Japanese motorcyclesYamaha motorcycles
One of the most legendary motorcycles ever produced.
When you first look at it, you realize that there is not a toy in this brutal and aggressive beauty. Born in the land of the rising sun, he does not at all correspond to the Japanese style.
This motorcycle is designed to provide adrenaline and frantic energy to its riders.
The rebirth, which followed in 2008, gave this monster an engine with increased power, an improved chassis and a more aggressive design.
Yamaha V-Max
Yamaha V-Max: 1984 - 2007, 1198 cm3, 145 hp, 140,000–360,000 rub.
Yamaha V-Max: 1984 - 2007, 1198 cm3, 145 hp, 140,000–360,000 rub.
BEGINNING OF THE STORY. Having seen drag racing so beloved by Americans, Mr. Araki from Yamaha (later the head of the project), who came to the USA to study the market, decided that it was simply blasphemous to miss the opportunity to make money on a popular hobby. Returning to Japan, he convinced the management of the need to build a device that later became one of the main legends of the motorcycle world - the Yamaha V-Max. The new device, which does not fit into the framework of any class, was first presented at the Las Vegas Motor Show in 1984 as a 1985 model. The 1200 cc V-four, taken from the XVZ1200 Venture grand tourer, was boosted with 97 hp. at 7000 rpm to 145 hp, phenomenal for those times. at 9000 rpm (121 Nm at 7500 rpm). The motorcycle was created as a “tribute” to American hot rods with huge V-shaped “eights” that “folded the asphalt like an accordion” during acceleration. It was this idea that gave the model its name: V-Max means “maximum acceleration”, and not at all speed, as those who have not yet forgotten their school physics course might think.
Driving characteristics, fuel consumption
The dragster is characterized by high speed and good acceleration. And V MAX was no exception. The maximum speed stated by the manufacturer is 233 km/h .
Acceleration to hundreds
Acceleration to 100 km/h from standstill in 3.5 seconds .
Fuel consumption
The situation with fuel consumption is not so rosy. The developers indicated 7 liters per 100 km . The actual performance depended on the driving style, but rarely fell below 10 liters .
Yamaha V-Max
V-BOOST. The increase in power (compared to the donor engine) with a constant compression ratio and other characteristics was achieved by reconfiguring the power and timing systems, as well as installing the proprietary V-Boost system. The “trick” of the system is that up to 6000 rpm, each cylinder is powered by its own carburetor, and upon reaching the specified crankshaft speed, the valves in the manifold open, connecting the inlet channels of the cylinders in pairs, and each “pot” begins to receive a mixture from two carburetors at once . In order not to be unfounded, I will make a reservation that domestic Japanese (and European) copies, which, according to local legislation, cannot have more than 100 hp, differ from full-power Maxes precisely in the absence of V-Boost. Another indirect sign that distinguishes those with full power is the whirring of the V-Boost system motor when the ignition is turned on.
Price
New Yamaha V-max 1200 are no longer produced, so our market consists entirely of used models. Prices for these options vary greatly, depending on the condition. For a good version from more recent years, they can easily ask for $10,000-12,000. An important criterion affecting the price is the modification (depending on the country of delivery), the Californian version will be the most desirable.
Screenshot 1. Price for used Yamaha V-max 1200 on Avito
Owner reviews
Belokonov Konstantin (KOT)
Hello. In my opinion, there are two types of motorcycles for showing off and riding. Although the design of 1985 is noticeably behind modern ones, the V-MAX is not of the time. And it is for Riding. I think I have the right to say this because I have owned it since 2008. I’ve been a fan of motorcycling since 1987, and during this time I’ve driven everything from the domestic motorcycle industry to the Gold Wing. The true soul and heart of the engine is revealed on good country roads. It’s hard to describe in words, you have to feel it. It’s not for nothing that they write songs about MAX… Having bought this Mot, it’s impossible not to fall in love with it or hate a third. All my comrades who switched to V-MAX have never regretted it. And don’t believe anyone until you feel it yourself. I’d like to make a reservation right away. The Mot is only for guys who have a good experience in driving heavy vehicles and driving experience. In technical terms, my copy has only changed consumables for 7 years: Oil, pads, filters. The rear eats rubber quite well, 9-10 thousand before 15-17 thousand after all, the weight Now I installed the most expensive Meseller Marathon, let's try. I don’t recommend it for long-distance travelers, although I myself traveled to St. Petersburg with my wife and luggage without problems. Even if something breaks, everything is available and at low prices compared to modern counterparts. Well, something like this... Belokonov Konstantin
Pablo escobar
