reason I needed one.
    Big thanks to Power Motorsports in Sublimity, Oregon for the opportunity to do this extended TW200 test ride. Check out their website at www.powermotors...
    It was great to be able to ride the Yamaha TW 200 both on the pavement at highway speeds (it can do 60 but that's about it) as well as off the pavement on some local loose gravel roads. My initial Yamaha TW200 review is overwhelmingly positive. This is a very stable, planted feeling bike on the gravel and it's a great choice for putting around town, running errands, and the like. If that's what you're after, then the TW200 is a great choice.
    Still, it's lacking in a ton of areas: not great on the highway, finicky carburetor, cramped design, and a dearth of modern features.
    To me, though, this is one of the most charming and unique dual sport motorcycles ever created, and I'm absolutely in love with it.
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Комментарии • 456

  • @DorkintheRoad
    @DorkintheRoad  3 месяца назад +13

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  • @Doony70
    @Doony70 3 месяца назад +180

    In 1994, a TW was my only transportation. Late one night after the bar closed I took a girl in a short red minidress on a quick ride to Denny's. We have been married for almost 27 years now. In 2022 I finally came back to owning another TW. I love it.

    • @lookingoverhell3448
      @lookingoverhell3448 3 месяца назад

      you poor bugger .get a big sports bike make sure it has enuff power so she slides right off the seat at her mothers house when you dump the clutch .good luck .. lol

    • @Gaymingsapien
      @Gaymingsapien 3 месяца назад +1

      Awesome

    • @martycech5844
      @martycech5844 3 месяца назад

      Congratulations

    • @Cattleman0311
      @Cattleman0311 3 месяца назад

      That’s awesome

    • @jensenbeachjay
      @jensenbeachjay 2 месяца назад +1

      Man, wish ya had of TW too though!

  • @burnszilla
    @burnszilla 3 месяца назад +31

    I saw an orange TW in the south of France last summer. It said "TRAILWAY" on the battery cover. All these years and finally figured out what TW stood for.

    • @allstate125
      @allstate125 10 дней назад

      The brakes on all modern motorcycles are very good. Your negative comments on a bike with one mile shows your inexperience. Also going on a long steady road ride with 1 mile is inappropriate.

  • @larrykeesee1442
    @larrykeesee1442 2 месяца назад +10

    I'M 75 YRS OLD NOW..THE LIGHTER BIKE IS ALL I CAN RIDE..RETIRED LARRY IN INDIANAPOLIS. .

  • @andrewcarter7866
    @andrewcarter7866 3 месяца назад +37

    At 47 I started riding motorcycles. A 2015 T'dub was my first bike. 8 bikes later, I have a tdub again. This one's a '99. I don't miss the disc up front, the drums work fine...and I have a kick start!
    I enjoy tooling around and exploring....no desire to go fast, so this thing is the perfect bike. When we get older, the TW starts to look better and better...light, stable, easy to get the feet down, and it's suited perfectly to a relaxed ride to just get out and take your time and enjoy. Perfect first bike, perfect last bike.

  • @matthewpeterson3329
    @matthewpeterson3329 3 месяца назад +21

    It's about time the Dork does a TW review. It's the swiss army knife of motorcycles, and has a ridiculously ravenous following. This should make a lot of people happy!

  • @dookieshoes141
    @dookieshoes141 3 месяца назад +11

    I grew up on a TW200 riding the Idaho Sawtooths and Rockies. Probably put 13k miles on it with my dad. If I remember correct it was a 92? There were days we did 12 hours and made it up to over 10k feet elevation at one point. Ended up having to walk the last bit because she just couldn't breathe anymore that high. Rode it through sand, mud, rain. Muffler was held together by JB weld, went through a few handlebars and levers. Took a foot peg up the shin, probably was the worst pain I've ever felt. Lots and lots of memories. We always called them "farm bikes" cause the farmers liked them for running fence lines and doing chores.

  • @luvnotvideos
    @luvnotvideos 3 месяца назад +21

    The only motorcycle I ever regretted selling was my TW200! It's a mule, not a thoroughbred, and your demo brought that feature out beautifully.
    The other great thing about the TW is all the accessories and customization that can be done to make it fit anyone from my short 5'4", to your 6'+ height. Raised handlebars, lowered foot pegs, better seats, digital speedometers/tachometers, different mufflers, better skid plates - hell, there's even a kit to add disc brakes to the rear tire! Change the gearing ratio by a couple of teeth either way and it will beat traffic off the line at a light, or climb up the roughest dirt path like a goat. Basically, the TW200 is a customizer's dream.
    Can't wait until I can afford to buy another one again!

