[44532]

I'm considering buying the TW200 very soon but unfortunately I'm going to be mostly using it for driving to school 18 miles away. How does it handle with long commutes? From reading about the tw200's highway capabilities I've decided i would take side roads rather than going on the highway is this a smart decision or can the tw200 handle 14 miles on the highway a day?



Also, is it significantly better to buy a new TW200 over a used one? Used ones seem to go for 2500$ while the new ones are twice that amount.

 

[assquatch20]

For whether or not it's okay to run it fast, I advise you to use the search function. In short, it should be fine at 55 for awhile.



For new or used, depends on the bike. Pre 2001 has a different carb, drum front brake, and a kickstart/electric start. 2001 and newer get a disc brake, different carb, and lose the kickstart (however you can put one on).



For $2500 you should be able to find a TW less than 10 years old in good shape, in most places. Good luck.

 

[Bullspit]

I would run my TW 18 miles on a highway at 55 without a second thought. I don't do the Interstate though. I can't go fast enough on my TW to feel like I'm not going to be run down by a Yugo!



Do check your oil frequently as it is likely that oil consumption will increase with longer high RPM runs, although this isn't universal.



I would buy used if I could find one. Right now seems to be a good time for finding used TW's for decent prices. When the weather gets better they seem to become more rare!

 

[DonBenito]

I guess the answer to your question really depends on the kind of commute you have.



I personally don't really like riding my TW where there's a lot of traffic. I commuted on mine for about three months or so, but ever since I bought a KLR I pretty much always use that to commute with (and I don't even like my KLR). My commute is entirely on 35-45 mph surface streets, so top speed certainly isn't an issue, it's just that the TW doesn't accelerate OR stop particularly quickly for a motorcycle. Sometimes keeping from getting hit by an oblivious motorist requires stopping on a dime, or more often just getting up and out of the way in a hurry.



The TW is fine as a commuter really, it's just that you have to ride very conservatively and extremely defensively. Although, I suppose this approach is probably best on any motorcycle.



Another issue I've had is that people see you riding your TW and they just think "MOTORCYCLE", meaning that they expect you to be tearing up the streets like a sportbike. That misconception wouldn't really matter, but when someone in a big hurry gets behind you at a stoplight thinking that you're gonna be taking off like lightning they tend to express their disappointment in your acceleration with lots of honking and tailgating. A woman in a Prius gave me the finger as she blew past me after making the above mistake while I was still breaking in the engine.



If you live in a dense urban area, I think the TW makes a lot of sense as a commuter (think hollow/japanese style mods). Nobody's going anywhere fast on city streets, so 196cc is more than enough to get around.



If you want a street legal trail bike that can tackle anything off-road and the odd run to the hardware or grocery store... TW all the way!



If you're looking for a daily commuter bike that's pavement-only, there are a lot of other great options out there. Used SV650 and EX500 bikes have come down to a very appealing price point, if you're looking for used commuter bikes you'll likely be happier with something more street oriented than the Trailway 200.

 

[peter]

I would recommend a TW as a commuter but would stay away from Interstates....not that we have them here. I bought a new 2010 about 19 months ago and last week a used 2009 with 2,500 miles for $2,800. I would say get a used but try to stay away from 2006 & 2007 models. They are known for base gasket leaks. I think even a 2004 with less than 5,000 miles will serve you well. Just check the the oil more often if you run a lot of full throttle.



good luck hunting for your TW.

 

[niqhowie]

I commute back and forth to my fiances parents 16 miles about everyday going 55/60. Your weight plays a big role too! Personally I love the scenic view while riding rather than hauling butt staring straight ahead! Also remember! The MPG'S are very sexy on these lil monsters!!! I get 70 on average and I weigh 170 and stand at 5'6! Haha. These bikes are built for dependability! If its just to cruise around you will ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!

 

[immgunn]

I commute regularly 26 miles roundtrip, 16 of which is on Business 80, a very busy 65 mph freeway through the Metro Sacramento, CA area, and the TW performs great! I have highway gears which tops me out at about 70 (as long as there's no headwind or hills). Traffic's light in the morning so I cruise around 60. Traffic is a mess in the evening so I cruise around 10 mph splitting lanes (legal in CA). Check oil frequently.



As far as new VS used. I recommend buying used.



See ya'





Marty

 

[arbolmano]

The TW is a great commuter. I have much more roadworthy bikes (like my BMW R1200RT) but have much more fun on short runs with my TW.

You do need to stay on roads with that 55mph posted limit though. Top speed of 60-65 means it's not safe where the speed limit exceeds 55.

The TW excelles at lane splitting, far better than my BMWs and gets great economy. The TW also has excellant stability and manuverability.

I ride mine to work at least once a week, a trip of about 40 miles, about half of which is at 55-60 (Read WFO for extended periods) And then I'll ride my TW offroad for work (I'm a farm mechanic)

No troubles. I do take care of my units though.

I'd advise a MSF course and invest in some good ATGATT gear. And dang it, health insurence as shit does happen..