I want to share my opinion about another prominent representative in the world of motorcycles. This is a first generation Yamaha V-MAX 1200 motorcycle. This is a road worker, but in fact there is still no definitive definition for it. Many people consider it a chopper because it has a low stance, while others consider it a drag racing motorcycle because of its power. In general, there is no consensus, and this is not so important, in fact. A little about the filling of this beauty. Engine: V-shaped engine, volume 1200 cc. cm, 140 horsepower, liquid cooling, 4-piston, 4 valves per piston. Moreover, at low speeds only two valves per piston operate. I'll tell you in more detail below. In general, in my opinion, Yamaha designers have created an amazing motorcycle. Combined power and beauty into one whole. For a beginner who does not know this motorcycle, it will be an obvious mystery. The whole appearance of the V-MAX is so deceptive that many are simply lost. Let’s say the V-MAX’s fuel tank is not actually one, it’s there as if for beauty, but the real one is under the seat. The same goes for the huge air intakes on the sides. They are also only for beauty, since the engine is liquid cooled, but what brutality they give to this motorcycle! The V-MAX is not that difficult to drive, although it weighs about 300 kg, but due to its low center of gravity it is not difficult to hold. It steers easily. The acceleration is simply crazy, it can easily give odds to a sportbike. When the tachometer needle reaches 6700 rpm, the V-MAX turns on the so-called V-BOOST system, which connects a second pair of valves to each piston and the motorcycle gets a “second wind”. The engine simply explodes and a herd of 140 horses takes you far from your pursuers. The only negative about this motorcycle is the small volume of the fuel tank - only 15 liters. With such engine power, it lasts for 160 kilometers, but what unforgettable kilometers these will be! Filled with wild power, speed and a feeling of complete freedom!Pablo escobar
Irbis455
Like many other owners, I can’t decide which class this bike belongs to. My opinion is that this is still a chopper. Its engine is almost like a car's. The similarity is not only in volume but also in the high torque, especially at low speeds. It starts quite easily from second gear. The bike weighs almost three hundred kilograms and takes turns with ease. The suspension is quite soft, the motorcycle is not designed for Russian roads; it is better to avoid potholes, and if you hit them at high speed, there is a high probability of falling; in this case, it is better to jump off so that the bike flies forward, otherwise serious injuries cannot be avoided. It does not have a reverse gear, which causes some inconvenience when parking. Irbis455
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FRONT FORK. All fork options (see table of upgrades) are made according to a hydropneumatic scheme, that is, the shock absorber fluid “works” in the fork with constant gas pressure. experienced “vimaxers” recommend immediately after purchase to replace the oil in the fork from the standard 10W to a thicker “tag” - the fork is clearly a bit soft in stock. It’s also worth remembering that many Vemaxes often suffer from bent forks - they suffer greatly when dropped. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to diagnose this parameter without disassembling it, so you have to rely only on a driving test. The motorcycle should not steer to the side, and it should navigate left and right turns with equal ease. In any case, it is better to entrust this test to an experienced rider or mechanic. Another weak point is the steering column bearings. The large mass of the motorcycle, coupled with serious dynamics and poor-quality asphalt, “kills” them quite quickly. These parts may require replacement after 20–25 thousand km.
Peculiarities
The release of the model continues. The motorcycle is offered on all continents, for all countries.
VMAX became a legend almost from the moment it went on sale - there was simply no alternative model at that time.
The designer took into account all the shortcomings noted by users of the earlier version, and used individual solutions previously tested on the company’s sports. The result exceeded expectations. Over the 10 years of production, the motorcycle did not have to be modified or made any fundamental changes.
Yamaha V-Max
At the upper ends of the feathers, under the decorative covers, there are nipples (sometimes there is a plug with a single nipple for both feathers), through which air is pumped.
Normal pressure in feathers is 0.8 kg/cm2. It is necessary to carefully monitor this parameter and check it often. Not only does insufficient pressure greatly “weaken” the rigidity of the fork, but, what is most unpleasant, without proper gas pressure, the shock absorber fluid foams, rises and pierces the seals, which then do not stop flowing even with standard pressure. At the upper ends of the feathers, under the decorative covers, there are nipples (sometimes there is a plug with a single nipple for both feathers), through which air is pumped. Normal pressure in feathers is 0.8 kg/cm2. It is necessary to carefully monitor this parameter and check it often. Not only does insufficient pressure greatly “weaken” the rigidity of the fork, but, what is most unpleasant, without proper gas pressure, the shock absorber fluid foams, rises and pierces the seals, which then do not stop flowing even with standard pressure.
ENGINE. The V-Max power unit has simply phenomenal reserves of strength and service life. This is confirmed not only by six-digit mileage figures, but also by thousands of examples of the deepest tuning of engines, which, even with a doubling of power, carry their owners for a long time and properly. One of the weak points of the engine is the clutch basket. In almost all copies, by 30 thousand km, the bushing on which the entire basket “sits” wears out, and at idle it begins to jingle. This defect is easy to track - if you squeeze the clutch, the sound disappears. This feature may not even be recorded as a defect, since it does not in any way affect the functioning of the clutch, but with a high degree of probability it indicates that the motorcycle has passed the 30 thousand km mark.
Quality V Max for which it is appreciated
If we talk about this motorcycle seriously, it is worth noting that it is not cheap at all , but it is one of the most powerful and dynamic “street” motorcycles.
Yes, exactly street ones, despite the “Harley” profile and V-twin engine, the fit on the V-Max is classic, and the fork slope is still not as large as on choppers.
Thanks to the successful distribution of the center of mass, turns on this motorcycle are taken very easily and confidently , forgetting about its 300 kg weight.
An impressive reserve of torque allows the motorcycle to confidently start from second speed, and upon reaching fifth, slowly move through the city crowd at a speed of 60 km/h, keeping the speed in the green zone.
But by turning the handle, the engine will reveal all its superbike character and after 5000 rpm its contented rumbling turns into an animal roar.
But road racing is not his thing. City streets with traffic lights, that's where he feels at home.
The dynamics of the motorcycle are so amazing that with sharp acceleration, it leaves a 150-meter trail of burnt rubber . The V-Max has a distinctly masculine appearance.
Yamaha V-Max
It is quite simple to distinguish a “full-power” device from a Japanese or European “strangled” twin: for “Japanese” and “Europeans” the engine number begins with “3UF”.
The “Canadians” have a “2LT” engine series, while the “Americans” have a “2WE” engine series. I note that the indicated series of engines are guaranteed to be found only on motorcycles produced before 2000, since later the VIN identification system came into use, and often the indicated markings are absent on the engines. It is quite simple to distinguish a “full-power” device from a Japanese or European “strangled” twin: for “Japanese” and “Europeans” the engine number begins with “3UF”. The “Canadians” have a “2LT” engine series, while the “Americans” have a “2WE” engine series. I note that the indicated series of engines are guaranteed to be found only on motorcycles produced before 2000, since later the VIN identification system came into use, and often the indicated markings are absent on the engines.
The gas distribution mechanism is also durable and undemanding. As a rule, valve clearances “float away” only at 45–50 thousand km, which is indicated by a characteristic knock. This is another indirect sign by which you can roughly determine the actual mileage. With this rather serious mileage, as a rule, it does not interfere with grinding in the valves themselves, and the need to adjust the valve clearances (with washers) in this case often disappears: grinding in the valves automatically returns the gaps to “nominal”, so it is very likely that after “ There will be no need to order new washers for adjustment after abrasive procedures. V-Max is very demanding on oil quality, and the reason for this, first of all, is the high level of boost. Experienced “sledgehammer drivers” even recommend filling your motorcycle with oils intended for racing road motorcycles. Savings in this matter can easily lead to a “wedge”.
Competitors
Having moved to another class, the Yamaha V MAX 1200 became an almost unique model that had no competitors. Many compared the model with the Honda X4 , but did not take into account that Honda itself did not put its motorcycle in competition with the V MAX.
According to Honda representatives, the X4 is one of the possible trim levels of their own developed CB1300. They are not interested in competing with Yamaha on flawed developments.
The factory documentation for the X4 also speaks in favor of this. This model goes by the name CB1300C , where the last letter clearly means Custom , one of the design options.
Yamaha V-Max
When choosing a device, be sure to inspect the spark plug caps.
Often the drainage channels of candle wells become clogged with dirt, and the water, unable to leave the hot zone, boils. When choosing a device, be sure to inspect the spark plug caps. Often the drainage channels of candle wells become clogged with dirt, and the water, unable to leave the hot zone, boils.
Vmax 2022
The shape of the tank allows you to lean towards the steering wheel without any obstacles, so that when accelerating you can take a “sporty” position, resisting the wind and overload, and the deep seat with support prevents you from sliding onto the passenger side. The Yamaha VMAX cruiser is a black sheep with an identity crisis, because having an undoubted relationship with cruisers, it has all the signs of the dominant genes of a sportbike, and flaunts this side of its pedigree with might and main.
