Yamaha’s TW200 is in some ways a cult classic and in others a forgotten contemporary production model. But, it turns out that you don’t need a functioning one to make a great motorcycle.
Having originally gone into production in 1987, the 196cc single-cylinder Yamaha TW200 remains in production today as a stalwart of the small-capacity segment of the dual sport category.
The length of its stay in production means that Planet Earth is, by now, scattered with TW200 parts and even fully built examples that have been abandoned and left to decay.
It was one of these abandoned ‘T-Dubs’ that formed the base of Deus Ex Machina’s latest custom project, which it has called Deus XTW200.
“The engine internals resembled metal confetti,” Deus says of the condition of the bike when it was found. It was completely stripped down, and the components either replaced or repaired. Deus says the engine itself “received a complete rebuild including a custom exhaust and Keihin FCR carburettor.”
A board rack - yes, for surfboards - was bolted onto the frame, which itself was powder-coated in black, while both wheels were replaced and coated in champagne gold to resemble the look of the Yamaha XTs of the 1970s and 1980s.
The suspension was also improved, with the swingarm shortened and a custom YSS shock added, while the fork was re-chromed and the fork bottoms coated to match the original finish.
Up top, the seat was replaced with a unit from Japan to which gripper vinyl and Alcantara were added. Then, just in front of that seat, a new tank was given a colour scheme based on the early 1980s XT500s.
Bars were sourced from Protaper, with the right side featuring a throttle from Messner Moto, while a digital speedo was also added. New lights were a finishing touch, including an LED headlight.
All in all, the XTW200 is a gorgeous little custom dual sport, and that it was saved from its deathbed only enhances its beauty.
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