The re-emergence of the 2009 VMAX was one of the most anticipated in our company’s history.

The all-new VMAX is a bold, next-generation interpretation of motorcycling’s original power cruiser. When the VMAX made its first appearance on the streets in 1984 as a 1985 model, its quick off-the-line power and a unique, muscular look made it an instant favorite. It’s fiercely loyal following meant a 23-year production run of the model, nearly without changes from the original… a feat almost unheard of in motorsports.

The reinvented VMAX has at its heart an all-new 1679cc four-valve, DOHC liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine that uses YCC-T fly-by-wire throttle and YCC-I variable intake length technologies proven on our high end sportbikes for truly impressive power throughout the broad powerband. Also visually powerful, the engine’s iconic VMAX aluminum intake covers are hand buffed by craftsmen for superb quality and individuality, testament to this bike’s unique stature. Power is fed through the five-speed transmission, which features a slipper-type clutch that makes braking from speed while downshifting smoother, to the shaft drive and fat 200/50 R18 rear tire. Just as innovative, the chassis of the VMAX is an all-new design with a lightweight aluminum frame and swing arm, fully adjustable forks and single rear shock, Brembo®-designed brake master cylinders, wave-type brake rotors, and ABS.

We are very proud of the new VMAX and nothing pleases us more than when the motorcycle press agrees. Motorcyclist Magazine is one of the leading publications in the motorcycle industry and they recently selected the VMAX as their 2009 Best Cruiser of the Year.

Here is what they had to say…

STAR VMAX
It’s somewhere between affliction and obsession. Turn a red light green and some of us—we know who we are, and so does the DMV—devour the next city block, freeway onramp or quarter-mile, leaving a trail of smoking rubber to punctuate the moment. Yamaha understands which is why it builds the Star V-Max. There are quicker ways to cover 1320 feet of pavement on two wheels, but there’s nothing like the 110 lb.-ft. kick in the tightywhiteys from this 1679cc V-four. Unlike your average chrome-plated tribute to the swing era, Mr. Max isn’t afraid of showing a little high tech skin: fly-by-wire throttle, variable length intake stacks, die-cast aluminum frame… you get the idea. Technology cured ’Max’s chronic cornering anxiety as well, elevating him to the top of the Saturday-night food chain. But omnipotence begets benevolence.  So go ahead and look. You can’t touch this.
 
Thank you Motorcyclist……we could not have said that better ourselves!