X hits the spot: Yamaha XMax

Undeniably, most of Yamaha Motor Philippines’ (YMPH) well-loved offerings in the market come from its maxi-scooter series. Such a fact is undeniable as surely, not a day would pass by without seeing one of the models under it, which is the NMax.

However, another member of the Max Series is slowly gaining popularity in the market —the XMax.

But is there more to the ride than its 300 cubic centimeter (cc) engine? Here’s what Zigwheels Philippines learned about the motorcycle during a week-long test ride.

Dimension

Measuring 2,180 millimeters (mm) long; 795 mm wide; and up to 1,460 mm tall, it is undeniable that the Yamaha XMax assures road presence. Its 1,540-mm wheelbase and 135-mm ground clearance makes it ideal to be used on long rides or just to roam around the metro.

Maneuvering the vehicle is fairly easy — even when coursing through tight spots in traffic. However, for someone who is a wee bit over six feet, it is advisable to have the handlebars adjusted as it will keep on touching the rider’s knees during sharp curves.

Its 181-kilogram wet weight might be a bit heavy to some but contributes positively to safer riding (especially if strong winds are being encountered during this stormy season).

Aesthetics

Compared to the NMax, the Yamaha XMax has more angular edges — giving it a stronger resemblance to the TMax (the biggest among the three models under the Max Series).

Its sharply-designed headlamp housing and its adjustable windshield boosts its sporty vibe while the piano black portion on the cowling offers it a touch of elegance.

The test unit comes with blue-colored wheels and nameplates on the side fairings while its handlebar looked highly-similar to that of the NMax.

While it poses a rugged look, one needs to be careful when riding the Yamaha XMax so as not to scratch the gloss black portions just below the seat.

The same “X” motif at the fore is also seen at rear — particularly at the taillamp portion —which gives it a distinct look, especially during nighttime.

Powertrain

As mentioned earlier, the Yamaha XMax is propelled by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, single-overhead cam four-valve 292-cc Bluecore engine. The said mill can dish out 28 horses and 29 Newton-meters of torque.

Sending power to the wheel is the V-belt automatic transmission and facilitating deceleration and halting are the hydraulic disc brakes equipped with dual-channel anti-lock braking system. 

After covering more than 200 kilometers of city roads and experiencing relatively congested traffic, the Yamaha XMax had a churn of 22.7 kilometers per liter.

Comfort, convenience, safety

The Yamaha XMax does not fall short in terms of convenience and comfort.

Its seat gives both the rider and pillion ample space to get all cozy during the ride while the 795-mm seat height provides boosted riding confidence.

Further, the Yamaha XMax can fit two full-size helmets inside its underseat compartment, which means riders need not carry their helmets around after trips. Mobile phones and gloves can also be kept in either of the slots at the front, flanking the ignition switch.

Absorbing the ruts on the road effectively are the telescopic fork-type and unit swing suspensions for the front and rear, respectively.

 

It also has a slew of amenities such as the Y-Connect functionality, Garmin Streetcross navigational system (accessible via the two-screen instrument panel in front of the handlebar), smart key, traction control, electric power socket.

Pros, cons

The Yamaha XMax is a considerable option for those who will not use the expressways in the Philippines often. 

Many will find the ride more than enough to be used on the city streets as it can already dish out sufficient oomph with the increased guzzle on fuel. It also guarantees road presence and has enough equipment to make every ride safe, and comfortable. 

However, six-footer riders might need aftermarket adjusters for the handlebars as they might find the positioning a bit low.

Offered in Matte Light Gray, and Sword Gray options, the Yamaha XMax is priced at 306,000.

Also read:

Yamaha unveils new XMax Tech Max in Thailand

Yamaha Xmax: Know its alternatives

Yamaha Xmax: Key features explained