✦ Published
Yamaha 175 B
The Yamaha 175 B, emerging in the mid-1970s, was a significant player in the burgeoning lightweight motorcycle market. This model continued Yamaha's tradition of producing accessible and capable two-stroke machines, building upon the success of earlier models in its displacement class. It found itself in a competitive landscape, vying for attention against rivals like the Suzuki TS185 and the Kawasaki KE175, all offering similar propositions for riders seeking a versatile and manageable motorcycle.
At the heart of the Yamaha 175 B was its robust two-stroke engine, displacing 171.0 ccm (10.43 cubic inches). This powerplant was designed for reliability and a broad powerband, characteristic of Yamaha's off-road and dual-sport offerings of the era. While specific horsepower figures varied by market and tuning, the engine provided ample power for its weight, allowing for confident acceleration and decent cruising speeds. Its two-stroke nature meant a lively power delivery, requiring riders to manage the revs to stay in the optimal power zone, a familiar characteristic for fans of classic two-stroke motors.
Riding characteristics of the 175 B were largely dictated by its dual-purpose design. It offered an upright stance, providing good visibility and comfort for varied riding conditions. The suspension, while not overly sophisticated by modern standards, was competent for absorbing bumps on unpaved roads and providing a compliant ride on tarmac. Its relatively light weight and nimble handling made it easy to maneuver through traffic or navigate tighter trails, appealing to riders who valued agility and ease of use over outright speed or aggressive performance. The ergonomics were straightforward, designed for accessibility rather than specialized sport riding or long-distance touring.
The Yamaha 175 B was primarily aimed at new riders, commuters, and those seeking an affordable and dependable motorcycle for light trail riding and general transportation. Its simplicity, ease of maintenance, and forgiving nature made it an attractive option for entry-level enthusiasts. For riders seeking a practical and enjoyable machine that could handle a variety of tasks without being overly intimidating, the 175 B represented a solid choice. Its legacy lies in providing accessible motorcycling to a generation of riders.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Lightweight and nimble, making it excellent for navigating tight trails and urban traffic with ease. • Reliable and simple two-stroke engine design, offering easy maintenance and robust performance. • Good fuel economy for its era, making it an economical choice for commuting and casual riding. • Durable construction, typical of Yamaha, ensuring a long lifespan with proper care and upkeep. • Low seat height and manageable power delivery make it an ideal choice for new riders. • Excellent parts availability, as many components are shared across similar Yamaha models.⚠️ Things to consider
• Limited top speed and horsepower compared to modern motorcycles, not suitable for highway cruising. • Two-stroke engine requires pre-mixing oil with fuel, which can be inconvenient for some riders. • Emissions are higher than modern four-stroke engines, potentially restricted in some areas. • Vibration levels can be noticeable at higher RPMs, leading to rider fatigue on longer journeys. • Braking performance is adequate but not exceptional, requiring more foresight than modern systems.Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.
Estimated average for 171cc class: 55-80 mpg (3.0-4.5 L/100km)
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