I Finally Rode the LEGENDARY Yamaha VMAX!

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00:00 - Intro
00:57 - 1989 VMAX Overview
03:37 - 2010 VMAX Overview
06:52 - First Impressions of 1989 VMAX
09:06 - Highway with 89 VMAX
15:58 - Twisties on 89 VMAX
21:43 - First Impressions of 10 VMAX
27:56 - Backroads with 10 VMAX
32:48 - Highway with 10 VMAX
34:03 - Massive Pull on 10 VMAX
36:26 - Burnouts
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[@yammienoob]

Big thanks to Manscaped.com/yammie for the support! 20% off automatically through that link

[@keithsmith9889]

Yes they turbo and super charge them. Important to mention geen 2 is way down tuned from factory a reflaah alone yields 240 hoarse and 130 foot pounds.

[@keithsmith9889]

I have been saying for years this is your best chance at falling in love with a cruiser

[@MM-ne1lk]

Yammie, this bike has been around for 35 years, Vmax owners have implemented simple mods to make it stop, and handle much better. I know this guy loves his original bike, but it's actually a dis-service not to modify it to make it more solid and less weird. Not to mention less dangerous.

[@TheJavaman181]

I have a 2000 vmax. Nice review 😊

[@hankweultjes2739]

It’s to bad Yamaha never sold the mt01 in the USA. You would have fun on it. 1700 v twin air cooled with r1 suspension. 530 pounds of fun. I just mentioned it because you thought the v max was an odd combination.

[@keithsmith9889]

Bro I'm just thrilled you finally understand why everyone who ever rode one can't stop geeking out about it

[@RwP223]

Tries to sell one this summer for $3500 ready to ride 18k miles but not immaculate, no one wants it.

[@7Scarecrows]

yup

[@wolfnomis8138]

Best bike ever for me, owning both the 1200 and the 1700 but I bought them new and I would never buy a used one. To many idiots out there who can't control themselves when they get in touch with the VMax. Plus, most of these bikes are individualized heavily and I dont want to ride around on a bike that someone has individualized for himself.

[@jakeedgell591]

​@@RwP223 what year and what state? I might have a buyer for you

[@InuranusBrokoff]

​@@RwP223I'm guessing it's exceedingly "not immaculate" and I'm probably being too fair.

[@NIGBEATS]

V-Boost does open up at ~5700-6000 rpm but it does not increase the fuel supply. Butterfly valves in plenums connecting carbs 1&2 and 3&4 open up and increases the amount of air flow into the combustion chamber, bringing the horsepower from ~90hp to ~150hp. It hits like a turbo and pulls like a bastard. The V-Max was designed to emulate American muscle cars and at the time of it's release, 1985, it was the fastest production vehicle on the market. Since it was designed for making 1/4 mile passes as fast as possible, the frame was made as light as possible. The resulting frame design was very thin and does not lend itself well to cornering. The frame flexes, the front forks were too small, the rims are too thin, and the brakes are underpowered for the weight of the bike. All of this combines to make a white knuckle straight line monster. As for Yammie's comments on the sound, an aftermarket exhaust is 100% necessary to unleash the insanely sexy symphony of sound. Another few things that are very much necessary for "modernizing" the bike are; frame braces, solid engine mounts, converting the front suspension to an USD configuration, having the rims widened to accommodate modern sport touring radials instead of the original equipment bias ply dunlops, and a yamaha venture brake swap. It is also possible to supercharge the original Vmax with an old school roots blower, which looks fucking badass. And you can upgrade the carbs, COPS ignition, short stroke throttle, etc... Surprisingly, even though it's design was based on American drag racing, it was not nearly as popular in the U.S. as it was in Great Britain, Germany, and France which are all home to many examples of highly customized and fully built examples.

[@henrya3530]

All 100% true! In UK a well-cared for original V-Max in roadworthy condition (i.e. it has a current M.O.T.) need not cost as much as you think it might. If you know where to look, you can walk into a dealership and ride one away for less than £5000. Why are they so cheap? Because younger riders can never afford the insurance premiums and older riders (generally) have more sense. P.S. The engine for the V-Max was developed from the engine used in the Venture Royale, Yamaha's super-tourer and their answer to Honda's Gold Wing.

[@thagingerninjer5391]

If it increases airflow then it has to increase fuel supply, as well, or you get a lean situation and have to pull timing to keep from getting predetonation.

