2001 Yamaha TZ250 5KE2

Description

11/16 Update: During the auction, our good friend Michael “Woolie” Woolaway (formerly of Deus Ex Machina) reached out to say that this used to be his bike. He bought it new from Rising Sun Cycles, “the motor was developed quite a bit, won a lot of races on it, then sold it” to the current owner.

Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

Yamaha first introduced the TZ250 in 1973 as a replacement for its aging TD1 and TD2 race bikes. While the model proved immediately popular, it was extremely high maintenance and expensive to run — especially when compared to its larger 500cc siblings.

Accordingly, Yamaha launched an updated model in 1981 known as the TZ250H. Along with reversing the engine’s running direction, the new bike also added Mikuni ZC carbs, a lightened frame, and a revised rear shock. Interestingly enough, the ‘H’ gave buyers the option of wire wheels for the first time since the mid 1970s.

Never content to settle, Yamaha continued to refine the little TZ such that, by 1991, yet another a comprehensive revamp of the TZ250 had come to market. Then, in 1992, Yamaha offered up the TZ250D – by most accounts it was “the final major step in the evolution of what most consider the modern TZ250.” That’s because, Yamaha had reintroduced the V-Twin engine, partnering it with 38mm Mikuni flat slides and guillotine exhaust valves. It also got upside down forks, an asymmetrical swingarm, and wider rear wheel – the ‘92 Isle of Man Junior TT was won by a TZ250.

Nearly 10 years later (and going on 30 years since the model’s debut) , Yamaha abandoned the old TZR-based engine cases in favor of a fresh sand-cast design for the 2000 model. What’s more, the crank was changed to a 54mm square configuration, allowing for revisions to everything from the cylinders, heads, and pistons to the ignition, pipes and frame. 2001 brought minor updates, mostly aimed at making the bike more reliability and resistant to wear.

This example is VIN: CG09C000188. The seller acquired the bike from a private party 20 years ago.

Per the seller, “We have had countless club & national wins & placings on this bike, also shipped the bike to the UK in 2016 for the Isle of Man Classic TT.”

There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.

Maintenance:
Per the seller, the engine was rebuilt with new cylinders by Roland Cushway. The bike has seen approximately 300 miles since that time.

Modifications:
Graphics kit.

Jolly Moto exhaust.

Brembo brake calipers.

Not pictured: “Modified crank cases to stop main bearing seat problems which are very common with the sandcast crankcases of the long stroke TZ250’s dated 2000 & later.”

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Dunlop KR488 tires with date codes of 0816 and 4516.

The sale includes front & rear stands, an Accu-Mix container with race gas, a box with jets, miscellaneous spares, and a starter tool, as well as a service manual and parts manual.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Yamaha is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!