YAMAHA BW350 BIG WHEEL

RARE & MINT; THE ULTIMATE FAT-TIRE OFF-ROAD MACHINE!

EXTENSIVELY RESTORED

75 HOURS OF SHOP LABOR – $13,000 INVESTED – ELECTRIC START – 170 PSI COMPRESSION – NEW WHEELS & TIRES & MUCH MORE;

Feast your eyes on this absolutely spectacular Yamaha BW350 Big Wheel!

Widely regarded as the pinnacle of Yamaha's legendary Big Wheel lineup, the BW350 is the big-bore, electric-start powerhouse that takes the fat-tire off-road experience to an entirely different level.

With its massive balloon-style tires, torquey 350cc four-stroke engine, electric start, and legendary Yamaha engineering, the BW350 was built to conquer terrain that would leave conventional motorcycles struggling for traction.

Sand, mud, snow, loose dirt, trails, and rugged terrain — this machine was designed to go just about anywhere!

And this particular example is something truly special.

Here at Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum, we've invested approximately $13,000 in mechanical servicing, restoration, parts, and professional labor, transforming this exceptionally well-preserved, low-hour original machine into one of the nicest examples you're likely to encounter.

This wasn't a quick detail job or a simple cosmetic makeover.

Our restoration team invested 75 hours of professional shop labor at $150 per hour — $11,250 in labor alone — plus parts and materials.

The result is an absolutely stunning BW350 that retains its original factory bodywork, fuel tank, and many important original components while benefiting from a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration.

MECHANICAL CONDITION – EXCELLENT ORIGINAL ENGINE – 170 PSI COMPRESSION!

One of the most impressive aspects of this machine is the condition of its original Yamaha engine.

During our comprehensive mechanical inspection and service, our technicians checked the engine's internal condition and performed a compression test.

The engine produced an outstanding 170 PSI of compression!

Even more impressive, our technician's work order noted that the cylinder's original crosshatch pattern remained in excellent condition.

This is a strong indication of an exceptionally well-preserved engine with limited internal wear.

The original cylinder bore was in excellent condition, and there was no need for an unnecessary engine rebuild.

Rather than disturbing an excellent original engine, we thoroughly inspected, serviced, tuned, and cosmetically restored it.

Mechanical service and inspection included:

• Carburetor professionally cleaned and rebuilt

• Airbox refurbished

• Brand-new air filter installed

• New fuel petcock installed

• New fuel lines installed

• Engine oil changed

• New oil filter installed

• Complete engine service and tune-up performed

• Valves inspected and adjusted

• Compression tested at an excellent 170 PSI

• Cylinder condition inspected, with excellent original crosshatch documented

• Engine exterior professionally restored and repainted

• Stator cover refinished

• Associated mechanical components inspected and serviced

The original engine's excellent condition is one of the strongest selling points of this motorcycle.

You're purchasing a beautifully preserved original Yamaha powerplant that has been professionally serviced — not a worn-out engine that required major internal repairs.

BRAND-NEW KMS WHEELS & MASSIVE KENDA KLAW TIRES!

Perhaps the most visually impressive feature of this Big Wheel is the enormous tire and wheel package.

These are not worn-out original wheels or tires.

We installed a brand-new KMS wheel set, front and rear, equipped with brand-new Kenda Klaw knobby tires!

Just look at the size of those knobs!

The massive rear tire looks like something you'd expect to find on an agricultural tractor, with an aggressive tread pattern designed to dig into loose terrain.

The fat-tire configuration is what makes the BW350 such a unique machine. Its oversized tires provide an enormous footprint compared with conventional motorcycles, delivering flotation and traction in challenging off-road conditions.

Wheel, tire, and drivetrain upgrades include:

• Brand-new KMS front wheel

• Brand-new KMS rear wheel

• Brand-new Kenda Klaw front tire

• Brand-new Kenda Klaw rear tire

• Brand-new drive sprocket

• Brand-new gold drive chain

• New associated mounting hardware

• Front brake drum professionally refinished

• Rear brake drum professionally refinished

The combination of the beautiful silver wheels, aggressive new tires, and gold chain gives this motorcycle an incredible stance.