[@Markycarandbikestuff]

Cheers for this cracking write up, learned more from this than Yammie's video TBH, thinking about buying one of these (i'm over in Scotland) bike i have my eye on is a 95, Kaplan America has a vid of one with Supertrap exhaust (uncorked though) it sounds like hell unleashed.

[@thagingerninjer5391]

@@Markycarandbikestuff what you learned from him is partly wrong, though. You can’t increase airflow without increasing fuel supply.

[@ArchimedeanEye]

@@thagingerninjer5391 Yes, 90 to 150hp without increased fuel supply is not quite right, lol.

[@Darudebwoy337]

I had a Gen 1, 2005 Vmax. It was the most impractical, gas guzzling thing on 2 wheels. And I loved EVERY minute of it! Of the 17 motorcycles I’ve owned, this is one of the only motorcycles that I would buy again.

[@RoeyHaviv]

Me too, I had a 1991 with a Morley Muscle jet kit and a kerker 4-1 system. Best sounding engine ever and only bike I had that would spin the rear while the front is up.

[@napoleonbonaparte5774]

I got one I could sell ya lol

[@localguy8]

Really Nev337. I have a 1986 sitting in my garage , it was run thru a couple of years ago but was not ridden since cos my wife well you know!!!

[@anonimous2451]

@@localguy8 we do know bruh, but, there are times ya JUST Gotta BE A MAN. I put up with it in my younger years grief given every time I rode it and even my daughter started being a parrot, so sold em off for a few years til she finished college. Only took me 4 years to accumulate 8 bikes, all running but 2. 3 are for sale and 2 are in rebuild states

[@SikSh0oter]

Years of being loyal to this channel, and it pays off. This is the video I've been waiting for.. THANKS YAMM!!! And thanks John for providing those beauties

[@johnnygorena5318]

Does anybody know why the other guy on this channel doesn’t appear in any videos anymore What happened to him?

[@stgibson2810]

My dad always tells this story of a Yamaha bike meet in Tennessee back in the 80’s. He rode a 1979 XS1100, apparently one of the fastest bikes of the day. He said he went out for cigarettes one night, on the way back to the hotel he came to a stop light, then another bike showed up, and another, and another, the last one on his rear wheel. When the light turned green he was out in front as usual, then the bike on his rear wheel came around on one wheel and passed him. He got a quick glimpse of the bike but had no idea what it was and was legitimately shocked because he had never lost a street race before, especially in that fashion. The next day at the meet, they were doing free tunings and at the front of this particular tent was that same bike from the drag race. Turns out it was the brand new Vmax, specially tuned and being ridden by a Yamaha factory rider.

[@adnanninjaikaw]

Great story

[@randallfender96]

The Yamaha XS1100 was the first stock production bike to break into the 11's in the 1/4 mile. (Ridden by PeeWee, of course)

[@stgibson2810]

@@randallfender96 I did not know that. Very cool and insanely fast for the time period, still is fast depending on the context.

[@grumpyolddude439]

@@randallfender96 In it's day, it was the baddest bike you could buy. I had a 78 XS750Special. LOVED that damn thing.

[@floydblandston108]

We referred to your Dad's bike as the 'Excess' 1100. 😁

[@MM-ne1lk]

I took an old Vmax, put syntered brake pads, progressive springs/new rear shocks, frame brace to stiffen up that frame and now it goes, stops and handles beautifully.

[@SOLMF123]

Amen to that wanna go crazy change to 620 RK chain drive expensive but insane direct drive with super charger and might as well throw gray bars on back ? Take fine gf she will love big thick billet bal rest and it’s monster 👹. Took mine Daytona bike week and Myrtle beach bike week . No helmets and my girl and me won poker ♣️ run !

[@joedanero5360]

Was gonna say. The owner might've kept it all original and that's why it feels this way

[@Todd66]

I remember in 85 when the Vmax came out. There was a guy we rode with that bought one, put a Kerker Exhaust on it and K&N made a Vboost kit so the Vboost was always on. Vmax was startling the first ride. SOOO much torque. The 80’s were exciting times for the Motorcycle Industry, bikes started getting stupid quick.

[@Sonic_Boomer_]

I remember the vmax's running a Kirker , sounded like a V8 hot rod car motor!!

