YB 100

In the continuing search for a post-CBT (second try coming up on sunday)
for the other half, I have spotted a 15-year-old Yamaha YB-100 going for
~300 pounds. Has anyone any comments on these? All I can find out is:
- Feeble brakes.
- Feeble lights.
- Bizarre gear layout (differs from the Suzuki GN 125 she's learning
on).
However, it's cheap and apparently reliable. Is it worth it at that
price?

 

My first bike was one of these, back in 1976.

Yes, the gear-change is "all down", and only four speeds. Yes, the
brakes are poor and the lights dim. It's essentially a double-sized
Fizzie.

They are incredibly tough and reliable - at least, mine was. They're in
a low state of tune, and the disc valve engine is quite flexible. Top
whack is about 65mph; crusing speed 50-55. Fuel consumption 80mpg.

They're cheap because you can't take a "proper" motorcycle test on
them. Your SO would have to take the test on a 125, and she'd be
advised to get rent one for a week or so before the test to get used to
the "proper" gearchange pattern.

So, yeah, if it's in good nick, it's a decent cheap basic bike. Very
basic.

 

I went from an AP50 (at 16) to YB100 (at 17). Mind you, I'm going back to
1984 here now, and I can't remember anything. But I do remember you can very
easily take the baffles out [1] and it was very loud.

[1] I used to then carry them around in my pocket

 

In that case I'll probably give it a miss. What I'd really like is to
find a cheap SR125 - my first proper bike - but no luck yet.

 

Ooh, now I know someone with an SR sat in their garage (as it has been
for several years). What sort of money were you considering?

 

Not in Maida Vale, is it?

 

It depends on the age and condition, but < 500 would be nice. Not
many seem to go for that price, though, and they're always miles
away.
Where is it? Anywhere near Oxford?

 

Ok, I'll ask him whar he wants.

Woking, Surrey.