Vehicle Segment:
Entry-level youth off-road motorcycle, often used as a first 'step-up' bike after smaller pit bikes or for casual trail riding.
Competitors:
Honda CRF50F, Suzuki JR50, Kawasaki KX65 (though the KX65 is a geared 2-stroke, it often competes for similar riders graduating from automatic bikes).
Unique Selling Points:
Simple, reliable, automatic transmission, low seat height, forgiving power delivery, renowned Yamaha durability.
Coverage Statement:
This manual provides essential diagnostic and repair information to keep the 2012 Yamaha PW 50 running at its best, empowering owners and technicians with the knowledge for maintenance and repairs.
Main Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical, Bodywork, Suspension, Brakes, Fuel System, Ignition System
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Top-end overhaul (cylinder, piston, rings, connecting rod), bottom-end assembly (crankshaft, bearings, seals), decarbonization, gasket replacement, cooling system (air-cooled).
Fuel System:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, float height, jetting, fuel tank, fuel line, fuel filter replacement.
Ignition System:
CDI unit testing, spark plug selection and gap, ignition coil testing, stator and rotor inspection.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (torque converter, clutch), final drive (sprocket, chain wear and adjustment), gearbox lubrication.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork inspection, seal replacement, oil levels, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, swingarm bearing service, steering head bearing adjustment.
Brakes:
Front and rear drum brake inspection, adjustment, shoe replacement, brake lever adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system (headlight, taillight, brake light), horn operation, battery maintenance and charging (if applicable to model variant).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake adjustment, general inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting issues, poor performance, engine noise, electrical faults, and drivability problems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, and measurements for engine and chassis components.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls, including diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
39.0 mm x 41.4 mm
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 2-stroke oil (or equivalent API TC rated)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 3.5 HP @ 6,000 RPM (Varies by specific tuning and emissions controls)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 2.5 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM
Carburetor Model:
Mikuni VM10-1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Mixture:
50:1 ratio of gasoline to 2-stroke oil
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Cooling Method:
Forced Air Cooling
Design Intent:
Designed for youth riders, emphasizing ease of use and safety features inherent to its automatic transmission and low-speed design.
Throttle Limiter:
Adjustable throttle stop screw (for limiting max speed)
Engine Braking:
Characteristic 2-stroke engine braking, managed by automatic transmission.
Low Seat Height:
Allows riders to easily place feet on the ground for stability.
Impact ABSorbing Pads:
Handlebar and stem padding for rider protection.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 500 km (300 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Also check fuel/oil mix ratio.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 100 km (60 miles) or as needed based on riding conditions. Wash with mild soap and water, then lightly oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
As needed, or every 1000 km (600 miles). Recommended: NGK BR6HS or equivalent.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 100 km (60 miles). Check for proper slack (10-20mm).
Brake Adjustment:
As needed, check for proper lever feel and full shoe engagement.
Transmission Oil:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or equivalent SAE 80 GL-4 transmission oil). Capacity: 0.6 L (0.63 US qt).
Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Fork Oil (or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil)
Fork Oil Capacity:
112 ml (3.79 US fl oz) per leg
Carburetor Clogging:
Frequent issue due to small fuel passages and sediment; requires regular cleaning.
Throttle Cable Wear:
Can become stiff or seize, affecting throttle operation; lubrication and replacement are key.
Clutch Slippage:
Can occur with heavy use or worn clutch shoes/springs; requires inspection and potential replacement.
Drive Chain Adjustment:
Needs frequent checks due to stretching, especially with younger riders who may not maintain consistent technique.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd.
Heritage Focus:
Known for innovation in motorcycles, musical instruments, and marine products, with a strong legacy in motorsports.
Pw50 Introduction:
The PW50 (originally the Yamaha Yzinger) was introduced in the early 1980s and has remained largely unchanged due to its effective and user-friendly design for young riders.
Evolution Focus:
Minor updates typically relate to emissions compliance, graphics, and color schemes rather than fundamental mechanical changes.
Production Years:
1981 - Present
Production Location:
Primarily Japan and Taiwan