Yamaha VMAX 2019 Cruiser
Yamaha V-Max
Steam and boiling water literally tear the rubber caps from the inside, causing engine interruptions.
Steam and boiling water literally tear the rubber caps from the inside, causing engine interruptions.
REAR GEARBOX. The cardan drive and the gearbox itself are quite capable of “outlasting” the entire motorcycle under one condition - regular oil changes. The manufacturer recommends changing the fluid every 15 thousand km, but careless owners often neglect this simple procedure, and low-quality or old oil significantly reduces the life of the conical pair. So after purchase, along with changing the oil in the engine, be sure to change the oil in the gearbox. And in the future, do not forget that at least once every 15 thousand km it is necessary to fill in fresh transmission oil for highly loaded hypoid gears. Of course, it is better not to save money and choose synthetic varieties.
Yamaha V-Max
Another way to determine the "origin" of a motorcycle is to look at the speedometer.
The “Americans”, of course, have a speedometer marked in miles per hour. Another way to determine the "origin" of a motorcycle is to look at the speedometer. The “Americans”, of course, have a speedometer marked in miles per hour.
HISTORY OF “ASPHALT” DISEASE. The Sledgehammer, unlike many other motorcycles, gets “marks” when dropped, which are quite difficult to hide with cosmetics. Of course, this only benefits the buyer of a used device. First of all, you need to feel the lower edges of the engine covers. If they are torn, it means they came into contact with asphalt. This also suggests that at the time of the fall, protective bars were not installed on the motorcycle. And if the device was already “attached” with arches, then traces should be looked for on the frame, near the points of their attachment. When they bend, they leave noticeable dents on the pipes. And if all these damages can only hint at problems with the geometry of the frame (which is unlikely), then the dents on the frame pipes left by the lower traverse already indicate strong impacts during a fall, which with almost 100% probability indicates that the feathers the forks were bent. And this is already a reason for a substantive conversation with the seller and a closer check of the device’s geometry.
Yamaha XSR700 and XSR900 2022
The neo-retro design and advanced technology of the Yamaha XSR700 and XSR900 make these 2022 models timeless classics. The compact twin-cylinder engine gives the XSR700 unique performance to match its unique styling. The XSR900 combines cutting-edge engineering, a superb three-cylinder engine and cutting-edge electronics with a retro-styled body kit that adds a nice nostalgic feel.
Both models will be available in Radical White/Rapid Red from December. The recommended retail price for the XSR700 at the time of publication is: unknown for the Russian Federation, $8500 for the USA, and for the XSR900 at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $9500 for the USA.
Yamaha V-Max
“Japanese” and “Europeans” are traditionally distinguished by modest markings of up to 180 km/h and have a built-in speed limiter.
“Japanese” and “Europeans” are traditionally distinguished by modest markings of up to 180 km/h and have a built-in speed limiter.
ELECTRICAL. When choosing a device, be sure to inspect the voltage regulator relay, which can burn out without any reason. It’s a good idea to take a voltmeter with you to the viewing and check the charge voltage under load. If the relay-regulator fails during operation, the problem can be easily solved. There is nothing unusual or specific to this model - many motorcycles (especially those from the 80s and early 90s) suffer from this ailment. At disassembly sites you can always find a used part, because for many motorcycles this element is unified.
Comfort
Since this is a power cruiser, the motorcycle, of course, is comfortable. It will be comfortable for people of relatively short stature. However, it is important to understand that this bike will not be comfortable for physically undeveloped people. The machine is quite heavy and requires a certain amount of muscle strength.
As for the ride, among cruisers and power cruisers the bike occupies a worthy position in terms of comfort. But, if a person is used to driving a sportbike or a motocross motorcycle, at first he will be unusual with such heavy equipment. It's not that the bike doesn't maneuver well, but the weight is still felt in every movement. Even after road motorcycles, it will be unusual to ride this model.
Yamaha V-Max
Canadian vehicles are easily distinguished by markings up to 260 km/h.
Canadian vehicles are easily distinguished by markings up to 260 km/h.
TUNING. 3.2 seconds “to hundreds” for “almost a chopper” still commands respect these days, let alone a quarter of a century ago! The “Flying Sledgehammer” has a curb weight of 275 kg and can accelerate to 235 km/h! True, after 160 km/h the motorcycle really looked more like a projectile fired from a cannon. The direction is set, the course remains unchanged. Two questions that have always worried craftsmen are how to improve handling and how to make a motorcycle go even faster. Tuning a Vemax is a topic worthy of a separate book, let alone an article. And, although the topic is vast, let’s at least look at the tip of the iceberg.