  • @WheelieBad
    @WheelieBad 3 месяца назад +11

    My wife is currently learning on a tw200, it’s a blast on the backroads and she’s really been enjoying it.

  • @TerenceKaplan
    @TerenceKaplan 3 месяца назад +62

    A TW isn't an ATV that's been cut in half. An ATV is a TW with training wheels :)
    Seriously, bikes like this were our farm bikes/ATV's before ATV's existed.

    • @ih302
      @ih302 3 месяца назад

      ...but are irrelevant for their intended target customer since ATVs came along.

    • @isawthelight
      @isawthelight 3 месяца назад +3

      @@ih302 However in most places you cant license a ATV for on road use. There is always a trade off. A bike you can still drive legally to the trail and then back home

    • @ih302
      @ih302 2 месяца назад

      @@isawthelight True... where I live though, you can drive atvs in town legally so I never thought of that angle. My point though was that farmers no longer buy farm bikes because 4wd atvs are far superior in that role and that is why farm bikes are such a
      niche segment now. I was one who bought into the TW hype and sold my Kodiak to get one and have regretted it since.

    • @isawthelight
      @isawthelight 2 месяца назад

      @@ih302 Good points if you can drive a atv legal on the road that's awesome. I would go ATV all day

    • @diraltmcallister3523
      @diraltmcallister3523 19 дней назад

      @@ih302 Alaska? That's the only place I know of that you can ride an atv in town legally. But it'd be cool if there was more

  • @MOBStreet83
    @MOBStreet83 3 месяца назад +25

    And now you know why we all love the TW200! The giggling and the surprised reaction says all EVERYONE needs to know about the TW200! However, you are wrong about the long distance bike. There are a lot of folks that tour on these. I have done 10+ hour days on it and moto camping with it. They are great, you just gotta plan your roads accordingly.

  • @matthewlee8917
    @matthewlee8917 3 месяца назад +7

    I just bought the wife one over the weekend!!! We both love it.

  • @msims1250
    @msims1250 3 месяца назад +7

    When I was getting back into riding after a 30-year hiatus, I bought a TW200. I've since been through several bikes, but I still have my Tdub and I don't think I'll ever sell it. My wife and sons used the Tdub as a learner bike, and it is perfect in that capacity.

  • @DeekerG4
    @DeekerG4 3 месяца назад +19

    My wife (5'5", 125lbs) loves her TW. First gear is a distance, not a speed; like going about 12 feet before you shift into 2nd. She laughs that she shifts twice just going through an intersection! It is easy to handle, reliable, stable and doesn't have any distractions onboard. Would she enjoy a bit more speed and power? Sometimes. But she loves it for running to work, quick errands around town and ease for parking and manouevring at low speeds. I giggle like Ben did when driving it, too!
    Oh yeah, it looks cool, too!

    • @Skidderoperator
      @Skidderoperator 3 месяца назад +1

      Lose the factory front tire for off road. It washes out a LOT. Called the death wing for a reason.

    • @papatorr3669
      @papatorr3669 3 месяца назад

      @@Skidderoperator It's still grips better than my xt225 or kl250. Yamaha kept it on there for decades for a reason.

    • @Skidderoperator
      @Skidderoperator 3 месяца назад

      @@papatorr3669 No damned good, downhill in loose dirt. Hiway, fine. Depends where/ how you ride. Mine never got 200 miles before it came off. HUGE improvement.

  • @stompnucustoms2616
    @stompnucustoms2616 3 месяца назад +43

    I was 650lbs pulled a wheelie around a corner on a Honda VTX1800 and landed it. I then sold it this was 2008. Now it is 2022 and I buy a TW200 now I am 350lbs 6'4. Bro I love this bike I got everything extended for me I cant imagine ever selling this bike . I got over 5000 miles on it. Most people think I need a Harley . Nope I need a bike to take me anywhere safe. Its simply badass. I think I will buy a 650 Suzuki duel sport and make it a sumo next but maybe not. I am for sure never selling this TW.

    • @USA2283
      @USA2283 3 месяца назад +5

      Yeah 650lbs. What do u mean by that. A 350lb person on a motorcycle looks like a bear riding a unicycle.

    • @billysharp2242
      @billysharp2242 3 месяца назад +8

      ​@@USA2283 Life is hard for people that are on both ends of the spectrum of size.. I have a '22 KLR and I'm 5'11" and 140 lbs... It's great for me.. if a man was 650 lbs it's gunna be hard no matter what.. he's 350 and 6'4" is not that bad and a huge improvement for him.. keep it to yourself kiddo

    • @USA2283
      @USA2283 3 месяца назад +5

      @@billysharp2242 that’s what I mean. Imagine you had 3 clones of yourself hanging onto your back. How can you possibly get onto any motorcycle let alone hop in a car.

