Segment:
High-performance cruiser, muscle bike segment.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast riders, professional mechanics, owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.
Primary Competitors:
Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle, Ducati Diavel.
Performance Focus:
Emphasizes the V MAX's unique blend of power, torque, and aggressive styling.
Engineering Significance:
Highlights the VMX17's advanced technology and engineering for its time, particularly its V4 engine and handling.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, overhaul, piston, rings, cylinder, crankshaft, connecting rods, camshafts, valves, valve timing, cooling system (radiator, fan, hoses, coolant).
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle body, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, vapor recovery system.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, timing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shift mechanism, internal transmission components, lubrication, torque converter (if applicable to this model's unique transmission design).
Drive Train:
Shaft drive system, final drive, universal joints, differential (if applicable).
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs, master cylinder, brake lines, bleeding procedures, ABS system (if equipped).
Suspension:
Front forks (conventional or upside-down), rear shock absorber(s), linkage systems, spring rates, damping adjustments, fork oil specifications and levels.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), starter motor, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, sensors, ECU, fuses, relays, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, welding points, steering head bearings, swingarm, wheel bearings, general chassis components.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, fuel tank, seat, fenders, decorative components, disassembly and reassembly procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment (if applicable, though VMAX is shaft drive), brake fluid changes, coolant checks and changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhauls, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.
Component Testing:
Specifications and procedures for testing ignition coils, fuel injectors, sensors, charging system output, battery health.
Adjustment Procedures:
Throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever adjustment, suspension pre-load and damping adjustments.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic information, including sensor data interpretation, ECU function, and wiring schematic analysis for fault finding.
Rebuild Complexity:
Suitable for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, requiring specialized tools and mechanical knowledge.
Specification Detail:
Includes precise torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and material tolerances for critical components.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific mileage, typically around 12,000-24,000 km.
Engine Oil Type:
Yamaha Genuine Yamalube 4-stroke motorcycle oil (API SG, SF, SE or SAE 10W-40, or similar viscosity/quality oil).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.4 L (4.6 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Permanent antifreeze coolant (50% mixture with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific grade and viscosity (e.g., Yamalube Fork Oil 01).
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, clutch plates (under heavy use), suspension seals.
Potential Electronic Issues:
While generally reliable, advanced diagnostics in the manual are crucial for intermittent electrical gremlins or sensor issues.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Corporation
Original Vmax Introduction:
The V MAX has a legendary history, with the original VMAX (VMX1200) introduced in 1985, revolutionizing the power cruiser segment. The VMX17 is a complete redesign built upon this legacy.
Vmx17 Introduction:
The second-generation V MAX (VMX17) was unveiled in 2008, significantly larger, more powerful, and technologically advanced than its predecessor.
Production Years Covered:
2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
