Yamaha is running a contest that can bag you a brand new BW50 scooter. You don't need to be Martin Scorsese to win - just make it entertaining, and humorous and you stand a pretty good shot at the prize. You have to be just 14 to enter too.  Cool!

Full Press Release:

Yamaha Motor Canada is pleased to announce the finding of the proverbial “needle in the haystack”. Amidst the thousands of “cool” messages you receive each day from the media and your peers – Yamaha’s been able to find out exactly what is cool, AND how you can get it! Who knew it was so easy?


Quite simply, being cool is being an individual and Yamaha is offering a so cool it’s freezing cold BW50s scooter to the best video that demonstrates why you need a scooter to be cool. It’s that easy. Make a fun, short video and submit it on the site!
Not to be outdone, Yamaha has posted three of their own videos. Can the greasy bandit’s pick up lines get him some sweet babes? Will Dilton finally be the big man on campus? How can Tiffy get a deal on shoes at the mall? Watch to find out!

Simply log on to www.facebook.com/YamahaMotorCanada and click on the “Get Your Cool” tab. All details are posted. Contest is open to all residents of Canada aged 14 years and older and closes on July 31. Have fun and good luck! 

Here's some more footage and commentary about the 2011 Yamaha Fazer 8 and FZ8.  They've got some comments from several Canadian motorcycle press - not us - but several!

Here's a Press Release from the folks at Yamaha - they've got a new model with half-fairing and naked with an 779cc , 4-valve, inline 4 engine; the Fazer 8 and the FZ8.

The Fazer 8 has a MSRP of $10,999 while the FZ8 comes in at $10,499 CDN.  So $500 extra for the half fairing.


Weight for the half-faired version with it's 17 Litre tank is 216kg (475.2 lbs) while the naked version trims a few pounds to come in at 212 kg (466.4 lb.)

Full Details:

Have you been wondering what’s under the hood of Yamaha’s new motorcycles? Stop scratching your head because today Yamaha releases their 2011 motorsport lineup! While each model is refined for better performance and durability, Yamaha is especially pleased to announce two brand new machines.

Leading the new wave of Yamaha motorcycles is the all-new FZ8. A first to the fold, the FZ8 is designed to satisfy every rider’s desire and then some. Featuring the same chassis and many components of the FZ1, the FZ8 is refined for a lighter, more nimble ride. Yamaha’s goal was to create a motorcycle that is an absolute pleasure to ride for any rider, on any occasion. 

“We’re very excited with the final result of the FZ8,” says John Bayliss, Yamaha’s Product Manager, Motorcycle. “Both European and Canadian media are saying the same things; the bike handles very well, has great low-to-mid throttle response and is an overall fun, versatile bike to ride.”

The FZ8 is also available in a half-fairing version called “Fazer 8.” 

 If you'd like more details on the new model it's up on Yamaha Motor Canada's website HERE.

Yamaha Motor Canada is pleased to announce a sweeping customer appreciation program that will include various track day organizations and major amateur motocross, enduro and ATV racing events.
“Let’s face it. A lot of our customers take their Yamaha motorcycle or ATV out to the tracks to ride and compete. We wanted to do something that supported them, if even in a small way.” commented PR Specialist, Bryan Hudgin. 

Street motorcyclists who take their Yamaha to selected track day organizations will receive a one time, $75 Yamabuck at event registration. Racers will receive varying amounts based on their finishing position in the classes specified. The Yamabuck certificate is redeemable at Yamaha dealers for purchase towards anything Yamaha Motor Canada sells including units, parts, accessories and apparel. 

“What’s unique about ‘Yamabucks for You’ is that, for the racing portion of the program, amateur racers may not even need a podium finish to reap the rewards. If a racer finished 9^th but was the third finishing Yamaha in the class, the racer would still qualify for a Yamabuck.” relayed Hudgin, “It’s a way for us to say thank you to many of the customers who have chosen Yamaha and help support them a little at the track.”

All Yamabucks will be distributed by track and series promoters at the event or the conclusion of the series for which it is designated to.  Offer is good only while supplies last. Safe riding!

The subtitles in the video are in Japanese, and hey, we don't know what it says but it it looks like Yamaha has an iPhone app that simulates the sound of riding a YZF-R1 or YZ450F.  You can blip the throttle with the twist of a wrist or put it in driving mode to simulate the sound of actual driving.

