Yamaha VMX V-Max 1.7

The ultimate power cruiser delivers unmatched performance and style.

Unlike any other motorcycle available today, the Yamaha VMAX is truly in a class of its own. The awesome acceleration and muscular beauty combines with sporty handling and Yamaha's latest electronic engine management technologies to offer an incredibly exhilarating riding experience.

The legend continues.

In '85 the original V-Max turned the motorcycle world on its ear. Our engineers took a big dose of the original "Mad Max" DNA then added a bunch of Yamaha's latest sport bike technologies like our chip controlled variable intake stacks, a high tech fuel injection system and our famous fly by wire throttle. The result is the next generation VMAX. The legendary sound, engine character and amazing acceleration are all part of the latest design but there is a twist. The VMAX offers truly sporty handling, thanks to its lightweight aluminium chassis and fully adjustable suspension. Scorched any pavement lately?

The ultimate muscle bike.

The Yamaha VMX17 is the ultimate marriage of brawn and brains, and is the ground breaking result of its evolutionary journey. The unique features of this iconic beast are richly blended with advanced sportbike technology and forward thinking style. It all ads up to a machine with immense performance and visual power. The 2012 Yamaha VMAX truly is in a class by itself.

Yamaha VMAX / VMX17 Highlights and Key Features:

Fuel Consumption ± 11.4kpl, 32mpg(Imp)

1679cc, V-4 powerplant with YCC-I & YCC-T

Aluminium chassis with fully adjustable suspension

Key Features:

•The ultimate power cruiser delivers unmatched performance from its 65-degree, four-valve-sper-cylinder, 1679cc V4—plenty of eye-opening, controllable acceleration from a compact engine that looks as powerful as it is.

•Downdraft four-bore fuel injection with YCC-I® intake technology and YCC-T® fly-by-wire throttle provide awesome acceleration throughout the broad powerband.

•Lightweight aluminum chassis puts the engine low and forward for mass centralization, resulting in a machine designed to handle curves as well as straightaways.

•Borrowing liberally from advanced sportbike technology, VMAX features a slipper clutch, wave-style brake discs, ABS, and complete suspension adjustability front and rear.

•Functionality and forward-thinking style uniquely combine with features like oxidized-titanium-coated 52mm front fork tubes, magnesium engine side covers, fluorinated polyethylene fuel tank and the organic electroluminescence multifunction display.

•A stylish new side cover finish matches the intake cover – adding to the menacing looks of the VMAX.

Yamaha VMAX / VMX17 Features and Benefits

ENGINE

Liquid-cooled, 1,679cc, DOHC, 16-valve, 65°, V-4 engine has no equal in its class. The compact engine design has allowed the engineers to place the engine in the "sweet spot" of the frame to optimize handling.

DOHC 4-valve "pent roof" cylinder head design provides optimum breathing efficiency for incredible engine performance. Valve actuation is via under bucket shims. Compression ratio is 11.3:1.

Steel valves are used for excellent durability. Intake valves are 34mm in diameter with a 14-degree valve angle while exhaust valves are 30mm with a 15 degree valve angle.

"Combination" chain and gear camshaft drive system is utilized. With this system, only the intake cams are driven by a chain (attached to the crank), the exhaust cams are driven by a gear drive off the intake cams. This design allows for more compact cylinder heads since the distance or "pitch" between the camshafts is reduced.

High-performance camshafts provide incredible engine performance. Centrifugal decompression device on the exhaust cam means fast, easy starting.

Automatic hydraulic cam chain tensioners reduce engine mechanical noise.

Lightweight, forged, aluminium short skirt pistons help provide fast throttle response, reduced vibration and provide excellent durability.

Connecting rods are carburized and use a nut less design. The lower end "cap" of the rod is made from the same piece of material as the upper portion; this design is known as "fracture splitting". This design aids in establishing true big end roundness, greater precision in con rod dimensions and are extremely durable.

