Yamaha PW50

The 2nd most popular motorcycle in Australia in 2017 was the Yamaha PW50. There were 1845 Yamaha PW50 sold in Australia that year according to the FCAI, which is an impressive tally considering the numbers of other motorcycles being sold.

The more I look at these mini-bikes I’m beginning to understand why Honda in particular have been releasing their new line up of mini-bikes or fun motorbikes. After all you start off with riding one of these and progress to the road legal 125 cc from Kawasaki and Honda since Yamaha does not make any legal ‘fu bikes.

In terms of design the PW50 hasn’t changed much since it released in 1991 and that was just the name change. It does look a little dated but the affectionately known as the Pee Wee is the smallest of the small mini-bikes currently available in 2019. The PW50 is for kids unless you’re vertically challenged to the extreme.

In terms of engine and technology the Yamaha PW50 PeeWee is equipped with arguably some of the oldest tech you can current buy new. There’s only a kick starter, only one gear, shaft drive and it’s a two stroke engine! I believe it’s also missing a foot brake. The design hasn’t changed for years thanks to decent sales numbers and there are better spec mini bikes for the same price.

The Yamaha PW50 is ancient design that still sells very well despite the old tech. I believe it’s branding and history points are the main reasons but other features like light weight lowest seat height doesn’t hurt it’s saleability either. Arguably it’s greatest competitor is the previously reviewed TT-R50E.