Yamaha TMAX Review (2017)
What Is It?
The Yamaha TMAX is an A2 licence friendly premium maxi scooter and is powered by a Euro 4 compliant liquid cooled 530 cc parallel twin engine, producing 45.3 bhp at 6,750 rpm and maximum torque at 5,250 rpm.
Specs
- Seat Height: Average (800 mm / 31.5 inches)
- Weight: Heavy (213 kg / 470 lbs)
- Economy: Average (50 mpg / 5.6 l/100km / 17.7 km/l)
- Range: High (160 miles / 257 km)
- Power to Weight: Low (0.211 bhp/kg / 0.158 kW/kg)
- Top Speed: Average (100 mph / 161 km/h)
Pros
- Motorbike speed and handling
- Practicality
- Comfort
- Lights
Cons
- Screen tools needed for non-DX
- On the pricey side
What Is It Like?
Choosing The TMAX
I bought my TMAX in May 2019 to replace my former ride, a BMW R1150RT. I wanted the same level of comfort and protection but in a much lighter bike and the TMAX fits the bill perfectly.
I originally wanted the DX version which comes with electrically adjustable screen, heated grips, heated seats and cruise control all factory fitted. Yamaha don’t distribute the DX in Australasia so I settled for the SX and upgraded it with after-market heated grips and a Givi topbox. I honestly don’t miss the adjustable screen because mine is still adjustable, just not on the fly.
Power
The parallel twin 530cc engine is super smooth and has excellent torque. The SX has two riding modes, Sports and Touring but I only select Sports if I need to get away from traffic lights super quick. Touring is plenty fast enough at all other times.
Handling
The engine is mounted further forward than is normal for a scooter and this helps with the almost motorbike ride quality. It is also the most flickable bike I have ever owned. Counter steering is super responsive.
The ride is very relaxed with the fully automatic CVT belt transmission and a large comfortable seat. Feet forward riding was new to me but it feels great.
Practicality
Storage is good with plenty of room under the seat for a full face helmet, gauntlets and a few bits and bobs. The bike locks this automatically five seconds after turning off the ignition.
The rider can also choose to engage the electronic steering lock and centre stand lock for extra security. The lights and indicators are LED and super bright.
The fuel tank is small at 15 litres but that still gives a range of 135 miles between fills.
To Sum Up
Weather protection is excellent. I use the TMAX to commute to work daily and year round but I have also used it for a 220 mile road trip, returning the next day and I was perfectly happy with the ride and handling. It is perfectly comfortable at motorway speeds.
- Paul M, 2020
Price Guide
Add Your Review
Do you own this bike? We would love to hear anything good, bad, unexpected or that you have changed plus anything that a prospective new owner might find interesting or useful.