Engineered by Yamaha for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 1985 Yamaha VMX12 V-Max relies on a 1198 cc (73.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v4, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 113.5 HP (82.8 kW) at 8,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 83.1 Nm (61.3 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 94.7 HP per liter and a 2,500 rpm working window between peak torque (6,000 rpm) and peak power (8,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the VMX12 V-Max measures 274 kg (604 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.41 HP/kg (2.41 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 765 mm (30.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,590 mm (62.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 7.35 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 204 km (127 miles) between fill-ups.
Specific Output
94.7 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.41 HP/kg (2.41 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,000–8,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~204 km (127 mi)
Engine
Displacement1198.0 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV4, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV4, four-stroke
Power113.5 HP (82.8 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
Torque83.1 Nm (8.5 kgf-m or 61.3 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Compression10.5:1
Bore x Stroke76.0 x 66.0 mm (3.0 x 2.6 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. BDS35/Mikuni
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionTCI
LubricationWet Sump
CoolingLiquid
Max RPM9500
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
ClutchWet, multi disc
Performance
0-400m11.75 seconds
Fuel Consumption7.35 litres/100 km (13.6 km/l or 32.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases170.5 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble cradle steel tube
Rake29.0°
Trail119 mm (4.7 inches)
Front Travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionCoil spring, oil damper left and right
Rear Travel100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase1590 mm (62.6 inches)
Ground Clearance145 mm (5.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre110/90-V18
Rear Tyre150/90-V15
Front BrakesDouble disc
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.274.0 kg (604.1 pounds)
Seat Height765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