I would further advise to get time offroad if at all possable, invaluable skills to be gained there directly applicable to the street.

if your not real experienced with maintaining your own bike, a new unit will serve you better. The TW has great resale so don't sweat the big price

and you'll gain safety and peace of mind. Issues like poor maintainance on a used unit can hurt you riding with cars at 55 mph, eg bad steering head bearings can cause a wobble and

loss of control, worn brakes, seized engines, breaking chains etc. In all likelyhood, you get "turned on" and will wish a larger bike down the road anyway, but keep the TW for play.

Low horsepower will require you to be a better rider and have sharp skills. Lowered options while riding (No "powering out") does cause a bit of "fear" but that fear

will make you a better rider and IMHO makes it more fun.

When I commute on a motorcycle, I find it makes my whole day better. I arrive at work sharp and ready for action and heading home is that much better. With the TW detours are the norm on the way home.

Heck any day I ride becomes a great day!

 

[mtkd]

I commute on my TW when I can. I run it down route 9 in upstate New York which is three lanes and has a 45-55 posted limit and most people doing 60+. There is no issue with the TW, you can run it at 55 all day long and it will just keep going. The only problem I have in my commute is trying to stay visible and get away from the cars. I can manage 60 not going up a hill but on occasion I feel like I am a road hazard.



What it comes down to is whether or not you will feel safe enough not being able to keep up with everyone around you making you an obstacle. If you can feel safe enough to do it, you will love your TW, if you don't feel safe enough you will hate it.



If you want a 250 to commute on you can check out the TU250 which is a more standard bike, is fuel injected and should be able to keep up with most traffic. There is also the WR250R. It is more expensive and is more of a dirt bike then dual sport, but will be able to sustain higher speeds then the TW. A friend of mine has one and if I remember correctly he got his up to 90 mph. There are also the little sport bikes like the ninja and cbr 250s that would also make really great commuters and would be better (still not great) for use on the highway.

 

[lowtechboy]

I use my T-Dub to commute back and forth to work, also I take it out on main roads that the speed limit is around 55 mph but people cruse at 60-65 mph. I am able to keep up with everyone at around 60 mph but I am sure I push it a little hard when I try to keep up at 65 mph.

I have maxed it out between 75-80 but that was downhill with the wind behind pushing me. All in all its a great bike and with 70 mpg I can't beat it. I hope you enjoy what ever you get.

 

[old white truck]

1) I think DonBenito has done a perfect job describing the TW's attributes in regards to commuting. I completely agree with his statment in post #4.

Also, is it significantly better to buy a new TW200 over a used one? Used ones seem to go for 2500$ while the new ones are twice that amount.

2) You might want to look around some more on your pricing for a new one. I don't know where you live, but there is a dealer in Oregon that has been selling brand new ones for $4000 and all the dealers in my area sell 2013's for $4,500 or less.

 

[TdubOhio]

I completely disagree with post #4. I commute daily, year round, here in Columbus, OH.

I've put 5000 this first year on the T Dub and its been great... I sold my truck and my fiancees car is the only 4 wheeled vehicle between us.

Sure, most of it is urban in the 35-45 range, but I've taken the t dub on the interstate plenty of times.

Maxes out in the low 70s (indicated, at least).

Problem areas are dealing with the wind, and the knobbies aren't the best choice for higher speed pavement runs, yet pretty decent in the winter.

I think concerns about acceleration and power are overdone. (I have owned 3 Geo Metros in my life, however)

Carving through traffic is a breeze and feels amazing on a TW.

I leave behind every car on the road from 0-45, and I kind of like the crazy feeling of winding a T dub out on the interstate (not that I ride recklessly).

You learn to ride "aggressively defensive", but thats how I'd ride any bike in traffic.

Never had a problem passing the highways and I live at the crux of a major interchange.

I've ridden 20 miles WOT straight to a trail for another 20, and 25-30 miles back again, mostly WOT, with no trouble.

I envy an 18 mile commute on side roads, really.

Great gas mileage, plenty of worthwhile cheap upgrades available, loads of fun, I think it's the best daily commuter out there.

I also don't ever get confused with a sportbike or a Harley rider, either. I bet I get stopped and asked about my bike more than both combined.

People love the look of the TW, and it doesn't give off the air of being poser-ish or snooty.

In fact, just the opposite. I think every guy sees a true workingman's ride, and every girl sees something unique and cute about it.

I'm pretty sure riding one makes you a better all around motorcyclist, too, cause it's probably a helluva lot easier to ride a 650 up and down the interstate on autopilot than it is to be as engaged in the ride as you are on a TW.

Get a used one. Change the oil over to Yamaha semi synth, and enjoy the ride, I say.

 

[tw200sgp]

I use mine regularly fro 27KM commutes - no a big deal. I have street tires fitted (no snow here) and it's impossible to skid or slide on the TW with those on. My only grouch is the tank is a little small for long commutes. 18 miles x 2 = 36 - you'll have to fill up every three days I think (I get almost exactly 100 miles on a tank).