Dimensions and weight
The motorcycle weighs a lot, just like a real iron horse should weigh.
The curb weight of the motorcycle (filled with all fluids, ready to ride) is 283 kg .
Dimensions, as for a dragster, are small:
- in length - 2,301 mm ;
- width - 796 mm ;
- in height - 1,161 mm .
- Seat height - 766 mm .
- Wheelbase - 1,591 mm .
From the above list, the dragster is characterized by only one parameter - a large wheelbase due to a different fork angle . But this tilt is typical of both American models and classic choppers.
For whom is it intended?
But the height of the saddle, on the contrary, shows that only people of average or less than average height will be able to ride the bike well. Tall bikers should consider a different car.
The modest power reserve does not make the bike convenient for long trips; rather, it is a city “dweller”.
What is of interest is that it was not initially planned to sell this model in the domestic markets of Japan and Yamaha made low motorcycles with other countries in mind?
Yamaha V-Max
Sometimes it’s simply impossible to identify an old V-Max in a “monster” passing by!
But this is all he, one in a thousand faces. Sometimes it’s simply impossible to identify an old V-Max in a “monster” passing by! But this is all he, one in a thousand faces.
The chassis of a motorcycle lags far behind the capabilities of the engine, so the first thing customizers take on is it. Aluminum bushings instead of silent blocks in the pendulum mount and an additional yoke welded onto it make the “back” less flimsy, and the front points of attachment of the engine to the frame (in the original there are rubber bushings installed there) are “hung” on aluminum plates, including the engine in power structure. The front fork is also sent to the “loft”, and instead of it, units from “liters” like R1 or “Jixer” are installed. Of course, the rear shock absorbers are also changed. The standard 15- and 18-inch wheels are replaced with 17-inch ones from the same “liters” - they are lighter and the handling improves. Brakes are a separate matter. On modernized motorcycles (after 1993), mechanisms from the same R1 (the same ones with the blue plugs) are installed as “native” ones.
Details
The front end is taken from the FZR1100 (EXUP), the rear suspension is equipped with a YSS shock absorber, and the subframe is handcrafted by bp cnfkb. In addition, it is equipped with a Koso headlight in a Hookie Co. housing, Motogadget lighting, a custom exhaust made of 55mm stainless pipe, Motocrew's own Frozen grips, and so on. Of course, according to the master, it is impossible to make something completely unusual out of the V-Max: this motorcycle has such powerful charisma that it “cannot be remade” - and all that remains is to improve and decorate it. This one, as Chris says, is “low, loud and almost completely black - but still a V-Max.”
Yamaha V-Max
When the chassis is put into “combat readiness”, you can start injecting the “beast”. A zero-resistance filter, a 4-2-1 exhaust system with a direct-flow “can” and a Dynojet-7 carburetor kit gives an increase of up to 15 hp. "at the top". A similar kit with Dynojet-1 and 4-2-2 exhaust significantly improves low- and mid-range torque. But this, as they say, is just a saying. A fairy tale lies ahead: there are as many as six (!) options for increasing the working volume from 1260 to 1560 cm3. There are also two-liter monsters. “Nitros” is generally a favorite thing, and there are too many variations with turbocharging or a mechanical compressor to count.
History of Yamaha VMAX
The history of the Yamaha VMAX goes back 33 years, during which it was produced either directly by Yamaha or by its American cruiser division Star Motorcycles. When one of them passes somewhere nearby, the first thing that comes to mind is Mad Max - that's the impression the design of these monsters makes. Functional air intakes on both sides of the tank form shoulders that create a sneaking bulldog-hidden gazelle silhouette. It’s difficult to seriously consider it as a cruiser, but that’s how the manufacturer positions it, confirming this with a relatively relaxed upright seating position.
Yamaha V-Max
The general opinion of the “sledgehammer designers” is that the second VMAX, released in 2008, is not able to replace the “grandfather”.
They say: “the wrong breed.” The general opinion of the “sledgehammer designers” is that the second VMAX, released in 2008, is not able to replace the “grandfather”. They say: “the wrong breed.”
We thank Konstantin (Medny) ANDROPOV for his help in preparing the material and the motorcycles provided for filming.
Yamaha FJR1300ES 2022
The 2022 Yamaha FJR1300ES symbolizes “sport” in the sport-tourer class. The 1298cc, 16-valve, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-four engine delivers excellent linear power and torque for unparalleled powerful acceleration at all rpms.
The 2022 Yamaha FJR1300ES will be available in Liquid Graphite from January 2022. Recommended retail price for this model at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $18,000 for the USA.