    • @stompnucustoms2616
      @stompnucustoms2616 3 месяца назад +4

      @@USA2283 Dude I weighed like 650 pounds and wheelied a vtx around a corner lol. So years later when learning to ride again I got a TW. Absolutely zero regrets.

    • @leeinwis
      @leeinwis 3 месяца назад +2

      @@stompnucustoms2616 show pix or it's fake..

  • @LtSoulRipper
    @LtSoulRipper 3 месяца назад +20

    When i took my endorsement class here in WA, they had 1 TW200 and then a bunch of Honda Rebels. I made sure I picked the TW200 quickly haha.

    • @rlpatton1970
      @rlpatton1970 3 месяца назад +1

      They had these in Colorado for same test .. I ended up on a Himalayan instead 💪

    • @roysteves
      @roysteves 3 месяца назад

      Mine (OR) was all TW200s and Groms.

    • @collinmc90
      @collinmc90 3 месяца назад

      lol same, cascade moto?

    • @rlpatton1970
      @rlpatton1970 3 месяца назад

      @@roysteves yeah at 6 foot 6 none
      Of them were great !! Surprised I passed

    • @davidlake611
      @davidlake611 20 дней назад

      @@LtSoulRipper this wouldn’t happen to be at the WMST Everett Range, would it have been? We may have ridden the same bike if so. I saw some cruisers and a Rebel, really wanted the TW and so glad the instructor put me on that.

  • @albertosalas5559
    @albertosalas5559 25 дней назад +2

    I've had a few bikes, but this is the only one I'll never sell, unless I buy another one just like it. I've been enjoying it for 12 years, and now that I'm getting older (69 years old) it's the one that best suits my physical condition. I'll have to take care of it because new ones have not been sold in Europe for years due to environmental regulations.

  • @plasticbmw
    @plasticbmw 3 месяца назад +7

    I took my license class on one of these and they are so much fun

  • @racegascologne
    @racegascologne 3 месяца назад +4

    Picked one up last year as I have always wanted one since '88 when I had my YSR50. Never had a use for one but now that we do a lot of camping I can run to the store or explore a short bit around our camp. It does bring me back to those teenage years so for me it's nostalgia and for the price I'll just hang on to it and pass it down. Figure they've been making this bike for 37 years what's going to change in another 30 😂

  • @AndrewM83
    @AndrewM83 3 месяца назад +6

    Hellz yeah! Dork in the road and a TW200 in the same video!

  • @EricKoch-s5b
    @EricKoch-s5b 3 месяца назад +1

    I had the first year it came out, 1987. I got it from a friend and he bought it new. I wish I still had it, but I owned it for 11 years. It is just so much fun off road, a great extra bike any one can ride when a group of friends would go dirt riding, a perfect bike to go exploring on, and good for putting around town or running to the store on. My only gripe is the gas tank is too small, but that is an easy fix with a Roto-pac or better yet a larger fuel tank and a Roto-pac. Lots of good memories with mine. Great video as usual.

  • @hardworkingamerican8847
    @hardworkingamerican8847 3 месяца назад +4

    I see guys riding these in the mountains with all their gear like fishing poles camping stuff . Last year I let a group pass me on a rutted out cobble road nightmare and it was really cool seeing 10 rigs and half were TW200's , grunting along to destinations unknown . I want one just because .

  • @BattleKegGreg
    @BattleKegGreg 2 месяца назад +1

    There is absolutely something magical about a small dual sport, I started on a dr650, moved to a Klx 300, and I currently have a klx230, and that 230 is probably my favorite bike I've ever owned

  • @605pilot
    @605pilot 3 месяца назад +2

    I bought a 2024 TW200 this past December. I love the bike and I ride more often than my 2011 Sportster Nightster.

  • @douglasmcbride4589
    @douglasmcbride4589 3 месяца назад +3

    I'm in Scotland , I had the 125cc version as my first ever bike , loved that bike ! Rode it for a couple of years and was then persuaded to sell it to a friend of mine , wish I had it now , would be great to commute and buzz around the country roads ! 😊

  • @chriswildt3101
    @chriswildt3101 3 месяца назад +10

    I have two TW-200s in my garage. My 97 and my buddies 2021. The difference between the bikes are minor, principally the brakes, and the fact that the 2021 no longer has a kickstart back up. I find the drum brake on my 97 to be adequate and I like having the kickstart option. Both are fantastic bikes to just bop around and explore on. Last year, my buddy and I rode the white rim trail in Canyonlands national Park in Moab. It was really fun even in some rain and lightning . I also have a KTM 250SX (2 stroke) and Tenere 700 but I really enjoy my TW and will likely keep it the longest because it is easy to ride, fun, and not intimidating.

