Yamaha CW 50 BW (1995–2008): A Timeless Urban Companion Revisited

Introduction

The Yamaha CW 50 BW, part of the BWs family, is a scooter that defined urban mobility for over a decade. Designed for practicality, simplicity, and zippy performance, this two-stroke workhorse became a staple for city commuters, college students, and delivery riders across Europe and beyond. While modern scooters chase electrification and tech-heavy dashboards, the CW 50 BW’s enduring appeal lies in its no-nonsense approach to getting you from point A to B—with a surprising dose of character.

Having spent a week with a well-preserved 2007 BWs Next Generation model, it’s clear why this scooter still has a cult following. From its raspy two-stroke soundtrack to its nimble handling, the CW 50 BW feels like a rebellious cousin to today’s sanitized commuters. Let’s dive into what makes this generation tick.

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Design & Ergonomics: Compact, Functional, and Surprisingly Stylish

The CW 50 BW’s design is a masterclass in utilitarian aesthetics. With a dry weight of 75–77 kg (165–170 lbs) and a compact wheelbase of 1,172–1,206 mm (46–47.5 inches), this scooter is tailor-made for squeezing through traffic and dodging gridlock. The upright riding position and 768–803 mm (30–31.5 inch) seat height accommodate riders of all sizes, though taller riders might feel slightly cramped on longer rides.

Yamaha offered subtle variations over the years, like the “Naked” edition with minimalist bodywork and the “Next Generation” model featuring slightly larger 12-inch wheels (vs. the standard 10-inch). The latter improves stability at higher speeds—or as “high” as 55–60 km/h (34–37 mph) goes—while the 10-inch wheel models feel more flickable in tight alleys.

The underseat storage fits a helmet or groceries, and the 5.3–6.5-liter (1.4–1.7 US gal) fuel tank is discreetly tucked under the floorboard. Aesthetics-wise, the angular headlights and chunky body panels scream early-2000s cool, especially in bold color schemes like Yamaha’s signature racing blue.

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Engine Performance: The Two-Stroke Screamer

At the heart of the CW 50 BW lies a 49.2cc air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke engine—a configuration that’s nearly extinct today. Output varies slightly across models, ranging from 3.2 HP (2.3 kW) in earlier editions to a peppier 4.6 HP (3.4 kW) in tuned variants. The engine’s party trick is its CDI ignition and automatic centrifugal clutch, which deliver seamless acceleration without manual shifting.

Twist the throttle, and the little two-stroke comes alive with a gritty whine, hitting its 4.0 Nm (3.0 ft.lbs) torque peak at 5,000 RPM. It’s not fast by any modern standard—0–40 km/h (0–25 mph) takes its sweet time—but the direct throttle response and lightweight build make it feel quicker than the numbers suggest. Fuel efficiency hovers around 1.8–2.2 L/100 km (110–130 mpg), though this depends heavily on how often you wring its neck.

The Catch? Two-stroke maintenance. You’ll need to mix oil with fuel (unless you have a separate lubrication system) and embrace the occasional smoke cloud. But for enthusiasts, that’s part of the charm.

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Handling & Ride Quality: City Slicer Extraordinaire

The CW 50 BW shines brightest in urban chaos. The hydraulic telescopic front fork and rear swingarm suspension handle potholes with surprising composure, though rough roads will remind you this is a budget commuter. Steering is light and precise, thanks to the narrow 120/90-10 front and 130/90-10 rear tires (or 12-inch wheels on later models).

Braking is adequate, with a front disc brake providing decent bite and a rear drum for steady slowing. The combined system works well at sub-60 km/h speeds, but panic stops require a firm squeeze. For rainy days, consider upgrading to aftermarket sintered pads from MOTOPARTS.store.

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Competition: How Does the BWs Stack Up?

The 50cc scooter segment was fiercely competitive in the 2000s. Here’s how the Yamaha held its ground:

1. Honda Tact (SFX/AF18):
   Honda’s four-stroke rival was quieter and more refined but lacked the Yamaha’s punchy acceleration. The Tact’s reliability was legendary, but the BWs’ simpler two-stroke engine was easier to repair at home.

2. Aprilia SR50:
   The Italian contender boasted sportier styling and liquid cooling. While faster in theory, its complex carburetor and pricier parts made the Yamaha a more practical daily driver.

3. Peugeot Speedfight:
   A style icon with a cult following, the Speedfight matched the BWs’ agility but suffered from questionable build quality. Yamaha’s plastics and switchgear aged better.

Verdict: The CW 50 BW struck a perfect balance between fun and frugality. It wasn’t the fastest or flashiest, but its bulletproof reputation kept it relevant.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Two-Stroke Alive

Owning a CW 50 BW today means embracing its quirks. Here’s what to prioritize:

1. Oil System:
   Use JASO FC-certified two-stroke oil at a 1:50 mix ratio (or follow your model’s separate lubrication specs). Clogged oil lines are a common failure point.

2. Spark Plugs:
   The NGK BR8HS plug needs regular cleaning or replacement. Check the 0.6–0.7 mm electrode gap monthly.

3. Belt/Chain Drive:
   Later models with belt final drives require less upkeep than chain-driven variants. Inspect for cracks every 3,000 km.

4. Carburetor Tuning:
   The Gurtner PY-12 carb is reliable but sensitive to ethanol-blended fuels. Clean the jets annually or upgrade to an ethanol-resistant kit.

5. Suspension Refresh:
   Replace fork oil (SAE 10W) every two years to maintain ride quality.

Pro Tip: Swap the stock tires for modern rubber like Michelin City Grip for better wet grip. MOTOPARTS.store stocks period-correct and upgraded options.

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Conclusion: A Love Letter to Simplicity

The Yamaha CW 50 BW isn’t just a relic—it’s a reminder of how enjoyable basic transportation can be. Its two-stroke snarl, flickable chassis, and DIY-friendly mechanics make it a perfect project for riders tired of today’s overcomplicated machines. Sure, you’ll need to baby it through emissions checks and hunt down vintage parts, but few scooters today put this many smiles per gallon.

Whether you’re restoring a barn find or upgrading a daily rider, MOTOPARTS.store has the oils, filters, and accessories to keep your BWs buzzing for another decade.

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Specifications sheet

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