Post Sale Update: This V-Max sold for $7,210 after 38 bids on eBay. The seller told me it went to someone who found it through Bike-urious, so I’m hoping that person drops me a note to say hi…
The name told you all you need to know: when the V-Max debuted in 1985, it was a cruiser dedicated to speed. Reviewers and consumers responded positively – it instantly won Cycle Guide’s “Bike of the Year” award and it barely had any changes for the next 22 years. (Yamaha brought it back in 2009.) The V-Max’s project leader was a gentleman with anagrams for names – Akira Araki – and he imagined a hot rod with the V4 powerplant from Yamaha’s Venture tourer. It’s distinctive and memorable, and this example is from the first year of production.
The technical highlight of the 1,198cc V4 was “V-Boost”, a system of servo-operated butterfly valves that connected the intake manifolds of each pair of cylinders. It simulated the effect of a supercharger at high RPMs as the cylinder in the intake stroke would get the air and fuel from two carbs at once. In conjunction with other modifications like larger intake/exhaust valves, bigger carbs, and revised camshafts boosted power from 90 hp in the Venture to a claimed number of over 140. For more on the V-Max, check out this “First Look” from Cycle World.
This example (VIN: JYA1FK00XFA004151) has just 6,518 miles from the enjoyment of two owners. I’ve actually had the pleasure of visiting this seller’s collection before during a brief visit to the Windy City, and I wouldn’t hesitate to snag anything he’s willing to sell. He acquired this bike after it had been sitting for a while so he went through it all to make sure everything works and it’s been cosmetically detailed as well. Per the seller, it’s ready to ride or show.
Find this V-Max for sale in Chicago, Illinois with bidding up to $4,550 and the reserve not yet met