Yamaha PW50 – Ultimate Knowledge Guide
The Yamaha PW50 is an iconic dirt bike that has stood the test of time and if you didn’t have one as a kid I bet you knew someone who did. These 49cc dirt bikes are one of the most popular models for kids to learn on, and they are still going strong today, with over 40 yrs in production. In this post I will share everything there is to know about the PW50, from its history, to specs and pricing. If I havent covered something just drop a comment and I’ll do my best to get back to you.
PW50 Brief History
The first Yamaha PW50 was unveiled way back in 1980 and it was available to buy throughout Europe and North America in 1981. Back then, this kids dirt bike would set you back around $450 as standard, and the early models were known as a YZinger, which I guess comes from the time of its incepetion as Yamaha had it’s YZ50 model previously. PW50 is also known as the PeeWee, and it was created to target the US and European markets, aimed towards children between the age of 5 & 7 yrs old. The result is the smallest dirt bike you can get with a seat height at just 18.7 inches. It’s perfect for kids and proved to be a big hit with 8000 units sold and shipped in its first year. That’s not bad is it! Costs were kept down to a minimum and the bike was made to look small as if it would be ideal for a xmas present. The tank also made the most of the newer blow moulded technology that we are now very familiar with. The engine used was from an adult model and simply restrictred in power to make it easier for kids to manage. This was achieved using Yamahas two-part limiter system.
PW50 Specs
Engine
| Power | 49cc |
| Engine | 2 Stroke – Air cooled |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Starter | Kick Starter |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.0L |
| Engine Oil | YamaLube 2 Stroke |
| Transmission Oil | 10W 30 |
| Fuel | Regular – Unleaded |
Dimensions & Chassis
| Seat Height | 18.7 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10 inches |
| Tyre Size – Front & Back | 2.5-10 4PR |
| Tyre Pressure – Front & Back | 15 PSI |
| Brakes Type | Drum Brakes |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic |
| Rear Suspension | Unit Swing and Dual Shocks |
Weights & Length
| Max Rider Weight | 25 kg |
| Weight – incl fuel & oil | 41 kg |
| Overall Length | 1.245 mm |
| Overall Width | 610 mm |
| Overall Height | 705 mm |
Power Limiter: One way to limit the power is a screw that restricts the rotation of the throttle. Parents can simply adjust it with a screw driver ‘as and when’ which mean they can increase the speed as the child becomes more confidient and achieving a better riding ability. The second way that Yamaha restrictt the PW50 is by adding a washer inside the exhaust. This requires a 10mm spanner to undo the nuts but after that it can be simply removed to increase the flow. Here’s a great little video I found which clearly explains both. 
Are All PW50 The Same?
On the whole, yes they are all the same when we talk about a stock example. Over the years you will find different colour combos but the spec is the same apart from later models getting a suspension upgrade.
What Fuel Does A PW50 Use
Standard petrol is the fuel you put in a PW50. There is a seperate oil tank located in front of the handle bars and behind the front number plate. This is because the bike is a 2 stroke and it mixes the oil by injecting it into the carb automatically.
What kind of oil goes in the crankcase of a PW50?
Yamaha recommend you use a 10w-30 in the crankcase. This is different to the oil you need to add in the tank by the handle bars, which is the 2 stroke oil used that mixes with the fuel. The oil in the crankcase is what lubricates the engine parts. You can view all lubricant specs in the PW50 manual
How much oil does a Yamaha PW50 hold?
The crankcase holds 300ml (0.3L) You drain it when you do an oil change and add the full 300ml of fresh oil. The 2 stroke oil tank found up near the handle bars holds 350ml
How do you attach training wheels to a PW50?
Simply line up the bar of the training wheels, which will have a couple of notches in it, to the foot pegs. Then use the clamp to secure it in place. The training wheels should be touching the floor on both sides at the same time. The idea is they rock so the child can benefit from learning to balance. If you purchase a set of training wheels from somewhere like Amazon then they may fit in a slightly different way, but the principle is the same.
Where’s The VIN Number On My PW50
Find the VIN Numbrt in 2 locations on a PW50. The first is on the steering head pipe which can be seen be turning the handlebars onto full lock. The second is under the seat, simply take of the seat and you will see the sticker attached to the frame.
