2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

You are here: Index2009 Models — 2009 Yamaha Motorcycle Models

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition
Back to 2009 Yamaha Motorcycle Index Page

Click photos to enlarge.
They make great desktop images.

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition
2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition
2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition
2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition
2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

NOTE: Also see the 2009 Yamaha VMax American Edition for more information and photos

• 2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition

 

Word on the street: V-Max is back! The legend continues…


There’s been talk on the street for some while, bikers chatting in hushed tones about the rumoured return of The Legend. Now it’s official, Yamaha has proudly announced that one of the most talked about bikes of the last quarter of a century is back, except this time it’s bigger and better than ever before.

The all-new V-max was launched outside Madrid on the evening of June 4, where the world’s media were entertained by drag-car races and jetfighter flybys before they got to see the real thing – enormous horsepower (200 PS) of metal muscle, a tower of power that unleashes mind-boggling acceleration, created for riders who know that might is right.


The new V-Max stays true to the original V-Max concept, it’s a drag bike for the street, powered by the philosophy of genuine hot-rod performance and design, built for the adrenaline rush, pure and simple.

So what’s different about the new V-Max? We’ve already told you that it’s got heaps more horsepower than the original. But that’s only half the story. The new V-Max is way beyond anything you’ve seen out on the street.


That 1,679 cc V4 engine is the centrepiece of a radical automotive sculpture that will bring whole neighbourhoods to a halt. And it’s not just got horsepower, it’s got radical high-tech horsepower, aided by cutting-edge Yamaha electronics technology from our race programme: Yamaha Chipped Controlled Intake (Y.C.C.I) and Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (Y.C.C.T).

The rest of the new V-Max is just as pumped-up and tricked-out: cast aluminium frame, underseat fuel tank, six-piston brakes with ABS, magnesium engine cases, electroluminescent dash panel, LED tail light and mega-wide 200/50-R18 rear tyre.


1985: The birth of a legend
Back in the ’80s the big V8 muscle car was the undisputed boss on the strip in the USA, and in both the car and the bike drag race scene, the large-capacity engine was king. A quarter of a century ago, cubic capacity ruled – and Yamaha captured the true spirit of the time with the introduction of the awesome VMAX in 1985. With its massive 1,198cc V4, 4-stroke, 4-valve DOHC engine kicking out 140PS, this radically-styled muscle bike became an instant legend which established itself as the definitive cult-bike. With around 100,000 units sold during its production run that spanned three decades, the original VMAX made history by being included in the Guggenheim Museum’s ‘Art of the Motorcycle’ exhibition while still in production. There has never been anything to beat it…until now…

2008: The rebirth of a legend
During the late 90’s Yamaha’s VMAX project team started to work on the rebirth of a legend. The team understand just how special the original VMAX is to its owners – as well as those fans who admired the bike without ever riding one. The project team identified a set of four goals that would enable them to create a worthy successor to the legendary original model.

– Awesome acceleration feeling together with strong performance
– Distinctive, precise and sharp handling
– A sophisticated chassis with unique bodywork
– Compliant to EU3 regulations


With these main aims in mind, the development team have created an all-new powerful state-of-the-art 1,679cc V4 engine providing 200 PS and 166.8 Nm of torque combined with Yamaha’s finest and latest electronic engine control technology such as YCC-I and YCC-T. We’ve also created an all-new low-profile diamond-type frame, which uses the engine as a stressed member in order to deliver the right balance of rigidity, which makes for excellent straight line stability – together with precise and sharp levels of cornering. All packed in a head-turning and forceful appearance.

Owners of the original model – as well as newcomers to the VMAX world – can be sure that the new VMAX delivers an unforgettable combination of innovation and acceleration.

The new VMAX stays true to the philosophy of the genuine hot-rod. Imagine yourself gripping the drag bars and feeling the mega-wide 200/50 R18 rear tyre transfer all the V4’s incredible 200 PS and 166.8 Nm of throbbing torque to the ground – it’s got to the ultimate adrenaline ride. We are proud to say the VMAX is back!

 

Special Features:

Engine Features

All-new high-powered liquid-cooled 4-stroke V4 engine
Powering the new VMAX is all-new 1,679cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 65 degree V4 engine* whose imposing in-your-face design offers you an unforgettable acceleration experience created by awesome levels of power.

Running with bore x stroke dimensions of 90 x 66mm and featuring a compression ratio of 11.3:1, this visually intimidating new power plant develops 200 PS at 9,000 rpm, together with a huge torque output of 166.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

The completely new VMAX engine benefits from the application of some of the most advanced Yamaha engine management technology ever seen in the category.

(*Disclaimer: The VMAX has a governed top speed of 220km/h, by a smart system, that still allows a complete ¼ mile run under full acceleration)

Engine
Engine type:4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, V-type 4-cylinder
Engine cooling:Liquid cooled
Displacement:1,679cc
Bore x stroke:90.0 x 66.0 mm
Compression ratio:11.3:1
Maximum power:147.2 kW (200 PS) @ 9,000 rpm
Maximum torque:166.8 Nm (17.0 kg-m) @ 6,500 rpm
Lubrication system:Wet sump


Chassis Features

Newly-designed low-profile aluminium frame
As well as featuring an all-new engine, the new VMAX is equipped with a completely new advanced-specification aluminium frame. This high-tech design has been built to deliver high levels of handling performance, allowing you to optimize the huge potential of the remarkably powerful 1,679cc V4 engine.

