Alright, mates, let’s talk about my latest project with the Yamaha TDM 850. Now, I’ve been eyeing this bike for a while. It’s not the flashiest machine out there, but I saw some real potential in this model, especially as a good mix of a sport-touring motorcycle. It’s a bit of an older model, produced from 1991 until 2001. It is said that this model replaced the XTZ 750 Super Tenere and was replaced by the Yamaha TDM 900.
So, I started hunting for one. I checked out a bunch of online listings, you know, the usual spots. I wanted something used but not abused, and preferably a later model since I heard they’re a bit better. I found a few good options, and after some back and forth with the sellers, I finally settled on a decent-looking one.
First step: securing the bike. The seller was a bit far, so I had to arrange for it to be delivered. It’s always a bit of a gamble buying something you haven’t seen in person, but I went with my gut.
When it finally arrived, I gave it a thorough once-over. It had a few scratches, nothing major, and the paint was a bit faded, which is expected for its age. The engine, though, that’s where it counted. It sounded pretty good when I started it up, a nice, steady rumble.
Next up: the cleaning and inspection. I spent a whole weekend taking parts off, cleaning every nook and cranny, and just getting to know the bike inside and out. I replaced some worn-out parts, like the old brake pads and a couple of rusty bolts. I also did a full service – changed the oil, filters, and all that jazz. I even gave it a fresh coat of paint in some areas to cover up those scratches. It made a huge difference, and it looked almost brand new.
- Removed fairings and panels
- Cleaned and inspected the engine
- Replaced brake pads, bolts, and other worn-out parts
- Performed full service (oil, filters, etc.)
- Touched up the paint
After all that work, it was time for the best part – the test ride. I took it out on some back roads, and man, it was a blast. The bike handled really well, and the engine had plenty of kick. I did notice it felt a bit heavy in the corners, but that’s something I can get used to. All in all, it was a successful project. I took an old, slightly neglected bike and turned it into something I’m really proud of.
Final Thoughts
This whole experience with the Yamaha TDM 850 has been incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about having a cool bike to ride, although that’s definitely a plus. It’s about the process – taking something old and making it new again. If you’re thinking about getting into a project like this, I say go for it. It’s a lot of work, but the satisfaction you get in the end is totally worth it.