180-degree crankshaft design is utilized.

Gear-driven engine counter balancer shaft is used to reduce vibration and maximize rider comfort. The balance ratio is 50% to allow some pulse feel. Since the crank design is 180 degrees, there is also some inherent natural balancing effect as well.

Twin radiator design features a curved upper rad and lower flat rad for maximum cooling efficiency. Each rad has its own cooling fan.

An oil-to-coolant heat exchanger type oil cooler maintains stable lubricant temperatures for increased performance and extended engine life.

Wet sump oil lubrication system is used and features a spin-on type oil filter.

Mikuni fuel injection system uses four 48mm throttle bodies fitted with T.P.S. (Throttle Position Sensor) and numerous other sensors. An oxygen sensor has been fitted into the exhaust making this a "closed loop" type FI system. The benefits include excellent throttle response, great fuel economy, reduced emissions, stable idling and no choke to fuss with during start up. The closed loop design means the system is constantly monitoring the fuel / air mixture and adjusting it as required for maximum performance plus reduced emissions.

Denso 12-hole injectors are used for excellent fuel atomization for maximum power and response across the entire rev range.

The VMAX utilizes a lightweight main Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that in fact consists of 3 - ECUs in total. The main 32-bit ECU controls the ignition and fuel injection process, while a 2nd and 3rd integral ECU controls the YCC-T & YCC-I. This "combined" ECU design reduces weight.

YCC-I or Yamaha's Chip Controlled Intake means the intake funnels / stacks vary in length (between 2 positions) depending on engine rpm. An electronic servo motor varies the funnel length from 150mm (for low to mid rpms) to the short setting of 54mm for high rpm. The transition or switching rpm between the 2 lengths is 6,650 rpms. The revolutionary YCC-I provides the best of both worlds, solid low rpm torque and power combined with an amazing high rpm rush. It takes only 0.3 of a second for the funnels to move from the tall to the short position.

Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) electronically controls the throttle valves for outstanding response and improved controllability at all rpms. This system features twin Throttle Position Sensors (TPS) and a D.C. motor driving the throttle valves. The YCC-T is used to provide even more control of the intake air volume for smoother torque character. The rider can "mechanically close" the throttles by simply closing the throttle twist grip.

Large capacity air box uses a viscous-type paper air filter.

Air Induction System (AIS) injects fresh air into the exhaust port area to fully combust any un-burnt fuel, reducing harmful HC and CO emissions for a cleaner environment.

4-into-1-into-2 into-4 exhaust system is used. Not only does it make a serious styling statement but also provides excellent performance and reduced emissions thanks to a 3-way honeycomb catalytic converter in the under engine "muffler box". It also features Yamaha's patented Exhaust Ultimate Power Valve (EXUP). This system monitors engine rpm and adjusts exhaust flow (via the EXUP valve) for maximum performance at all rpms with no "flat spots". This system helps to improve torque, optimize fuel economy and reduces emissions too.

Crankcase design incorporates the cylinders into the upper half of the cases for reduced weight. Ceramic composite cylinder "bores" are a "liner-less" design with the ceramic coating sprayed directly on the aluminium block to ensure great heat dissipation for consistent power delivery, reduced friction and reduced weight.

Open deck type cylinder sleeves are used for maximum cooling efficiency.

Lightweight magnesium alloy crankcase covers are used.

Hydraulically activated, ramp-type slipper clutch featuring 10 friction plates is used to deliver consistent clutch performance with a light lever pull and minimal maintenance. A slipper or back limiter clutch assembly reduces rear wheel hop when making hard downshifts or under hard braking. The clutch master cylinder is a Nissin design using a 14mm piston. The clutch lever offers 4 positions of adjustability.

5-speed transmission features optimized gear ratios for maximum acceleration and performance. 5th gear is an overdrive gear to reduce engine rpm at highway speeds for a comfortable ride.

