1989 Yamaha V-Max 1200

Few motorcycles attain cult status as soon as they are announced. Introduced in 1985, the Yamaha V-Max is one of those rarities, but given the fact that it was conceived as a street-legal dragster perhaps that is not so surprising. 'Ballistic Muscle' was how Bike magazine entitled its first road test of the 143bhp monster, declaring: "When it comes to straight-line street rods, the V-Max is It."

The uninspiring basis of this tyre-shredding tarmac-scorcher was the Venture cruiser's 1,200cc water-cooled 16-valve 72-degree V4 engine, which was breathed upon by Yamaha's engineers and given a near-60% power increase. A five-speed gearbox, shaft final drive, an under-seat fuel tank (the 'tank' is an air box), and a massive 150/90x15 rear tyre were all part of the package; but arguably one of the cleverest touches was the V-Boost intake system. Electronically controlled and triggered by the ignition, V-Boost operated butterfly valves within the inlet tracts to dramatically increase power from around 6,000rpm, with the maximum available from 8,000 revs, thus enabling the V-Max to be relatively docile at low revs. "The first time you roll it on in the gears you feel like you're hanging on to the outside of the space shuttle as it blasts off from Cape Canaveral," declared Bike, "although you can pussyfoot around with no drive-line snatch in top gear as low as 2,500rpm."

And as for the looks: with its broad-shouldered power plant, huge air scoops, and that monstrous rear tyre, the V-Max is one of the most inspired pieces of motorcycling styling of all time and one that still turns heads today. With Yamaha UK not officially importing the V-Max until 1991, and then only in restricted 90bhp form, demand was satisfied by a host of unofficial imports. Not until 1996 did Yamaha UK begin bringing in the full-power model. The original V-Max disappeared from the range in 2003, reappearing as an all-new version in 2009. Production of the second-generation V-Max ceased in 2016.

Currently displaying a total of 32,570 miles on the odometer, this example was manufactured in 1989 and thus is a desirable 1st Generation V-Max, the most sought-after by collectors. Previously registered overseas, it was first registered in the UK in 2016 and purchased by the late owner from Jemspeedshop of Batley in 2017. No previous history is known. Used sparingly and dry stored for the last few years, the machine will require recommissioning - including a new battery and fuel system cleaning - before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed.

The Yamaha is offered from a private collection of motorcycles which were run regularly up to 2022 when the late owner's ill health prevented any further work or use. All of the machines were purchased from dealers and had been fully serviced prior to joining the collection. None have been ridden since they were confined to storage apart from a short trip to a local show where they were displayed. Accompanying documentation consists of a V5C Registration Certificate; the 2017 purchase receipt; and two expired MoTs.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Offered with key