I could see this being entertaining for oh, about 30 seconds or so.

Yamaha is gunning to take some market share from the segment leading BMW 1200GS and 1200GSA. It's meant to appeal to the adventure riding/touring segment and be capable of taking its rider off the beaten track if desired. The SUV of the motorcycle world - capable but not necessarily used to its full potential in the off-road department. So, the bike has to be really comfortable on-road too.
Forward momentum comes by way of a 1,199cc inline twin putting out 110PS at 7250rpm m of torque at 6,000rpm. It also packs some sophisticated technology such as a 3-stage traction control module and intelligent ABS braking system.

New Brunswick based Atlantic Motoplex has some big news. In addition to the Yamaha, BMW, and Ducati's they've been selling - they've just added two new makes to the list... Suzuki and Triumph.

Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd. is making a splash into social media. First, they launched their snowmobile and motorcycle blogs back in 2007, enabled viewers to follow them in real time on Twitter this summer, and now they’re making a push on the most infamous platform of all—Facebook. To generate excitement about their Facebook page, they’ve launched a photo contest with a grand prize of a $5,000 Yamaha Shopping Spree.

“People want to talk about Yamaha and it has motivated to enter social media,” says Yamaha Motor Canada’s Marketing Manager, Tim Kennedy. “We want to stay connected with consumers as well, and in a way that engages conversation from both sides. To help kick things off with our Facebook page, we’re inviting people to become fans, upload a creative photo of them and their Yamaha and they could win $5,000 to spend on anything found on Yamaha-motor.ca. As a bonus, photos that really stand out, may even be selected for use in future Yamaha ads!”

The URL is - www.facebook.com/YamahaMotorCanada - and you’ll find more than a bag full of cash to win. Yamaha says their fan list is growing daily, and people from not only Canada, but the world, are constantly uploading videos, photos, and cool links relating to Yamaha and the motorsports industry.

“We really want to create a hub for not just Yamaha owners, but anyone who wants to share tales from the track or trail, find the best roads to ride, or meet new people who share the same passion for recreational motorsports,” adds Kennedy.

If you haven’t done so already, visit - www.facebook.com/YamahaMotorCanada - become a fan, sign up for the “This is my Yamaha” contest and enjoy some good chatter with fellow riders. You may even end up in a Yamaha ad!

The Toronto Motorcycle show is set to take place December 11th- 1th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For full details check out their website HERE.

Yamaha's European site is offering a teaser photo of a new 2010 FZ8. There's not much information there yet; you're just given the opportunity to sign up to get news updates in the future.

The headlight looks good though and a 800cc engine will give Yamaha a bike with a torque curve that should put a bigger smile on your face than if you had just been riding, say, an FZ6.

The Fz8 is set to replace the FZ6 in Yamaha's European lineup. No word on what's happening in Canada and whether we'll get this model.

If you're interested in getting updates you can sign up at Yamaha's European site HERE.

See more Yamaha news HERE.

Looks like tough financial times are taking their toll at Yamaha with an announcement they're withdrawing from the 2010 Parts Canada Superbike Series.

Press Release follows:

Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd. announced today (November 4th/09) that it is withdrawing from participation in the 2010 Parts Canada Superbike Series. As a result of this decision, there will no longer be an official Yamaha race team or the traditional manufacturer support for the series.

“Today’s economic climate forces us all to make tough decisions.” commented Tim Kennedy, National Manager, Marketing. “Our participation in the series was one of them.”

Although there will be no involvement in 2010, Kennedy stated, “Racing is integral to the Yamaha brand, and we will re-visit this opportunity in the future.”

Yamaha presented their new hybrid motorcycle prototype dubbed the HV-X at the 2009 Tokyo motor show. A feature that makes this hybrid unique when compared to say Piaggio's MP3 hybrid is the fact that it uses electric and gas powered motors in combination to improve acceleration.

The HV-X can be ridden in electric-only via a manual selection. Featuring a liquid cooled 250-cc single, the internal combustion engine shuts down automatically when the vehicle is at a standstill

The 15 kW electric motor is utilized at low speeds and the gas engine kicks in when a little extra torque and speed is needed. The HV-X's electric engine uses a large lithium ion battery.

Organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc.(JAMA), the 2009 Tokyo Motor show opens its doors to the public on Friday, October 23rd. There's going to be plenty to see there but perhaps most interesting will be the motorcycles of course!

