Yamaha presents the TT-R230, a machine implementing YZ style and function for tons of fun. Racy styling meets total user-friendliness in the new TT-R230. This one's built to take whatever you can dish out and keep on thumping.

2008 Yamaha TT-R230

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2008 Yamaha TT-R230
  • Engine/Motor: air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke, 2 valves
  • Transmission: Constant-mesh 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

 

Introduction


One look at the TT-R230’s pure Yamaha racing colors and YZ styling and you might think you’d have to be Chad Reed to climb abroad. The reality is slightly different.

Yamaha presented the 2008 TT-R230 as the machine featuring stable handing, and 100% sweet maneuverability, and an 870mm seat height meaning you haven’t got to be a basketballer to get two feet on the ground.

By also featuring a smooth, SOHC four-stroke engine with electric starting, torque to spare and the proven Yamaha reliability to keep on running for a very, very long time, this motorcycle promises to outnumber competition and to dominate those attractive trails.

Compact size it may be, but with its light, responsive feel, plush suspension, and the look to match the performance, the new TT-R230 is perfect for full-sized adventures.

History


Yamaha started producing the wonderful TT-R230 in 2005 as a brand new model replacing the much heavier TT-R225.

The all-new machine was immediately appreciated for its compact wheelbase and low seat height, offering maneuverability and super-responsive handling for new or smaller riders, but what really made it stand out was the YZ styling with flat seat/tank junction for great rider mobility.

Also, the YZ-style diamond-type frame provides great handling and it receives the stout, 223cc air-cooled, SOHC, 4-stroke engine with electric start. The little monster pumps out predictable power aimed at easing both begging and intermediate riders into the off-road experience.

That power is valued by the 6-speed transmission which shifts smoothly and, in communion with the heavy-duty manual clutch, taps the fat of the TT-R’s broad powerband for instant hook-up in a wide range of terrain and conditions.

Practically, the TT-R230 continues what its inspiring model, the TT-R225, started but it takes things a step further by losing a lot of weight and becoming way easier to handle and this makes it a better performer.

Yamaha decided that it should be best to sell the bike for a few years before a major revamp and so it does. As a result, the Yamaha TT-R230 doesn’t feature any changes since its introduction.

Competition


Honda also offers a 223cc starters bike covered in racing plastics so competition couldn’t have been more benefic for the two manufacturers. Put in simple, moto-friendly terms, the CRF230F is a certified blast to ride. Just ask the countless riders, of all skill and experience levels, who’ve ever twisted its throttle and made easy work of the toughest trails. With its six-speed transmission, plush, long-travel suspension, electric starter, 34.1-inch seat height, and new fuel tank, it’s the perfect competitor for the Yamaha I am reviewing.

Exterior


Yamaha sells this bike with performance and good looks. I am now referring at the second named aspect and I would like to say that it couldn’t have gotten better than that.

The front of the bike looks clearly YZ-inspired by presenting a high blue front fender and white number plate. Its racing aspect is continued with the long and low flat seat that only speaks about competition and comfort while the rear end is being dominated by the white side number plates and sharp-looking rear fender.

A finishing note is being given by those Team Yamaha-inspired colors and graphics which position it apart from the rest of the motorcycles and identify it as being a Yamaha.

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Test Drive


I needed to see with my own eyes, or better said, experience on my own the sensations provided by the Yamaha TT-R230 and I couldn’t have elected a better time. The weather was good (a bit cold in the morning but that was ok) and, more important, the trails were a real challenge.

I quickly jumped on the TT-R230 and it fired right up, despite the cold outside, so I let it warm up a little bit and then I was ready to go. While I was doing this, the peppy exhaust note became music to my ears and the low seat height proved efficient and adequate for girls, teenagers, or even adults.

Being destined to a wide range of beginning riders, the Yamaha TT-R230 had to be user-friendly and confidence-inspiring or otherwise it wouldn’t have completed it purpose on the market. Of course it is!

During my test run, I noticed that this bike pulls very well right from the start and doesn’t reserve any surprises to its initiating riders. This is a positive aspect which brings most of the contribution needed for it to become a real friend who contributes at the bright future of the Yamaha rider.

The six-speed transmission has a low first gear (as expected) good for learning or going through tough stuff and then jumps into a taller second gear. The 230 has the power to pull it with a very broad, torque blend that invites you to shift shortly, but still revs out and provides you with a unique riding experience.

Another plus goes to suspension package which is also very good and manages to handle everything the trail has to offer and still keep the rhythm with almost any other machine out there. The riding is generally smooth but those suspensions are part of that very same equipment that keep it leaned while your foot is way ahead in the corner.

