YAMAHA TDM 850 (1996-1999) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Yamaha TDM was a sport-touring motorcycle manufactured by Yamaha between 1991 and 2011. It was made over three generations, including the TDM 850 MK1, TDM 850 MK2, and TDM 900, and was sold mainly in the European market, with a small amount sold around the world.

The motorcycle was intended to deliver a comfortable and maneuverable riding experience, while its large size made it unfavorable for off-road use, although its long-travel suspension was capable of handling gravel tracks.

In 1996, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Yamaha TDM 850, a sport-touring machine that received several updates and improvements over the previous model.

Instead of the previous 360-degree engine, the maker installed a 270-degree firing order engine and an updated bodywork. In addition, the new engine was shared with the TRX 850 model as well as its transmission.

Compared to the previous model, the 1996 TDM's main differences were represented by the new engine, a standard 43 mm fork, a shorter suspension travel, a new fairing design, an improved transmission, some wiring modifications, an electric fuel pump, new carburetors, an electronic speed sensor, and a new instrument cluster with LCD trip meter, LCD clock, and fuel meter.

The 1996 Yamaha TDM 850 had its soul brought to life by an 849cc four-stroke parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine, delivering an output power of 77 hp at 7,500 rpm and 80 Nm (59 lb-ft) torque at 6,000 rpm.