Oh **** Ya Baby !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[82ndCowboy]

I imagine that catalytic converter (WHAT UP WITH THAT ON A BIKE) weighs in around at least 40 to 50 pounds!

 

[Buster Hymen]

I imagine that catalytic converter (WHAT UP WITH THAT ON A BIKE) weighs in around at least 40 to 50 pounds!

I think all the new bikes come with catalytic converters now.

 

[bobbfrommn]

$18k, made my decision a piece of cake...

 

[RJ RJ RJ]

I think saying you are saving 50 pounds on the frame is way too high. The motor of the VMax is what weighs so much, and now with all the new electronics, sensors and 2o0 tire, it adds on the weight.

Check it out,...read through below and find reference to lighter weight about 200 times!!!!!!!! how do you add light weight everything, and have no weight reduction??????

• 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.

• 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 1⅛" 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.
• 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.

 

[Rusty McNeil]

he didnt say it very nicely no....but there is a problem here from a historical perspective.....i saw this happen in the corvette hobby too.... there was a group of people who bought older vettes and as the newer 80 thousand dollar ones came out, they couldnt keep up.....

the new vettes attracted a whole new demographic...and there was a bit of grumbling between the two groups....still is today....except that really old vintage vets are now owned by the new affluent group too....

Same thing happened when the new 350z came out; the vintage purists all hate the tuner crowd. This is something I predicted over a year ago.

All the new guys buying them were buying them simply for what they were without "appreciatting" the heritage...hope it doesn't happen with the Max, the bike needs new blood and new enthusiasts won't do anything but help to drive the mystique even higher.........put ourselves in the same shoes we were in back in '85; we had a hard on for the bike simply because it was the newest. fastest thing on the block and no other reason.....

Lets get ready for some new people on here and try not to treat them like dicks cause they are coming whether we like it or not......

I personally won't be buying onr of these bikes for several years but in no way do I think they are overpriced...it is what it is which is considerably more bike than what yje current version offers....or more bike than anything else that can be bought for that price if you compare "muscle cruisers" only........

I can't think of one; that's for sure.....

 

[RJ RJ RJ]

this is really well written and dead on the money.......

 

[Rusty McNeil]

I wonder what it's fuel economy is? I would hope it's not too much worse than the original Vmax. I thought they were going

I predict a 45mpg average when ridden sanely on the highway; 4 gallons shouldn't be a problem....

 

[cool1442]

I rode my '81 1100 Special for 22 years, spent tons on it trying new stuff, sold most of it and ended up almost back to stock for the last ten years. Know what? I had a great time every ride, all 44,000 miles and here we can only ride about 7 months a year. Now the Vmax has opened another new chapter of riding for me. even tho its a '99 and only cost $6K, I get a thrill each ride. An $18,000 bike wil never be in my life. To be perfectly frank with all of you, I have the gravest of concerns about where our country will be in a couple more years. In North Idaho, gas just got to $4 and diesel is over $5 and I have no confidence that it won't just keep climbing. Fuel costs drive every cost up and up, and until we get some govt leaders with balls enough to take on the oil companies, we are all dicked on almost all levels. All I can be sure of is that my pay check will never keep up with fuel prices, and all aroudn me I see good hard working folks slipping backward a little further every month, all holding on and waiting for someone to get gas under control. Do you guys have any answers for this? Me neither.

 

[tahoe99]

113S&S summed it up nicely and that I can understand.

My question is: what does limited production mean?
If I wanted to buy 1 next year are they only selling a limited amount of these per year?

 

[slg888]

113S&S summed it up nicely and that I can understand.

My question is: what does limited production mean?
If I wanted to buy 1 next year are they only selling a limited amount of these per year?

limited production will not last long. this time next year they will be sitting on show room floors. "on sale" guaranteed! ive seen this sales pitch **** for years "limited production". ha ha. I bought my new 2005 vmax total out the door for $9500.00 + 6% tax. wait 2 years and p/u a new 09 vmax for $ 15-16k.

