[M1ASpringfield]

Hello all- I've been looking to buy my first TW200 (used), and was wondering if any model years were better or worse than others. I know the bike hasn't changed that much over the years, so any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[qwerty]

'87s are prone to electrical problems. '88s were redesigned to eliminate the problems.



Up to 2000 had manual cam chain adjusters, drum front brakes, and kick starters.



2001 and later have a more powerfull charging system to power a brighter headlight, front disc brake, automatic chain adjuster, and no kick starter. There is also a different carb, but no real difference in functionality.



The ideal TW would have the 2001 and up electrics, cam adjuster, and disc brake and the 2000 and older kick start mechanism.

 

[M1ASpringfield]

That's the EXACT kind of info I was looking for. Thanks so much!

 

[Rohnsman]

To supplement this info, what is involved and about how much does it cost to have a kick starter added to the later models that did not come with one? Should I decide one day to upgrade from my '93 TW, I'd like all the new things they've done, but don't think I'd have a bike like this w/o the kick starter. I think this was a dumb move on Yamaha's part.

 

[Tom Bentzen]

Great information guys. Thanks.

 

[wrench-puller]

If you look back in the old forum threads, you will also see the recalls and problems with leaking base gaskets. The gasket between the cylinder/engine block is prone to leaking over time. Not such a big deal, but if its out of warranty and you have to hire a shop to do the repair it could add to the price of one of these models (06/07 I think). Dont get too worried over the lack of a kick starter on the later models, I have the 09 and dont miss the kick start at all. The disc front brake is nice though, big improvement over the drum. If you do look at an older model, take a small flashlight and look in the fuel tank for signs of rust, bikes that sit for months get condensation that rust pin holes thru the bottom edges of the tank and foul carbs. But most important is just to GET ONE ! Your missing out on all the fun owning a TW can be!

 

[rmartin]

You are right about missing out on a lot of fun. I didn't start looking until last summer, and got one this summer. Had to find one fairly close. Ended up being 200+ miles away. Everytime I would contact some one closer they were sold.



Got mine in June, Have ridden 1800 miles.



Should have bought a new one I guess instead of holding out for a used one. I was afraid I would not like it.