Yamaha Motor Australia / New Zealand

Ver5.0

The Legend continues

2008: The rebirth of a legend
During the late 90s Yamahas 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
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 Yamahas finest and latest electronic engine control technology such as YCC-I and
YCC-T. Weve 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
V4s incredible 200 PS and 166.8 Nm of throbbing torque to the ground its got to the
ultimate adrenaline ride. We are proud to say the VMAX is back!
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Features Overview
Speed / Tach meter with
shift timing indicator

Fully adjustable 52mm

inner tube F.fork with
black oxidized titanium coating

OEL multifunction display

Aluminum
cast frame

LED tail light

18-Inch Front tyre

320mm floating double wave disk

YCCI

Monoblock 6pistons caliper

YCCT

ABS
3

1679cc V4 , FI engine

Slipper Clutch

18-Inch Rear tyre

298mm wave disk
ABS

Engine Features 1
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 mile run under full acceleration)

Yamaha's G.E.N.I.C.H. technology

Yamaha's G.E.N.I.C.H.* technology is an advanced engineering concept which involves the application of cutting-edge electronic control
technology in order to deliver increased performance and an enhanced riding experience.
The new VMAX benefits from this advanced Yamaha G.E.N.I.C.H technology with features such as YCC-I (Yamaha Chip Controlled
Intake) and YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle) which are key factors in achieving the new engines high levels of power.
This new high-tech engine is the first Yamaha V4 to be equipped with a sophisticated new fuel injection system, which, together with the
YCC-I and YCC-T, ensures that the powerful 65-degree V4 engine is fully equipped to deliver previously unimaginable levels of standingstart and roll-on acceleration. Youll have to experience it to believe it, but we can assure you that youre going to be impressed!
But this remarkable new 1,679cc V4 engine offers a whole lot more than awe-inspiring acceleration feeling, and advanced chip-controlled
technology. It not only delivers outstanding straight-line performance, but it also ensures instant pick-up at all engine speeds, and offers
remarkable performance right across the rpm range, making the new VMAX a top performer on both the strip and the open road.
(* G.E.N.I.C.H. [Jenik] stands for Genesis in Electronic engineering aimed at New, Innovative Control technology based on Human
sensibilities.)
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Engine Features 2
65 degree V with centre cam chain
One of the major goals of the new VMAX design team has been to keep the new engines physical dimensions as compact as possible.
Despite the fact that the all-new VMAX engine features a 40% increase in cubic capacity compared to the existing model the new V4
powerplants overall dimensions are remarkably compact.
In order to keep the new engines front-to-rear length as short as possible, it adopts a 65 degree V bank, compared to 70 degrees on the
original VMAX. This narrower angle between the massive cylinders serves to concentrate mass for more neutral handling performance,
and makes the new powerplant 27mm shorter (from front to back) than the existing model.
As well as the significant space savings achieved by the use of the innovative new combined chain and gear cam drive and 65 degree V
layout, the use of a centrally located cam chain helps to minimize the new engines width. Despite the fact that the bore dimensions on
the new larger-capacity VMAX are over 18% larger than its predecessor, the new engines overall width is approximately the same as the
current model, and overall height is only 6.5 mm taller.
By adopting innovative new designs, Yamahas engineers have succeeded in achieving an extremely difficult goal, by increasing the
cubic capacity of the new VMAX engine by 40%, whilst keeping overall dimensions to a minimum!

Fuel Injection and YCC-T Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle

Another highly advanced feature seen on the new VMAX is the YCC-T
Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle, which features the same design as that
used on the current Yamaha supersport models.
This innovative throttle has a remarkably high calculating speed, and
assesses the engines running conditions every millisecond, which enables
the system to respond instantaneously to rider inputs.
The YCC-T system on the new VMAX helps to deliver awesome
acceleration feeling together with the desired torque curve in all conditions,
and also prevents the 1,679cc V4 engine from bogging down if the throttle
is snapped opened too quickly.

Engine Features 3
YCC-I - Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake
Generally speaking, a long intake passage tends to make an engine stronger in the low to mid-speed range, while a shorter intake
passage gives the pressure wave a faster pulse for increased performance at higher speeds.
The YCC-I (Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake) system is designed to vary the intake funnel length so that it is tuned to give a positive
intake pulse that best suits the prevailing engine speed.
When engine revs rise above 6,650 rpm, electronically-controlled servomotors cause each intake funnel to separate instantaneously,
effectively creating a shorter intake funnel measuring only 54mm, which enables the engine to deliver even stronger performance from
the mid-range right through to peak rpm.