 

[RJ RJ RJ]

I rode my '81 1100 Special for 22 years, spent tons on it trying new stuff, sold most of it and ended up almost back to stock for the last ten years. Know what? I had a great time every ride, all 44,000 miles and here we can only ride about 7 months a year. Now the Vmax has opened another new chapter of riding for me. even tho its a '99 and only cost $6K, I get a thrill each ride. An $18,000 bike wil never be in my life. To be perfectly frank with all of you, I have the gravest of concerns about where our country will be in a couple more years. In North Idaho, gas just got to $4 and diesel is over $5 and I have no confidence that it won't just keep climbing. Fuel costs drive every cost up and up, and until we get some govt leaders with balls enough to take on the oil companies, we are all dicked on almost all levels. All I can be sure of is that my pay check will never keep up with fuel prices, and all aroudn me I see good hard working folks slipping backward a little further every month, all holding on and waiting for someone to get gas under control. Do you guys have any answers for this? Me neither.

I sympathize.
One thing you should do is keep in mind that the usa is late to the party here. You guys always had the best prices for goods, the best income standards and the lowest gas prices. In europe the prices were always way higher and to some extent here too in canada.
Iv had to pay more for gas than you all my life, much more tax than you and man when i tell you that an corvette up here is over 100000 bucks new (all in) ....but i can assure you life goes on.

http://www.gm.ca/gm/english/showrooms/cars?adv=72495

Yes things are changing man, faster recently, but you will adjust like the rest of of did.
From a long term point of view, i expect we will see some hydrogen cars etc over the next 10 years.... it will become possbile bcause prices will be similar..... bio fuels are a joke... i was reading that if you used all of englands agro land to make fuel...with nothing left for food...you would still not have enough to supply that countries needs.... so really hydrogen from water is the only long term solution.
An lets see...to be really morbid....the automobile has only been around since about 1908 ...thats only 100 years out of 30000 years that man has exisisted as an advanced sociaty.... if it disapeared tomorrow it would just be a tiny zit on mans history....

 

[fastmax1]

I predict a 45mpg average when ridden sanely on the highway; 4 gallons shouldn't be a problem....

Damn, that would be great to see 45mpg, that alone may make it worth it to buy this bike just because of the gas prices!! I'm still waiting for a good test run from a magazine of some sort before I make my final decision!!

 

[maleko89]

My guess is 35 city/40 highway

 

[fastmax1]

Hmmm...didn't think how much insurance on this thing might be?:confused2:

 

[Heretic]

My guess is 35 city/40 highway

I'll put some money against you on this. I'm guessing 27 city 32 highway.

 

[yeroc40]

limited production will not last long. this time next year they will be sitting on show room floors. "on sale" guaranteed! ive seen this sales pitch **** for years "limited production". ha ha. I bought my new 2005 vmax total out the door for $9500.00 + 6% tax. wait 2 years and p/u a new 09 vmax for $ 15-16k.

I'd like to revist this in 2 years. I'm not buying itfor a second. They will be sold out, I have no doubt. If you think 18k is too much for an entirely new bike, I'd say you certainly got ripped off dropping 9500 on a bike that was basically 20 yrs old tech wise.

 

[maleko89]

I'll put some money against you on this. I'm guessing 27 city 32 highway.

Sounds good. If it get's better than 35, I win. If lower than that, then you lose.

BTW, filled up today and got 42 mpg. I know you appreciate that Howard. lol

 

[lankeeyankee]

Who really cares what the MPG is:confused2: Its a muscle bike, I wonder how many people go look at a Lamborghini and say "Hmm I like the car but it only gets 12 mpg no thanks I think I will pass and go look at the new Honda Hybrids they get 60 mpg.
Who really gives a **** if it gets 40, 25, 60 MPG. If your worried over MPG go get a 50CC Honda Metropolitan.

 

[maleko89]

I do. Hey, it's your money. I'm not putz'ing around either. That included three runs to 130. Normally commute on interstate and do 65-75.

 

[82ndCowboy]

Hmmm...didn't think how much insurance on this thing might be?:confused2:

A lot lot lot lot

:biglaugh: