Yamaha TY175

The Story Behind the Machine (History)

In 1973, Yamaha did something that would change the world of trials riding forever. They signed Englishman Mick Andrews—already a two-time European Trials Champion and five-time Scottish Six Days Trial winner—to develop a purpose-built trials machine from the ground up . Andrews, a legend who had previously designed his own championship-winning bike for Ossa (the MAR, or Mick Andrews Replica), brought decades of hard-won knowledge to the Japanese manufacturer.

The result was the Yamaha TY250, followed quickly by the smaller TY175 and the iconic TY80 that introduced an entire generation to the sport . The TY175 arrived in 1975 as a lightweight, nimble twinshock trials bike that could be ridden to a competition, dominate a section, and ride home again. It wasn't just a motorcycle—it was the backbone of club-level trials for two decades. If you've ever watched old footage of the BBC's Kickstart in the early 1980s, you've seen TY175s bouncing over car tires, climbing vertical creek beds, and defying gravity .

The TY175 represents an era when trials was about skill, balance, and clever bike setup—not just massive suspension travel. It's a pure, honest machine that remains the gold standard for vintage twinshock competition today.

The Bike (Condition)

• Damage disclosure: some painting issues

• Why this damage matters: The TY175 enjoys excellent parts availability thanks to a thriving vintage trials community. Yamaha shared many components across the TY range, meaning most mechanical parts remain findable . However, original "TY" decals, the headlight shell, and the kickstart mechanism are becoming harder to source in nice condition.

• Mechanical status: Runs perfect  and smooth

• Other condition notes: The steel duplex cradle frame is robust but can hide rust under the engine plates. Electrics are simple 6V magneto ignition—either it sparks or it doesn't. Tires are likely perished if original. Wheel rims should be checked for spoke rust.

Market Comparison (The Opportunity)

The vintage twinshock trials market has remained remarkably stable, with clean, running TY175s commanding between $2,500 and $4,500 depending on originality and restoration quality.

Why Bid? The TY175 is not a rare bike—Yamaha sold thousands. But clean, unmolested examples are disappearing. This project bike offers the lowest possible entry point into a dedicated, friendly, and active collector community. You don't need a trailer to enjoy it; these bikes are famously street-legal in many jurisdictions, making them the ultimate backroad explorer.

What's Included

• Keys (if fitted with steering lock – many TY175s have them)

• Title / registration documents

•  manuals, tool kits, spare parts

Why Bid?

This is not a high-stakes, white-glove auction. This is an opportunity to own a piece of trials history for less than the cost of a new set of tires on a modern adventure bike.

The TY175 is one of the easiest classic motorcycles to restore. Parts are available. Forums are active. And when you're done, you can actually ride it—not just polish it in a garage. The vintage twinshock trials scene is booming, with events across the US, UK, and Europe.

Simple Math: Buy it here . Spend $500 on tires, cables, carb kit, and basic service. You're still ahead of a fully restored $3,000–$4,000 example. Plus, you get the satisfaction of bringing it back yourself.

Sold as-is, where-is. Good luck and happy bidding!