[@Kingofthepnwdorks]

Never had a Vmax (though I may get one sooner than later) but I had and still have a Seca Turbo 650. Not fast now a days but a Turbo on a bike was such a crazy thing for me.

[@Todd66]

@@Kingofthepnwdorks I always liked the turbo bikes of the 80’s. CX650Turbo, The Seca 650, The Suzuki XN85 and the all mighty GPZ 750Turbo. All were interesting, fun bikes. I had friends with the Yamaha, Suzuki and Kaw. I never got to ride the Honda. The Seca I got to ride only 1 time, but I liked it. The Suzuki handled pretty good with the industries first production bike on a 16” front wheel. I spent a fair amount of time a GPZ750 Turbo…. Super cool you had and have a Seca turbo. I have had more Yamaha’s than any other bike. I’ve wanted a V-Max for some time.

[@NBSV1]

That was the time they’d started figuring out how to make big power, but hadn’t really sorted the chassis, braking, and handling. Made for some very exciting rides. With modern stuff you can get bikes with similar, or more, straight line performance. But, the chassis is much improved and they sometimes don’t feel as fast because they’re so composed.

[@floydblandston108]

Honda brought out the V65 Magna, and Yamaha said, 'hold my beer'. The GS1150 was still the maximum beast though, at least on the strip.

[@basmca1]

He bought it in 1989 and still rides it to this day? Awesome!

[@boilermaker1337]

The handling on the '89 is how it used to be. You just had to learn to work with all the wallowing, weird twitches, wobbles and bouncing and not let it slow you down. They weren't like these modern bikes that powder your behind and sing you a lullaby. 🤣🤣🤣

[@johnrhodes101875]

yep all this new tech sure its safer but to what point and you start to depend on it there has to be a better way to beef up the brakes on that old V max like maybe put some r1 blue or gold dots on it or something like that and maybe beefer springs in the front forks to help bring it up to date. I like the older stuff I have a 90 fzr 1000 and a 97 yzf 750

[@thagingerninjer5391]

Even with traction control, wheelie control, and engine braking control off, and power all the way on the 1 setting, my 2021 cbr1000rr has 50 more hp, weighs at least 100# less, and will dog walk the vmax around a track. It was just made for something different, and that’s ok. It isn’t supposed to handle well. It’s supposed to be fun in a straight line, and it does that well. Although, my cbr probably does that better, too. I haven’t looked up 0-60 and 1/4 mile times yet, so idk.

[@umakantgajjewar8898]

Totally agree with you. But its hard for newer generation to understand this imo, since they have not lived through those years.

[@NORMANGUPPY]

Sounds like there was no air in the front forks and the rear shocks weren't adjusted. I ran my 1986 VMax with the Dynojet Stage 7 Kit that bypassed the V-boost system, K&N intakes and Kerker K2S slip-ons. Once jetting was sorted out, it Dyno'd at 145. Finally reluctantly sold it in 2013; ran flawlessly all that time. Nothing but fond memories. I get regular great comments back from the new owner. He's as happy as I was.

[@Theologic]

The Vmax 1200 is really something else. I was a 3 month newbie rider, strapped some bags on it, shipped myself and the beast to Norway and went for a 3 week adventure through some of the best motoring ways on the planet. A lot of rain, hairpin corners, even snow at Jotunheimen and 1 case of an undercooled shrimp because of riding for hours in the wet snow. I still can't believe how everything worked out, i didn't die and how much of a leap in rider skill it has given me. Since then i have been taking it to the mountains here in Europe every summer. It is a strange love, riding something that tries to kill me most of the time, but it has given me experiences i will cherish for the rest of my life. You CAN push the old one through corners, but it's gonna take some serious balls an faith in the machine to do so. What a great video Yammie, i got a sense you now understand why the Vmax is so addictive. PS, get a proper set of pipes on that old V4 and she will sing, but hell yeah down low it sounds more like a 2 cilinder for sure!

[@rubbabubba6489]

I turned 16 in 1985. You wouldn't believe what we used to do on those old bikes. my 2nd bike was a cb900 super sport. Back when riding was riding. we all wrecked at least once. No fatalities thank god. Some broken bones, many concussions. Probably why I ride a KLR these days. Great vid!

[@thumperjdm]

As a high school kid in the '80's, I fell in love with the V-max when it debuted. I finally bought a mint-condition 2005 (20th Anniversary version) around 2009. Like you found out riding in the twisties, it's really unnerving on its bias-ply tires, wooden brakes, and a suspension that feels like there's a hidden hinge in the middle of the frame. I loved looking at my V-max in the garage, but soon traded it for a better bike to ride on my favorite weekend twisty roads.

