Before Yamaha launched the TMAX in 2001 scooters were generally single-cylinder machines of less than 250cc. With a 499cc twin and a separate, bike-style swingarm the TMAX blurred the line between scooter and motorcycle.
First look at 2017 TMAX headlights
The bike has gone through several iterations and its capacity rose to 530cxc in 2013, but now it appears to be set for a significant round of revisions. A teaser video released by Yamaha gives the first glimpse of the bike’s headlights and nose.
As with so many of the new bikes launched for 2017, much of the focus is likely to be on Euro4 emissions limits. But there’s clearly a new look, too, as hinted at by Yamaha’s new teaser video.
Indicators are a natural progression from current bike
It clearly shows a new set of reverse-rake headlights that give the front of the bike a much more aggressive appearance its friendly-looking forebears. They sit above distinct air intakes and are flanked by LED running lights. The faired-in indicators on the fairing sides are a development of a family theme.
Distinctive running lights flank air intakes
What we don’t see here is any clue to the bike’s technical changes. The chassis and engine are expected to be similar in concept to previous versions, and many components are likely to be carried over from the existing model. Practicalities like the large under-seat storage area are a given.
As well as the 2017 changes needed to meet European regulations – which include side-mounted reflectors and the addition of an OBD system for the emissions kit – we expect plenty of technological toys. Electronics like traction control are fast becoming standard kit even on low-performance, low-priced machines, and the TMAX is likely to get at least some level of TC. As with all 2017 bikes over 125cc, in Europe at least, ABS will be standard as it’s becoming mandatory from January 1 next year.
Full details will emerge next week when the TMAX is launched at Milan’s EICMA show.