4-1-2-4 exhaust system with short titanium mufflers

For excellent all-round performance the new VMAX runs with a
new 4-1-2-4 exhaust system featuring short, upswept mufflers.
After leaving the cylinders, the four header pipes flow into a single
chamber, where the system splits into a left and right side pipe,
and then each of these divides again to give a 4-1-2-4 system.
An 02 sensor (Lambda sensor) detects oxygen levels in the
exhaust system and regulates the fuel supply via the fuel injection
system to ensure that emissions are minimized, while a 3-way
honeycomb catalyser ensures the VMAX exceeds EU3 regulations.
The four single-expansion mufflers are short and upswept, and
emit a strong and pleasing exhaust sound with a special pulsing
sensation that announces your presence. The high quality
silencers are manufactured from lightweight titanium, and finished
in shot blast black to complement the mean and moody look of the
black frame and engine.

Engine Features 4
Fuel Injection and YCC-T Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle
Another highly advanced feature seen on the new VMAX is the YCC-T Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle, which features the same design
as that used on the current Yamaha supersport models.
This innovative throttle has a remarkably high calculating speed, and assesses the engines running conditions every millisecond, which
enables the system to respond instantaneously to rider inputs.
The YCC-T system on the new VMAX helps to deliver awesome acceleration feeling together with the desired torque curve in all
conditions, and also prevents the 1,679cc V4 engine from bogging down if the throttle is snapped opened too quickly.

Forged aluminum pistons

Another example of the way in which sophisticated technology has been used to enhance the performance
on the new VMAX is evident in the new forged aluminum pistons.

Fracture-split carburized con rods

Fracture-split (FS) carburized con rods were first used on the 2004 model YZF-R1, and in order to handle
the huge power and torque output of the new 1,679cc V4 engine, this technology is now featured on the
new VMAX.

Iridium spark plugs

As well as the performance-boosting pent-roof combustion chambers and advanced chip-controlled
technology, the new VMAX also runs with Iridium spark plugs. These special plugs are used on the
majority of high performance motorcycles, and are designed to ensure extremely efficient combustion at
all engine speeds.

Compact pent-roof combustion chambers

In order to achieve the rapid and efficient combustion processes that enable the new VMAX engine to achieve its optimal performance
potential, our engineers have designed a new 4-valve pent-roof combustion chamber. For such a large capacity engine of 1,679cc with its
massive 90mm bores, these new high-efficiency combustion chambers are remarkably compact, and their space-saving design has been
facilitated by the introduction of an ingenious new camshaft drive system.
7

Engine Features 5
Aggressively-styled new aluminum air intakes and extra-largecapacity airbox
Aggressively-styled hand-finished aluminum air intakes mounted on the front
left and front right side of the dummy fuel tank give the VMAX a muscular
profile, and they direct an intense flow of air straight into the massive new
airbox which is approximately twice the volume of the design on the existing
model. By delivering a strong supply of cool, fresh air, this new large-capacity
airbox is designed to maximize the significant performance gains associated
with the new YCC-I system.

Low-maintenance shaft drive

Whether youre an existing VMAX owner looking to upgrade to the new model or perhaps you are
one of those riders who has never owned a VMAX but wants to discover the thrill of awesome V4
acceleration you are sure to appreciate the low-maintenance requirements and superb reliability of
the new shaft drive system.
To complement the machines more powerful 1,679cc V4 engine, a compact new system has been
designed for the new VMAX. By optimizing the ratios of the engine-side reduction gear and the final
gear, our engineers have designed a smaller-diameter rear gear case. Featuring 29 teeth compared
to 33 on the existing model, the slimmer and more compact 188mm rear gear case gives the
machines rear end a much more athletic look, and further underlines the muscular image of this
iconic new motorcycle.

Engine Features 6
Slipper clutch
A slipper clutch has also been adopted.. Until now this type of clutch was more often
associated with supersport models and racing bikes, and the fact that the new VMAX
adopts this type of high-performance clutch illustrates just how special this new muscle
bike is.