[@briangarrett9676]

I'm so happy you finally got to ride one I absolutely love my '97 VMAX

[@skip741x3]

Incredible in depth review bro! I Really felt like i was riding right there with you! love the comparison between the 2 bikes..I havent ridden since I was in my late teens, I'm 63 now... Ive had street and motocross bikes but no longer ride.. the street is pretty terrifying around where i live, even in a car! However, i think once you have been bitten by motorcycles, the Interest at least, always remains..that why I enjoy reviews like this!

[@bradhartis1929]

High Five! Been waiting on this video. I have a 2018 Max, I aquired in 2019, it had 2371 miles on it when I got it. Today, it has a little over 44k miles. Miles of smiles! So much fun!

[@briankrasne3518]

With the Kerker header and exhaust it sounds like a beast. This is the first motorcycle I learned to ride on.

[@jacobhendrickson8935]

Just recently picked up the new vmax and wow I love it. It is brutally powerful this is coming from someone who has been into the superbike scene since it all started with the 98 yamaha r1. I will always own a R1 and that has been the case for many years but I also know now I will always own this vmax. It’s just flat out awesome!!!

[@FishWithRich]

I had a buddy who bought one as his first bike! lol scared the absolute crap outa him but he always has a smile on his face lol

[@dakotamiller6326]

Dream bike right there! So glad you finally got to ride one and the legend John for bringing two

[@jamesovers3475]

Ho and buy one brother. Life is short.... but the bloody bike!!

[@ChocolateThunder6]

I owned both generation VMAX at the same time and they are both insane in their unique way. I ultimately kept the Gen 2 (actually sold the first then both another because I missed it so much). The Gen 1 was hilarious. Like a sponge with horsepower. So sketchy but it made me feel alive. Also with the right pipes it sounded like a cammed small block V8. Miss it dearly.

[@machupikachu1085]

Great vid Papa! I have a 2004 Vmax and used to ride in a Vmax club with a guy that did indeed have belt driven supercharger on his. He also had a rear tire sent to him every two weeks automatically, because he had a tendency to roast the tire. A lot. That bike is a legend for a reason. Cheers!

[@mycobrahatesyou]

I daily a vmax 1700. Makes 185 wheel with 4 to 1 pipe/open airbox/and flash. Shinko tires hook, stock tires spin. Also added a wilbur suspension and some other things. Owned many sport bikes (s1000rr's, busa, ninja) and this thing is the best.

[@bretloyd8097]

The first model, 1985/86, was the rudest of the lot. Fu@king awesome thing.

[@bobleishman7215]

I've had an 1988 just like the one in this video and a 2005 Anniversary Edition. Awesome bikes. I never parked and walked away from either one without looking back at it...

[@TheMightyLou]

I had a ‘00 V-Max and your “plan your braking” comment made me laugh out loud. That is an absolutely true statement. Accelerating and braking were both exhilarating.

[@taichung465]

The earliest gen1's (1985-92) had sketchy frontends. Single caliper brakes and 40mm forks. They wobbled all over the place so you really needed an aftermarket fork brace and possibly a steering damper. I had an '86 model in college and rode that thing all over New England. The later gen1's (1993-2007) had dual caliper brakes, 43mm forks and larger diameter rotors. They handled much better. My current one's a 2001 and I will never part with it.

[@sstroh08]

That makes more sense then. I have a 95 and I was confused as to why he thought it's so bad haha. The brakes aren't sport bike but pretty good I think and suspension is twitchy and sometimes unsettling, but never bottoms out or feels as scary as was letting on. Must just be the early ones like you said.

[@Austin_Soares]

It's about time! I've been waiting for you to cover the VMAX, looks like Christmas came early for me!

[@aweba25]

Do you own a vmax?

[@Austin_Soares]

@@aweba25 I do not but I do want one one day

[@devilsbreath5917]

I have a 2020 Vmax and it is one of the best feeling to be on and ride.

[@burger-enjoyer]

Great video! I watched whole thing start to finish.

