Yamaha XP 500 T-Max

To celebrate 10 years of the Yamaha T-Max 500 maxi-scooter, the firm is released a limited-edition white version.

Technically the scooter is the same 500cc parallel twin as the 2008/2009 model, but comes in white with anodised aluminium detailing and the wheels are titanium-colour with polished rims.

Yamaha’s press kit says: “In 2000, the first T-Max revolutionised the scooter market.

"By combining the low centre of mass that makes a scooter so easy to ride with the performance, handling and road presence of a sports touring motorcycle, Yamaha created a unique vehicle – as happy on the highway as it is on busy city streets.

"It went on to achieve unrivalled popularity throughout Europe.

“To celebrate the 10th anniversary of this landmark in scooter design, Yamaha is proud to unveil the new T-Max WHITE MAX.

"Combining unique, special edition styling with the same performance and power that have made the T-Max a market leader for the last ten years, this is a very special machine.
 

Unique styling

“A striking, one-off white colour scheme accentuates the dynamic, sporty lines of the T-Max WHITE MAX, making a dramatic statement as you glide past in sharp, aerodynamic style.

"Special edition graphics and luxurious anodised metal parts lend the T-Max WHITE MAX an individual look, completed by a distinctive two-tone seat design and polished titanium-coloured rims with bronze centres.

“The styling continues on the inside of the T-Max’s sculpted cockpit area, with white illuminated meters that sit perfectly with the unmistakable T-Max bodywork.

"The trademark ‘twin eye’ headlight arrangement and sharp rear light cluster ensure the T-Max WHITE MAX looks as impressive in a rear view mirror as it does accelerating into the distance.

"A high windshield and aerodynamic bodywork offer excellent weather protection, keeping the elements at bay. At the rear, the exhaust muffler is positioned high, in true sportsbike style, and emits a throaty growl.

Sportsbike performance

“The T-Max WHITE MAX’s sports bike performance is the result of its exceptional engine design. The horizontally-mounted, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, parallel twin-cylinder 499cc engine offers the responsiveness to accelerate in the city, and is just as comfortable with long cruises out of town.

"Providing 43.5PS of power and 46.4 Nm of torque, there is great acceleration from standstill as well as at medium speeds. And with smooth automatic V-Belt transmission, it’s as easy to ride as any scooter.

Motorcycle-style handling

“Key to the T-Max WHITE MAX’s motorcycle-like handling is its exceptional frame design and engine position, which deliver handling unlike any other scooter.

"Constructed from a mix of extruded and cast aluminium sections, using Yamaha’s exclusive CF die-casting technology, the T-Max WHITE MAX’s chassis has an ideal rigidity balance that delivers excellent, motorcycle-like handling and stability while minimising weight.

Maximum comfort

“The wheels and suspension of the T-Max WHITE MAX ensure great handling and superb rider comfort.

"The large, 15inch wheels provide great stability and a quick steering response, while sturdy 43mm diameter front forks keep the front wheel tracking straight over poor surfaces.

"Strong rear shocks provide brilliant damping over bumps and irregularities in the road.

“For an extra feeling of security, the T-Max WHITE MAX features a powerful 267mm rear disc brake and a 267mm, double-disc front brake with the same four-pot mono block brake calipers used in Yamaha sports and touring motorcycles.

"The result is smooth, strong stopping power at any speed. The T-Max WHITE MAX is also available with ABS brakes for improved stopping in exceptionally bad weather conditions.

Long-distance luxury

“For longer trips, two glove compartments provide generous and easily accessible storage – including a cardholder for items such as toll tickets.

"Additionally, the large underseat compartment – which opens to the rear for easy access – is hinged on gas struts like a car boot. And since it’s illuminated, it’s simple to find your belongings in the dark.

“Lucky T-Max WHITE MAX passengers will enjoy the ride too. The large, luxurious sculpted seat, fold-out foot rests and sturdy grab rails make riding two-up a pleasure, and the T-Max WHITE MAX’s power and torque mean it won’t struggle with additional weight.

"A large, 15-litre capacity fuel tank makes the T-Max WHITE MAX an ideal distance tourer, suitable for long rides and weekends away. All in all, this is a very special edition of a very special scooter.

"The T-Max WHITE MAX is only available in Competition White.”