 

[stephenmarklay]

1) I think DonBenito has done a perfect job describing the TW's attributes in regards to commuting. I completely agree with his statment in post #4.











2) You might want to look around some more on your pricing for a new one. I don't know where you live, but there is a dealer in Oregon that has been selling brand new ones for $4000 and all the dealers in my area sell 2013's for $4,500 or less.

I agree to a point however there are some advantages to go a long with the disadvantages. I very recently bought mine to commute. It is certainly not my first choice to do any highway riding. My current commute has 5 miles of 55mph highway and that is fine.



I have an EX500 for the highway as well as a VSTROM.



Some advantages:



1. Small and light make it just easy to park, move, get on get off, pull out of the garage etc.

2. Very good MPG and low overall maintenance.

3. Today it snowed a little and it is the only bike of mine I would ride and the real reason I got the bike. I can ride several months longer on it. It will never get winterized

4. Upright position is comfortable and also easy to see.

5. rack and strorage options (this does apply to say the KLR650 and other DS bikes.

6. CHEAP

7. A lot like a scooter but can go in dirt, absorb potholes and does not look fruity.



I prefer a front disc bike and stopping is fine and slower speeds. Slamming the brakes on at 55mph on the highway is not usually a factor and at 35mph is stops fine for me.

 

[Point37]

i think we need to know a little more about your commute (i.e. traffic conditions, speed limits, distances at speed limits, where you live, etc.) in order to better advise you...myself i don't commute on mine because my commute is 45 miles one way and all highway at a 65mph speed limit (which isn't typically followed) and this is from Massachusetts through the gut of Providence, RI...people around here drive crazy...80mph and weaving through traffic...and like DonBenito said in post #4 the TW doesn't have get up and go nor the quick stopping required for a commute like this...now if my commute was half that distance and not on the highway i would more than likely commute on it every day i could

 

[44532]

i think we need to know a little more about your commute (i.e. traffic conditions, speed limits, distances at speed limits, where you live, etc.) in order to better advise you...myself i don't commute on mine because my commute is 45 miles one way and all highway at a 65mph speed limit (which isn't typically followed) and this is from Massachusetts through the gut of Providence, RI...people around here drive crazy...80mph and weaving through traffic...and like DonBenito said in post #4 the TW doesn't have get up and go nor the quick stopping required for a commute like this...now if my commute was half that distance and not on the highway i would more than likely commute on it every day i could

Well my commute will consist of me going to my university(final year of high school didn't get accepted yet BUT A MAN CAN HOPE) , the easiest way to get there is taking the 401 and the route is 19.2 miles long which should average around 35 minutes, however, since I'm a beginner my M1 license won't allow for me to take highways thus i will have to resort to a secondary route excluding the 401 which will be a 17.9 mile ride that takes approximately 46 minutes. Additional information : I'm 5'10 and 175 pounds



Also, i would like to add that I'm very impressed by the community on this forum(almost makes me want to buy the tw200 knowing that i will have a helpful community to aid me), a very helpful bunch so thank you to anyone that helped.



Oh almost forgot to add that the 401's speed limit is 100km/h or 62mph

 

[assquatch20]

If you're only doing 60mph at the most and for only 20 minutes like that you should be fine. Get familiar with maintenance and keep an eye on oil.



If you're a beginner I think you'll love the TW200. You'll probably end your riding career on a bike very similar to it.

 

[RainWillFall]

401 on a TW

Hell I'm nervous driving my Super Crew F-150 on it!

I should ask as it is a long highway are you talking about the GTA sections (Cambridge to Whitby), the POSTED speed limit is 100kms but nobody runs under 120kms! If your outside of the high traffic areas probably wouldn't be bad.



You'd be running at the higher RPM's, Have you considered the XT250 I've read they top out at 130kms and are still simple bikes (pre 2013 EFI) or if you can find a decent KLR250 Super Sherpa but you'll miss the fat tires and fun!

 

[44532]

401 on a TW

Hell I'm nervous driving my Super Crew F-150 on it!

I should ask as it is a long highway are you talking about the GTA sections (Cambridge to Whitby), the POSTED speed limit is 100kms but nobody runs under 120kms! If your outside of the high traffic areas probably wouldn't be bad.



You'd be running at the higher RPM's, Have you considered the XT250 I've read they top out at 130kms and are still simple bikes (pre 2013 EFI) or if you can find a decent KLR250 Super Sherpa but you'll miss the fat tires and fun!

I've been considering a crf250l but there's something about the TW200 i like and can't explain. I'm going from Markham to York University and most probably during traffic time but the ride back from school should be clear roads. Yea i had to Google what the speed limit was cause everyone i know runs 120+ on it.

The problem i have with other bikes is I'm going to be buying the bike with money i earn working in the summer and some money from my parents so i was hoping to seal the deal at 5000$ including all my gear.

 

[frog13]

Look at the speed/gear calculator......the TW is not even close to it's engineered red line even at 60 mph....may sound like it will blow-up,but, it won't. As said above, keep on top of your oil!.