Additional photos of this 1988 Yamaha TZ250 are available here for your perusal.
Ever since its introduction in the early 70s, Yamaha’s parallel-twin TZ racers were a popular choice for privateer racers. The 80s were full of significant updates for the model, including reed valve induction in 1985 and the Deltabox aluminum frame a year later.
In 1988, Yamaha released the TZ250U, which featured reversed cylinders and a cassette transmission. This led to the distinct-but-normally-hidden position of the carbs hanging off the bottom and feasting from the front, which lowered intake temperatures and helped slightly with the center of gravity.
This example (VIN: 3AK-000597) comes to us as part of an estate sale (alongside the recently-featured Super Monkey).
We got it covered in dust and it clearly had not run for years, if not decades. To keep the reserve down, we limited ourselves to only spending half a day to see if we could make it start. Olly cleaned the spark plugs, changed the transmission oil, serviced the carbs, charged the battery, and put some air in the tires.
Much to our pleasant surprise, it fired right up on the first bump start!
We believe that the bike was imported to the US about twenty years ago. This picture is solely for reference from when it was imported – the bodywork is no longer with the bike.
As the owner is no longer available, weunfortunately don’t have any additional history or paperwork on this motorcycle. It is offered with a bill of sale.
As always, our White Glove service would be glad to help the new owner if they desire a restoration. Feel free to ask any questions you have and we’ll try our best to get answers for you!