[@stricklandwarfel1866]

man I am so glad the yam finaly got on a vmax. It might not be a track bike but its my favorite muscle bike

[@c2protect]

Keep in mind you are on a Texas Highway. Most other highways, it has a MUCH better feel to it. Because 150mph is no issue. JUST don't turn or make room to stop or you can SEE the forks flex backwards. Lol

[@antonheidebrink7716]

love the revieuw man and what a pear of great bikes

[@SirTyron]

I remember reading my first article on it and the journalist stated, "Nothing turns straight pavement into a party quite like the V-max."

[@NIGBEATS]

Finally. I'm currently working on upgrading the exhaust, ignition, and intake of my '99 Vmax. Fucking love that bike.

[@littleshopofelectrons4014]

I have a 2009 (Gen 2) which I bought new. I love it. Its the best bike I've ever owned and I'm 70 years old. Everyone calls it a cruiser but its not. Its actually a traditional naked bike with standard control placement and seating position like just about every bike was before around 1985. It does have unique styling which you either love or hate. I love it.

[@umakantgajjewar8898]

I am totally with you on this being a traditional naked bike and seating position..and that was exactly I was thinking about Vmax. I have liked Vmax since 1999, saw one up close in dealership in 1999..but never owned one. But who knows maybe in future. I love it too.

[@Sonic_Boomer_]

really enjoyed this one. would be cool if you could do a whole series of riding older bikes. an OG 700 or 750 Interceptor, ride, review would be awesome IMO,

[@seriousandy6656]

I too bought an '88 in '89. I pinned the speedo on it a few times . it says 155 but it's probably more 140... rode it long distance a couple times, the fuel range was a PIA. I don't recall the wallowing etc, probably because that was the way things were at the time. I do recall the rear tire jacking with the shaft drive when you really got into the throttle... great memories . BTW I thought it was 140 HP, but could be wrong

[@philhill184]

Awesome video! Thanks for the ride!

[@fredrickheinecke3640]

It's nice to see new people getting it as to why we love the V max

[@GeorgeOutThere]

Great to see Papa Yams doing this kind videos and not the lists :) Greetings from Bulgaria!

[@paulmcadam6825]

Two original models and a few more newer ones roaming Guyana, South America. The owners decimated many sport bikes and still do during stop light and official drag races. Most of the younger bikers don't have a clue how fast these machines get down a quarter mile. Thanks for posting. You should try to test older bikes. There are many survivors that are in good condition which can be showcased. Great post.

[@rio6465]

I had a 1989 VMax and was out of motorcycling for 25 years while I had a family and 3 kids, colleges houses etc. Then when I heard they were stopping VMAX production in 2020 I HAD to buy another! So I bough the last one in my area! I was lucky to get it! They were very high demand at the end. I love my VMAX 1700 2020. It reminds me of the 1980s! So much power, its a motor and a half! and now the chasis is refined for high speed and very stable. I am very happy with this awesome one of a kind bike!

[@ryanwong772]

All your videos are just way too good...and This is the most enjoyable video every........like..bro..your laugh of pure happiness....just by watching this i feel how you might be feeling on that beast......hands down the best of the best video..... purely joyful... 😭❤️✌️

[@rmax2]

Always wanted, but never bought a Gen1 VMAX...in 2017 the stars aligned and I bought a brand new '17 Gen2. The VMAX is addictive, every single ride! I ran mine at the Street Fights in Bristol, TN at the end of last season, first time in my life dealing with an actual tree, my best run of the night was 10.726 @120.17mph...not too bad for an old man that had never done that before, had a blast! I've been riding on the street for over 48 years, the VMAX brings back what was always exciting about bikes! I've done the Nash flash, DD clutch mod, cat eliminated, Delkevic 4into2 exhaust, & the airbox mod w/K&N

[@salimrandall]

I bought one new in 2014. Still runs like new and looks mint.

[@dangamber5707]

Thanks for the video. I have an 1985 and a 2010. Both are great bikes. You have to understand that the gen 2 would never exist if there was no gen 1. They are both a joy to ride.

[@themalaailaanaa1347]

Gen 2 had an oil pump recall

[@dangamber5707]

@@themalaailaanaa1347 only on the 2009

[@fatal_stryke7197]

The video I’ve been waiting for. So the sound changes with pipes, my supertrapps sound completely different and actually shocked me. As for the braking and handling on the gen 1, the word you’re looking for is drunken pig. But that vboost is beyond intoxicating. I had never told my girl about the “widow maker” nickname and now she’s shooting daggers at me since she said that i never have to sell It

[@irishflyer6377]

Great review, I have ridden bikes from 60s, 70s and 80s. This was a time when the Jap bikes had mastered engines and gearboxes but the frames and stopping power where the weak points and sometime scary. Great fun but wild.