The VMAX’s new diamond-type frame has been developed using Yamaha’s industry-leading chassis design and manufacturing technology, and features an immensely strong yet lightweight structure that is made up from a variety of gravity-cast, CF die-cast and extruded aluminium sections. This innovative new design incorporates gravity-cast components for the main frame and pivot assembly, while the rear frame is made from a range of Yamaha’s exclusive CF die-cast parts and extruded parts which are welded together.

This combination of these different types of aluminium, each with a different rigidity level, is one of the major factors in achieving the desired balance of rigidity. To fine-tune this balance even further for excellent handling and accurate rider feedback, the wall thickness on the main frame varies from between 3mm through to 6mm.

An imaginary straight line drawn between the swingarm pivot and head pipe runs right through the centre of the V-bank, and this layout makes for neutral handling characteristics. And by incorporating the V4 engine as a stressed member – using cast-iron mounts at the front, the centre of the V bank, and at the top and bottom of the crankcase – the overall chassis rigidity balance is further enhanced.

There’s no doubt that the original VMAX established a reputation with its owners as one of the most awesome straight line performers, and this aspect of the machine’s character has been taken to an even higher level with the new chassis! With an extended wheelbase of 1,700mm the new model’s advanced aluminium chassis is built to handle the massive power and torque output that can be released when you twist the throttle. Significantly, the new bike’s 662.5mm swingarm allows you to lay down the 1,679cc V4 engine’s power more effectively then ever.


Large-diameter forks with oxidized titanium coating
We think you’ll agree with us when we say that virtually everything about the stunning new VMAX sets it apart from any other motorcycle, from its mighty V4 engine through to its radical styling and intimidating image. And it’s the same with the new front forks, whose massive tubes are perfectly in keeping with this bike’s muscular image.

These huge 52mm tubes offer excellent rigidity combined with smooth fork action – and they benefit from an oxidized titanium coating that ensures increased surface hardness and stiction-free operation – while the moody dark finish perfectly complements the black frame and engine.

The new front suspension is designed to deliver a smooth ride with neutral handling characteristics, and is fully adjustable for preload, as well as rebound and compression damping, allowing you to customise the ride to suit various situations from solo or two-up riding through to leisurely or fast riding.

And it’s not only the massive 52mm tubes that put these forks in a league of their own – they also feature special two-piece outer tubes. Consisting of an extremely rigid cast lower section incorporating the radial-mounted brake callipers, together with an extruded aluminium upper section which has been precision-machined for superior suspension action, these special front forks characterize the VMAX’s inherent style, first-class quality and advanced technology.

The combination of flex-resistant 52mm tubes, a cast aluminium upper triple clamp and forged aluminium lower triple clamp, as well as a wide pitch of 225mm, and 30mm offset, ensure that you can enjoy a neutral steering feeling for greater riding pleasure.


Link-type Monocross rear suspension
The new VMAX rear suspension is a link-type Monocross system which, like the new front forks, is fully adjustable for preload, as well as for compression and rebound damping – meaning that you can set the bike up to suit most situations.

And to make life easier, the new VMAX is equipped with a hydraulic remote adjuster for preload setting, while a remote control dial beneath the tandem footrest adjusts the compression damping. Another remote control dial beneath the left-side swingarm allows easy adjustment of the rear shock’s rebound damping.

The full adjustability of both the front and rear suspension systems is more commonly associated with supersport models, and allows the new VMAX rider to optimise the ride quality on their machine for outstanding roadholding.


Large-diameter front and rear wave-type brake discs
With all the advanced chassis technology we’ve described so far, you won’t be surprised to discover that the braking system we’ve developed for the new VMAX is one of the most sophisticated and powerful designs ever seen on a Yamaha motorcycle. At the front end, dual 320mm diameter wave-type discs are gripped by radial-mounted 6-piston callipers for excellent stopping power – and for superb feel, the master cylinder features a radial-type pump.

And for strong, confidence-inspiring braking, the new VMAX runs with a 298mm wave-type rear disc slowed by a pin-slide type single-piston calliper.

 

Linear-controlled ABS system
The VMAX is equipped with a newly-developed linear-controlled hydraulic ABS system which is designed to enhance braking control over a variety of road surfaces and in varying riding conditions. The hydraulic control system is activated by a linear solenoid valve which prevents wheel lock-up during braking, allowing the rider to experience smooth lever action and achieve effective braking on different types of road.

This innovative and compact ABS system combines the ECU and hydraulic mechanism into a single unit which is situated under the seat. By keeping the system’s dimensions to a minimum, neither the machine’s aesthetics or weight have been compromised, and the positioning of the unit ensures that overall mass centralisation is enhanced for neutral handling.

