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. It was arguably the definitive muscle bike.
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 what it was like to ride the V-Max, check out this “Retrospective” from Rider. The most significant changes over the first 22 years of production were in 1993, when the V-Max got bigger 43mm front forks and four-piston brake calipers.
Manufactured in July 2002, this example is VIN: JYA2WEE013A086877. The seller acquired it five years ago from “a 70-year old man in Massachusetts that bought it almost new and customized it.”
During his ownership, the seller has covered roughly 1,000 miles. The odometer shows 16,422 miles.
“The bike has always been in a climate controlled garage. Never had ethanol gas run through it, and the gas tank has zero rust.”
Maintenance:
“Recent upgrades are as follows, all work done by Kyle Clegg in Tennessee:
– Carbs cleaned and synced.
– Morley Muscle stage 7 jet and air filter kit and oil pump upgrade kit.
– New Odyssey AGM2 battery.”
Modifications:
“Yellow pearl paint.
Almost everything on the bike is chromed or polished.
Over Racing frame braces.
Billet wheels.
RSC steering damper.
Over Racing fork stabilizer.
All lighting custom with a tear drop headlight.
Custom seat.
Chromed extended (2″) swingarm, 2” header with Delkevic mufflers.
Engine upgrades:
Morleys Muscle oil pump upgrade kit, Stage 7 jet kit with large air filter, upgraded thermostat and fan switch.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires with date codes of 1017 and 3417.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Light scratches, no dents.”
“Small paint retouch”
“Slight scuffing”
Currently located in New Bern, North Carolina, this Yamaha is offered on a clean North Carolina title.
Have any VMAX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