[@paulbunyon6324]

Love the VMax, but I'm glad you mentioned the sound of Honda VFR V4, my 2003 with Staintune pipes was absolutely amazing!

[@Redmenace96]

V-4's are special. Glad to hear you ride a VFR, too. One thing in common w the Vmax is the white face gauges. It is a little thing, but to me it means business. (and brushed aluminum)

[@Demonbfg]

Good video. I bought one new in 85.Had a lot of fun on it and it was a good Motorcycle. The motor comes from a Venture Royale touring bike, might be why it doesn't sound like the V-4's your use too. Shaft drive doesn't help handling, lol. I eventually traded it for an 88 FZR-1000, which was a faster bike but didn't feel like it, that V-boost was like a kick in the pants where as the FZR power was linear. In 86,the govt. put more restricting exhaust on all the bikes which didn't help performance. Enjoyed the memories.

[@Jon-yy4yc]

I own a 94 I bought brand new, still have it, still ride it and OMG I still love it! I think you just have to get used to its characteristics, Learn how to ride the Mighty Max and you can ride these things very fast in the twisties. My buddies on sport bikes are amazed how I can keep up. I'll lay that thing over and drag hard parts.

[@jimmyjackass1805]

Had my Gen 2 ECU Reflashed it dyno'd at the wheel 201 H/P I was turning 9.7 in 1/4 With the front strapped and a 240 rear tire kit. For daily riding I never really liked the way it turned. Just always felt like it wanted to stand up in the corner. My Diavel was much better for commuting. 60 years old now and 36 years as a Tinknocker has blown out both shoulders. The bikes just sit for the most part nowadays. Great revue of 2 Iconic Motorcycles.

[@BolverkAtlasia]

I sold my Ninja 250 and bought a 1989 Yamaha V-Max. It's big, stupid, and completely one-track minded in its desire to kill whoever is riding it. It's the best motorcycle I've ever owned.

[@KingKoopa1]

Well yeah... You went from a ninja 250 to a VMAX. Of course it's the best bike you've ever owned.

[@themetalmaiden7462]

I had an '88 VMax that I bought new in late '87. The Yamaha dealer stored it for me for the winter until spring hit. It was an awesome bike. I don't know where you heard that these were called the widowmaker. I worked at a bike shop in the late '80's and I never picked up a VMax from an accident scene or wrecked from a dealer, but picked up many of the sport bikes of the time like GSXR's, Katanas, Ninjas, and CBR's.

[@quickshift_r]

awesome Bike! i wish i had one... thanks for your Video!

[@nevillebowman8419]

Definitely a bike on the wish list. My first cruiser was the inspiration for the VMax, a 1986 Magna V65. Put over 150,000km on it, sold it as a strong running machine. Lousy brakes, poor handling, 180km and you needed a gas station. Fun as hell.

[@fighter57965]

Let's go! Awesome bikes, glad to see them make their debut. I had heard GForce Division had a supercharge kit for these things, not sure if they still do.

[@georgemacdonald5282]

Great video, even though they weren't perfect when they first came out but that was the fun about them and a lot of the bikes back then weren't much different, plus we were a lot harder then and mental.

[@ronverhiest4801]

Great video! I had a poster of this bike over my bed from 16 year onwards and always told myself, one day I will own and ride one. But life happens and never got the chance. Until, 2 years ago I was able to afford one and immediately booked a test drive for a 2012 1700...And it scared the shit out of me 😅. Although I could vision myself getting used to this monster, the seating position was for me the biggest downside due to physical restraints. So I opted out and went for the 2nd on my list, an HD Night Rod Special. Never regretted that decision and absolutely loving every mile I ride on it. Having sad that, the Vmax will always be my childhood dream and perhaps, one day, I'll buy one (the 2nd Gen) to get it of my bucket list.

[@JasonWh]

It's awesome to watch you roads I've known for years. I won't list them here for privacy purposes but I bomb down them as well, great roads and super smooth. I will say I love the hill on 22-- my friend....

[@johnvorres4351]

Thank you for great entertainment ! I am one of those old guys who raced on the tracks in the 1960s and up to around 1978 !

