Yamaha PW80 Unit Spotlight

The Yamaha PW80 is a simple dirt bike to get kids started on the trail or track. Made in the early 2000s, the PW80 (sometimes known as a Zinger) was a small, lightweight, low-power dirt bike designed to offer kids a step up from an entry-level machine.

Its beginner Yamaha motorcycle cousin, the PW50, was a solid first step, while the PW 80 is taller and boasts a little more power. It has a more advanced 3-speed transmission, and a semi-automatic gearbox to help kids understand gear selection as they prepare to move to a fully manual setup. The genius of the PW80 is found in its simple setup. It’s an air-cooled, kickstart bike with an oil injection so you don’t even have to mix up the fuel. With a 48.3mm bore and a 48.3mm stroke, the displacement comes in at 79ccs.

A single overhead cam (SOHC) sits atop the motor, and power is delivered to the drive wheel via a chain setup. Ignition is managed electronically, and parents can adjust the power output via an exhaust limiter so that the bike can grow with the skill level of the rider. With 4.43 foot-pounds of torque at 5000 RPMs and about 42 horsepower, it tops out at 39 MPH. It’s enough motorcycle to keep young riders challenged and learning while still offering a platform that’s easy for a beginning rider to manage.

The Yamaha PW80 rides on front telescopic forks with 110mm of travel, and the rear swingarm has 95mm of travel. Front braking is offered by a single disc, and rear braking is handled by a drum assembly. The whole platform tips the scales at about 125 pounds, and has a 41.5-inch wheelbase to assist in lively handling.

With many parts in stock and ready to ship, Partzilla has the OEM PW80 parts you need for routine maintenance and the occasional big repairs that can come with a beginner Yamaha motorcycle.