Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1985 Yamaha VMAX. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
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!
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. For more on what it was like to ride the V-Max, check out this “Retrospective” from Rider.
Manufactured February 1985, this example is VIN: JYA1FK00XFA004201. The seller purchased the bike a year and a half ago from a private party and states, “I’m a big VMAX guy and have probably owned 50. It took me 20 years to find a first year VMAX that lived up to my expectations and I made this my personal bike. Paint is original and so is clear coat on aluminum pieces.”
During his ownership the seller has covered approximately 300 miles. The odometer shows 8,166 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “Carbs rebuilt, all fluids replaced, fork seals, brakes rebuilt, new battery. Fuel reserve light does not work.”
Modifications:
Factory Yamaha sissy seat.
Windshield.
Crash bars.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop D404F tires with date codes of 3423 and 3923.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Cibolo, Texas, this Yamaha is offered on a clean Texas title. Have any VMAX stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