This brings me to handling. I noticed that the TT-R230 is very predictable and provides its rider with all the feedback needed for him to react positively and without any rush.

Another system that reunites those very same characteristics is braking. I tried to simulate emergency situations all day long and I still couldn’t find the bike reacting dangerous.

Overall, it is a blat when ridden by experienced riders, and it is only characterized by friendliness when a beginner finds itself on its seat.

Price


The MSRP of $3,499 is another reason for you to buy this off-roader for your self, your wife, or teenage children. Satisfaction will be guaranteed in any given situation and the bang for the buck will be more than satisfying. The bike also comes with a 90 day Limited Factory Warranty but I bet you won’t need it.

Conclusion


Your new Yamaha TT-R230 Dirt Bike will take you places you’ve never been, with the extensive development Yamaha put into their Dirt Bikes making them number one. The new Yamaha TT-R230 handles like a dream and it also provides an enjoyable riding experience for those shorter riders. Featuring slim trimmer shroud, seat and fuel tank, the rider mobility allows for greater handling on the new Yamaha. The TTR23’s carburetor and ignition timings deliver even more power throughout the powerband, and this is why Yamaha innovations keep you in the lead.

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SPECIFICATIONS

 

Engine and Transmission


Displacement: 223cc
Type: air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke, 2 valves
Bore x Stroke: 70.0mm x 58.0mm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Carburetion: Y26P
Ignition: DC-CDI
Transmission: Constant-mesh 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Final Drive: Chain

Chassis and Dimensions


Suspension/Front: Telescopic fork; 9.5-in travel
Suspension/Rear: Single shock; 8.7-in travel
Brakes/Front: 194mm single disc
Brakes/Rear: 130mm drum
Tires/Front: 80/100-21 NHS
Tires/Rear: 100/100-18 NHS
Length: 81.3 in
Width: 31.5 in
Height: 46.5 in
Seat Height: 34.2 in
Wheelbase: 54.5 in
Ground Clearance: 11.6 in
Dry Weight: 236 lb
Fuel Capacity: 2.1 gal

Other


Warranty: 90 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)
Color: Team Yamaha Blue/White

Features

 

Key Features:


-YZ-inspired handling and looks, and a stout 223cc air-cooled, SOHC four-stroke producing predictable, broadband power make the TT-R230 a great choice for beginner and intermediate riders.

-Competition-style flat seat/tank junction for great rider mobility.

-Electric start makes getting started a complete pushbutton exercise.

-A low seat height on top of a long-travel suspension and 11.6 inches of ground clearance mean this is a serious trail bike that’s also accessible to a wide range of riders.

-Steel, diamond-type frame means great handling and strength.

Engine:


-Super-reliable, electric-start 223cc air-cooled SOHC four-stroke puts out smooth, widespread of power perfectly suited for all kinds of trails and riders.

-Smooth-shifting, six-speed transmission with heavy-duty clutch geared for maximum versatility and usable power delivery.

-CDI magneto ignition system is ultra-reliable and nearly maintenance-free.

-YZ-type air filter for easy maintenance and maximum airflow.

-Lightweight exhaust with muffler and quiet, USFS-approved spark arrestor.

-Automatic cam chain tensioner means minimal maintenance and longer engine life.

Chassis/Suspension:


-Steel frame design with compact wheelbase and low seat height combines accessibility to new or smaller riders with superb maneuverability and super-responsive handling.

-Linkage-mounted rear shock serves up 8.7 inches of smooth, progressive rear wheel travel for great bump absorption and handling.

-36mm front fork with 9.5 inches of wheel travel provides plush, confidence-inspiring control over rough terrain.

-11.6 inches of ground clearance should be enough to deal with almost any trail.

-Aluminum box-section swingarm features snail-type chain adjusters for quick and easy chain adjustments.

-Front 194mm disc and 130mm rear drum brakes for powerful, confident stops.

-Full-size 21-inch front and 18-inch rear aluminum wheels keep unsprung weight down, while knobby tires provide motocross-spec grip.

Additional Features:


-Long seat is low, comfortable and allows for easy rider movement.

-Team Yamaha-inspired colors, graphics, and front and side number plates create distinctive styling.

-Sleek fuel tank with 2.1-gallon capacity for good range and excellent freedom of movement.

-Large, folding cleated footpegs provide excellent footing even in wet or muddy conditions.

-Durable fork boots provide excellent fork seal and stanchion tube protection.