Unconventional styling would have you thinking this is a dual-purpose machine, with its upright poise, wide bars and 18-inch wheel at the front, but theTDM850 is most definitely more at home on the road, whether it be town, country or motorway. Very capable on any of these roads, and in the right hands, can prove quite capable on the track as well, the racetrack that is, don’t think about going off road on one of these, it just turns to mush.

The 849cc engine is a four stroke parallel twin sporting DOHC and 5 valves per cylinder providing massive amounts of torque for effortless overtaking. A good spread of power makes the bike very easy to use, with reasonable low down power and strong mid to top end power, then engine revs willingly and the tachometer will go into the red quite happily.

5-speed gearbox has well chosen ratios and is quite forgiving if you find yourself in the wrong gear. Cable clutch some riders might find a little on the heavy side, especially round town.

Chassis is the familiar Yamaha Delta-box design and is rigid enough for the power output making the bike safe and stable on any road surface.

Front suspension, which is adjustable for both preload and rebound damping, gives secure and stable steering and remains tight and precise when pressed through the twisty bits.

Powerful brakes inspire confidence and are complimented by the standard Bridgestone Battleaxe tyres.

A small, but effective half fairing, does what it what designed to do, by keeping the worst of the wind off the rider at speed. Upright seating position gives the rider a commanding view of the surrounding countryside, and allows plenty of legroom for a relaxed seating position.

Seat height is rather high at 805mm and can get a bit top heavy with a full tank of fuel, but is easily controlled at lower speeds with the help of the wide bars.

A big seller in Europe and Australia, Yamaha’s TDM850 never really caught on in race replica mad Britain. Used prices can be low and would make an excellent buy.
Being replaced by the TDM900 for 2002.

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Last updated 01/04/02