  • @medic58
    @medic58 21 день назад

    Just bought that exact bike last week looking forward to some fun. I am a big guy too 5’10 300 lbs. God bless thank you for all your videos.

  • @chrisg0374
    @chrisg0374 3 месяца назад +1

    This is my first motorcycle and I love it. This thing makes me look like I know what the hell I am doing which I don't. I just point it in a direction and it takes me slowly but it gets me there with a smile from ear to ear.

  • @RU.Ready_2go
    @RU.Ready_2go 2 месяца назад +1

    just wanted to say I gave you a thumbs up for your honesty, that’s rare. You did say, you are a big guy and it’s only a 200 cc bike. Great honest review!

  • @j.g.a.talboom7984
    @j.g.a.talboom7984 3 месяца назад +1

    Thanks a lot for your test, i bought a new one, it's going to be delivered at the end of this month. I live on a small island in the Dutch Carribean thats why I bought this motorcycle. Bad roads with a lot of holes, a lot of gravel roads and trails, no highway and a speedlimit of 60km/hr (37miles/hr). The perfect bike to cut a corner through the dirt in case of a trafic jam and some exploring in nature. Youre positive experience on gravel convinced me i choose the right bike for this island (Bonaire).

  • @drewgreene6027
    @drewgreene6027 3 месяца назад +1

    I learned how to ride two years ago on a TW200, so it’s very close to my heart. One day I want to buy one for fun.

  • @givannimikel4586
    @givannimikel4586 3 месяца назад +4

    Unpopular opinion maybe, but this thing has more offroad potential than people realize. I geared mine down by 5 teeth in the rear, put a 90/10 tire up front, taller bars, put gold valves in front forks, and a stiffer spring in the rear. This thing RIPS! Have a 300 rally i absolutely love but keep coming back to the TDub for the knarly/tight stuff. Legend.

  • @alexandersquid4681
    @alexandersquid4681 9 часов назад

    Just bought one for commuting and I'm super hyped!!

  • @WanderingMystic64
    @WanderingMystic64 3 месяца назад +2

    I absolutely love mine. Had it for about three months down in the Arizona mountains below Tucson. Getting ready to ride it here in Hagerman, Idaho.

  • @lukebaker717
    @lukebaker717 3 месяца назад +2

    Thanks for bringing some much needed attention to such an amazing bike. I have owned my Tdubs for a while now and it is by far my favorite motorcycle to ride and own. It gets so overlooked due to its size and engine. You should definitely buy one and make some more content on it!!

  • @2006Whippet
    @2006Whippet 3 месяца назад +4

    I'm 6'5 with a 36" inseam and finally saw a TW200 at the shop a couple of weeks ago. While it was definitely small, I was able to sit pretty far back on the seat so it wasn't bad. I kinda wanted to buy it.

  • @IndianRiderZRX
    @IndianRiderZRX 3 месяца назад +3

    Hi Dork, we met at the DV noobs rally. Excellent review, the comparable bike is a Suzuki Van Van 200 and I just did part of the Sec 6 and 7 Nor Cal BDR last weekend and posted on the FB group. Fun bikes and so easy to make a U turn and park anywhere to soak in the scenery and adventure. Cheers.

  • @donnieyoung2774
    @donnieyoung2774 3 месяца назад +11

    Tons of aftermarket support. The cold starting condition can be cured with fatter jetting. A bigger pilot jet will help it start way easier and give it better off throttle response. Cool little bikes ! I want one too !

    • @Skidderoperator
      @Skidderoperator 3 месяца назад

      Definitely comes under jetted for smog.

  • @BangForYourBuckRc
    @BangForYourBuckRc 3 месяца назад +2

    I had one of these, a 2013. I sold it and miss the hell out of it!
    Yamaha needs to make a 400 version for those who want just a bit more

  • @RBS1228
    @RBS1228 3 месяца назад +9

    My son has one and I have always said it's like the Weebles children's toys. Weebles wobble but they won't fall down. All of my friends had the same reaction as you. They can't stop laughing while riding it. It is such an easy and fun bike to ride on the back roads.

  • @pbourdon231
    @pbourdon231 3 месяца назад +1

    I own a sportster 1200, a 300 rally, an XR250r, and a TW. By far the TW gets the most smiles, compliments and questions from people. People love that little bike. I love it too. Almost sold it when I bought the 300 rally, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I still ride it plenty. It’s just too much fun!

  • @hedsy
    @hedsy 3 месяца назад +1

    I've bought my 2019 since new in 2020. I absolutely love the bike! It's one I'm definitely keeping. I get lots of looks, comments, and questions about it.

