How to Change the Oil in a 2020 Yamaha TW200: The MotoSport.com Guide

Shop parts for a 2020 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Regularly changing your oil is one of the most important maintenance tasks to keep your 2020 Yamaha TW200 running great and to extend engine life. Below, you’ll find a detailed, proprietary MotoSport.com step-by-step guide, including required tools, step procedures, and model-specific tips to ensure a hassle-free oil change experience for this legendary dual-sport machine.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Socket wrench set or T-handle wrench set
  • Oil filter (Yamaha TW200 specific)
  • Fresh engine oil (Yamalube or quality 10W-40 motorcycle oil; check owner's manual for latest specs)
  • Oil drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Clean rag or shop towels
  • Torque wrench (optional but ideal for filter cover and drain bolt)
  • Pick tool (for removing O-ring or oil filter, optional but helpful)
  • Replacement O-rings (recommended in case originals are worn)
  • Gloves

Model-Specific Yamaha TW200 Oil Change Call-Outs (–2020–)

  • Oil Capacity: Approximately 1.1 liters (with filter change). Always double-check your oil window after filling, as small variances occur.
  • Oil Filter: Uses a replaceable paper cartridge. Some owners clean the filter, but Yamaha recommends a full replacement, especially for a 2020 model still in early years.
  • First Service: If this is your bike’s first oil change (break-in period), Yamaha recommends changing the oil at 600 miles or 1 month, whichever comes first.
  • Skid Plate: The TW200 comes with a basic skid plate; remove it if it blocks access to the drain bolt or filter cover.
  • Drain Bolt – Filter Cover Torque: Consult your owner's manual but a common spec for the drain bolt is 20 Nm (14 ft–lb). Overtightening is a common pitfall.

Step-by-Step: Changing the Oil on a 2020 Yamaha TW200

  1. Warm up the Engine
    Run the bike for about 2-3 minutes or until just warm to the touch. This thins the oil, helping it drain completely. Turn the bike off and place it on a level surface.
  2. Remove the Skid Plate
    If your skid plate interferes with the oil drain bolt or oil filter cover, use your socket wrench to remove it.
  3. Locate and Remove the Oil Drain Bolt
    Place the drain pan beneath the bolt on the lower left side of the crankcase. Remove the drain bolt with a socket wrench. Allow the old oil to fully drain (expect a slow-to-drain design on the TW200)

    .
  4. Remove the Oil Filter Cover
    Using your socket or T-handle wrench, remove the three small bolts securing the oil filter cover. Gently pry the cover off and remove the old oil filter cartridge. Inspect the large O-ring and smaller washer for signs of wear (replace if flattened or cracked).
  5. Clean the Oil Filter Screen and Drain Bolt
    The drain bolt has a small screen attached—pull it out carefully, clean it thoroughly with a rag, and reinstall. This is a unique feature of the Yamaha TW200, designed to catch any engine debris before it circulates.
  6. Install the New Oil Filter
    If you're reusing O-rings, make sure they're properly seated and lightly coat them with fresh oil. Insert the new filter (open end facing out). Reinstall the filter cover, tightening bolts evenly and to spec (do not overtighten as the cover and bolts are soft aluminum).
  7. Reinstall Drain Bolt
    Wipe the threads on the drain bolt clean, inspect or replace the crush washer, and reinstall with the correct torque.
  8. Fill with New Oil
    Using a funnel, add new oil (approximately 1.1 liters with a filter change). Stop at the lower end of the sight glass, so you don’t overfill.
  9. Check Oil Level
    Reinstall the oil fill cap. Start the engine and let it idle for about a minute, then turn it off. Wait a couple of minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level through the sight glass on the case. The correct level is between the upper and lower marks

    .
  10. Top Up and Final Checks
    If the oil is below the mark, add a little more (never overfill). Reinstall the skid plate if you removed it. Wipe away any spills, visually inspect for leaks, and dispose of your old oil in accordance with local laws.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Common Pitfalls

  • Properly seat O-rings—a pinched or old O-ring causes leaks.
  • Be gentle tightening bolts—the TW200’s soft aluminum threads are prone to stripping.
  • Start with less oil than max capacity; top off slowly while checking the sight glass to avoid overfilling.
  • Keep your service history—log the mileage and date of each change.

MotoSport.com Exclusive Owner Call-Out

The TW200 has a simple, air-cooled, low-stress engine that's forgiving for DIY owners. However, correct oil filter orientation and not overtightening the bolts are the two most important things to get right. For the 2020 model, there are no significant changes from the recent years’ process, so any reputable oil filter for a TW200 from 2001 onwards should fit. Always double-check the filter model number to be sure.

Recommended Oil Change Intervals for a 2020 TW200

  • First oil change: At 600 miles or 1 month of new ownership.
  • Subsequent changes: Every 2,000–3,000 miles or per your riding environment (dust, mud = more frequent changes).

Everything you need for your Yamaha TW200 oil change, from parts to how-to guidance, is available at MotoSport.com. Happy wrenching.

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Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.