Neal Hendes Own a Honda XR 250R ’91 and a Honda XLR 200. Loves to ride trails and learning how to rebuild his machines. — More About Neal
Recent Posts
Training wheels are designed to help a young rider learn how to balance whilst riding their bike. Originally designed for pedal powered bikes, you can also get training wheels for dirt bikes. The.
The Best 50cc Kids Dirt Bike 2023: Results Joint overall winner: Yamaha TT50 & Honda CRF50 Best choice for smaller kids and beginners: Yamaha PW50 Best value: Honda CRF50F Keep.
About Me
Hi, I am Neal Hendes. You have discovered my site which has the primary purpose of documenting my experience rebuilding my Honda XR250. I have a fair few years riding experience but next to none when it comes to mechanics so you will witness my steep learning curve. Lets hope I can complete it and get it back on the road! More About Neal
Important Legal Information
This site is owned and operated by Project Dirt Bike, a limited liability company headquartered in UK. ProjectDirtBike.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Popular Posts
- About Project Dirt Bike
- Contact
- Privacy Policy
- Terms and Conditions
2023 Yamaha PW50 Guide
A fully automatic transmission and adjustable throttle control expands thrills along with skills. The world‑renowned PW50 ensures fun‑filled first ride experiences.
For over 40 years the PW50 mini motorcycle has introduced children and their parents to the joy and excitement that comes with riding off-road. And along the way this little Yamaha has helped to make some fantastic family memories that will last a lifetime – making the PW50 so much more than a kids’ fun bike.
The perfect first step.
Everything about the legendary PW50 is designed to make riding easy and enjoyable. There’s a throttle limiter that lets you adjust the top speed, and the compact chassis with plush suspension and low seat height ensure a comfortable ride with lightweight handling.
The zippy, fully-automatic 50cc engine delivers smooth acceleration – and the shaft drive and separate 2-stroke oil tank make maintenance simple. Designed to fit into the back of car or small van, the compact and lightweight PW50 is easy to transport. And with its Yamaha build quality this premium kids’ bike will give years of family fun!
Perfect for new riders.
They’re young only once, so you naturally want the very best for your child. And when you take a closer look at the Yamaha PW50 you’ll see that this high quality mini motorcycle comes with plenty of user-friendly features and uncomplicated technology, that make it the favourite choice of many parents all around the world.
Simplicity is the key, and everything about the PW50 is designed to make it fun to ride and easy to own. The 2- stroke 50cc engine features fully-automatic transmission for “twist-and-go” performance, and the handlebar-mounted brake levers – as well as a shaft drive and a low seat – make it the ideal rst bike for every child.
With many kids spending a lot of time playing inside on electronic devices, the Yamaha PW50 is the ideal way to encourage them to get involved in a physical outdoor activity and to build skills and con dence. Brothers and sisters can all share the PW50 through the years, and create numerous fun family memories.
2023 Yamaha PW50 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- Fully Automatic Transmission
Fully automatic transmission means no shifting required. The PW50 is a twist-and-go package. - Entry-Level Two-Stroke Engine
Gutsy 49cc two-stroke is built to thrill without intimidating beginners. - Ultra-Low Seat Height
A seat only 18.7 inches high makes the PW50 the ideal choice for even the littlest riders in the group. - Adjustable Restrictor
An adjustable throttle stop screw keeps the adult in charge to gradually increase speed as skills improve. - Low Maintenance Requirements
Shaft final drive means no chain maintenance, while Yamaha’s exclusive autolube oil injection system eliminates the need for fuel/oil premixing. - Fully-automatic 50cc 2-stroke engine
- Easy-to-adjust throttle limiter
- Low seat height and user-friendly controls
- Lightweight handling and compact dimensions
- Easy to own, simple to maintain
- Separate 2-stroke oil tank
- Strong, 3-spoke, 10 inch steel wheels
- Light and strong motocross-style bodywork
- Yamaha design, quality and reliability
- High-level exhaust with heat shield
2023 Yamaha PW50 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
ENGINE
- Entry-Level Two-Stroke Engine
The 49cc air-cooled, case-reed-inducted, two-stroke single is tuned to deliver predictable power that gently eases the new rider up the off-road learning curve. - Fully Automatic Transmission
Single-speed automatic transmission allows the rider to simply twist the throttle and go, allowing him/her to concentrate on the ride ahead. - Maintenance-Free Shaft Drive
The class-exclusive shaft drive system is virtually maintenance free and comes fully enclosed for added durability. - Convenient Oil Injection System
Exclusive autolube oil injection system eliminates the need for fuel/oil premixing.
CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
- Ultra-Low Seat Height
Low 18.7-inch seat height allows most kids to put both feet down for added confidence. - Robust Front Suspension
A large 26mm telescopic front fork with 2.4 inches of travel smooths out the bumps for responsive handling. - Dual Shocks
Dual rear shocks with 2 inches of travel smooth the trail to deliver confidence-inspiring ride quality. - Maintenance-Free Mag Wheels
Mag-style wheels mean there’s no need to tighten or replace spokes. - Enclosed Drum Brakes
Front and rear drum brakes provide smooth, predictable stopping power. - Durable Knobby Tires
Durable 10-inch front and rear knobby tires provide excellent traction and superior wear. - Quiet, Compact Exhaust
A quiet exhaust pipe, complete with a removable baffle, is routed away from the rider. - Simplified Servicing
The rear fender, seat and side panel unit remove quickly for easy maintenance.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
- Comfortable Saddle
A thick seat enhances rider comfort. - Racy Styling
Team Yamaha-inspired colors, graphics and front and side number plates create styling just like the bigger off-roaders. - Grippy Foot Pegs
Large, folding foot pegs with rubber grips provide excellent footing.
2023 Yamaha PW50 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $1699 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine Type 49cc air-cooled 2-stroke; reed-valve induction
Bore x Stroke 40.0mm x 39.2mm
Compression Ratio 6.0:1
Fuel Delivery VM12 carburetor
Ignition CDI
Transmission Wet centrifugal automatic
Final Drive Shaft
Suspension / Front 26mm telescopic fork; 2.4-in travel
Suspension / Rear Unit swingarm; 2.0-in travel
Brakes / Front Drum
Brakes / Rear Drum
Tires / Front 2.50-10-4PR
Tires / Rear 2.50-10-4PR
L x W x H 49.0 in x 24.0 in x 27.8 in
Seat Height 18.7 in
Wheelbase 33.7 in
Rake (Caster Angle) 25.5°
Trail 2.0 in
Maximum Ground
Clearance
3.7 in
Fuel Capacity 0.5 gal
Wet Weight 90 lb
Warranty 90 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)
Color Team Yamaha Blue
2023 Yamaha PW50 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
2023 Yamaha PW50 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Engine type Reed valve;Single cylinder;Air-cooled;2-stroke
Displacement 49cc
Bore x stroke 40.0 mm x 39.2 mm
Compression ratio 6.0 : 1
Maximum power –
Maximum torque –
Lubrication system Separate lubrication
Clutch type Wet;centrifugal automatic
Ignition system CDI
Starter system Kick
Transmission system automatic
Final transmission Shaft
Fuel system Mikuni VM12/1
Chassis
Frame Steel tube backbone
Caster angle 25°30′
Trail 50 mm
Front suspension system Telescopic forks
Rear suspension system Unit Swing
Front travel 60 mm
Rear travel 50 mm
Front brake Drum mm
Rear brake Drum mm
Front tyre 2.50-10 4PR
Rear tyre 2.50-10 4PR
Dimensions
Overall length 1,245 mm
Overall width 610 mm
Overall height 705 mm
Seat height 475 mm
Wheel base 855 mm
Minimum ground clearance 95 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank) 41 kg
Fuel tank capacity 2.0 litres
Oil tank capacity 0.30 litres
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
THE PERFECT FIRST STEP
A fully automatic transmission and adjustable throttle control expands thrills along with skills. The world‑renowned PW50 ensures fun‑filled first ride experiences.
LETS RIDE FOR AS LOW AS
5.99% APR FOR 36 MONTHS 1
1 — Offer available on approved purchases of new 2021-2024 Yamaha Motorcycle, Scooter, ATV or Side by Side made on the Yamaha Credit Card issued by WebBank. Offer valid 10/1/2023-12/31/2023. Account must be open and current to be eligible for this offer. Promotional 5.99%, 7.99%, 14.49%, 21.99% APR with minimum payments of 3.05%, 3.14%, 3.45%,or 3.82% respectively of the purchase price balance, based on your creditworthiness, are effective until the purchase is paid in full. Minimum interest charge $2 per month. Standard APR 15.99%-23.99%.