It looks every bit as tough as it is!

ORIGINAL FACTORY PLASTICS – PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED!

One of the rarest and most desirable features of this BW350 is that it retains its original Yamaha factory plastic bodywork.

Finding an old off-road machine with its original plastics still intact and in this kind of condition is becoming increasingly difficult.

Most of these motorcycles were purchased to be ridden hard. Over the decades, many suffered broken fenders, damaged side covers, faded tanks, scratched bodywork, and extensive wear.

This example is different.

The original plastic components were exceptionally well preserved and were painstakingly restored by our professional detailing team.

Rather than simply painting over the original bodywork or replacing it with reproduction parts, we performed a labor-intensive, multistage refinishing process.

The plastics were carefully sanded through progressively finer grades, finishing at 2,000-grit, before being professionally machine-buffed and polished.

This process takes considerable time, patience, and expertise, but the finished result speaks for itself.

Original components restored and polished include:

• Original Yamaha fuel tank

• Original front fender

• Original rear fender

• Original side covers

• Original headlight housing and surrounding plastic bodywork

The original plastics now display a beautiful, rejuvenated finish while maintaining the authenticity that makes a well-preserved vintage Yamaha so desirable.

We completed the appearance with a fresh set of graphics and numerous professionally refinished components.

COMPREHENSIVE COSMETIC RESTORATION – TOP TO BOTTOM!

This Yamaha received far more than an engine service and a new set of tires.

Our restoration department carefully worked through the motorcycle, refinishing and restoring the chassis, suspension components, controls, accessories, and engine exterior.

Restoration and cosmetic work included:

• Engine exterior restored and professionally repainted

• Exhaust system restored and repainted in the correct flat-black finish

• Exhaust heat shields refinished in semi-gloss black

• Frame and frame rails professionally refinished

• Swingarm restored and repainted

• Front fork lowers refinished

• Triple clamps refinished

• New Yamaha fork decals installed

• New fork boots installed

• Front and rear brake drums refinished

• Foot pegs restored and repainted

• Rear brake pedal restored and repainted

• Kickstarter restored and refinished

• Gear shifter restored and refinished

• Stator cover refinished

• Original front and rear luggage racks refinished

• Original fuel tank professionally polished

• Original front and rear fenders professionally polished

• Original side covers professionally polished

• Original headlight housing professionally polished

• Fresh graphics installed

• New seat cover installed

• New ODI handgrips installed

• New mirror installed

The attention to detail throughout this motorcycle is exceptional.

From the freshly refinished engine and exhaust to the silver wheels, frame, swingarm, and beautiful factory bodywork, the entire machine presents like a carefully restored collector-quality example.

EXCELLENT ORIGINAL COMPONENTS!

Another important feature of this BW350 is the condition of its surviving factory equipment.

Notable original components include:

• Original Yamaha fuel tank

• Original factory plastic bodywork

• Original headlight and headlight housing

• Original handlebars, in excellent condition

• Original instrument and ignition assembly, in excellent condition

• Original front and rear luggage racks

• Original Yamaha engine with excellent compression and cylinder condition

The handlebar levers are in excellent condition, the control cables present beautifully, and the ignition key and dash assembly are exceptionally well preserved.

These are the types of details that distinguish a properly restored, carefully maintained vintage machine from an average used off-road motorcycle.

OVER $13,000 INVESTED – 75 HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL SHOP LABOR!

Restoring a vintage Yamaha BW350 to this standard is an expensive and labor-intensive undertaking.

Many people underestimate what is involved in bringing an older off-road motorcycle back to this level of mechanical and cosmetic condition.

Our restoration department meticulously serviced, inspected, cleaned, polished, refinished, and reassembled this motorcycle using professional equipment, experienced technicians, and quality replacement components.

Restoration investment breakdown:

And that is the restoration investment alone.

It does not include the original acquisition cost of the motorcycle.

The majority of the expensive, time-consuming work has already been completed.

You get to enjoy the finished product without having to spend months sourcing parts, rebuilding components, restoring plastics, and paying a restoration shop to complete the project.

THE KING OF THE YAMAHA BIG WHEELS!

