Yamaha V Max 1700 (2009–2016): The Unrelenting Legacy of Muscle

Introduction

When Yamaha unleashed the V Max 1700 in 2009, it wasn’t just a motorcycle—it was a statement. A reincarnation of the 1985 icon, this generation retained the original’s rebellious DNA while injecting cutting-edge technology and brute force. From 2009 to 2016, the V Max 1700 dominated the power cruiser segment, blending dragstrip aggression with engineering sophistication. Riding it today feels like straddling a time machine that refuses to age, delivering adrenaline in a package that still turns heads and bends physics.

Design & Styling: Brutalist Art on Wheels

The V Max 1700’s design is unapologetically bold. Its muscular aluminum frame, hand-finished intake covers, and titanium-coated 52mm forks scream mechanical intent. The dummy fuel tank (housing the airbox) and underseat fuel tank create a low-slung profile, while the quad exhausts flare outward like industrial trumpets.

The V Max’s aggressive stance and titanium-coated forks demand attention.

Special editions like the 30th Anniversary Carbon Model (2015) added Akrapovic exhausts and carbon fiber accents, while the Hermes leather-clad concept (2011) showcased its versatility as a luxury canvas. Yet, even the base model’s oxidized finishes and LED taillight feel avant-garde. This isn’t a bike that whispers—it roars visually before you even thumb the starter.

Engine & Performance: The Heart of a Titan

At its core lies the 1,679cc 65° V4 engine, a masterpiece of controlled chaos. With 200 hp @ 9,000 rpm and 166.8 Nm (123 lb-ft) of torque @ 6,500 rpm, it’s a numbers game the V Max wins effortlessly. But raw specs don’t capture the experience.

Key Features:

• YCC-I (Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake): At 6,650 rpm, the intake funnels switch from 150mm to 54mm, mimicking the original V-Boost’s surge. The transition is seamless—0.3 seconds—and feels like a turbo kicking in.
• YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle): Fly-by-wire throttle ensures precise fueling, whether crawling through traffic or snapping open at a stoplight.
• Slipper Clutch & Shaft Drive: The hydraulic slipper clutch tames rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts, while the shaft drive offers reliability and minimal maintenance.

Acceleration is ludicrous: 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 2.7 seconds and a quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds. The V4’s growl transitions from a baritone rumble to a metallic scream, amplified by the 4-into-1-into-2-into-4 exhaust. Yet, it’s surprisingly civil—fuel injection and EXUP valves keep low-speed manners tidy.

The 1,679cc V4 engine: A blend of raw power and precision engineering.

Handling & Ride Experience: Taming the Beast

At 310 kg (683 lbs), the V Max isn’t a flickable toy. But Yamaha’s aluminum chassis and mass centralization work miracles. The 1,700mm wheelbase and 662.5mm swingarm provide stability, while fully adjustable suspension lets you dial in preferences:
- Front: 52mm forks with 20-step compression, 17-step rebound damping, and 5-step preload.
- Rear: Monocross shock with 18-step rebound, 12-step compression, and remote preload.

Cornering defies its weight. The 120/70-R18 front and 200/50-R18 rear tires offer surprising grip, and the Brembo radial brakes (dual 320mm front discs with 6-piston calipers) inspire confidence. It’s no sportbike, but carving backroads feels achievable—and deeply satisfying.

The V Max’s aluminum chassis balances heft with agility.

Technology & Features: Ahead of Its Time

The V Max’s tech suite rivals modern bikes:
- Organic Electroluminescent Display: A retro-futuristic dashboard shows gear position, fuel economy, and even a stopwatch.
- ABS: Linear-controlled system prevents lock-ups without intrusive pulsing.
- Immobilizer & Lean Angle Sensor: Anti-theft tech and an engine kill switch add security.

Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The V Max 1700 exists in a niche of one, but here’s how it fared against contemporaries:

| Model | Engine | Power | Weight | Key Differences |
|-------------------|--------------|-------------|--------------|------------------------------------------|
| Yamaha V Max | 1,679cc V4 | 200 hp | 310 kg | Unmatched power; advanced electronics |
| Harley V-Rod | 1,250cc V2 | 122 hp | 304 kg | Classic cruiser vibe; lower seat height |
| Ducati Diavel | 1,262cc L2 | 162 hp | 210 kg | Lighter, sportier; less torque |
| Suzuki M109R | 1,783cc V2 | 127 hp | 340 kg | Louder, more relaxed ergonomics |

The V-Rod and M109R appeal to traditionalists, while the Diavel offers agility. But none match the V Max’s fusion of muscle and tech. Its closest rival? Perhaps the Kawasaki Vulcan 2000, but even that lacks the Yamaha’s finesse.

The V Max’s dominance is clear in dragstrip-ready performance.

Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Ownership demands attention but rewards diligence:
- Oil Changes: Use synthetic 10W-40 every 5,000 km (3,100 mi). The oil cooler aids longevity.
- Valve Adjustments: Check every 40,000 km (24,855 mi)—intake: 0.10–0.17mm, exhaust: 0.22–0.29mm (cold).
- Suspension: Rebuild forks every 30,000 km (18,640 mi); seals degrade under heavy loads.
- Shaft Drive: Inspect U-joints annually; replace lubricant every 20,000 km (12,427 mi).

Upgrade Recommendations from MOTOPARTS.store:
- Brake Pads: Swap sintered pads for sharper bite.
- Air Filter: High-flow options unlock hidden mid-range grunt.
- Exhaust: Aftermarket slip-ons (e.g., Akrapovic) reduce weight and amplify the V4’s voice.

Pro Tip: Upgrade to radial tires for improved cornering feedback.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Power Cruiser

The Yamaha V Max 1700 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s an experience. Its V4 engine remains a marvel, its design a head-turner, and its tech suite still relevant. While newer bikes chase trends, the V Max stands as a testament to unbridled power and engineering audacity. For riders craving a machine that obliterates monotony, the 2009–2016 V Max is a modern classic.

The V Max: Where legacy meets lunacy.

Whether you’re hunting for OEM replacements or performance upgrades, MOTOPARTS.store has the expertise and parts to keep your V Max dominating the asphalt. Because legends deserve nothing less.

Specifications sheet