YOU’RE IN CONTROL.
Fully Automatic Transmission
Fully automatic transmission means no shifting required. The PW50 is a twist-and-go package.
Entry-Level Two-Stroke Engine
Gutsy 49cc two-stroke is built to thrill without intimidating beginners.
Adjustable Restrictor
An adjustable throttle stop screw keeps the adult in charge to gradually increase speed as skills improve.
SELECT INVENTORY NEAR YOU
SEARCH LOCAL INVENTORY
SHOP THE
PADDOCK COLLECTION
PW50
PW50 Video
SHOP
- Motorcycles — Road
- Motorcycles — Off Road
- ATVs
- Side-By-Sides
- Snowmobiles
- Apparel
- Parts & Accessories
- Yamalube
EXPERIENCE
- Events
- bLU cRU
- Racing
- Video-On-Demand
- Experience Packages
- Motorcycle Rider Training
- ATV & SxS Rider Training
CONNECT
- Find a Dealer
- Contact A Dealer
- Owner Manuals
- Become a Dealer
CORPORATE
- Yamaha Motor USA Home
- Yamaha Motor Global
- Government/Agency Sales
- NHTSA On-Road Recalls
- CPSC Recalls
- Privacy Policy
- Terms & Conditions
- Your Privacy Choices
© 2023 Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA. All rights reserved.
****Freight surcharge is effective on MY22 and MY23 models shipped between Nov. 1st, 2021, through July 25th, 2023.
***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories.
*Prices and Specifications subject to change without notice. MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, destination charge and dealer installed options and accessories. Dealer prices may vary.
Professional riders depicted on a closed course. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, riding jacket or long-sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves, and boots. Read the Owner’s Manual and the product warning labels before operation. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, call 1-800-446-9227. ©2023 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.
Yamaha PW50
The Yamaha PW50 was a single cylinder, two-stroke Minibike / 50cc motorcycle produced by Yamaha between 2002 and 2019. Max torque was 2.95 ft/lbs (4.0 Nm) @ 4500 RPM. Claimed horsepower was 2.68 HP (2.0 KW) @ 2700 RPM. This motorcycle marked the beginning of a long history of young rider excitement. A history of more than 20 years and the story continues.
Contents
- 1 Engine
- 2 Drive
- 3 Chassis
- 4 1981
- 5 1993
- 6 1996
- 7 1999
- 8 2004
- 9 2005
- 10 2003 Yamaha PW50
- 11 2004 Yamaha PW50
- 12 2006 Yamaha PW50
- 13 2007 Yamaha PW50
- 14 2008 Yamaha PW50
- 15 2009 Yamaha PW50
- 16 2010 Yamaha PW50
- 17 2011 Yamaha PW50
- 18 2012 Yamaha PW50
- 19 2013 Yamaha PW50
- 20 2016 Yamaha PW50
- 21 In Media
- 22 References
Engine [ edit | edit source ]
The engine was a air cooled single cylinder, two-stroke. A 40.0mm bore x 39.2mm stroke result in a displacement of just 49.0 cubic centimeters.
Drive [ edit | edit source ]
The bike has a automatic transmission. Power was moderated via the wet centrifugal automatic clutch.
Chassis [ edit | edit source ]
It came with a 2.50-10 front tire and a 2.50-10 rear tire. Stopping was achieved via expanding brake (drum brake) in the front and a expanding brake (drum brake) in the rear. The front suspension was a telescopic fork while the rear was equipped with a unit swingarm. The PW50 was fitted with a 0.53 Gallon (2.01 Liters) fuel tank. The bike weighed just 82.01 pounds (37.2 Kg). The wheelbase was 33.7 inches (856 mm) long.