Clean, quiet low-maintenance shaft drive is used. This system features dual "U" joints to accommodate the extra wide rear tire.

Compact rear shaft drive gear case assembly reduces weight and improves styling.

Functional hand finished aluminium intake covers highlight Yamaha's quality and attention to detail.

ACM magneto produces 420 watts of power at 5,000 rpms.

High-performance direct ignition coils (ignition coil is built into the spark plug cap) reduce weight while iridium spark plugs and high-output magneto deliver increased spark energy.

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION

Lightweight cast aluminium frame has been designed to offer an optimized rigidity balance to maximize handling performance. This frame is very rigid or stiff at the head pipe, engine mounts and swingarm pivot point. In other areas, material is less rigid in order to allow for "tuned flex".

Extra-long, lightweight cast aluminium swingarm provides great torsional rigidity for excellent handling and manoeuvrability. The distance between the swingarm pivot and the rear axle has been optimized (662.5mm) for great rear wheel traction. Threaded holes for accessory racing type rear stand are provided.

Detachable C.F. die cast aluminium and extruded aluminium rear sub frame means easier maintenance access (and a less costly repair if the unit is "looped out").

Huge fully adjustable, conventional cartridge-type 52mm front fork features 120mm (4.7") of road-smoothing wheel travel. The inner tubes feature a oxide titanium coating to reduce friction and wear. The adjustable design allows the rider to tailor suspension settings to match rider's weight and road conditions to maximize handling and suspension performance. There is 5-way spring preload adjustability plus 20-way compression damping and 17-way rebound damping adjustability.

Lightweight triple clamps. The upper is made of cast aluminium while the lower clamp is forged aluminium. Fork pitch is 225mm while offset is 30mm.

Link Monocross rear suspension utilizes a fully adjustable remote reservoir rear shock. Rear wheel travel is 110mm (4.3"). Adjustments include 11 way spring preload adjustability (via easy-access remote adjuster), 12-way compression damping and 18-way rebound damping adjustability.

15-litre fluorinated polyethylene fuel tank is mounted below the rider's seat and therefore helps maintain a low centre of gravity plus mass centralization. It also provides space for the large capacity air box. The fluorination treatment reduces the "permeation" of fuel vapours (hydrocarbons) into the atmosphere. The electric fuel pump is housed inside the tank. The low fuel warning light will illuminate with approx. 4.2 liters of fuel remaining.

Dual floating 320mm wave-style front rotors are squeezed by radial mount, monoblock 6-piston calipers. The result is incredible braking performance with excellent control and lever feedback. The master cylinder is a Brembo radial pump master cylinder with a 16mm piston, a direct GP race innovation. The lever is adjustable for various hand sizes.

298mm wave-style rear disc is squeezed by a single-piston slide-type caliper utilizing sintered metal pads and a 14mm Brembo master. The caliper is mounted below the swingram to maintain a handling enhancing low centre of gravity.

Anti-lock braking system features Yamaha's latest ABS system, very similar to that found on the FJR1300. The linear controlled 3-position ABS system features an ECU with an integrated compact hydraulic unit built into the ECU plus active type wheel sensors with magnetic rotors. The benefit is reduced weight, excellent mass centralization and better lever feedback when the system is operating. The main benefit of ABS is excellent control under hard braking or braking on wet or slippery surfaces since the ABS system helps to prevents wheel lock-up.

Rugged yet lightweight cast aluminium 5-spoke mag wheels front and rear. The wheels utilize hollow "spokes" to reduce unsprung weight for superior handling. Front rim size is a 3.50 x 18 fitted with a tubeless 120/70R18 radial tire, while the rear is 6.00 x 18 fitted with a wide tubeless 200/50R18 radial tire.

Conventional tapered 1?" diameter low rise handlebar.

Cool multi-function handlebar mounted meter includes analog tachometer and digital speedo plus an adjustable shift light and a variety of warning lights. A second multi-function display panel is located on top of the "fuel tank" (actually it is the air box cover). Readouts on this panel include fuel gauge, fuel consumption display, odometer, dual tripmeters, clock, coolant temp, gear indicator, throttle valve opening, intake air temp, stop watch and fuel reserve tripmeter. This panel uses a highly visible 256 x 64 dot matrix "Organic Electro Luminescence display". Brightness is adjustable.

Bright, H4 60/55-watt, halogen headlight

Eye-catching LED tail light means it uses less electrical power.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS / FEATURES

Immobilizer ignition system is designed to reduce the possibility of "ride-away" theft. This system must recognize the "coded ignition key" in order for the unit to start. If the immobilizer ignition does not recognize the key (or a screwdriver or other type of "jimmy tool") the bike will not start even if the ignition is turned or forced into the on position. If the system does not recognize the coded chip in the ignition key, it will not allow the ignition system, fuel pump or starter motor to function.

High-performance, long-life Iridium spark plugs

Lightweight forged aluminium shift lever and rear brake pedal

Low-fuel warning light

Low maintenance, lightweight, sealed battery

Stylish key with special key case holder

Lean angle engine kill switch prevents unit from running if it is on its side to avoid engine damage.

Review

We are reminded that the 1985 Yamaha V-Max motorcycle burst onto the scene as a fire-breathing, liquid-cooled V-4 power cruiser that had no motorcycling peer. It was, in the words of Mr. Araki, the Japanese project leader for the original V-Max motorcycle, an "American Hot Rod."

Like the original heavyweight boxer, its unadorned muscle and aggressive attitude demanded the attention of both motorcyclists and innocent bystanders. A cult surrounded the V-Max, complete with bike-specific tattoos and endless modifications designed to enhance both performance
and appearance.

However, the V-Max lost strength over the decades, as it became strangled by ever-tightening emissions requirements. Newer machines were more powerful, and lighter on their feet. Starting with the proverbial clean sheet of paper-and armed with riders' preference surveys-the Star engineers set forth to return the once mighty V-4 streetfighter to its rightful place of respect. The result: the limited production 2009 Star VMAX.

Straddling the 685-pound brute is effortless as the 30.5-inch seat height is easily manageable, and thanks to Star's fixation on mass centralization, it takes little muscle to lift it off its sidestand. Despite a displacement boost of 480cc, the new 65-degreeV-4 is more compact than its 70-degree predecessor. Like the original, the airbox is in the traditional tank location,and the fuel tank sits under the seat. All of this is wrapped up in a new aluminum chassis (frame, swingarm and subframe) with fully adjustable suspension and, now, a single rear shock.

Awaken the VMAX, and you'll love the rumble of the big V-4, even though its exhaust gases are routed through a 4-1-2-4 catalytic converter. The mufflers flare out in classic hot rod style, and are as easily heard by the rider as by admirers. Do not board this bike and twist the throttle if you crave anonymity.

Launch casually on the new VMAX and it's easy to forget that it has a shocking almost 200 horsepower on tap. This 1679cc V-4 bruiser has finesse; the EFI is flawless, so it is smooth and supple off idle. The seating position is a bit sportier than in the past-the bars are higher and farther forward, while the pegs have been moved back a bit and dropped just a sliver. This feeling of control is confidence-inspiring, and the flat seat with its relatively tall tail support locks you securely into the cockpit.

One of the storied attributes of the originalV-Max was its progressive powerband called "V-Boost". Something of a faux turbo feel (delivered mechanically on the original) it was never a hard punch in the gut, but it did give the rider an enhanced sensation of acceleration, helping the V-Max deliver physically, what it promised visually. Now, as the tach needle gathers speed, you will feel that same punch of torque-the legendary V-Boost-at about 5,000 rpm, thanks to computer-controlled wizardry and the Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake, which alters the length of the EFI's intake tunnel.

Source Ultimatemotorcycling.com