Motorcycle reviews,Pictures,Videos,Motorcycle Wallpapers,Bike Stunts Videos: 2009 Yamaha VMax VMX17

2009 Yamaha VMax VMX17

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

• 2009 Yamaha VMax VMX17

2009 Yamaha VMax VMX17

The legend is re-born.

In '85 the original V-Max turned the motorcycle world on its ear. Our engineers
took a big dose of the original "Mad Max" DNA then added a bunch
of Yamaha's latest sport bike technologies like our chip controlled variable
intake stacks, a new high tech fuel injection system and our famous fly by
wire throttle. The result is stunning. The legendary sound, engine character
and amazing acceleration are all part of the 2009 design but there is a twist.
The new VMAX offers truly sporty handling, thanks to its new lightweight aluminium
chassis and fully adjustable suspension. We even improved rider comfort. Scorched
any pavement lately?

Rocket Science

The VMAX has always been the muscle bike to end all other muscle bikes. Commanding
respect, triggering fear. Now, the all-new 2009 VMAX. Re-thought, reloaded,
with a major chip on its shoulder. The 2009 Yamaha VMAX - We didn't just improve
a legend; We started a whole new one.

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!

Key Features USA Model: (Canadian Model Below)

All-New for 2009

- The long-awaited ultimate power cruiser delivers unmatched performance from
its all-new 65-degree, four-valves-per-cylinder, 1679cc V4—plenty of
eye-opening, controllable acceleration from a compact engine that looks as
powerful as it is.

- Downdraft four-bore fuel injection with YCC-I intake technology and YCC-T
fly-by-wire throttle provide awesome acceleration throughout the broad powerband.

- Lightweight aluminum chassis puts the engine low and forward for mass centralization,
resulting in a machine designed to handle curves as well as straightaways.

- Borrowing liberally from advanced sportbike technology, VMAX features a
slipper clutch, wave-style brake discs with ABS and Brembo® master cylinders
and complete suspension adjustability front and rear.

Engine:

- A new-generation V4: The thunderous 1679cc, 65-degree, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected
four-valves-per-cylinder, DOHC engine pumps out astonishing power to reinvent
the VMAX legend.

- The sportbike-proven Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) switches nearly
instantaneously between 150mm and 54mm intake funnels as needed for a broad
powerband that delivers optimum performance at any rpm.

- Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), the fly-by-wire system, delivers
flawless response every time the rider twists the throttle.

- Engine combines four-valve technology with a high 11.3:1 compression ratio,
forged aluminum pistons and NGK® Iridium spark plugs with R1-type direct
ignition coils to extract maximum horsepower from the fuel charge.

- Cams are driven by a combined chain and gear system to precisely control
valves while keeping cylinder heads remarkably compact for such a large displacement
engine.

- Hydraulically activated clutch includes racetrack-proven ramp-type slipper
clutch system that makes braking from speed while downshifting smoother.

- Five-speed transmission has superbly spaced gear ratios to take full advantage
of the engine’s awesome power in straight-line acceleration or through
the canyons.

- Delivering this power cruiser’s muscle to the street means a beefy
shaft drive just like its predecessor. Special shaft design includes two cross
joints to accommodate the fat 200/50 R18 rear tire.

- The high-performance engine is cooled by two radiators for efficiency and
clean looks. Lubrication is via a simple, reliable wet sump system.

- Four-into-one-into-two-into-four exhaust system with EXUP (Exhaust Ultimate
Power valve) delivers a broad, seamless powerband with the right VMAX look.

- The iconic VMAX aluminum intake covers are hand buffed by craftsmen for
superb quality and individuality.

Chassis/Suspension:

- The newly designed chassis is light and compact, with a cast aluminum main
frame, CF die-cast and extruded aluminum rear frame and cast aluminum swingarm.
The result is superb rigidity balance for both hard acceleration off the line
and corner carving.

- Cartridge-damper-type front forks have substantial 52mm inner tubes with
oxidized titanium coating. Forks have both compression and rebound damping
adjustability plus spring preload.

- Link-type Monocross® rear suspension has a piggyback reservoir and features
compression and rebound clickers, plus remote preload adjustment.

- VMAX uses Brembo®-designed master cylinders, the front with radial pump
and reserve tank. Large 320mm wave-style dual front discs are matched to radial-mounted
mono block 6-piston calipers. On the rear wheel, there’s a 298mm disc,
also wave design, and single-piston caliper. These high-tech brakes also incorporate
three-position ABS.

- Tapered handlebar provides a muscular 1-1/8” diameter look at the triple
clamp while using conventionally sized controls.

- Newly designed 18-inch radial tires, 120/70 R18 front and 200/50 R18 rear,
are mounted on cast aluminum five-spoke wheels.

- For mass centralization that contributes to the bike’s lean looks,
the 4 gallon (15-liter) fuel tank is mounted under the seat, with the filler
under the rider’s backrest. Tank is constructed of fluorinated polyethylene
with superb permeability resistance.

Additional Features:

- The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) uses three microprocessors to control
fuel injection, ignition, YCC-T, YCC-I, meters and other electrical components.

- The instrument panel includes an analog, step-motor driven tachometer and
digital speedometer with LED indicator lights. Prominent LED shift timing
indicator adds to the performance character of the new VMAX.

- Organic electro luminescence multi-function display provides a more precise
display vs. LCD and includes clock, fuel meter, trip meter with fuel reserve
trip meter, transmission gear position, coolant temperature, stopwatch and
more.

- Distinctive key design reinforces the unique character of this new VMAX.

H4 60/55W headlight provides excellent visibility and distinctive style, while
the trick-looking LED taillight is light, bright and highly efficient.

- Rare earth magnet AC magneto puts out a robust 420W at 5000 rpm.

2009 Yamaha VMax VMX17 - USA Specifications

MSRP* $17,990 (Intense Black) Available from November 2008

Engine

Type 1679cc liquid-cooled 65° V-4, DOHC, 4 valves/cylinder

Bore x Stroke 90.0mm x 66.0mm

Compression Ratio 11.3:1

Fuel Delivery Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I

Ignition TCI

Transmission 5-speed, multiplate slipper clutch

Final Drive Shaft

Chassis

Suspension/Front 52mm telescopic cartridge fork w/oxidized titanium coating.
Fully adjustable preload, compression and rebound; 4.7 in travel

Suspension/Rear Single shock w/remote reservoir and remote adjustable for
preload, compression and rebound

Brakes/Front Dual 320mm wave-type discs; radial mount 6-piston calipers, Brembo®
radial pump master cylinder

Brakes/Rear 298mm wave-type disc, single-piston caliper and Brembo® master
cylinder

Tires/Front Bridgestone® Radial 120/70-R18 59V

Tires/Rear Bridgestone® Radial 200/50-R18 76V

Dimensions

Length 94.3 in

Width 32.3 in

Height 46.8 in

Seat Height 30.5 in

Wheelbase 66.9 in

Rake (Caster Angle) 31.0 in

Fuel Capacity 4.0 gal

Wet Weight 683 lb / 685 lb (CA model)

Other

Warranty 2 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) with Priority Delivery Program

Key Features Canada Model:

Engine:

All-new liquid-cooled, 1,679cc, DOHC, 16-valve, 65°, V-4 engine has no
equal in its class. This new engine is more compact front to back allowing
the engineers to place the engine in the "sweet spot" of the frame.

DOHC 4-valve "pent roof" cylinder head design provides optimum
breathing efficiency for incredible engine performance. Valve actuation is
via under bucket shims. Compression ratio is 11.3:1.

Steel valves are used for excellent durability. Intake valves are 34mm in
diameter with a 14-degree valve angle while exhaust valves are 30mm with a
15 degree valve angle.

New "combination" chain and gear camshaft drive system is utilized.
With this system, only the intake cams are driven by a chain (attached to
the crank), the exhaust cams are driven by a gear drive off the intake cams.
This design allows for more compact cylinder heads since the distance or "pitch"
between the camshafts can be reduced.

Newly designed high-performance camshafts provide incredible engine performance.
Centrifugal decompression device on the exhaust cam means fast, easy starting.

Automatic hydraulic cam chain tensioners reduce engine mechanical noise.

Lightweight, forged, aluminium short skirt pistons help provide fast throttle
response, reduced vibration and provide excellent durability.

Connecting rods are carburized and use a nutless design. The lower end "cap"
of the rod is made from the same piece of material as the upper portion; this
design is known as "fracture splitting". This design aids in establishing
true big end roundness, greater precision in con rod dimensions and are extremely
durable.

New design 180-degree crankshaft is utilized.

Gear-driven engine counter balancer shaft is used to reduce vibration and
maximize rider comfort. The balance ratio is 50% to allow some pulse feel.
Since the crank design is 180 degrees, there is also some inherent natural
balancing effect as well.

Twin radiator design features a curved upper rad and lower flat rad for maximum
cooling efficiency. Each rad has its own cooling fan.

An oil-to-coolant heat exchanger type oil cooler maintains stable lubricant
temperatures for increased performance and extended engine life.

Wet sump oil lubrication system is used and features a spin-on cartridge-type
oil filter.

Mikuni fuel injection system uses four 48mm throttle bodies fitted with T.P.S.
(Throttle Position Sensor) and numerous other sensors. An oxygen sensor has
been fitted into the exhaust making this a "closed loop" type FI
system. The benefits include excellent throttle response, great fuel economy,
reduced emissions, stable idling and no choke to fuss with during start up.
The closed loop design means the system is constantly monitoring the fuel
/ air mixture and adjusting it as required for maximum performance plus reduced
emissions.

Denso 12-hole injectors are used for excellent fuel atomization for maximum
power and response across the entire rev range.

The VMAX utilizes a lightweight main Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that in
fact comprises 3 ECUs in total. The main 32-bit ECU controls the ignition
and fuel injection process, while a 2nd and 3rd integral ECU controls the
YCC-T & YCC-I. This "combined" ECU design reduces weight.

YCC-I or Yamaha's Chip Controlled Intake means the intake funnels / stacks
vary in length (between 2 positions) depending on engine rpm. An electronic
servo motor varies the funnel length from 150mm (for low to mid rpms) to the
short setting of 54mm for high rpm. The transition or switching rpm between
the 2 lengths is 6,650 rpms. The revolutionary YCC-I provides the best of
both worlds, solid low rpm torque and power combined with an amazing high
rpm rush. It takes only 0.3 of a second for the funnels to move from the tall
to the short position.

Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) electronically controls the throttle
valves for outstanding response and improved controllability at all rpms.
This system features twin Throttle Position Sensors (TPS) and a D.C. motor
driving the throttle valves. The YCC-T is used to provide even more control
of the intake air volume for smoother torque character. The rider can "mechanically
close" the throttles by simply closing the throttle twist grip.

Large capacity airbox uses a viscous-type paper air filter.

Air Induction System (AIS) injects fresh air into the exhaust port area to
fully combust any un-burnt fuel, reducing harmful HC and CO emissions for
a cleaner environment.

4-into-1-into-2 into-4 exhaust system is used. Not only does it make a serious
styling statement but also provides excellent performance and reduced emissions
thanks to a 3-way honeycomb catalytic converter in the under engine "muffler
box". It also features Yamaha's patented Exhaust Ultimate Power Valve
(EXUP). This system monitors engine rpm and adjusts exhaust flow (via the
EXUP valve) for maximum performance at all rpms with no "flat spots".
This system helps to improve torque, optimize fuel economy and reduce emissions
too.

New crankcase design incorporates the cylinders into the upper half of the
cases for reduced weight. Ceramic composite cylinder "bores" are
a "liner-less" design with the ceramic coating sprayed directly
on the aluminium block to ensure great heat dissipation for consistent power
delivery, reduced friction and reduced weight.

Open deck type cylinder sleeves are used for maximum cooling efficiency.

Lightweight magnesium alloy crankcase covers are used.

Hydraulically activated, ramp-type slipper clutch featuring 10 friction plates
is used to deliver consistent clutch performance with a light lever pull and
minimal maintenance. A slipper or back limiter clutch assembly reduces rear
wheel hop when making hard downshifts or under hard braking. The clutch master
cylinder is a Nissin design using a 14mm piston. The clutch lever offers 4
positions of adjustability.

5-speed transmission features optimized gear ratios for maximum acceleration
and performance. 5th gear is an overdrive gear to reduce engine rpm at highway
speeds for a comfortable ride.

Clean, quiet, smooth low-maintenance shaft drive is used. This system features
dual "U" joints to accommodate the extra wide rear tire.

Compact rear shaft drive gearcase assembly reduces weight and improves styling.

Functional hand finished aluminium intake covers highlight Yamaha's quality
and attention to detail.

ACM magneto produces 420 watts of power at 5,000 rpms.

High-performance direct ignition coils (ignition coil is built into the spark
plug cap) reduce weight while iridium spark plugs and high-output magneto
deliver increased spark energy.

Chassis/Suspension

Lightweight cast aluminium frame has been designed to offer an optimized
rigidity balance to maximize handling performance. This frame is very rigid
or stiff at the head pipe, engine mounts and swingarm pivot point. In other
areas, material is less rigid in order to allow for "tuned flex".

Extra-long, lightweight cast aluminium swingarm provides great torsional
rigidity for excellent handling and manoeuverability. The distance between
the swingarm pivot and the rear axle has been optimized (662.5mm) for great
rear wheel traction. Threaded holes for racing type stand are provided.

Detachable C.F. die cast aluminium and extruded aluminium rear sub frame
means easier maintenance access (and a less costly repair if the unit is "looped
out").

Huge fully adjustable, conventional cartridge-type 52mm front fork features
120mm (4.7") of road-smoothing wheel travel. The inner types feature
a oxide titanium coating to reduce friction and wear. The adjustable design
allows the rider to tailor suspension settings to match rider's weight and
road conditions to maximize handling and suspension performance. There is
6-way spring preload adjustability plus 20-way compression damping and 25-way
rebound damping adjustability.

Lightweight triple clamps. The upper is made of cast aluminium while the
lower clamp is forged aluminium. Fork pitch is 225mm while offset is 30mm.

Link Monocross rear suspension utilizes a fully adjustable remote reservoir
rear shock. Rear wheel travel is 110mm (4.3"). Adjustments include 11
clicks / steps of spring preload adjustability (via easy-access remote adjuster),
12-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping adjustability.

15-litre fluorinated polyethylene fuel tank is mounted below the rider's
seat and therefore helps maintain a low centre of gravity plus mass centralization.
It also provides space for the large capacity airbox. The fluorination treatment
reduces the "permeation" of fuel vapours (hydrocarbons) into the
atmosphere. The electric fuel pump is housed inside the tank. The low fuel
warning light will illuminate with approx. 4.2 litres of fuel remaining.

Dual floating 320mm wave-style front rotors are squeezed by radial mount,
monoblock 6-piston calipers. The result is incredible braking performance
with excellent control and lever feedback. The master cylinder is a Brembo
radial pump master cylinder with a 16mm piston, a direct GP race innovation.
The lever is adjustable for various hand sizes.

298mm wave-style rear disc is squeezed by a single-piston slide-type caliper
utilizing sintered metal pads and a 14mm Brembo master. The caliper is mounted
below the swingram to maintain a handling enhancing low centre of gravity.

Anti-lock braking system features Yamaha's latest ABS system, very similar
to that found on the '08 FJR1300. The linear controlled 3-position ABS system
features an ECU with an integrated compact hydraulic unit built into the ECU
plus active type wheel sensors with magnetic rotors. The benefit is reduced
weight, excellent mass centralization and better lever feedback feeling when
the system is operating. The main benefit of ABS is excellent control under
hard braking or braking on wet or slippery surfaces since the ABS system helps
to prevents wheel lock-up.

Rugged yet lightweight cast aluminium 5-spoke mag wheels front and rear.
The wheels utilize hollow "spokes" to reduce unsprung weight for
superior handling. Front rim size is a 3.50 x 18 fitted with a tubeless 120/70R18
radial tire, while the rear is 6.00 x 18 fitted with a wide tubeless 200/50R18
radial tire.

Conventional tapered 1?" diameter low rise steel handlebar.

Cool multi-function handlebar mounted meter includes analog tachometer and
digital speedo plus an adjustable shift light and a variety of warning lights.
A second multi-function display panel is located on top of the "fuel
tank" (actually it is the airbox cover). Readouts on this panel include
fuel gauge, fuel consumption display, odometer, dual tripmeters, clock, coolant
temp, gear indicator, throttle valve opening, intake air temp, stop watch
and fuel reserve tripmeter. This panel uses a highly visible 256 x 64 dot
matrix "Organic Electro Luminescence display". Brightness is adjustable.

Details

Bright, H4 60/55-watt, halogen headlight

Eye-catching LED tail light also means it uses less electrical power too.

Immobilizer ignition system is designed to reduce the possibility of "ride-away"
theft. This system must recognize the "coded ignition key" in order
for the unit to start. If the immobilizer ignition does not recognize the
key (or a screwdriver or other type of "jimmy tool") the bike will
not start even if the ignition is turned or forced into the on position. If
the system does not recognize the coded chip in the ignition key, it will
not allow the ignition system, fuel pump or starter motor to function.

High-performance, long-life Iridium spark plugs

Lightweight forged aluminium shift lever and rear brake pedal

Low-fuel warning light

Low maintenance, lightweight, sealed battery

All new stylish key with special key case holder

Lean angle engine kill switch prevents unit from running if it is on its
side to avoid engine damage.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The VMAX offers a significant level of power and performance.
It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.

2009 Yamaha VMax VMX17 - Candian Specifications

MSRP: C$21,999

Engine Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, 65 degree V-4

Displacement 1679cc

Bore and Stroke 90 x 66mm

Compression Ratio 11.3:1

Maximum Torque 17 kg-m (123 ft-lb) @ 6,500 rpm

Fuel Delivery Mikuni 48mm fuel injection (4)

Lubrication Wet sump

Ignition TCI / Electric Start

Transmission 5-speed (with slipper clutch)

Drive Train Shaft

Suspension (Front) Fully adjustable 52mm cartridge fork, 120mm (4.7")
travel

Suspension (Rear) Fully adjustable Link Monocross, 110mm (4.3") travel

Brakes (Front) Dual 320mm discs

Brakes (Rear) 298mm disc

Tires (Front) 120/70R18

Tires (Rear) 200/50R18

Length 2395mm (94.3")

Width 820mm (32.3")

Height 1,190mm (46.9")

Wheelbase 1,700 mm (66.9")

Rake / Trail 31° / 148mm (5.8")

Ground Clearance 140mm (5.5")

Seat Height 775mm (30.5")

Fuel Capacity 15 litres

Wet Weight 310 kg (683 lb)

Colour(s) Metallic Black