Entry level bikes are important because they give upstart riders a chance to learn the ropes before they move on to the bigger and more powerful variety. The Yamaha TW200->ke2149 is a bike that fits that description to a tee, a perfect introductory model to get newbies on the saddle.

It doesn't come with world-beating performance numbers - the bike's 196cc air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke 2-valve engine doesn't scream power at all - but what it does offer is a basic feel of what off-road bikes are capable.

The TW200 is a well balanced dual-sport bike that is openly inviting new riders to hop on and take it for a ride. A lot of people will ride and move on to bigger and better bikes in the future, but before you get to that stage you still have to start somewhere.

That 'somewhere' is the Yamaha->ke301 TW200 and it's a good bet that it's ideally-suited for novice riders the world over.

Find out more about the Yamaha TW200 after the jump. } }

Design

Unique features for the TW200 include a long, two-tone, motocross-style seat that creates a balanced riding position for optimal rider movement and comfort, and a durable and wide front fender that has been designed to keep mud and dirt off the rider off-road. There are also frame-mounted passenger foot pegs that provide two-up riding capability; an Enduro-style, 60/55-watt halogen headlight that features high and low beams; flex-mounted turn indicators that offer greater durability against breakage; durable fork shrouds to help prevent rocks and debris from damaging fork sliders; and a small, bikini-style fairing that reduces wind buffeting at highway speeds and provides added protection against weather. The bike also carries a standard LCD instrument panel with cool green background lighting that’s easily visible day or night. Among the notable information included in the panel are a speedometer with odometer and a resettable tripmeter, as well as indicator lights for neutral, high beam, and turn signals.

Performance

The Yamaha TW200 is powered by a start-up 196cc air-cooled, four-stroke single that delivers torquey low- and mid-range power perfectly suited for off-road exploring. The engine comes with a smooth-shifting five-speed transmission with a manual clutch that puts potent powerband to the ground for maximum on- and off-road performance. An internal engine counterbalancer keeps vibrations down for

greater all-day comfort while a maintenance-free CDI ignition system ensures precise, reliable spark for peak engine performance at all rpm. An easy and reliable pushbutton is included for electric starting while an automatic cam chain tensioner means minimal maintenance and longer engine life.

Chassis/Suspension

To improve the bike's handling characteristics, Yamaha added a 33mm telescopic front fork with 6.3" of travel. The lightweight box section swingarm and single rear shock with 5.9" of travel helps enhance handling and overall comfort both on- and off-road. As far as brakes are concerned, the TW200 features a hydraulic front disc brake ensures greater stopping power with less effort.

Specification