Sun Coast Cycle Sports offers used OEM parts for the Yamaha Big Wheel (BW200 and BW350), the oversized-tire dual-purpose motorcycles Yamaha produced in the 1980s. The BW200 (1985-1988) was powered by a 196cc air-cooled two-stroke single-cylinder engine, while the BW350 (1987-1988) used a 348cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Both featured Yamaha's signature fat, low-pressure tires that gave the "Big Wheel" its name and provided exceptional traction and flotation on sand, snow, and soft terrain. These unique machines remain collector favorites and are still ridden recreationally today. All parts in our inventory have been sourced from donor machines, inspected by our Odessa, Florida technicians, and listed with individual photos.
Big Wheel models and parts compatibility
| Model | Years | Engine | Key features |
|---|
| BW200 | 1985-1988 | 196cc air-cooled 2-stroke single | Fat tires, electric start, automatic oil injection, CDI ignition |
| BW350 | 1987-1988 | 348cc air-cooled 4-stroke single | Larger engine, fat tires, electric start, SOHC |
The BW200 and BW350 are distinct models with different engines and should not be confused. The BW200's two-stroke engine does not share parts with the BW350's four-stroke. Within each model, parts interchange across all production years. The BW200's 196cc two-stroke engine is related to other Yamaha 200cc two-stroke applications of the era, and some engine components may cross. The BW350's engine is unique to the Big Wheel application. Both models use the distinctive oversized wheels and tires that are specific to the Big Wheel platform and do not interchange with standard motorcycle wheels.
Common Big Wheel failure points and replacement parts
Age-related deterioration: All Big Wheel models are now 37-40+ years old. Rubber components including tires, fuel lines, intake boots, seals, and grips deteriorate with age. Wiring harness insulation breaks down, causing shorts and electrical gremlins. A comprehensive inspection of all rubber and electrical components is essential on any Big Wheel.
Carburetor and fuel system (both models): Carburetors need thorough cleaning or rebuilding on machines that have sat. Fuel petcocks, fuel lines, and tank interiors may have corrosion or varnish buildup from decades of storage.
Two-stroke oil injection (BW200): The BW200's automatic oil injection system can fail due to aged lines and a deteriorated oil pump. Many owners bypass the oil injection and switch to premixed fuel for reliability.
Tire availability: The oversized fat tires unique to the Big Wheel platform can be difficult to source. Original-size replacement tires are limited in availability, making tire condition a critical factor when evaluating a Big Wheel.
Ignition system aging: CDI ignition components, stator windings, and ignition coils can degrade over decades. Weak spark and hard starting are common issues on machines with original ignition components.
Commonly replaced Big Wheel parts
- Carburetor rebuild kit and fuel system components
- Ignition coil, CDI, and stator
- Fuel petcock, fuel lines, and tank seals
- Oil injection lines and pump (BW200)
- Tires and tubes (oversized Big Wheel specific)
- Brake shoes and brake cables
- Wiring harness and electrical connectors
- Plastics, seat, and bodywork
- Chain, sprockets, and chain tensioner
Frequently asked questions
Q: Are BW200 and BW350 parts interchangeable?
The BW200 and BW350 are different motorcycles with different engines (two-stroke vs. four-stroke). Engine, transmission, and most mechanical components do not interchange. Some common items like cables, controls, and hardware may be shared. The distinctive oversized wheels and tires may be similar between the two models but should be confirmed by size before assuming compatibility.
Q: Are Big Wheel tires still available?
The oversized fat tires used on the Big Wheel are a specialty item with limited availability. Some aftermarket manufacturers still produce compatible sizes, but they are not widely stocked. Tire condition is one of the most important factors when evaluating a used Big Wheel for purchase or parts sourcing.
Q: Is the BW200 a two-stroke or four-stroke?
The BW200 uses a 196cc air-cooled two-stroke engine with automatic oil injection. It requires two-stroke oil (either via the oil injection system or premixed if the system has been bypassed). The BW350 uses a 348cc four-stroke engine and does not require premixed fuel.
Inspected by Powersports Technicians • Only One in Stock • Ships Fast from Florida
