2013 Yamaha VMax

The Star VMax is a high-performance street bike made by Yamaha Motor Corporation. Originally dubbed the Yamaha V-Max, the motorcycle’s name was changed in the US after its first major overhaul for the 2009 model year. Although its name has been altered slightly, the VMax’s formula remains the same.

Powering the motorcycle is a gigantic 1679cc V-Four that features all of the latest hot rodding techniques including a 16-valve cylinder head, gear and chain driven camshafts and liquid-cooling. The VMax engine is capable of delivering upwards of 160 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque to the oversized rear tire, which makes this motorcycle a drag racers dream.





Although the original V-Max was known for its tremendous straight line acceleration it came up short in the handling and braking department. Engineers addressed these issues by giving the ‘Max a sturdier frame and heavy-duty suspension components that feature complete adjustability front and rear. Brakes sourced from a Yamaha YZF-R1 sportbike with an integrated ABS system provides safe and effective stopping power for the V-MAX.

Although the Vmax commands a hefty price tag, it’s perhaps one of the highest quality production motorcycles made today, not to mention one of the fastest in a straight line.

The 2013 Star Motorcycle VMAX offers a mean look combined with modern technologies, first class ergonomics and a huge dose of coolness.

This imposing mechanical beast is propelled by a 102-cubic-inch (1679 cc), liquid-cooled, 65° V-4, DOHC engine with 4 valves per cylinder. The motorcycle features a five speeds transmission with multiplate slipper clutch which can deal effortless with the massive power generated by the engine.

To deliver high-end performances, the motorcycle’s chassis is light and compact, featuring a cast aluminum main frame, Controlled-Fill die-cast and extruded aluminum rear frame and cast aluminum swingarm.

Needless to say that all these features are translated into a great stability and handling at both low and high speeds. You also get 18 inch front and rear wheels paired with Brembo brakes.

Rather than being just an impressive backdrop for the event-not to mention the coolest place ever for a smoky burnout-the clever folks at Star were employing metaphor. Duh. A less dim-witted motojournalist would have immediately made the connection between the mind-bending acceleration of the catapult-assisted jets and the ability of the all-new, 197-horsepower Vmax to boogie on down the road.

What kept the original Vmax in Yamaha’s lineup largely unchanged from 1985-2007 was raw, unadulterated power. According to Yamaha’s 2007 and 2009 spec sheet comparison, the original 1,198cc V-4 engine churned out 133 horsepower (112 horsepower and 79 lb-ft of torque on the rear-wheel dyno; Rider, November 2004). The special sauce was V-Boost. At 5,700 rpm, butterfly valves opened a second set of carburetors. The resulting jolt of acceleration was so addictive, it became a popular pastime of Vmax owners to roll off and on the throttle to get another hit, and then another.

2009 Yamaha/Star Vmax Review Specifications Chart
Base Price: $17,990
Website: www.yamaha-motor.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse 65-degree V-4, DOHC, 4 valves per cyl.
Bore x Stroke: 90.0 x 66.0mm
Displacement: 1,679cc
Transmission: 5-speed, hydraulic ramp slipper wet clutch
Final Drive: Shaft, 1.509:1
Wheelbase: 66.9 in.
Rake/Trail: 31 degrees/5.82 in.
Seat Height: 30.5 in.
Claimed Wet Weight: 685 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 3.96 gals., warning light on last 1.1 gals.
Average mpg: NA