Yamaha Vmax 1700
The Yamaha Vmax 1700 has a top speed of 215 km/h (electronically limited), produces 200 hp and weighs 310 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The Yamaha VMAX 1700 (VMX17) was introduced in 2009 as a complete redesign of the iconic original VMAX, which had debuted in 1985. The new generation featured a purpose-built 1679cc V4 engine with Yamaha's YCC-I intake system and a dramatically styled chassis that blended muscle bike aggression with modern engineering. It quickly became a flagship power cruiser, celebrated for its brutal acceleration and striking industrial-art aesthetics.
200 hp
Power
167 Nm
Torque
310 kg
Weight
215 km/h (electronically limited)
Top Speed
7.5–9.5 L/100km (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Unique YCC-I Intake System
The VMAX 1700 features Yamaha's exclusive Y-shaped intake manifold that splits into four carb-style inlets, delivering a dramatic power surge above 6,500 RPM. This 'V-boost' effect is a signature trait buyers specifically seek out.
Watch the Cooling System
Known weak points include the water pump weep hole seal and radiator hoses, which can develop slow leaks after 20,000+ miles. Always inspect coolant condition and check for any staining around the pump during a pre-purchase inspection.
Strong Resale Value
The VMAX 1700 holds its value exceptionally well due to its cult following and discontinued production status after 2020. Low-mileage examples in good condition consistently command near-original retail pricing on the used market.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original launch: 1679cc V4, VCT intake, 200hp claimed, aggressive muscle-bike styling, shaft drive.
Minor updates including ABS added as standard, traction control introduced, refined fuel mapping and instrumentation.
Used Buyer Review
"A tire-destroying, jaw-dropping muscle cruiser that demands respect constantly."
$9,000-$14,000 usedThe VMAX 1700 is genuinely unlike anything else on the market, and that's both its greatest strength and its biggest warning label. That 1679cc V4 with YCC-I intake makes absurd power — we're talking 200Nm of torque that arrives early and stays violent. First and second gear are legitimately scary if you're not ready for it. Yamaha built this thing as a statement, not a commuter, and it shows in every ride. Used examples typically sit between 8,000-20,000 miles and most have been babied by owners who bought them as weekend toys. Check the rear tire wear pattern obsessively — owners who discovered that torque early burn through them fast. The brakes are excellent but the ABS system on early models can be finicky. Budget for tires every 4,000 miles if you ride it properly. Maintenance costs bite harder than the purchase price suggests. Dealer servicing is expensive and independent mechanics often won't touch the valve clearances. Find one with full service history or walk away.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Yamaha Vmax 1700 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALCheck voltage at idle and rev, inspect stator output
Look for rough idle, hesitation, or hard starting
Confirm fans kick on during warm idle in traffic
Listen for clunk during throttle on/off transitions
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid cruiser, maintain charging system religiously
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha Vmax 1700
Suzuki Boulevard M109r
Suzuki Intruder M1800r
Harley-davidson V-rod Muscle
Suzuki Vzr1800 Intruder M1800r
Yamaha V-max 1200
Compare Yamaha Vmax 1700 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Yamaha Vmax 1700 vs Suzuki Boulevard M109r
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Vmax 1700 vs Suzuki Intruder M1800r
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Vmax 1700 vs Harley-davidson V-rod Muscle
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Vmax 1700 vs Suzuki Vzr1800 Intruder M1800r
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Vmax 1700 vs Yamaha V-max 1200
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Yamaha Vmax 1700 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Yamaha Vmax 1700? +
Stator failure causing charging system breakdown: Check voltage at idle and rev, inspect stator output (serious) | Fuel injector clogging from ethanol buildup: Look for rough idle, hesitation, or hard starting (moderate) | Radiator fan relay failure causing overheating: Confirm fans kick on during warm idle in traffic (moderate)
Is the Yamaha Vmax 1700 a good motorcycle? +
A tire-destroying, jaw-dropping muscle cruiser that demands respect constantly. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Experienced riders wanting maximum straight-line drama. Avoid if: New riders, budget-conscious owners, daily commuters.
What is the horsepower of the Yamaha Vmax 1700? +
The Yamaha Vmax 1700 produces 200 hp @ 9,000 rpm, with 167 Nm @ 6,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 215 km/h (electronically limited).
Is the Yamaha Vmax 1700 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Yamaha Vmax 1700 is a reasonable choice for new riders (200 hp is manageable), weighing 310 kg. Experienced riders wanting maximum straight-line drama
Is the Yamaha Vmax 1700 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Yamaha Vmax 1700, notably: Stator failure causing charging system breakdown (Check voltage at idle and rev, inspect stator output). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Yamaha Vmax 1700 good for daily use? +
Experienced riders wanting maximum straight-line drama Fuel: 7.5–9.5 L/100km (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Yamaha Vmax 1700? +
The Yamaha Vmax 1700 reaches a top speed of 215 km/h (electronically limited), producing 200 hp at 310 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Yamaha Vmax 1700? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Yamaha Vmax 1700, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/yamaha/vmax-1700/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
