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Yamaha BW's: a scooter with chunky tyres and what to check
Yamaha BW's — a city scooter with chunky, 'terrain' tyres, produced since 1988 and popular among young riders. We look at the versions, tech and what to check when buying used.
BW's in brief
BW's — a lightweight, low and simple scooter, recognisable by its chunky, large tyres and compact design. It's popular with young riders for its low price and easy handling.
In the used market, BW's are often found as cheap city transport, but condition varies widely.
Versions — what's the difference?
BW's have been made in several iterations: early versions had two-stroke 50 cm³ engines, later came four-stroke 50 and 125 cm³ variants to meet newer emissions standards.
So, 50 cm³ versions are suitable for the AM category, while 125 cm³ are for A1. Pay attention to the engine type and year in ads.
Engine and transmission
50 cm³ versions have a single-cylinder engine, while later ones have a four-stroke with fuel injection. The 125 cm³ version has a single-cylinder four-stroke engine with an automatic CVT.
All variants use an automatic CVT — no need to change gears. Two-stroke versions require oil mixing and produce more smoke.
What to check when buying a used BW's
Check the engine: it should start easily, run smoothly and not smoke excessively. Test the CVT — movement should be smooth.
Check the brakes, tyres, suspension, seat and plastics. Due to their popularity, many scooters have suffered from crashes or poor maintenance.
Ensure that the 50 cm³ scooter is not tampered with and meets the AM category, check the frame number against the documents.
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list what is most commonly found in Europe.
BW's 50
from 1988The entry-level version.
- Suitable for the AM category
- Earlier models are two-stroke, later ones are four-stroke
- Low running costs
BW's 125
Later versionsThe larger version.
- Four-stroke 125 cm³ engine
- Suitable for the A1 category
- Easier to ride both in and out of town
Version comparison
| BW's 50 | BW's 125 | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For new drivers in the city | For city driving and short trips |
| Category | AM | A1 |
| Engine | 50 cm³ | 125 cm³ |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Mid-range |
For a young driver in the city, the BW's 50 is a great choice; if you need more power and speed, go for the 125 cm³ version.
Pros
- Affordable and straightforward
- Light and manoeuvrable in the city
- Wide tyres provide stability
- A wide range of parts available
Cons
- Often tuned and damaged from crashes
- Uncomfortable for long journeys
- Early 2T versions are smoky and require oil
Frequently asked questions
What category licence do you need to ride a BW?
50 cm³ versions require an AM category licence, 125 cm³ an A1. Check your documents for the exact details.
Are BWs suitable for beginners?
Yes, they are light, low and come with an automatic gearbox.
What's the difference between two-stroke and four-stroke BWs?
Two-stroke versions are smokier and require more oil, four-strokes are more economical and quieter.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
