The 1977 Yamaha TY50P Trials Moped: A Unique Blend of Agility and Off-Road Capability

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P Trials moped is a unique blend of moped agility and trials motorcycle capabilities, specifically designed for the UK market. It was introduced to cater to young riders interested in trials riding but restricted to 50cc vehicles. The TY50P featured a compact, air-cooled 49cc engine, 5-speed gearbox, and a lightweight yet robust frame, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use. Its design included high-mounted fenders, wide handlebars, and a trials-style seat for better control and maneuverability. Despite its short production run, the TY50P left a lasting legacy by popularizing trials riding among young enthusiasts and is now a sought-after collector's item.

JAPAN TWO STROKE1970'SYAMAHA OFF ROAD MOPEDS

10/18/20243 min read

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P Trials Moped: A Unique Blend of Agility and Off-Road Capability

Introduction

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P Trials moped stands as a unique and rare gem in the world of two-wheeled vehicles. This compact trials bike, designed specifically for the UK market, combined the agility of a moped with the rugged capabilities of a trials motorcycle, creating a versatile machine that captured the imagination of young riders and off-road enthusiasts alike.

History and Development

The Yamaha TY50P was introduced in 1976 as part of Yamaha's expanding lineup of small-displacement motorcycles. It was specifically developed for the UK market, where there was growing interest in trials riding among younger enthusiasts. The "TY" designation stood for "Trial Yamaha," while the "50" indicated its engine displacement.

Yamaha aimed to create a bike that could serve as both a learner-friendly commuter and an entry-level trials machine. This dual-purpose design made it particularly appealing to teenagers who were restricted to 50cc vehicles but wanted something more exciting than a standard moped. The 1977 model year saw minor refinements to the original design, further enhancing its popularity.

Technical Specifications

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P was powered by a compact yet capable engine:

  • Engine: Air-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder, 49cc

  • Induction: Piston reed valve

  • Transmission: 5-speed gearbox

  • Ignition: Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI)

  • Fuel System: Carburetor

  • Starting: Kick-start

Chassis and Dimensions:

  • Frame: Steel tube

  • Front Suspension: Telescopic forks

  • Rear Suspension: Swingarm with dual shock absorbers

  • Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear

  • Wheels: Wire-spoked, typically 2.75-21 front and 3.00-18 rear

  • Overall Length: Approximately 1,800mm

  • Overall Width: Approximately 775mm

  • Overall Height: Approximately 975mm

  • Dry Weight: Around 71kg (156 lbs)

The TY50P's lightweight design and robust construction made it well-suited for both on-road use and off-road trials competitions.

Design and Features

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P boasted a design that closely resembled its larger trials bike siblings, giving it a distinctive and appealing look. Key design features included:

  1. High-mounted fenders: Provided excellent mud protection during off-road use.

  2. Upswept exhaust: Improved ground clearance for tackling obstacles.

  3. Wide, upright handlebars: Offered good control and maneuverability.

  4. Trials-style seat: Long and flat, allowing riders to easily shift their weight.

  5. Robust frame: Designed to withstand the rigors of trials riding.

  6. Dual-purpose tires: Suitable for both on-road and off-road use.

The TY50P also featured a simple, easy-to-read instrument cluster and a fuel tank with a capacity suitable for extended rides. Its overall design struck a balance between the nimbleness required for trials riding and the practicality needed for everyday use, making it a versatile choice for young riders.

Performance and Handling

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P, despite its small engine displacement, offered impressive performance for its class. The 49cc two-stroke engine provided quick acceleration and enough power for both urban commuting and light off-road use. While its top speed was limited to comply with moped regulations, it was more than sufficient for its intended purposes.

In terms of handling, the TY50P truly shined. Its lightweight chassis, combined with the trials-oriented suspension setup, allowed for exceptional maneuverability. The bike excelled in tight spaces and on technical terrain, making it ideal for novice trials riders. The wide handlebars provided excellent leverage for controlling the bike in challenging situations, while the long, flat seat allowed riders to easily shift their weight for better balance during low-speed maneuvers.

Market Impact and Legacy

The Yamaha TY50P made a significant impact on the UK motorcycle market upon its introduction. It filled a unique niche, appealing to young riders who wanted more than a standard moped but were restricted by age and license regulations. The TY50P's trials-inspired design and capabilities also helped introduce many novice riders to the world of off-road motorcycling.

Although production was relatively short-lived, the TY50P left a lasting legacy. It helped establish Yamaha's reputation for producing capable small-displacement motorcycles and contributed to the popularity of trials riding among younger enthusiasts. Today, the 1977 Yamaha TY50P is considered a collector's item, highly sought after by vintage motorcycle enthusiasts and Yamaha aficionados for its rarity and unique place in motorcycling history.

Conclusion

The 1977 Yamaha TY50P Trials moped represents a unique chapter in motorcycle history, blending the accessibility of a moped with the excitement of a trials bike. Its innovative design, versatile performance, and appeal to young riders made it a standout model of its time. While no longer in production, the TY50P's influence can still be seen in the enduring popularity of small-displacement, dual-purpose motorcycles, cementing its place as a beloved classic in the two-wheeled world.