Yamaha TMAX goes to the max! Top-spec scoot gets more tech and a major restyle

Yamaha TMAX Tech Max has been updated for 2022. The firm’s flagship maxi-scooter gets sportier looks and bang up-to-date tech.

The front-end is now more muscular with reshaped and higher headlights and what Yamaha describe as ‘supersport-inspired styling’. The screen is said to be quieter than on the old model with a central air intake that’s designed to improve rider airflow at speed.

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The new TMAX is also slimmer in the middle to make it easier to get your feet down and is finished at the rear with a T-shaped light design. The sporty looks are accompanied by a sportier riding position than ever before.

Tucked behind the new screen is an all-new, full-colour, 7in TFT dash replacing the old monochrome screen and analogue clock combination.

The new dash boasts full smartphone connectivity – all controlled through a new left-hand joystick – and can be used with Yamaha’s Bluetooth headset. You can also get full map Garmin navigation including rider alerts, weather forecasts and photo-real junction views.

So, the new Yamaha TMAX looks the part and is brimming with tech but will it have the performance to back it up? The bike’s 560cc twin-cylinder engine goes unchanged but there are new, lighter, spin-forged wheels and new firmer suspension settings for improved front-end feel and agility.

This, coupled with new Bridgestone Battlax SC2 tyres, should mean the 2022 Yamaha TMAX should feel just as punchy as ever.

There’s no news on price yet, but we’d expect it to be a tad over £12k when it arrives in dealers in March.

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Yamaha TMAX model history

 

• 2001 – YP500 ‘TMAX’ introduced with 40bhp 499cc parallel twin cylinder engine. The biggest, most powerful ‘maxi scooter’ every produced. Full 2001 Yamaha TMAX 500 review on MCN.
• 2004 – Fuel injection replaces carbs and fork diameter increased from 38mm to 41mm. Twin discs replace single set-up, ABS introduced as an option and wheel diameter increased from 14in to 15in. Styling tweaks including the addition of a tacho.
• 2008 – Updated styling, cast ali frame replaces tubular steel and fork diameter increased from 41mm to 43mm. Fuel tank grows from 14 to 15 litres.
• 2012 – New styling and engine updates included a capacity increase to 530cc, cylinder head work, new valves, ceramic-coated cylinder liners, lighter internals, bigger throttle bodies, redesigned airbox and a curved radiator. Power increased by 3bhp and torque by 10%. As well as a new CVT system, chain drive makes way for a belt and a new cast ali swingarm is fitted. The TMAX also get lighter wheels, a bigger rear brake disc, an adjustable screen, a new dash and LED rear light. Full 2012 Yamaha TMAX 500 review on MCN.
• 2015 – Styling tweaks. New upside-down forks (back to 41mm diameter), radial calipers, keyless ignition and LED heasdlights.
• 2017 – Major update includes new bodywork, ali chassis, ride-by-wire, traction control and riding modes. Top spec version comes with heated seat and grips, electric screen and cruise control.
• 2020 – TMax 560 revealed.