 

18 inch front and rear wheels
For natural handling qualities the VMAX is equipped with 18 inch front and rear wheels which are shod with specially-developed tyres that are designed to offer the optimum balance of grip, shock absorption and roadholding. With a 120/70-R18 front and a massive 200/50-R18 rear, this outstanding motorcycle is equipped to lay down its awesome levels of power and torque like no other machine.

 

Lightweight bodywork for effective mass centralisation
Mass centralisation has been one of the key goals for the VMAX development team, and a short test ride on the machine will reveal that its handling performance is truly impressive. During the machine’s exhaustive development and testing phase, every effort has been made to use lightweight materials wherever possible – and at the same time, to locate heavier components close to the bike’s centre of mass.

One of the most significant factors in achieving an idealised mass centralisation is the positioning of the 15-litre fuel tank under the seat. Manufactured from light fluorinated polyethylene, the tank is easily accessed by means of a convenient single-handed lever with a built-in damper which underlines the quality and attention to detail on this class-leading muscle bike.

These measures play an important role in shaping the neutral handling characteristics of this machine, whose roadholding, steering and overall chassis performance raise the bar in the muscle bike category. And just like the engine, the new aluminium chassis has to be experienced to be appreciated!

 

Tank-mounted multi-function instruments
Mounted on top of the dummy fuel tank is a multi-function Organic Electro-Luminescent “OEL” instrument panel which displays a wide range of information on its 256×64 dot display. This newly designed OEL panel gives a bright, easy-to-read display and offers an instant response, and its functions include odometer, tripmeter, clock, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, gear position, running fuel consumption, intake air temperature and throttle opening, as well as a stopwatch with a countdown function.

Just about all the information you could ever wish for is displayed right there in front of you at the touch of a button!

 

Muscular new design
The fact that the styling on the original VMAX remained largely unchanged for 24 years is a tribute to the immense strength and unique character of its original design. Creating a worthy successor to this iconic motorcycle posed many challenges for Yamaha’s team of designers, and the new VMAX utilises the latest designs and materials to create a truly modern work of art that is clearly the 21st century manifestation of the old master.

While the original VMAX embodied the spirit of the drag strip – combined with a brutal bodybuilder-style image – the new model has been designed to radiate a feeling of massive internal strength which hints at the awesome power just waiting to be unleashed at any time.

Key to this imagery are the four massive air intakes, the muscular V4 engine, and the four short upswept mufflers, which serve to underline the intimidating beauty of this single-minded high-performance motorcycle.

We hope you’ll agree that this machine captures the true spirit of the original VMAX, while at the same time projecting a high-tech, 21st century image and creating its own new look.

 

 

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Specifications

Technical Specs

Engine
Engine type:4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, V-type 4-cylinder
Engine cooling:Liquid cooled
Displacement:1,679cc
Bore x stroke:90.0 x 66.0 mm
Compression ratio:11.3:1
Maximum power:147.2 kW (200 PS) (+/-197 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
Maximum torque:166.8 Nm (17.0 kg-m) (+/- 123 lb/ft torque) @ 6,500 rpm
Lubrication system:Wet sump
Carburettor:Fuel injection
Clutch type:Wet, multiple-disc diaphragm spring
Ignition system:TCI
Starter system:Electric
Transmission system:Constant mesh, 5-speed
Final transmission:Shaft drive
Primary ratio:1.509
Secondary ratio:3.082
Gear ratio-1st gear2.375
Gear ratio-2nd gear1.810
Gear ratio-3rd gear1.400
Gear ratio-4th gear1.115
Gear ratio-5th gear0.935
Fuel tank capacity:15 litres
Oil tank capacity:5.9 litres

Chassis
Chassis:Aluminium, Diamond-shaped
Front suspension system:Telescopic forks, Ø 52 mm
Front travel:120 mm
Rear suspension system:Swingarm (Link-type suspension)
Rear travel:110 mm
Caster angle31°
Trail148 mm
Front brake:Dual discs, Ø 320 mm
Rear brake:Single disc, Ø 298 mm
Front tyre:120/70 R18M/C (59V)
Rear tyre:200/50 R18M/C (76V)

Dimensions
Length (mm):2,395 mm
Width (mm):820 mm
Height (mm):1,190 mm
Seat height (mm):775 mm
Wheel base (mm):1,700 mm
Minimum ground clearance (mm):140 mm
Service weight (kg)310 kg

 

2009 Yamaha VMax Multimedia mp3 Sound files:

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Burn Out .mp3 sound

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Racing .mp3 sound

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Shifting .mp3 sound

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Reving .mp3 sound

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Passing .mp3 sound

2009 Yamaha VMax European Edition Starting .mp3 sound

 

 

Media Link:

The New Vmax Website

 


About Michael Le Pard 10198 Articles
"Mr. Totalmotorcycle". Owner and Founder of Total Motorcycle, the World’s Largest Motorcycle Site with over 425 million readers since 1999. Total Motorcycle is my pride and joy and being able to reach 425 million people has been incredible and I could not have done it without the support of my visitors, readers and members...thank you so much! We are all making a difference to millions of riders worldwide.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply