The legendary Yamaha VMAX is back in a fierce new avatar. The all-new VMAX V4 packs a mighty 1679 cc V4 engine, capable of producing a staggering 200 horsepower. This is not just a nod to its brawny heritage Yamaha has combined raw power with modern smarts, adding smart rider-assist technology, ABS braking, and a futuristic hyper-cruiser design that demands attention.
The revolutionary VMAX V4 is set to push the boundaries of what a performance cruiser should be in this day and age. In building this new model, Yamaha has taken a stand on all aspects to keep the essence of the original VMAX whilst pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Those who fueled the brutal acceleration and signature styling of previous VMAX models will rejoice in the fact that Yamaha has improved this bike in every way engine, suspension, brakes, electronics. The outcome is a true hyper cruiser a motorcycle that looks as potent as a sportbike but has the soul and presence of a cruiser.
Powerful 1679cc V4 Engine
At the core of the all-new VMAX V4 is a 1,679 cc, liquid-cooled, V‑4 four-cylinder engine. The displacement is large, which endows with significant low-end torque and a very wide-ranging powerband ideal for quick on the go power and regular on the go power. The V4 is arranged in a 65‑degree V configuration, allowing Yamaha to build a compact engine that delivers the most torque and power possible.
It has around 200 HP at approximately 9,000 rpm, which is an amazing figure for a cruiser-styled vehicle, according to spec sheets. Dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder operate the engine to deliver that power smoothly. This mechanism guarantees efficient breathing and high rev performance, not to mention a growling satisfaction when acceleration.
The compression ratio of the VMAX is about 11.3:1, which provides a nice mixture of responsiveness and performance. For the final drive, Yamaha’s engineers opted to utilize a shaft drive, which is not only low maintenance, but also helps produce the characteristically smooth power delivery found in this cruiser.
Massive Power & Torque Delivery
The VMAX V4 is more than just big engine size. It’s great for short, intense acceleration and passing on the highway with minimal effort. While the exact/latest numbers may differ in various reports, the previous V-Max models delivered a torque of 166.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm.
The result is a strong power and torque that give the rider a feeling of strong thrust from moderate engine speed, making the bike exciting to run, and cruising unexpectedly possible bike for riding practical even though crazy the motorcycle. Yamaha’s ride-by-wire throttle system also introduces a new nuance to the delivery of the engine’s power and torque.
This “intelligent” throttle management system allows for refined modulation, seamless transitions between riding modes and addition of multiple riding modes. Essentially, it provides riders with the flexibility to dial VMAX’s ferocity up or down on the fly, all without compromising control.
Smart Rider Tech
concerningalityHappy task Since the new VMAX V4’s rider-assist technologies are at the forefront, it is arguably the most exciting feature of the new VMAX V4. However, it also turns this hyper-cruiser into a vehicle that is safer and better-suited to different climates, The 2020 Yamaha VMAX is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic aids that make this hyper-cruiser not only strong and stable but also safe and adaptable to a wide range of riding conditions.
balconystandardFirst, there is a traction control system (TCS) This is where power delivery is modulated based on grip particularly useful when kicking it into high gear or when you’re riding on ice or snow. dirtKid First, TCS traction control system helps control the massive torque lanes of varying grip very useful when you’re launching hard or riding on uneven terrain.
Also, it’s said multiple riding modes are available through Yamaha Ride Control (YRC), including Sport, Touring, Rain and Custom. These modes alter the throttle response characteristics, torque curve, and the level of electronic intervention to match a different mood and road conditions.
Cruise control is definitely another nice feature. It just so happens that it also helps to make the VMAX V4 more travel-friendly by making long-distance highway runs less tiresome. Now, Yamaha likely has refined the brakes, both hardware and software, to provide sure stopping power even at very high speeds.
Until a full-colour TFT digital instrument panel was introd uced last year, riders had no detailed feedback about aspects such as speed, gear position, throttle input, ride mode or even trip computer or navigation data, in case they had road interest. And all of that technology contributes to making the muscle cruiser eminently at home in both full-throttle rides as well as long jaunts in the sun.
Dynamic and bold hyper cruiser styling
The new VMAX V4 is a statement in design execution. This is not your typical soft cruiser it’s a hyper-cruiser design that combines brawny aggression with aerodynamic grace. The bike retains the traditional VMAX profile: a sleek forward leaning position, substantial air scoops on the tank, and muscular, shaped bodywork.
Air vents are dominant and make the beast like deep breathing in the wind. Mass centralization has also been improved by Yamaha, the weighty engine sits low which benefits handling and makes the bike feel more agile than you might expect from a heavyweight cruiser.
The frame is constructed of aluminum which provides solid strength while reducing the weight, benefiting both the performance and handling. Suspension fully adjustable a front telescopic fork (52 mm) and a rear mono-shock both come with options for tuning the ride to the rider’s taste and the use the bike will get.
On the stopping end, the VMAX V4 mounts dual 320 mm discs at the front with six-piston radially mounted calipers, and a beefy rear 298 mm disc, so it’s a great, reliable braking system. The final design flourishes include modern LED lights, a fueled-up fuel tank, a lower and wider seat, and dual exhaust pipes. Final details like machined engine covers, brushed-metal panels, and perhaps optional carbon accessories add extra premium appeal.
Performance & Riding Experience
When riding the VMAX V4, excitement is all you feel. With its 1679 cc V4 engine and 200 HP power, the machine is designed to provide an explosive burst of acceleration. The torque-rich powerplant also provides good roll-on to overtake and is more than adequate.
That bottom-end grunt with a silky top-end means the bike is buzzing at all points of its rev range.Because of the electronics refinements, most notable ride modes and traction control, the rider can now have some say in how the bike handles.
In Sport mode: everything is stiff, aggressive and fast. On long sections of highway, Touring mode or Cruise Control can dial back the pace and add to the comfort. Rain mode is useful when traction is non-existent. The ride-by-wire throttle means the bigengine never feels unruly, and the ABS offers reassurance when going for panic stops.
Despite its heavyweight bulk, it’s surprisingly good for a cruiser in the handling department, thanks to intelligent weight distribution and the low placement of the engine. The suspension is adjustable for firmer or softer settings depending on how sporty or comfortable you want to be. This adaptability makes the VMAX V4 a versatile beast, at home ripping around the twisty roads on a weekend or plodding leisurely for miles.
Fuel Efficiency & Practicality
You’d expect a 200 HP 1679 cc touring bike to be thirsty, but Yamaha has done some taming of its appetite. It’s not a tiny commuter bike by any means, but the VMAX V4 does manage to straddle the line between performance and the fuel efficiency right side of it. On previous VMAX, fuel consumption wasn’t extreme for the power on tap.
This is balanced quite well by the 15-litre fuel tank to allow for long-ish rides without making the bike too heavy.Also adding to the practical appeal of the shaft drive: you don’t have to mess around (not nearly so much, at any rate) with the maintenance on shaft drives that you do with chain drives, which is a boon on a big cruiser you want for both performance and touring.
The technology package, and chassis that feels modern, also make it easier to live with on a day to day basis than a pure sportbike, and yet its sheer presence makes sure it continues to turn heads when its city traffic-or-road-bound.
Competitor Comparison & Market Standing
The new Yamaha VMAX V4 is making its way into a competitive market. It goes up against some great high-performance cruiser and muscle bike contenders in the Ducati Diavel, Triumph Rocket and the like powercruisers. What distinguishes the VMAX is its iconic lineage, its exclusive V4 engine and its combination of raw power with leading-edge technology.
Many cruisers aren’t as sporty,” Rizzo tells me this. Unlike dedicated sportbikes, it has an elevated riding position and the ergonomics of a cruiser. Its Smart Technology: Ride modes, traction control, ABS, cruise control put it on par with, or even ahead of, many modern sports machines on the usability front. For anyone looking for a machine that represents emotional power, and is technical sleeker, the VMAX V4 should be the perfect pick.
Design Philosophy & Heritage
Yamaha’s choice to bring back the VMAX nameplate is founded on a respect for its heritage. The original VMAX was always about being a “muscle cruiser,” a cruiser and performance machine hybrid unlike any other. With Yamaha keeping the V4 layout and bringing in modern technology, they pay homage to that legacy.
The design is inspired by aggression + control. Bold signature details such as the scoops, a chiseled frame and a wide fuel tank bring back the original VMAX DNA and the rest of the design philosophy introduces a new age of ergonomics, electronics, and materials. This fusion of legacy and forward-thinking points allows the new VMAX V4 to stay true to its roots, and at the same time, be looking forward for riders in 2025.
Safety & Rider Confidence
There has been no sacrifice in the name of performance when it comes to the safety. Thank the inclusion of ABS for a bike that can quickly speed up so much. Yamaha’s state-of-the-art ABS system delivers exceptional, controlled braking. Traction control pairs with the massive torque to prevent unwanted wheel spin, especially when accelerating at low speeds or on slippery surfaces.
The selectable riding modes give riders a choice on how much electronic intervention they want, which gives confidence in less aggressive riding or less experienced riders. Plus, riding ergonomics think well-padded seat, weight balance and adjustable suspension are designed to deliver a more stable, controllable ride that reduces rider fatigue on longer rides.
Potential for customizing & ownership appeal
With its giant proportions and aggressive looks, the VMAX V4 has endless customization possibilities. Riders can select performance exhaust systems, custom paint or unique fairings. Considering Yamaha’s background and reputation and VMAX the iconic, i believe third party support options will expand, and there will be allot for owners to make it their own.
Ownership appeal isn’t just about power, it is about experience. For many riders, to own a VMAX is to be part of a tradition a statement machine with an enormous presence, stunning visuals, and catastrophic performance. Keep it stock or customize it the VMAX is an iconic and functional bike that has a lot of emotion behind it too.