[@bradhartis1929]

My 2018 has just over 57k miles today. So much freaking fun! I am on my 13th set of tires, very few burn outs!

[@blairmornay6779]

Your best video to date,thank you, perfect

[@normestits3317]

Great Stuff ! I love love my 1999 vmax.

[@hairyparatestes1183]

A friend in high school had 1 in the late 80’s. He didn’t have it too long from what I remember. Think the shafty scared him in the corners. Same problem with limited range on my ‘21 Hypermotard 950. Just a little over a 100 miles B4 tank in dry. Major fun in those 100 miles.

[@shegocrazy]

Good work in respecting the tires on launch. Old mate owner probably didn't want to replace them.

[@BikerDrum]

Nice, honest review. I bought an '88 5 years ago cuz it was available & I hadda know.... it was fun if you like a bike that goes straight pretty fast, corners like a wet brick & gets 30mpg on a good day 🙂. I am glad I owned it though as I now understand the hype it got in 1985. It still gets your attention for what it was purpose built to do, go fast a straight line! (Sold it for a 2001 1200S Bandit that offered more of the same, a Classic daily rider that is fast, light weight & a pretty decent corner carver. (40 mpg too))

[@LeCuTuS1991]

I would love to see yammie on an m1800, after riding both, i feel that the m1800 has a bit more low down grunt! Lots of fun at lights!!

[@williambrodmanvi5944]

You should take a ride on a 1985 kawasaki 900 Eliminator! I think you would be a sure believer that bikes truely did use to be dangerous. My local dealer had 6 of them and the 5 other than mine didn't make it a mile from the dealersip before they wraped themselves in to a knot! Impressive machine especially when you become accustomed to it!

[@BangForYourBuckRc]

First Gen V-max always felt pretty good to me! Except coming out of the corners hard!🤣

[@mws3779]

The Gen 2 V-Max is nutty with the functional intake horns on the tank, (the original were fake housingthe horn) and the gear driven cams. It's one hell of a bike.

[@primoservices5636]

Awesome bike I had a 85 mean bike back then. Great video had fun. Primo

[@craigburner1296]

I love it when the reviewer laughs when opening the throttle on one of the big Yamahas. I ride a Roadliner and I laugh a lot.

[@johnhiras2563]

Love these both!

[@jeffreyhurst9552]

I had a 98 VMax and you are spot on. The pull during acceleration just kept going and going. The brakes were “adequate “. It handled like dancing with a fat lady. With the baffles drilled out it sounded like a small block Chevy.

[@jasoneager9323]

A good ole muscle cruiser hits right in the sweet spot. Hard not to be all smiles and giggles. I have a V65 Magna and a road with no traffic is about as good as motorcycling can get. I can tell ya that new VMAX is quite attractive but I'm thinking zx-14R might be the next bike I'm really after. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@ronpiper5904]

Just do it ! I had a 1985 V-Max back in the day . I now ride a 2018 ZX14R with Brocks tune , Predator exhaust , 6 over swingarm . I love it , I can leave 20 min. late and be there 1/2 hour early ! I'll be 76 years old in June .

[@Meatislife]

For 10 years I rode an 05 R1. 2 years ago I grabbed a 2020 Vmqx midnight edition and I gotta tell you, besides the horridly small gas tank. The bike is an absolute monster and the sound is phenomenal.

[@mem5922]

I can definitely tell your used to the ultra precise handling of today's bikes. :) The old Max is really not that bad for its age, other than you REALLY gotta squeeze the brakes cause she weighs so much. However, with the correct tires, tire pressure, suspension settings (air, oil, and preload) and brake pads, I can ride my 89 max briskly with no worries. I can take her to 135 with zero head shake and occasionally scrape a peg in turns. Riders who aren't smooth on the clutch/throttle and not used to it's tremendous engine breaking will not feel confident in the twistys. Oh, and the engine sound... put a pipe on it and anyone who rides with you will say you sound like a hopped up V8, not a couple of twins. I love my modern bikes but still keep the Max in the stable cause it just delivers a special look and FEEL that stills brings a smile to my face.

[@No.one.or2]

A supercharged gen 2 would be insane. My 09 with no cats and a power commander 5 will melt the rear tire on demand in 1st, 2nd and 3rd. It's absolutely addictive.