  • @solarsail56
    @solarsail56 3 месяца назад +1

    I just finished a week long trip on my T Dub with another T Dub rider in the San Juan Islands. Packed all our camping gear and cruised in bliss! Nice review!

  • @Michael_Shay
    @Michael_Shay 3 месяца назад +5

    Love the TDub, if you haven't seen the videos of Carson Brown riding his TW200, you owe it to yourself to check them out.

    • @MOBStreet83
      @MOBStreet83 3 месяца назад +2

      That dude can rally on the Tdub like no other! Proof, it's the rider, not the bike!

  • @kevinsterner9490
    @kevinsterner9490 3 месяца назад +4

    Love your short ride reviews. Gives people a taste and Quick look at lots of different bikes

  • @mkramsauer
    @mkramsauer 3 месяца назад +1

    Absolutely love how fun that little bike is. Nothing fancy nothing extravagant it just works and makes the rider smile nothing better brother 👊

  • @kevincorrington1251
    @kevincorrington1251 3 месяца назад +3

    I have a Suzuki Van Van. My brother has the TW. Super fun bikes. Weve had a ball on them. We live in the Lebanon area if ya ever wanted to ride the Van Van Ben. Love your videos dude.

  • @alexmacdonald258
    @alexmacdonald258 3 месяца назад +2

    Gotta say, I absoluteyly LOVE mine!! Did do some mods though-real skid plate, Jimbo windshield, aftermarket pegs, 2-inch risers on a Protaper bar, added one tooth on the front sprocket, lost one on the rear to get a little more top in on her, Adventure mirrors, tach and a Garmin Zumo XT with an on/off switch USP port, and a Tusk extended shift lever for my size 14's. Got Giant Loop bags all around (Coyote, so I didn't add a rack). Like you said, it'll get you literally anywhere you want to go, not fast, but it'll always get you there! The only drawback to her is for someone who's been riding for (in my case, at 75 and 4 decades) a while, is, it's so much fun it can turn you into a 10-year old before you can ride off thinking to yourself "I KNEW I shouldn't have done that"! Too late.......😆😆 and I get around 80mpg depending on the load.

    • @Skidderoperator
      @Skidderoperator 3 месяца назад +1

      You really know your TW!

    • @alexmacdonald258
      @alexmacdonald258 3 месяца назад +2

      @@Skidderoperator Thanks! I also have a Royal Enfield Himalayan, which is quite a bit heavier, so I'll ride that one on the pavement with a little forest "roading". Of the 2 though, the TDub will ride any BDR I want, especially with an aux gas container!

    • @Skidderoperator
      @Skidderoperator 3 месяца назад +1

      @@alexmacdonald258 I wont ever sell mine. Have an 87 & a 2019. And an XR250. 68 Y/O soon.

  • @dansepello1101
    @dansepello1101 3 месяца назад +2

    It's a Billy goat! You didn't even get it in it's true element where it does do better than all those other bikes

  • @laconeznamy
    @laconeznamy 3 месяца назад +2

    Worth noting these things have quite the fanbase online.

    • @dirtcopdualsport
      @dirtcopdualsport 3 месяца назад +2

      Guilty

    • @MOBStreet83
      @MOBStreet83 3 месяца назад

      @@dirtcopdualsport Likewise brother! Worth nothing to the people who don't know!

  • @MishMashMoto
    @MishMashMoto 3 месяца назад +1

    The "Billy goat" of motorcycles. Love Tdubs!

  • @jigstick
    @jigstick 3 месяца назад +2

    I always said I would never put that bike in my garage. Then a 2004 TW was offered to me for $2000 with 465 miles on it. Bought it just to flip. That didn’t happen. I had so much fun on and taught a hand full of people to ride on it. Sold it early 2023😢 for $3200 and have been kicking myself since that day. Now on the hunt for another one.

  • @louispaulter8733
    @louispaulter8733 3 месяца назад +2

    Speaking of Scooters, no one in USA doing MC reviews worth a damn has done a review of the Honda Adv160 Scooter for fun commuting & low key mild off road “adventure” exploring. I trust your reviews Dork so I wish you would consider being the first. You & Grace would be a fun “dorky” review of a practical, fun, 2 wheel mock African Twin DCT 2 wheel transport !!!

  • @StevenDurham-rq3ib
    @StevenDurham-rq3ib 3 месяца назад

    Another concise, interesting, informative and entertaining segment on your channel. Best on RUclips. I had wanted a TW since 1987 and after 35 years I finally mustered the courage to announce to my wife that on my 60th birthday I was getting one. Then I treated myself to some of Brad Covington (the Orville and Wilbur Wright TW 200 Mod inventor / mad scientist) mods from Bradley Performance Products and mine is incredible.

