Yamaha released their 2006 models last night and it looks like we are stuck with the same old Vmax. Don't get me wrong I love the bike but I was hoping for some upgrades.
It's still an impressive looking bike. More then enough to scare me.
My uncle has a friend who owns one, he's been complaining that when it rains it's really tough to get going and to stop. Something about the engine and breaks being so strong for the weight that he'll alternately spin or lock the wheels. Of course where he lives the streets are mostly concrete, instead of asphault which makes a HUGE difference in traction when wet.
Of course I'm generalizing from a single example here, but everyone does that. At least I do.
I'm working like a dog getting these 2006 Yamaha models up for all you guys and girls. They should be all ready by the end of the day on June 14th, but I'll be posting what I've finished at noon time (MST). I have almost finished all the cruiser lineup. (lots of new cruisers)
isnt the whole point of the vmax is it hasnt been changed in all these years? i mean sure they can start adding new modern stuff to it, but that would take away part of its appeal. maybe two models classic and something else.
in england theyve stopped the vmax(new emmission laws)but there is a rumour that the original designer is designing an anniversary model.seem mock pics of what it should look like if it ever goes into production.awesome.xjrjohn
biking isnt a matter of life or death,its far more important(bill shankley,well almost)
AS has been noted, why fix what isn't broken? Yamaha is very proud of the 20 (now 21) year run the vmax has had, and rightly so. Even today it is respected for it's unique love it or hate it look and awesome power.
A well-known motorcyle cruiser (hint) magazine did a write-up in 2004 of future models for the major manufacturers. A brief paragraph dealt with the vmax. The wording was something like "Triumph claims their new big bike can out-accelerate than the vmax, but Yamaha says when something comes along that pushes the max aside they have a bigger, badder max ready to go."
I have little doubt Yamaha will give up their King of Muscle easily or for very long. I also have little doubt the price tag will be equally as imposing. If you don't have a vmax now, get one, and if you want more power there are many upgrades available. The so-called handling issues are fairly easily remedied, too. I love my max, it's a classic, old-school all the way around and I find that very appealing.