Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1999 Yamaha V-Max 1200
Nitrous Oxide System Fitted.
Estimate
£2, 000 - £3, 000
Registration No: T501 YAL
Frame No: JYA2WEE07XA077767
MOT: None
Iconic Yamaha V-Max muscle bike
Approximately 26, 200 miles recorded with V5C present
Fitted with Custom suspension and paint plus a nitrous oxide system
Introduced in 1985, the Yamaha V-Max rapidly established itself as one of the most dramatic and recognisable muscle motorcycles ever produced. Conceived primarily for the North American market, it combined striking styling with formidable straight-line performance, powered by a 1198cc liquid-cooled V4 engine equipped with Yamaha’s innovative V-Boost system. This clever intake arrangement opened secondary throttle butterflies at higher engine speeds, dramatically increasing airflow and delivering the explosive mid-range surge that quickly became the V-Max’s defining characteristic. With power in the region of 145 hp as standard, the model developed a reputation for brutal acceleration and immense street presence, helping secure its status as one of the most iconic performance cruisers of the late twentieth century.
The example offered here represents a distinctive and highly individual interpretation of the V-Max concept, having been the subject of a series of performance-focused modifications. Most notably, it is equipped with a motorcycle wet nitrous oxide system incorporating twin solenoids and a distribution block feeding the intake system. Wet nitrous systems introduce both nitrous oxide and additional fuel simultaneously, helping ensure correct combustion under load and allowing controlled power increases when activated. In typical installations of this type, the system is capable of delivering a supplementary power increase in the region of 20–40 horsepower for short bursts, significantly enhancing the already formidable performance of the standard machine.
Further modifications include a custom velocity-stack intake arrangement replacing the original airbox assembly, giving the engine a purposeful and visually striking appearance while complementing the machine’s performance-oriented theme. The chassis has also benefitted from the installation of premium Öhlins rear shock absorbers, a respected upgrade known for improving ride quality, composure and suspension control when compared with the standard components.
Visually, the machine presents in striking metallic red that emphasises the V-Max’s already muscular proportions, complemented by distinctive twin-headlight styling and a purposeful stance. The odometer records approximately 26, 200 miles.
Combining Yamaha’s celebrated V4 muscle-bike engineering with notable custom performance enhancements, this V-Max stands as an eye-catching and characterful example of the model, offering the unmistakable presence and straight-line excitement for which the V-Max has long been renowned.
The motorcycle did run at the time of photography and is offered with its V5C registration document.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
