he environment may seem a little strange for a scooter supposed to be used commuting in city traffic mainly, but partly, testing of X-MAX took place on small country lanes in the hillsides of northern Spain. Another rider carries on:" The X-MAX is fun to ride on these small roads. What works well in these conditions must be great to ride in urban traffic as well". He summarizes the important elements behind the development of this new scooter:

The handling character was a key issue in the engineering guidelines: X-MAX is supposed to submit its rider a precise feeling for steering and cornering. The 15-inch front wheel will respond directly to the riders input on the handlebar, unlike other contenders in its class. There is no "scooter like" spongy feeling in the handlebars when manoeuvring the X-MAX. This is certainly beneficial on open roads as mentioned above, but even more so in city traffic, where road conditions with grooves and rough surface often direct the front wheel into undesired directions. The X-MAX precise handling contributes to a safer ride and one can pinpoint the riding direction when filtering through urban traffic.

The X-MAX is another step towards a sportier and dynamic scooter, the X-MAX chromosomes are made of technology inherited from motorcycles. Its tubular steel chassis has increased rigidity comparing to other contenders in the class. In alliance with a new front fork and a new rear suspension, the stability of this new 250 machine is outstanding in its class. When you can ride down the highway at top speed (highest in its class with 125 km/h), this scooter feels stable like a motorcycle going at the same pace.

Rider's comfort and sporty set-up were no contradiction for the X-MAX project leader Takayoshi Mizuno: "We targeted the best level of riding fun combined with what you need for your daily commuting."

The roomy seat indeed offers enough comfort for the rider. The rider's position is substantially different to comparable models. In order to realise a rather short wheelbase and compact dimension overall, the rider sits more upright. This contributes to an active riding position enabling the rider to control the scooter better, both in city traffic when manoeuvring through and at higher speed on open roads.

The windscreen has been placed the nearest possible to the rider, resulting in lesser air turbulence and therefore better protection. The storage space under the seat is biggest in its class.

Unlike one would imagine in such a sporty chassis set-up, there is a very roomy trunk space under the seat. Indeed the rider could fit 2 full-face-helmets or other useful luggage. Since the centre of gravity is rather low, even a full load under the seat does not influence the handling significantly.

The X-MAX single cylinder four-stroke engine is one of the best performers in its class. Based on the indestructible YP 250 engine design, the new power plant has undergone several detail changes. The guideline of development next to max power (20,1 HP) was an excellent throttle response and acceleration. The drive train has been modified to accommodate a larger 14-inch rear wheel, contributing to the vehicle's dynamic stability.

The centre tunnel is not just a styling feature with its frame like appearance, but accommodates the necessary reinforcements and components to achieve the outstanding chassis performance. The twin headlights look serious and provide proper lighting necessary for daily commuting. The rear end looks comparatively light and slim. This could be achieved since the bulk of the storage space is located under the rider's part of the seat, which contributes further to a neutral handling even with storage space filled.

X-MAX did inherit technology from motorcycles, such as brakes, frame and suspension components. And it has better riding characteristics than average motorcycles not too long ago. At the same time it offers more than enough comfort and storage space being a synthesis of an enjoyable two-wheeler and a roomy and spacious commuter.

Here is the not so good news for us here in the USA: According to Yamaha Europe there are currently no plans to bring the Xmax to North America. That although is only the word at the moment, not an irreversable decision for years to come. The fast growing scooter market on this side of the Atlantic might make them change their mind on this. If you seriously want an Xmax, contact the guys at Yamaha Motor Co and let them know. For that, and of course more information, please go to www.yamaha-motor.com.

(Carsten Berg & Yamaha Design Cafe)

Tech Specs: Yamaha Xmax 250

Engine
Type: 4 Stroke single cylinder
Cooling system: Liquid cooled
Bore and stroke: 69.0 x 66.8 mm
Displacement: 249.78 cm3
Compression ratio: 10 : 1
Maximum power: 14.8 kW (20,1 HP) @ 7,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 20.8 Nm @ 6,250 rpm
Catalytic exhaust system: Yes
Lubrication system: Wet sump
Carburetor: Keihin Carburetor 1C0
Ignition system: Electronic (C.D.I.)
Starter system: Electric
Transmission type: Automatic with V-belt
Clutch type: Automatic centrifugal

Body
Overall size (L*W*H): 2210 x 770 x 1380 mm
Seat height: 785 mm
Dry weight: 164 kg
Wheelbase: 1545 mm
Fuel tank capacity: 12.5 L
Min. ground clearance: 112.7 mm
Front suspension system: Hydraulic telescopic fork 110 mm
Rear suspension system: Hydraulic unit swing 95 mm
Front brake (type & size): Disk, Ø 270 mm
Rear brake (type & size): Disk, Ø 240 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-15 M/C 56S
Rear tire: 140/70-14 M/C 68S
Front rim: 15 x MT3.50
Rear rim: 14 x MT3.75
Rim material: Aluminum