Young kids that are looking to break into the world of motor bikes shouldn't be riding something that they still can't handle. That's why there's plenty of room in this world for bikes like the Yamaha->ke301 PW50. For the past 25 years, Yamaha has been front and center in mini-bike design and manufacturing, and they're continuing that trend with the PW50.

Aimed at novice riders, the 'twist-and-go' PW50 benefits from a range of safety features and rider-friendly designs that makes it the ideal choice for new bikers. With a low-maintenance technology backed up by Yamaha quality and reliability, this stylish mini-bike is so easy to own and maintain.

When it comes to kids' mini-bikes, Yamaha is the clear leader. With the PW50's rider-friendly design it's easy to see why this 50cc 2-stroke is a firm favorite with kids that enjoy riding bikes and parents that are looking for a simple, comfortable, and safe bike to let their kids ride on.

Find out more about the Yamaha PW50 after the jump.

2012 Yamaha PW50

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Yamaha PW50
  • Engine/Motor: air-cooled, reed-valve, 2-stroke single engine
  • Transmission: single-speed automatic transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Design

The Yamaha PW50 is a minimally-designed introductory bike that doesn't promise the world when it comes to cutting-edge technology. What it does is offer your kids a simple start-up bike to enjoy.

Although it weighs only 39 kg (86 lbs), the PW50 is still tough as nails and has been designed to deliver fun for kids of all ages. The bodywork is made from polypropylene, which combines high strength with low weight. The front and rear fenders and side panels are finished in racing blue, and bright tank graphics and white racing number backgrounds give this leading mini-bike a sporty image.

For the 2012 model, Yamaha added a number of design features, including new thick seat that cushions the trail’s blows and allows maximum rider movement; the aforementioned Team Yamaha-inspired colors and graphics; front and side number plates that create styling just like the bigger off-roaders; large, folding foot pegs with rubber grips that provide excellent footing; and an adjustable throttle stop screw lets the adult in charge gradually increase speed as skills improve.

Engine

The Yamaha PW50 is an ideal bike for tykes with its air-cooled, 49cc, reed-valve, 2-stroke single engine that has been mildly tuned to deliver predictable power that gently eases the new rider up the off-road learning curve. The single-speed automatic transmission means that young ones don't have to think too much about changing gears; doing so involves simply twisting the throttle, allowing them to concentrate on the ride ahead. The bike also comes with a class-exclusive shaft drive system is virtually maintenance-free and comes fully enclosed for added durability and an exclusive autolube oil injection system eliminates the need for fuel/oil premixing.

Chassis/Suspension

A rugged steel backbone-type frame Class-lowest 19.1" seat height creates a handling-enhancing low center of gravity while also allowing most riders to put both feet on the ground for added confidence. A 22.5mm telescopic front fork with 60mm (2.4") of travel smooths out the bumps while a dual rear shock suspension with 50mm (2") of wheel travel delivers a plush, confidence-inspiring ride that shouldn't be all that sophisticated for newbie riders. Hand-operated brake levers are similar to those used on bicycles for familiarity while the 10" front and rear tires provide excellent traction in the dirt. Specially designed one-piece rear fender, side panels, and seat can be easily removed for cleaning or maintenance.

Pricing

Since the PW50 is more an introductory bike than anything else, don't expect a whole lot of features. Obviously, one good thing to come out of that is the price, with the PW50 only costing $1,290.

Specifications

Model

PW50BL

Engine Type

49cc air-cooled 2-stroke; reed-valve

inducted

Bore x Stroke

40.0 x 39.2mm

Compression Ratio

6.0:1

Fuel Delivery

VM12

Ignition

CDI

Transmission

Wet centrifugal automatic

Final Drive

Shaft

Suspension/Front

Telescopic fork; 2.4-in travel

Suspension/Rear

Unit swingarm; 2.0-in travel

Brake/Front

Drum

Brake/Rear

Drum

Tire/Front

2.50-10-4PR

Tire/Rear

2.50-10-4PR

L x W x H

49.0 x 22.6 x 28.1 in

Seat Height

19.1 in

Wheel Base

33.7 in

Ground Clearance

4.1 in

Fuel Capacity

0.53 gal

Wet Weight

85 lb

Color

Team Yamaha Blue/White


Quotes

Totalmotorcycle ---- "Safety features like adjustable throttle and fully automatic transmission ensure your child's first riding experience will be all smiles"

Yamaha Motor Europe ---- "With the PW50's rider-friendly design it's easy to see why this 50cc 2-stroke is a firm favourite with kids and parents"

Motorcycle-usa ---- "The Yamaha PW50 has a key-type ignition switch deters unauthorized riding. and a throttle stop screw lets the adult supervisor restrict speed while beginners are learning and the handy choke lever is located right in front of the main switch for easy access."

Dirtrider ---- "No matter how big you are, this fun four-stroke is a blast for both kids and adults to play on. The electric starter is awesome, and although the stock bars aren't the best things on earth the entire bike is actually pretty durable. If you're buying this bike for junior, we suggest you keep it around after he out-grows it and make a playbike for yourself!"