  • @insatiable_mind
    @insatiable_mind 3 месяца назад +4

    Finally a T-Dub review! I can’t believe you waited this long! You caught the T-Dub giggle 😂😂😂

  • @_benjamin350outlaw
    @_benjamin350outlaw 3 месяца назад +2

    Honestly one of my all time favorite bikes and I’m a big guy 6’4” 300 lb you can go anywhere- would love to see what mini dork has to say about the TDUB - also smiles for miles and small motocamping trips and millions of upgrades that make it more powerful and better suspension 🤘🏼

  • @itsturbotime2994
    @itsturbotime2994 3 месяца назад +3

    This is one of those bikes that makes a good first bike because instead of selling it becomes your "2nd bike" once you upgrade because it so useful you don't need to sell it.

  • @alexicon_
    @alexicon_ 2 месяца назад

    hey dork, thanks for the validation finally ;) after sitting on a waitlist for 10 months for a 300L, just to have it arrive and feel terrified sitting on it at a standstill on the show room floor because it was so massive a bike.. i walked away - and a month later became a proud tdub owner.
    at 5'6" the tdub is everything i needed in a beginner bike - both on and off road. it just exudes confidence at every turn for someone that's learning. yeah i probably would have survived getting a 300L, but my progression as a rider would have been so much slower overall. plus i've already learned so much about bike maintenance since everything is so simple and accessible on the bike.
    yeah i'll probably get a faster bike one of these days - but the tw200 truly is a unicorn amongst other motorcycles! and with its small stature, there ought to be room enough for one in everyone's stable ;)

  • @eriknash8783
    @eriknash8783 3 месяца назад +2

    Super jealous. Really want one of these as a camp bike

  • @jamesbower5995
    @jamesbower5995 3 месяца назад

    When I took the VA MSF class, every bike was chosen but the TW200. I took the class on the 200 and I loved it. The test course was a breeze on the 200. Loads of fun. I have a Versys 1000 now, but having a TW to bang around on would be fantastic. Great content!

  • @roviwoteap2375
    @roviwoteap2375 3 месяца назад +1

    If only Yamaha still sold here in the UK. I’d buy one for the sheer fun of it. Great little bike.

  • @toddchiles4272
    @toddchiles4272 3 месяца назад

    I love your channel, I love the fact that you review cheaper entry level bikes. My favorite entry level is the xt250 and dr650 is second to none with some modifications,The TW is an excellent farm bike and will take you anywhere and put a smile on your face.

  • @Euryheli
    @Euryheli 3 месяца назад +2

    Best bike ever. I’ve had a bunch of other bikes come and go but the one fixture in the garage is the Mighty TDubs.

    • @klxcountry
      @klxcountry 3 месяца назад

      Lol, no.

    • @Euryheli
      @Euryheli 3 месяца назад

      @@klxcountry it’s a unique bike that feels totally different than anything else. It’s the last man standing from that era. It’s just fun. If that’s not something that appeals to you, don’t know what to say. Hopefully you have a fun bike that makes you laugh.

    • @klxcountry
      @klxcountry 3 месяца назад

      @@Euryheli I know, I'm just teasing you. I have a 2005 ttr225 that I feel that way about.

  • @cmbscx1084
    @cmbscx1084 3 месяца назад

    Nicely done on the TW review. I own several bikes and each has a purpose. I bought my TW "just to have" one. I love all my bikes but can say with 100% confidence my TW will be the
    last bike i have until i simply cannot ride anymore. Incredible fun that just never ends. One of those bike that until you ride or own one, you just can't explain how good it really is for what it is..

  • @adventuresofafatoldman4527
    @adventuresofafatoldman4527 3 месяца назад +1

    I just returned for a 11 day 10 state epic trip on my 2013 TW200, rode the sm500 and GOAT. This bike rocks. Mine has both front and rear suspension upgrades with seat concepts tall seat. I'm 5'11" and mine rides and handles like a big bike. Stock motor and gearing, 55 mph all day long

  • @kevinlittle498
    @kevinlittle498 2 месяца назад

    I have a 2003 tw that I'm getting ready to sell. You damn near talked me into keeping it! I've had it for 2 and a half years. I have been riding for 45 years and have owned about 35 bikes.Also I'm 5'1" 145 lbs, 60 years old. The trails around here are rocky and rough. The tw was a great choice for me but I miss having power. I'm replacing it with a Yamaha FZ or MT 6,7,8 or 9. I know I will miss the tw but I can't afford two motorcycles right now. Thanks for the video.

  • @trd4d
    @trd4d 3 месяца назад +1

    I rode one for about a year. Work on the beach, and my boss bought one so I could run around looking for people needing help. Only bike I have ever ridden in the soft sand successfully. Couldn’t get comfortable on the KLR or my current X300. Probably a tire issue on the x300. Loved it other than the lack of grunt on the highway.

