The Yamaha VMax – Velocitus Maximus

Introduced in 1985, The Yamaha VMax (short for Velocitus Maximus) is one of the fastest and most powerful production motorcycles ever introduced to the market. It has been a top seller ever since it was presented into the motorcycling world more than 20 years ago. Many claim the VMax to be synonymous with top speed. I agree!

The VMax is a cult bike and shares a mix of enthusiasm, you know: the kind of bike you love or hate. Some people find it too powerful and difficult to handle (in fact, it is…); others of course, couldn't be more pleased with it. These last ones are undoubtedly responsible for the growing numbers of the VMax Owners Association membership. This exclusive membership is home to thousands of VMax owners from around the world who schedule hundreds of racing and motorcycle rallies.

The VMax is a heavier bike that is definitely not recommended for beginning motorcyclists. It is instead, more appropriate for experienced riders who want pure speed and power under the throttle. On the downside, the VMax is not a fast breaker – even with its dual front 298 mm four piston disc breaks and its single rear 282 mm four piston disc break – and cornering with this beast can be pretty tricky for the inexperienced rider, too.

One of the most remarkable attribute on the VMax is its V-Boost carburetion technology. Its cylinders are fed by four downdraft Mikuni carburetors and each one is separated by butterfly valves. This V-Boost technology adds horsepower, quick acceleration, and a smoothness that other hot rod models or power cruisers can't even dream about.

Even in the world of drag racing, the Yamaha VMax has ingrained a strong impression among motorcycle fans. This particular bike is known for creating assured winning opportunities based on its infamous power, speed and reliability -- and this is a machine that, with a couple of modifications, can clock in at more than 200 miles per hour in a quarter mile alone.

The first VMax was built in 1985 and it came with a V4 1200 CC engine while offering 145 HP and V-Boost - but only in the United States. A year later, Yamaha released a slower version (104 HP) for the European market. The European version didn't feature the V-Boost. At that time, this feature was apparently an American trait. In 1990, the bike was fit with a digital electronic ignition system. That same year the VMax was offered in Japan for the first time; while in Europe, and due to stricter noise restrictions, Yamaha had to make some modifications to the European version of the VMax. In 1996, Yamaha switched to a black exhaust system but since it didn't market as well as expected, they changed the design back to chrome for the 1998 model.

There's no doubt that its fine qualities have made the of the Yamaha VMax a hot selling motorcycle since 1985. Just one sight of it reveals the power behind its design. The VMax sports a muscular look behind a black and chrome color theme which ironically was a drawback for some customers who wanted a more colored vehicle.

The VMax can be customized like so many other bikes. Enhancements include adding different exhaust systems as well as pegs. Small decals or graphics added to the bike can further emphasize the individualism of the VMax. Replacing the factory mirrors with shorter, stockier versions is another option. Even the original VMax seat can be exchanged for something wider, longer and more comfortable during long rides.

The VMax has stood its ground as a one of a kind motorcycle on the market for more than 20 years now. Few bikes available today can deliver looks and performance the way that the VMax does and few can hardly stand up to its “affordable” cost. New VMax bikes start at around $12,500.

Concept Yamaha VMax Presented at Paris Motorcycle Show 2007

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