3-28 Update: This TDM is now up for sale on the usual auction site – find it with bidding up to $1,675 and the reserve not yet met or a BIN of $3,600
Born of the euro-only Super Tenere 750 of the early ’90’s and looking to create a new niche, Yamaha’s TDM850 hit the scene in 1991 and offered in the U.S. for the 1992 and ’93 model years. Combining aspects of a sport bike and dual-sport Yamaha termed the idea “New Sports,” now known as today’s most popular category; adventure style bikes.
But in 1992 it was just kind of weird and buyers didn’t quite know what to make of the unusual engine and tall, gangly style. And it was expensive when compared to its competition (if there were any) listing at $6600. But history has shown this to be a bike ahead of its time. The engine is a parallel twin cylinder, 849cc, with two overhead cams and Yamaha’s “Genesis” five-valve design with dual counter-balancers. Tuned for grunt, it was listed at 75 HP and 58 pounds of torque, with a five-speed trans and chain final drive finishing off the drivetrain. A long-travel, adjustable suspension front and rear, upright seating, sport bike brakes and steel “Delta” frame complete the package. Here’s a Retrospective article from Rider Magazine.
Our feature bike shows 44,800 well-maintained miles and is dressed in its original, near-perfect Vivid Red Cocktail bodywork. The list of farkles and updates don’t intrude on the bikes original look or mission and include aftermarket exhaust, polished wheels and a custom-covered Corbin seat. This one looks equally good on the road or in a collection. Find this TDM for $3,800 here on Craigslist in Antioch, Illinois.
Seller’s Flickr Photo Gallery here.
Seller’s TDM Web Page here.
Seller’s walk-around video here: