Yamaha 1200 V-max: description, owners reviews, photo

For the first time, the world saw the 1200 Yamaha 1200 V-max dragster in 1985. The motorcycle, which even after more than 30 years looks futuristic, instantly won millions of hearts and got fans all over the planet. Outstanding is not only its design, but also the filling to it.

Today, the Yamaha 1200 V-max is no longer being manufactured, the updated model has come to replace it. But the deserved interest in this bike does not go away with the years.

Features of the model

The V-shaped 4-cylinder engine from the tourist XVZ1200 Venture fit perfectly into the concept of the new bike. Yamaha 1200 V-max became the first motorcycle in the world, produced serially and having a similar layout. Being essentially a cruiser, V-max produced 145 horsepower, which even today can not fail to impress. An important role in promoting the bike in the market was played by outstanding dynamic characteristics. Thanks to them, the model almost immediately after the premiere was awarded the title "Motorcycle of the Year" from the Cycle Guide.

Other features of the Yamaha 1200 V-max include a steel frame, a 5-speed transmission, a telescopic fork and a double shock absorber, wheels with a diameter of 18 'and 15', cast disc brakes, cardan. The capacity of the fuel tank is 15 liters. The loaded motorcycle weighs 280 kg.

It's not the first time Yamaha masks a gas tank under the seat, and its propitious place is set up with a prop. In this bike this method is also applied. This is good for handling and stability on the track, because the center of gravity is much lower than other models.

Production history overview

In 1985, the premiere and the launch of the serial production of Yamaha 1200 V-max took place. In its original form, the model was produced until 1993. And the changes made this year were not so significant. The diameter of the fork was increased to reduce vobling at high speeds, the brake system was refreshed. Changes mainly related to improving the characteristics of the motorcycle, increasing its safety and manageability. Since then, the model was produced until 2007, until it was officially withdrawn from production. In place of it came no less than the legendary and popularly loved Yamaha VMAX 1700.

It is worth mentioning about the main competitor of the model - Honda CB1300DC. It was developed as a response to "Yamaha", but the concept proved to be a failure. Interesting in design and very worthy of technical equipment, "Honda" and could not eclipse the Yamaha 1200 V-max. Although a certain number of ardent fans all the same got. This model was produced only 4 years, from 1997 to 2001.

Special purpose

Some believe that the Yamaha V-max 1200, whose characteristics are uniquely cruise, somewhat resembles a chopper. One can confidently say that there is some similarity, but it can not be attributed to this class. Landing on it is classic, and not chopper, and comfortable laconic steering wheel - not a pair of ornate horns, from which the hands of experienced pilots even get tired. Yes, and take out the plug is very small, but what kind of chopper can afford this?

Due to its excellent dynamic characteristics, powerful engine, easy handling and impressive suspension, this motorcycle can be attributed to the class of street cars. Favorably standing out in the stream of the rest of the transport, it easily fits into the high tempo of the metropolis with its ubiquitous traffic jams and an abundance of traffic lights. You can race and race on it, and show off, driving along a busy street at cruising speed. Should I choose the Yamaha V-max 1200 as a vehicle for the far-range? Unequivocally yes, but only on the condition that on the way you will meet a sufficient number of refuellings, because the tank is relatively small, and he eats well. Perhaps this is the only reservation. Otherwise, the testimonials indicate that this transport is excellent for long-distance roads.

Engine

If you just discovered the Yamaha V-max 1200 bike, the specifications can surprise you. First of all it concerns the motor. In appearance, it resembles the classic Harley V-twin, but it has 4 cylinders, not 2. The V-Boost system is a V-Boost system that increases the motor's power by 40% of the nominal. The principle of this system was that after 6000 rpm, additional throttle valves open in the intake manifold, connecting the first to the second and third to fourth cylinders.

Tuning and Customizing

Customizers often put their hands not only to the fact that they have "inherent" defects, but also to a technique that seems perfect. After all, there is nothing ideal, as is known, in our world. Yamaha V-max 1200 was not an exception. Reviews of owners often say that it has an exorbitant appetite, and often the alteration primarily concerns the reduction of fuel consumption. Needs a revision and an oil hose, which wears out soon after purchase.

Work kastomayzerov concerns and design. It is worth mentioning that the bike was manufactured for many years with virtually no external changes. All the design updates announced by the manufacturer concerned only the coloring. In the hands of a customizer, a motorcycle often acquires aerography, chrome parts, a new body kit and accessories. Some seek to remove from the bike "all unnecessary", seeking to reduce its considerable weight. And indeed, a lot of Yamaha V-max 1200 weighs. Reviews often describe that it can be difficult to park when the whole mass should be kept by feet. Back gear, as for example, the "Gold Wing", he does not. On the management it does not affect, and yet some want the bike to be a little easier. For this, the body kit is reshaped, the form and size of the saddle are modernized.

Cost

Such definitions as "the most powerful", "the most beautiful" and "the coolest" have their price. If you try, even today you can find a new motorcycle Yamaha 1200 V-max. The cost of it, depending on the year of release, will be 15-20 thousand dollars. On the secondary market there are copies of 6-7 thousand, but their technical condition and the degree of wear cause questions. On average, you can buy a device for $ 10,000-13,000.