1981 [ edit | edit source ]
1981 Yamaha PW50 profile
1981 Yamaha PW50
1993 [ edit | edit source ]
1993 Yamaha PW50 in White/Purple/Pink
1993 Yamaha PW50 in White/Purple/Pink
1996 [ edit | edit source ]
1999 [ edit | edit source ]
1999 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
1999 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2004 [ edit | edit source ]
2004 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2004 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2004 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2005 [ edit | edit source ]
2005 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2005 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2005 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2005 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2005 Yamaha PW50 in Blue
2003 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
The 2002 PW50 is the best first Yamaha machine for your kids. It is built like a tank and can handle huge amounts of abuse and beating, and it will still ride like a charm. Small, light and simple, the PW50 is powered by a 49cc air-cooled 2-stroke engine, able to deliver quite a punch, but in a non-intimidating manner. Thanks to the single-speed automatic transmission, the 2002 PW50 allows young future champs to focus on riding, building up both skills and confidence.
2004 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
The 2003 PW50 is a great way to introduce your kids to the riding basics. Rugged, exceedingly light and with a ow-maintenance shaft drive, this bike is perfectly equipped to face abuse. Add in a full automatic transmission for a reassuring feel when aboard, a low seat for good ground contact when stopped, and plenty of punch from the 2-stroke engine for even greater usability until your kids outgrow the bike.
Then it’s time to hand it over to the new generation and allow a new wave of future champs to get familiarized with the two-wheeled world.
2006 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
The 2005 PW50 is a great choice for the youngest of riders. Small and punchy enough to be both rewarding and thrilling, this mini dirt bike is built like a tank and can really take a lot of abuse, and still provide exceptional performance. Since safety is one of the main concerns, the 2005 PW50 comes with a smart exhaust routing and heat shields to prevent accidental burns.
Even more, adults can make use of the exhaust restrictor to tailor the power response according to the rider’s accumulating experience. Cheap to maintain, this 2-stroke machine will have your kids acquainted to what riding is, and will be a great gift to another generation when they outgrow it.
2007 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
2007 Yamaha PW50
2007 Yamaha PW50
2007 Yamaha PW50
2007 Yamaha PW50
So your kid is big enough to switch from the pram to bikes and you’d like to see if there’s some champion DNA in him or her. The best thing you can do is get some riding gear and have your child throw a leg over a bike such as the 2007 MY PW50. The PW50 is Yamaha’s entry-point small-displacement machine, a bike created as a nifty educational platform for introducing the youngest riders to the basics of riding.
The 2007 MY PW50 has a 2-stroke autolube 49cc engine, with a single-speed, automatic transmission, for no-hassle, clutchless, zero shifting rides, and allowing the youngsters to focus on balance and actually learning how to ride and steer.
2008 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
2008 Yamaha PW50
2008 Yamaha PW50
2008 Yamaha PW50
2008 Yamaha PW50
An affordable bike that’s built like a bullet, the 2008 MY Yamaha PW50 is a great treat for your kids as they take the first step into the world of motorcycling. Low and reassuring, this bike offers plenty of punch from its 49cc air-cooled 2-stroke engine, while the single speed transmission offers hassle-free operation and allows the youngsters to focus on learning how to actually ride well first.
Add in the shaft drive for maintenance-free convenience, and the power-limiting exhaust restrictor for effortlessly adjusting the power delivery according to the rider’s skills for extra safety. Light, but built like a tank, the PW50 is ready to become your child’s best friend.
2009 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
Unlike the TT-R50, the 2009 MY PW50 is a 2-stroke machine, but also engineered for educational purpose of the youngest riders. Low, lightweight, tough and reliable, this is a great go-anywhere machine, from the improvised backyard dirt track to the open fields. Affordable and easy to maintain, the PW50 is also reassuring, thanks to its mild tuning and centrifugal clutch, automatic transmission.
Easy as twist-and-go, riding the PW50 is both educational and rewarding, especially as the bike also comes with an adjustable speed limiter which keeps things more on the safe side, allowing adults to increase power as riders’ experience build up.
2010 Yamaha PW50 [ edit | edit source ]
The PW50 is one of the standard entry-point mini-bikes, the natural first step in the two-wheeled world most young riders make, and there’s many a good reasons for this. The bike is built like a tank, and the engine is just the same. This 49cc 2-stroke machine delivers quite a punch and can take a lot of abuse and still work great, with minimal maintenance.
Being a true dirt monster, it comes with folding pegs, premium bars and grips and safety-focused features, such as a screw-type throttle limiter and and exhaust pipe restrictor adults can manipulate to adjust the power and speed response according to the riders’ skills.