Yamaha Bringing TMAX To U.S. In 2015

Troy Siahaan
by Troy Siahaan

A popular scooter in the European market for Yamaha, the TMAX is returning to the American market for 2015 (it was sold here for a stint circa 2009), claiming itself, as it always has, as the “Sportbike of Scooters.”

That claim comes from the many sportbike influences seen on the TMAX. Starting with the new-for-2015, 530cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-Twin, power won’t be something the superscoot is lacking. Also designed for fuel-efficiency, Yamaha claims the TMAX will return 46 mpg. Power is transferred to the ground via a continuously variable transmission, leaving the rider with other things to focus on other than shifting.

The sportbike influence is noticeable throughout the TMAX, as its LED headlights, front cowl, front fender, mirrors and instrument panel all have an athletic and sporty look to them. From a mechanical standpoint, Yamaha’s sport experience is seen again, as the frame is constructed from diecast aluminum, the forks are 41mm inverted units, and stopping power comes from radially mounted brake calipers.

Another feature seen on the TMAX is the use of a Smartkey system, making turning the scoot on and off as simple as pressing a button. The rider can also lock the handlebars with a button push as well.

At $10,490, the TMAX is priced right up there with other maxi-scoots in the category, but it’s touting performance the others may not be able to match. Available in Sonic Gray, it will be available in dealers later this month. Motorcycle.com has already put in a request for one, and will be sure to give it a thorough shakedown once it arrives.

For more information, visit www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Troy Siahaan
Troy Siahaan

Troy's been riding motorcycles and writing about them since 2006, getting his start at Rider Magazine. From there, he moved to Sport Rider Magazine before finally landing at Motorcycle.com in 2011. A lifelong gearhead who didn't fully immerse himself in motorcycles until his teenage years, Troy's interests have always been in technology, performance, and going fast. Naturally, racing was the perfect avenue to combine all three. Troy has been racing nearly as long as he's been riding and has competed at the AMA national level. He's also won multiple club races throughout the country, culminating in a Utah Sport Bike Association championship in 2011. He has been invited as a guest instructor for the Yamaha Champions Riding School, and when he's not out riding, he's either wrenching on bikes or watching MotoGP.

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