  • @madmosin
    @madmosin 8 дней назад

    Took my Team Oregon test on a TW. I wanted to bring it home with me. Very enjoyable. Appears they also hold their value pretty well. If you want to sell it and move up expect a decent resale to put towards your next bike. I need one for jamming to town out here in rural Oregon.

  • @jakestrickler8655
    @jakestrickler8655 3 месяца назад

    I just took an adventure training course with riders rocking CRF's, Pan Americas, Vstroms, DRs, and more. The TW kept up or out preformed every single one. (With the exception of acceleration drills where my little tractor just chugged along)
    But I was extremely happy with how the TW handled everything thrown at it with ease. Even surmounting railroad ties didn't slow it down one bit.
    They are a fantastic bike for anything under 40mph and an amazing tool to gain skills on before getting a bigger bike for longer adventure rides.

  • @stevebuchan3001
    @stevebuchan3001 3 месяца назад +2

    Learned to ride at 59 years old on my TW.

  • @atcjoe1600
    @atcjoe1600 3 месяца назад +3

    Ive got one. I picked it because it fits in my full size van. I use it 2 up to explore 35 mph state park roads and gravel roads to overlooks and pick nic areas.

  • @JCrozier1
    @JCrozier1 3 месяца назад

    Everything you said is why I have so much love for the DR200. after the initial purchase, its costs barely anything to keep it happy and legal.

  • @rotorhead5000
    @rotorhead5000 3 месяца назад

    Picked one of these up for my wife, for all the reasons you covered. Its cool, it's unique, and she is 5 foot nothing, so choices are limited. Having ridden it some, it's definitely fun, will do anything, as long as you dont expect it to do it fast. Trying to ride it offroad fast gets real comical real quick, and while i like it, im always happy to hop back on the wr, and enjoy having reasonable power and modern suspension again.

  • @CasanoNymous
    @CasanoNymous 3 месяца назад +1

    I live on a rural property adjacent to both forest and high desert scrubland.
    have a BMW GS, an old KLR, and the TW.
    I do 90% of my riding on the TW.
    Super useful for zipping around modulating the irrigation on my fields. The wide tires don’t tear up the landscape. Great for chasing down my dogs when they go under the fence and try to do a walkabout in the woods.
    My KLR is a burro.
    The BMW GS is a quarterhorse.
    The TW200 is a mountain goat. It’s the bike that makes the trails so MX bikes have somewhere to ride.

  • @jaredbauer3058
    @jaredbauer3058 3 месяца назад

    I have a '96 TW that I will keep forever, and its the least ridden. But when its features are applicable to the ride...you want it in the garage. Older models have kick and electric start as well. Love that.

  • @MotoPumps
    @MotoPumps 3 месяца назад +3

    We have 3 of them. They are the most awful, charming, crappy, wonderful bikes on the planet. They have been on single track in the rockies, slick-rock in Moab, beaches in FL, dirt roads in the Finger Lakes of NY. 😍😝🤩🤮😂

  • @scorchogrey2385
    @scorchogrey2385 2 месяца назад

    My first bike was this exact model TW. Bought just this past spring to learn how to ride.
    This summer I decided it was time to get a bigger bike for longer trips so I bought a Transalp 750.
    After riding nothing but my Transalp for weeks I got back on my TW. I was just like you, giggling like an idiot the entire ride lol. It’s such a fun little bike. Also I get compliments on my bike every time I take it out. Ppl think it’s an old bike just in great condition. I’m always like, nope it’s a 2024.
    It’s my forever bike for sure.

  • @slamboy66
    @slamboy66 3 месяца назад +1

    Love mine on powerline/fire roads here in Nevada, just remember the ROTOPAX. Old mines are the best.

  • @raycummings8754
    @raycummings8754 3 месяца назад +1

    Fun video, Ben - they are indeed quirky and charming. Hey, the wide-angle outboard camera sometimes made it look like you were doing a wheelie, but I knew that wasn't the case! See you at Touratech!

  • @RaymondPexton
    @RaymondPexton 15 дней назад

    Got alot of riding gear on for 70 degrees, love your videos

  • @Talon6551
    @Talon6551 3 месяца назад

    Did my MSF course on one of those. Love to get one, just to get you anywhere you want to go, just at a low speed. Pure fun.

  • @punchbuggyyellow7097
    @punchbuggyyellow7097 3 месяца назад

    The TW200 was the first bike that I ever rode back in the 90's. It was in the first session of a pre-learner course here in Australia. I went from knowing nothing about bikes to riding circles around everyone else in the class. They gave it to someone else for the second session & I was devastated because I had to ride a different bike to finish the course. I couldn't tell you what the second bike was, but that little TeeDub has been living rent free in my mind ever since. Unfortunately Yamaha stopped importing them into Australia over 20 years ago so they're pretty rare & when they do pop up they sell for about the same price as when new, if not more.

