The bargain choice Yamaha TDM900
> £2000-£3750 > 2002-2011 > 897cc parallel twin > 85bhp > 215kg Yamaha’s TDM850 was the original hybrid oddball and, with the benefit of hindsight, was clearly way ahead of its time. Even a decade later, when it had been restyled and enlarged into the TDM900, the motorcycling world of 2002 still had no idea what to make of it. It wasn’t a sportsbike; it wasn’t a sports tourer; it wasn’t a tourer. Today we’d just call it an upright all-rounder and not even think twice about it.
The engine is a pulsing, politely punchy parallel twin, which pretends to be a V-twin courtesy of its 270° crank. Like the whole bike it’s not flash, it’s not fancy, but it’s a solid, comfortable, unhurried lump and incredible value. Strong brakes, decent room for two and lots have aftermarket luggage fitted. Just be aware that the 18in front wheel limits tyre choice slightly.
“No towering seat, no boingy springs, no huge front wheel”