The 2017 Yamaha PW50 is a lightweight, compact mini bike engineered for young riders and beginners learning fundamental riding skills. Its small frame, low 485mm seat height, and minimal 39kg weight make it exceptionally accessible and confidence-building. The PW50 remains the benchmark entry-level pit bike for children transitioning into motorcycling.
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Off-road & trail35%
Cornering20%
City riding5%
Daily riding5%
Touring2%
Two-up0%
Track5%
Best for
It exists purely to teach small kids the basics of balance, throttle control, and machine awareness in a controlled, low-speed setting.
Built for
It has a friendly, non-intimidating, toy-like personality with a simple air-cooled two-stroke engine and a shaft final drive for low maintenance.
Not ideal for
This is not for teenagers, adults, highway use, real off-road trails, or anyone expecting meaningful speed or long-distance capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Full specifications
Engine
Capacity
49.0 ccm
Power
5.4 HP (4.0 kW)
Engine type
Single, two-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.1452 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
40.0 x 39.2 mm
Compression
6.0:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Carburettor
Starting
Kick
Ignition
CDI
Lubrication system
Autolube oil injection system
Transmission
Gearbox
1-speed
Transmission type
Automatic
Final drive
Shaft
Clutch
Wet centrifugal automatic clutch
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
856 mm
Overall length
1245 mm
Overall width
574 mm
Overall height
714 mm
Seat height
485 mm
Dry weight
37.2 kg
Wet weight
39.0 kg
Fuel capacity
2.00 litres
Ground clearance
104 mm
Chassis & suspension
Frame
Steel tube backbone
Front suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear suspension
Unit swingarm
Front wheel travel
61 mm
Rear wheel travel
51 mm
Rake (fork angle)
25.0°
Trail
50 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakes
Expanding brake (drum brake)
Front tyre
2.50-10
Rear tyre
2.50-10
Other
Color options
Blue/White
Specs last verified against published sources: .
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted
Specification
2002
2008
2015
2017
2021
2027
Capacity
49 cc
49 cc
49 cc
49 cc
49 cc
49 cc
Dry weight
37 kg
37 kg
37 kg
37 kg
37 kg
37 kg
Seat height
485 mm
485 mm
485 mm
485 mm
475 mm
475 mm
Fuel capacity
1.9 L
—
2 L
2 L
2 L
1.9 L
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
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☆☆☆☆☆
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MotorcycleDB
The 2017 Yamaha PW50 is a great starter motorcycle for young riders looking to build their skills and confidence. With its 49cc engine and automatic transmission, it's easy to maneuver and control, making it perfect for beginners. The adjustable throttle limiter allows parents to gradually increase the speed as their child becomes more comfortable, ensuring a safe and smooth learning experience. Additionally, the low seat height and lightweight design make it easy for kids to handle and build their riding skills.
Overall, the 2017 Yamaha PW50 is a reliable and fun motorcycle for young riders. Its simple and user-friendly features make it a great choice for parents looking to introduce their children to the world of riding. With its safety features and quality construction, it's a bike that both parents and kids can feel confident and comfortable with.
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The 2017 Yamaha PW50 is a great starter motorcycle for young riders looking to build their skills and confidence. With its 49cc engine and automatic transmission, it's easy to maneuver and control, making it perfect for beginners. The adjustable throttle limiter allows parents to gradually increase the speed as their child becomes more comfortable, ensuring a safe and smooth learning experience. Additionally, the low seat height and lightweight design make it easy for kids to handle and build their riding skills.
Overall, the 2017 Yamaha PW50 is a reliable and fun motorcycle for young riders. Its simple and user-friendly features make it a great choice for parents looking to introduce their children to the world of riding. With its safety features and quality construction, it's a bike that both parents and kids can feel confident and comfortable with.
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
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