The Yamaha BW350 occupies a special place in the history of oversized-tire recreational motorcycles.

During the 1980s, manufacturers experimented with a variety of fat-tire off-road machines, including Yamaha's Big Wheel lineup and Honda's iconic Fat Cat.

While the smaller-displacement models were fantastic recreational motorcycles, the BW350 represented Yamaha's flagship Big Wheel concept.

With its larger four-stroke engine, electric start, enormous tires, and substantial chassis, the BW350 delivered a completely different riding experience.

These machines are equally fascinating to vintage motorcycle collectors and off-road enthusiasts because they represent a unique period of innovation in Japanese motorcycle history.

Today, clean, complete, original examples are increasingly difficult to find.

And finding one that has received this level of professional attention is rarer still.

AN OUTSTANDING ADDITION TO ANY VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION!

Whether you're a dedicated Yamaha enthusiast, a collector of unusual Japanese motorcycles, or someone who appreciates the unmistakable character of these big-tire machines, this BW350 deserves serious consideration.

Park it alongside a Yamaha BW80, BW200, Honda TR200 Fat Cat, or Suzuki RV-series motorcycle, and it immediately becomes the most commanding machine in the collection.

Its enormous tires, aggressive stance, classic Yamaha styling, and beautifully restored appearance make it an absolute showpiece.

But unlike a static museum display, this motorcycle has been professionally serviced with the intention of being enjoyed.

Show it, collect it, display it, or take it out on the trails — the choice is yours.

SHIPPING AVAILABLE – WE CAN DELIVER RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR!

We regularly sell and ship collectible motorcycles to enthusiasts throughout the country.

Professional motorcycle shipping can be arranged directly to your door, making it easy to purchase this rare Yamaha regardless of where you live.

We encourage serious buyers to contact us promptly, as exceptional examples of the BW350 are difficult to replace.

Contact Junior at Kaplan Cycles for additional information, purchase details, and shipping arrangements.

WHY BUY THIS YAMAHA BW350 FROM KAPLAN CYCLES?

At Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum, we specialize in vintage, classic, rare, and collectible motorcycles.

Our experienced restoration technicians work on machines like this every day, and we understand the considerable effort required to restore and preserve these motorcycles properly.

This BW350 reflects that commitment.

With 75 hours of professional restoration labor, approximately $13,000 invested, excellent original engine compression, professionally refinished original bodywork, and brand-new wheels and tires, this is an exceptional example of Yamaha's legendary fat-tire flagship.

Highlights at a glance:

• Rare Yamaha BW350 Big Wheel

• 350cc four-stroke engine

• Electric start

• Outstanding 170 PSI compression

• Excellent original cylinder crosshatch

• Original cylinder bore retained

• Original factory plastics and fuel tank

• Approximately $13,000 invested in restoration and servicing

• 75 hours of professional shop labor

• Professionally rebuilt carburetor

• Comprehensive mechanical service and valve adjustment

• Brand-new KMS front and rear wheels

• Brand-new Kenda Klaw front and rear tires

• New gold chain and drive sprocket

• Restored engine, exhaust, frame, suspension, and controls

• Professionally polished original plastics

• Fresh graphics, seat cover, fork boots, ODI grips, and mirror

• Original headlight, handlebars, and luggage racks

• Professional nationwide shipping available

These don't come around often, especially in this condition.

The expensive work is already done. All that's left is for the next owner to enjoy and appreciate one of the most iconic fat-tire motorcycles Yamaha ever produced.

Don't miss your opportunity to own this spectacular Yamaha BW350 Big Wheel!

Contact Kaplan Cycles today.

Thanks for your interest, and God Bless America!

Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum
Rockville, Connecticut, USA

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WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?

“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.

With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.

With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country

You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.

You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.

We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.

You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.

Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.

Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.

You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset

You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.

From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Sincerely,

Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”

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AUCTION TERMS:

All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.

Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.

A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.

Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.

Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.

Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close. 

Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.

If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.

We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.

You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.

If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.

It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.

Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)

We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday

For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192

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We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV. 

We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.

In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.

In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.

Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.

Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.

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Warranty:

All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.

SHIPPING:

SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!

We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.

International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.

We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.

PICKUP:

We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.

We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.