Lightweight magnesium covers

The new VMAX is characterized by the use of high quality materials which not only
give the new bike an exclusive look, they also enhance the justifiable pride that
comes with ownership. For reduced weight and a first-class finish, the clutch cover,
AC magneto cover and drive shaft cover are all manufactured from lightweight
magnesium alloy.

2-piece radiator and liquid-type oil cooler

The new VMAX benefits from a sophisticated cooling system which consists of two radiators and
an oil cooler. The two-piece radiator features a curved-type upper section which allows the
engine to be situated closer to the front wheel for idealized mass centralization. In order to
achieve a maximum surface area for highly efficient engine cooling, the lower part of this twopiece radiator is a conventional flat shape whose unobtrusive design allows the massive V4
engine to be seen in all its glory and at the same time permits the fitment of a fan.
And to ensure stable oil temperatures for consistently strong engine performance, the 1,679cc
engine is equipped with a liquid-type oil cooler
9

Chassis Features 1
Newly-designed low-profile aluminum frame
As well as featuring an all-new engine, the new VMAX is equipped with a completely new advanced-specification aluminum 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 VMAXs new diamond-type frame has been developed using Yamahas 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 aluminum 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 Yamahas exclusive CF die-cast parts and extruded parts which are
welded together.
This combination of these different types of aluminum, each with a different rigidity
level, is one of the major factors in achieving the desired balance of rigidity. To finetune 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.
Theres 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 machines
character has been taken to an even higher level with the new chassis! With an
extended wheelbase of 1,700mm the new models advanced aluminum chassis is
built to handle the massive power and torque output that can be released when you
twist the throttle. Significantly, the new bikes 662.5mm swingarm allows you to lay
down the 1,679cc V4 engines power more effectively then ever.
10

Chassis Features 2
Large-diameter forks with oxidized titanium coating
We think youll 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 its the same with the new front forks, whose massive tubes are perfectly in keeping with this
bikes 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 customize the
ride to suit various situations from solo or two-up riding through to leisurely or fast riding.
And its 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 radialmounted brake calipers, together with an extruded aluminum upper section which has been precisionmachined for superior suspension action, these special front forks characterize the VMAXs inherent style,
first-class quality and advanced technology.
The combination of flex-resistant 52mm tubes, a cast aluminum upper triple clamp and forged aluminum
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.

*US Spec shown

11

Chassis Features 3
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 shocks 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 optimize the ride quality on their machine for outstanding roadholding.

Large-diameter front and rear wave-type brake discs

With all the advanced chassis technology weve described so far, you wont be surprised to
discover that the braking system weve 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 calipers 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 caliper.

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.

12

Chassis Features 4
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 systems dimensions to a minimum, neither the machines aesthetics or weight have been compromised, and the
positioning of the unit ensures that overall mass centralization is enhanced for neutral handling.

Lightweight bodywork for effective mass centralization

Mass centralization 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 machines 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 bikes centre of mass.
One of the most significant factors in achieving an idealized mass
centralization 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 classleading 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 aluminum chassis has to be experienced to be
appreciated!
13

Chassis Features 5
Tank-mounted multi-function instruments
Mounted on top of the dummy fuel tank is a multi-function Organic ElectroLuminescent OEL instrument panel which displays a wide range of
information on its 256x64 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 Yamahas
team of designers, and the new VMAX utilizes 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 youll 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.
14

Technical Spec
Engine :
Engine type
Engine cooling
Displacement
Bore x stroke
Compression ratio
Maximum power
Maximum torque
Lubrication system
Fuel System
Clutch type
Ignition system
Starter system
Transmission system
Final transmission
Primary ratio
Secondary ratio
Gear ratio-1st gear
Gear ratio-2nd gear
Gear ratio-3rd gear
Gear ratio-4th gear
Gear ratio-5th gear
Fuel tank capacity
Oil tank capacity

15

Chassis :
4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve, V-type
4-cylinder
Liquid cooled
1,679cc
90.0 x 66.0 mm
11.3:1
147.2 kW (200 PS) @ 9,000 rpm
166.8 Nm (17.0 kg-m) @ 6,500 rpm
Wet sump
Fuel injection
Wet, multiple-disc diaphragm spring
TCI
Electric
Constant mesh, 5-speed
Shaft drive
1.509
3.082
2.375
1.810
1.400
1.115
0.935
15 litres
5.9 litres

