Star Motorcycles announced.....

[MrSled]

Star Motorcycles Debuts All-New 2009 VMAX Motorcycle


San Diego, Calif. – (June 4, 2008) – Star Motorcycles unveiled the highly-anticipated 2009 VMAX power-cruiser last night aboard the USS Midway in San Diego, Calif.

This brand new VMAX is a bold, next-generation interpretation of motorcycling’s iconic muscle bike. When the VMAX made its first appearance on the streets and highways in 1984, its quick off-the-line power and a unique, muscular look made an instant favorite. It’s fiercely loyal following meant a 23-year production run of the model, nearly without changes from the original… a feat almost unheard of in motorsports.

For 2009, this reinvented VMAX has at its heart an all-new 1679cc four-valve, DOHC liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine that uses YCC-T fly-by-wire throttle and YCC-I variable intake length technologies proven on the R1 and R6 for truly impressive power throughout the broad powerband. Also visually powerful, the engine’s iconic Vmax aluminum intake covers are hand buffed by craftsmen for superb quality and individuality, testament to this bike’s unique stature.

Power is fed through the five-speed transmission, which features a slipper-type clutch that makes braking from speed while downshifting smoother, to the shaft drive and fat 200/50 R18 rear tire.

Just as innovative, the chassis of the VMAX is an all-new design with a lightweight aluminum frame and swing arm, fully adjustable forks and single rear shock, Brembo®-designed brake master cylinders, wave-type brake rotors, and ABS.

The all-new 2009 VMAX production will be limited and available quantities starting today through any Star Motorcycles/Yamaha dealership via a special order program. Each bike will come with a 2-year warranty and an individually numbered commemorative frame badge.

For more information about VMAX, go to StarMotorcycles.com/NewVMAX.

 

[rightarm]

Another fine tuned piece of engineering from Yamaha to there loyalist's and some envy to those who aren't.

 

[Bakemono]

I like everything about it except for the shaft drive. I would have preferred them go with belt or chain drive.

 

[Sasquatch]

I like everything about it except for the shaft drive. I would have preferred them go with belt or chain drive.

Shaft drive is smooth but sucks up a huge amount of power. Belt would increase the power by close to 20% to the rear wheel. Old adage of 10% loss per 90 degree angle. Even belt drive uses power but miniscule compared to shaft.

Shaft also brings steering pull from rotational torque into the picture. Big power big twist. Not uncontrolable but it exists. Can be fun in a corner all leaned over when getting on or off the throttle. Wheelies are best not performed with a shaft drive as once the front wheel leaves the ground the bike starts to twist around on the driveshaft. Be prepared for it.

That being said did I say shaft was smooth and maintainence free. Should be a nice bike! I'd like to take on for a spin.

 

[Morgan]

I like everything about it except for the shaft drive. I would have preferred them go with belt or chain drive.

They dont make a belt that will hold up to that much Horsepower and Torque.

I have heard Horsepower numbers to be 200-210.

Torque around 140-150.

Definitely an improvement over the old V-Max, but still only a 4 gallon gas tank. Maybe 100-125 miles on a tank.

 

[Sasquatch]

They dont make a belt that will hold up to that much Horsepower and Torque.

I have heard Horsepower numbers to be 200-210.

Torque around 140-150.

They use belt drives on motors putting out 600 plus ponies. I would say Yamaha uses shaft for the least maintenance. Best durability!

 

[RSVECTORFREAK]

Top speed is 135 MPH.....must be limited by the shaft drive I take it...