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Yamaha ‘Leather’ V-Max Concept

A one-off concept bike has been presented by Yamaha, namely leather-clad VMAX model that came as a result of a collaboration with fashion house Hermes. The French marque is not new to the world of motor powered vehicles, as they have already worked on helicopters and cars.

The 180-year old French company, with its origins in equestrian saddle making, has returned to its roots and covered the VMAX with some of its finest leather materials.

“Hermes craftsmen were let loose to combine ‘mechanics and leather, to fulfill the dreams of motorcycles’." The idea was, according to Yamaha and Hermes, to “reinforce the sculptural lines of this unique object and underline its emotional power.”

Everything non-mechanical on the bike is covered in a Skipper buffalo leather, from the tank, seat, mudguards, headlight cover to the exhaust silencers and grips. Finishing touches include brushed aluminium mirrors, meter case and exhaust.

The one-off mouthwatering project has indeed made an impression. Unfortunately, there are no plans to add this version of V-MAX to its present or future range of bikes. The two companies have worked together on a similar project on a Virago 15 years ago.

The current VMAX retails for GBP20,000 (about $32,000). It features a compact 65-degree, four-valves-per-cylinder, 1679cc V4 engine with YCC-I intake technology and YCC-T fly-by-wire throttle. Other highlights include slipper clutch, wave-style brake discs, master cylinders, ABS, and complete suspension adjustability front and rear.

The instrument panel includes an analog, step-motor driven tachometer and digital speedometer with LED indicator lights.