Aluminum, Diamond-shaped
Front suspension
Telescopic forks, 52 mm
Front travel
120 mm
Rear suspension
Swingarm (Link-type suspension)
Rear travel
110 mm
Caster angle
31
Trail
148 mm
Front brake
Dual wave discs, 320 mm
Rear brake
Single wave disc, 298 mm
Front tyre
120/70 R18M/C (59V)
Rear tyre
200/50 R18M/C (76V)

Dimensions :
Length
Width
Height
Seat height
Wheel base
Min. ground clearance
Service weight

Colour :
SMM (Black Metallic M)

2,395 mm
820 mm
1,190 mm
775 mm
1,700 mm
140 mm
310 kg

Vmax Accessories
Boulevard Windscreen

Carbon Fibre Components

Rear Fender

Meter Cover
Top Cover

Front Fender

Intake Cover Set

Side Cover Set

* US Accessories shown.
Price / Availability for Aus/NZ market is to be confirmed

16

Vmax Accessories
Other Accessories
Billet Swingarm Pivot Cover Set

Touring Windshield, 61 cm high,

Includes mounting hardware.

Hard Saddlebags. Requires

Bracket Set (not shown) or
Short Passenger Backrest
for fitting.

Tail Pack, fit to either pillion

seat or Luggage Rack.

Billet Cam Cover Set

Luggage Rack, requires
Small Passenger Backrest
for fitting..

Short Passenger
Backrest

Stiletto Pillion Seat

Billet Master Cylinder Covers

* US Accessories shown.
Price / Availability for Aus/NZ market is to be confirmed.

17

Vmax Accessories
2009 VMAX GENUINE ACCESSORY LIST
Part Number

Description

2S3-F15E0-U0-00

CARBON FIBRE REAR FENDER

2S3-F15E0-V0-00

CARBON FIBRE FRONT FENDER

2S3-F17B0-V0-00

CARBON FIBRE SIDE COVER (SET OF TWO)

2S3-F41F0-V0-00

CARBON FIBRE INTAKE RUNNERS (SET OF TWO)

2S3-F41G0-V0-00

CARBON FIBRE TOP COVER

2S3-H35B0-V0-00

CARBON FIBRE METER COVER

2S3-E54G0-V0-00

BILLET CAM COVERS (SET OF EIGHT)

2S3-F53N0-V0-00

BILLET SWINGARM PIVOT COVERS (SET OF TWO)

2S3-F58D0-V0-00

BILLET MASTER CYLINDER COVER SET FOR BRAKE & CLUTCH.

2S3-F47C0-V0-00

STILLETO PILLION SEAT

2S3-F47G0-V0-00

TAIL PACK EXPANDS FROM 5.3 TO 7.3LTR CAPACITY. (REQUIRES LUGGAGE

RACK 2S2-F48B0-V0-00, SOLD SEPARATELY, OR FITS OE PILLION SEAT)

2S3-F48B0-V0-00

LUGGAGE RACK
(REQUIRES PASSENGER BACKREST 2S3-F84U0-V0-00, SOLD SEPARATELY)

2S3-F81A0-V0-00

MOTORCYCLE COVER - BLACK / GREY

2S3-F83J0-U0-00

TOURING WINDSHIELD 4.5MM THICK x 39.5CM HIGH (MOUNTS INCLUDED)

2S3-F83J0-V0-00

BOULEVARD WINDSCREEN

2S3-F84G0-V0-00

SADDLEBAG MOUNTING KIT

2S3-F84H0-V0-00

HARD SADDLEBAGS WITH SOFT COVER, 17.2 LTRS CAPACITY.

(REQUIRES MOUNT KIT 2S2-F84G0-V0-00, SOLD SEPARATELY-UNLESS
SHORT PASSENGER BACKREST 2S2-F84U0-V0-00 IS FITTED)

2S3-F84U0-V0-00

SHORT PASSENGER BACKREST (INCLUDES SIDE ARMS / UPRIGHT & PAD)

18

* US Accessories listed.
Price / Availability for Aus / NZ market
is to be confirmed