[@michaelwalters3970]

I just seen this I had a 2010 for several years but vertigo killed my riding days it is a beautiful ride.

[@JSAFIXIT]

There's a guy near me who races a Vmax at the local street drags (legally done) He wins every time. He's got that thing setup good, and he knows it well. It sounds absolutely amazing too.

[@NedKelly1967]

USD duke forks r1 brakes a frame brace and a set of ohlins shocks. And you got an absolute beast. The head shakes make you giggle once you’re used to it.

[@JeffreyPerrault-hk6xe]

The sound of a 4 into 1 pipe on the original Vmax is just so awesome,and if the V-boost is wired so it's open all the time then it sounds like a V8 with a choppy cam.😮

[@KTOGDarth]

I had the 85 ... I installed a Kerker 4-2-1 header and the Dyna V Boost elimination kit ... the thing sounded like a small SB Chevy ... It would raise the front wheel about 18" in 1st, 2nd & 3rd but never try to go over ... I thought the clutch was bad until a buddy told me that the wheel just simply comes loose. Yes, you had to force it around corners 'cause it only liked going straight ... but you could do it once you got used to it and it didn't argue too much. I rode a Z1-R (still have it) and I rode with Z's alot ... I could simply "throttle play" with them no matter what they tried. You could have a passenger on the back and let the clutch out with NO throttle ... and it would pull away. This was the funnest bike I EVER owned !!! ... I miss it ...

[@Jimmyz96]

just discovered this vid, it is about time you rode one. Now you have experienced the uncontrollable "giggle factor" that all Vmax riders share!

[@Darthdemersus]

I've been hoping they'll release a new vmax for the 40th anniversary

[@rogerdaily3367]

And the gas tank is under the seat on the old one. That's just a cover next to the clocks. And the reason they feel so wollowy is the obvious rear tyre profile, and the frame is actually bolted together. A left and right, two half a frames bolted together😮 I put an r1 front end on mine and it absolutely transformed the bike into a drift machine.

[@user-nh4ye4ec9y]

I rode a 1988 model and when it hit v boost it felt like it was trying to tear itself away from me. I nearly needed some new pants. when you are ready its awesome, so much fun. Doesnt stop too well at high speeds though. small fuel tanks too.

[@rufus1346]

Back in the day I has a GS1000 which I had bored out to 1100 with wise co pistons, capped off with a Harris exhaust. The only mate I had that could keep up with me had the old style V-Max. Insane machine!!!!!

[@marathoner_Ali]

Interesting... I always dreamed of a V-Max, but loved my GS1000E (also taken to 1100). Great days.

[@rufus1346]

@@marathoner_Ali I had the 'e' model too :-) happy days

[@librado06]

I have an 86 honda magna v65 these old muscle cruisers are amazing. It's like riding on an angry cloud

[@roybatty2030]

Great video, thanks. You wetted my appetite to own each of these bikes for a day. Longer term, I’ll stick to my Tuono 1100 Factory, another great v4 and much nimbler.

[@artstoker226]

My 2014 passes everything but a gas station, it's awesome.

[@marcusgrimes726]

I was never a huge vmax fan, but you can’t argue with the performance numbers. I always loved the way a properly butchered fzx 750 looked (baby vmax)

[@scottfergusson8411]

I have had two….. loved them both !

[@thomaslouis5626]

In February 2021 I wanted to buy a new Vmax 1700, the dealer here in NJ didn't have one though. I new it was being discontinued but didn't know when. Yamaha had none left in the U.S. but accepted the order. It took 3 months from Japan but finally came! The build date says 12/20 so I'm guessing I got one of the last ones. I absolutely love it! The all black look it intimidating and most people think it's just another V twin cruiser. Wrong. I also have a 2008 Suzuki Bking and both bikes are keepers.

[@paraTRUEper]

How do you like The B King? If I didn't have an 09 2nd gen vmax, I definitely would have sought out a B King

[@HappyBacon777ttv]

Finally, after 4 years of dreaming to own one, I have officially purchased a 2014 VMAX. Cant wait to ride it!

[@hylander40]

I love the looks of the newer Vmax! Just wish Yamaha would make a a smaller version, as I don't really need a 1700cc gas guzzler!! And NOBODY makes a bike that looks like that!!! Great video!

[@bradnutter41]

I had one in late 85, i had that same feeling, I had to have it. At the time I had a 74 z1 900, man I wish I had that one back.