The new V-Max ... click the pic to see the gallery
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YAMAHA unveiled their all-new V-Max today in Madrid, at Santo Tome, an old airfield converted into a drag strip. The launch was witnessed by Europe's top motorcycle journalists. And I was there too.
The new bike boasts a 1679cc V4 65 degree engine which revs to 9000rpm. Yamaha claim the V4 is producing over 200bhp. The monster V4 not only produces over 200bhp but also a claimed 167nm of torque.
The beefy forks are adjustable and so too is the rear suspension - a huge leap from the pencil-thin forks on the old model and, despite its size and power figures, the V-Max isn't as daunting a prospect as the old model, weighing in at approximately 215kg.
The gearbox is 5-speed, with power going to the rear wheel through a shaft drive. The V-Max also features a slipper clutch allowing for smoother downshifts without locking the rear wheel.
The chassis is cast aluminium and the swingarm is also aluminium, to keep weight at a minimum. The brakes are beefy Bremo 6-pots on the front end - more than capable of hauling its 215kg to halt. The V-Max isn't just brute force either, it features Yamaha's technology developed on their superbike range - Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCCT) and Yamaha Chip Controlled Induction (YCCI) maximise the power output but also throttle control.
After seeing the Suzuki B-King trickle from showrooms, it's hard to imagine that you're looking at a bike that will sell well in the UK. It doesn't matter how much poke it's got or how well it handles, styling is important, and with a silouhette so similar to the last model, it's instantly classic and instantly dated at the same time.
However, if you're looking for a new bike that gives a nod to an era that pre-dates shell-suits and microwaves, you're in luck.
The bike will be shown to the public for the first time at the German Intermot show in October, and they'll be delivered to first customers in November this year.
There will be a limited run of 1500 units per year worldwide and you'll only be able to order one through Yamaha's bespoke V-Max website. UK prices are not yet decided but Yamaha UK expect it to retail for a maximum of £16,000.
