Yamaha V-Max 1200 - 1997 Specifications and Reviews
The 1997 Yamaha V-Max 1200 is a power-cruiser designed for riders seeking aggressive acceleration and distinctive styling. Its liquid-cooled V4 engine delivers 100 horsepower and 117 lb-ft of torque, making it best known for thrilling performance wrapped in a muscular, low-slung package that dominates the custom cruiser segment.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 1997 |
| Model | Yamaha V-Max 1200 |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Starter | Electric |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Torque | 117.00 |
| Power | 100.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V4 |
| Capacity: | 1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Seat height | 765 mm (30.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 262.0 kg (577.6 pounds) |
Yamaha V-Max 1200 dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Dual disc |
| | |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.3817 HP/kg |
| Top speed | 230.0 km/h (142.9 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
102 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph
142.9 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track40%
City45%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding50%
Touring35%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to experienced riders who are comfortable with a heavy, powerful machine that demands respect at low speed and rewards confidence at high revs. |
| Purpose | Built as a straight-line power cruiser, this bike exists to deliver brutal acceleration and a menacing V4 soundtrack rather than to carve corners or cover long distances efficiently. |
| Rider Fit | The tall, wide muscular stance and 270 kg curb weight mean shorter or less physically strong riders may struggle with slow-speed maneuvers and parking. |
| Character | A raw, muscle-bound icon with brutal midrange punch, shaft-drive reliability, and a cult following built on attitude over refinement. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for new riders, anyone seeking nimble cornering, or those wanting a comfortable long-distance touring machine. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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