  • @dirtcopdualsport
    @dirtcopdualsport 3 месяца назад +1

    I’ve been waiting for you to do a tdubs video!!!! Glad you liked it because I love mine!

  • @TheSwellrider
    @TheSwellrider 2 месяца назад +1

    Love your channel. I had carbureted bikes for 30 years and did not consider any of them finicky or difficult to use. 70 degrees is COLD for an air cooled motor that is designed to run at 300+ degrees. You still have to give it some choke...for 30 seconds. With your history of level headed well considered reviews I was surprised at your reaction to a having to choke an air cooled single. Really?

  • @carter240
    @carter240 3 месяца назад

    I absolutely love my TW. With RaceTech emulators and a Cogent rear shock it rides sooo good. I use mine for scouting trails in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. I’ve taken it up some super rough and steep enduro trails and it does great. Likely will never sell it.

  • @derekmctavish
    @derekmctavish 3 месяца назад

    I'm constantly flirting with the thought "hey, that TW of yours is kinda pointless with all the others you own... get rid of it, yeah?" and I never can bring myself to do it. It's when I see videos like this that I'm like, yeah.... it really is charming. It *is* pointless in so many ways, but the giggle-factor is so high with this one that you just have to own one. Thanks for giving this silly little bike some of the love it deserves.

  • @bagwell79
    @bagwell79 3 месяца назад +1

    I had a lot of fun on my tw200! It was my first motorcycle, two Moab adventures on it. I am about your size so I felt a little big on it :). Talk about sucky brakes mine was drum on the front as well.

  • @spearcat710
    @spearcat710 28 дней назад

    Grew up riding one to change sprinkler pipe when i was growing up, it's crazy to me that you can buy a brand new one thats basically identical to the one i had 20 years ago and still about the same price. May have to get one for my kids now, was a great bike I'm sorry i sold mine.

  • @advredbikes
    @advredbikes 3 месяца назад

    Thanks Ben for this awesome review. I’ve always wondered how these bikes handle and you answered it for me. What a great starter bike. Thanks for the review, man.

  • @God_is_in_the_details
    @God_is_in_the_details 3 месяца назад

    You're riding on my RD400 roads from my boyhood, 45 years ago. The land that time forgot.

  • @kennethcooley3445
    @kennethcooley3445 3 месяца назад

    Always love my TW's. Wish I had kept one. Plan to buy another soon.

  • @bcarlson86
    @bcarlson86 3 месяца назад +1

    I took my MSF course on a T-dubs. I want one so badly now!

  • @RealWalterSobcheck
    @RealWalterSobcheck 3 месяца назад

    My first and still favorite bike. I'll never sell it. I upgraded the suspension with Cogent this spring and it's even more fun. It's not great at anything except taking abuse and dishing out a good time.
    There are two reactions I get: "I've always wanted one!" or "I wish I never sold it!"

  • @davidbuck5864
    @davidbuck5864 2 месяца назад

    I love my TW200. My farm has 1 km long winding, hilly gravel driveway, and the TW is perfect for it.

  • @dstubby82
    @dstubby82 3 месяца назад

    Excited to see what Ben does with all that raw torque and power. 😁

  • @CraigSmith568
    @CraigSmith568 3 месяца назад +1

    The first time I sat on one of these I almost dropped it. Not because it was heavy, but because it was so light that when I picked it up off of the kickstand I almost threw it down on the opposite side. It was like expecting a motorcycle and having a bicycle. To me it's an off road version of the Honda Grom. I'm like you in that I would love to have one just to have one.

  • @frostbitevinnie
    @frostbitevinnie 3 месяца назад +1

    I often look at my 690 and choose my Tdub instead. Fun lil ride!

  • @monkmoto1887
    @monkmoto1887 3 месяца назад

    TWs hold their value and I totally see why. They’re awesome little bikes, I was riding one around when I was like 12-13 and having a blast. Then I took my license test on one, I could do the figure 8 at like race pace on the thing. Such an easy to get along with and dependable little donkey. It’s cold blooded as can be though, but I suspect someone’s worked out a jetting kit or even a better carb to on it

  • @joshdoddadbod
    @joshdoddadbod 3 месяца назад

    The tdub has a special place in my heart right next to the dr650. I will have another tw200 someday.

  • @Euryheli
    @Euryheli 3 месяца назад +1

    Dude, the laughs. That's me riding mine too even after 3yr. It's just stupid fun for shenanigans.