Blackfoot Yamaha rider Colton Facciotti and Dusty Flatt recetnly had a chance to take the all new YZ450F out for a little spin inside Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Quebec. This took place Friday night prior to the Montreal SX.

They're catching some SERIOUS air. The bike looks like it's goign to be a great performer.

If you haven’t already heard or are wondering what Motorcycle Experience - Scooter Sense segment host Bryan Hudgin’s Twitter feed has been referring to lately, we’re just about to shoot the second season of “Scooter Sense” for the next season of TSN’s “A Motorcycle Experience”. The concept this time around? The aptly titled, “Scooter Sense Almost World Tour: Big City Lights and Camp Fire Nights”. Bryan will be going on a good old fashioned road trip with his trusty Yamaha BWs125 scooter for 3 days. He’ll be going from Montreal, to Ottawa, to Kingston and finally landing in Toronto with a bunch of stops in between.

The rules of engagement? No money, a $25 gas card, a stack of t-shirts, a tent for camping and a mission to spread the scooter gospel. His cell phone is rigged to the Yamaha corporate Twitter account, so he’ll be updating frequently along the way. You can follow along from each of Yamaha’s motorcycle or snowmobile blogs or search for “YamahaMotorCa” to follow with your Twitter account.

Bryan says that he would love to have any fans and riders join him along the way, which is we’re posting a tentative itinerary below. Keep in mind, this is a pretty complicated beast to organize and shooting TV can always take longer than expected, so things can change really quickly. We will be changing things throughout this week and during the trip but we wanted to get you up to speed to keep you in the loop. You’ll need to check back with Bryans blog fairly frequently to stay on top of our shooting locations!

Having said all of that, if you come out to support the tour, Bryan will give you a limited edition “Scooter Sense Almost World Tour” t-shirt for your troubles (while his limited supply lasts). Of course he may use it to trade you for food though!!

Here is the current tour schedule as posted on Bryan’s blog.

Day One – Sunday October 4th

- 8:30am to 9:00am at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium
Feature 1 – The last breakfast! From now on in - no money, just a gas card, a tent and t-shirts for the next 3 days. Can you eat cotton?
- 9:00 depart for Chateau Montebello via Hwy 15N and Route 50W
- 10:30am to 11:00am at Chateau Montebello gates.
Feature 2 - Unfortunately, I won’t be sleeping at the Chateau Montebello, but it is a scenic place for a stop!
- 11:00am depart for Ottawa via Cty Rd 17 & Regional Rd 174W
- 12:30am to 3:30pm at Ottawa at the Parliament buildings.
Feature 3 – I’ll do my best to recruit some government leaders to chat about the benefits of scooters! Heck we pay their salary, it’s the least they could do, right??
- 3:30 depart for loyal “A Motorcycle Experience” viewer Bruce & Jan Haskin’s home via Hwy 7W and Hwy 15
- 5:00pm to 7:00pm in Portland.
Feature 4 - Meet the Haskins! Set up camp for the night!

Day Two – Monday October 5th

- 8:00am to 8:30am at Haskin Home in Portland.
Feature 5 – Bright eyed and bushy tailed. Bruce leads the convoy down Cty Road 10 to Kingston, the old hometown!
- 8:30am depart for Kingston
- 10:00am to 12:00pm at Queens University Kingston
Feature 6- Math quiz! Who can figure out a scooter’s gas mileage the quickest? Shouldn’t have any problems finding any scholar’s here
- 12:00pm depart for Shannonville via Hwy 2
- 1:30pm at Shannonville
Feature 7 – What are my lap times? Face off against some road racing veterans!
- 3:00pm depart for Sandbanks Provincial Park via Cty Rd 49
- 5:00pm to 7:30pm at Sandbanks Provincial Park

Feature 8 - Set up camp. Dinner of champions over the open fire.

Day Three - Tuesday October 6th

- 8:00am to 8:30am Sandbanks morning in Prince Edward County.
Feature 9 - How was the sleep? How was breakfast? Where are we off to?
- 8:30am depart for Port Hope via Loyalist Pkwy and Hwy 2
- 10:00am to 10:30am at Port Hope
Feature 10 – Fuel Stop. How much money have I spent on gas?
- 10:30am depart for Toronto via Regional Rd 9, Taunton Rd and Hwy 7
- 12:00pm to 3:30pm at Toronto
Feature 11 – Group Ride with Toronto Scooter Club. These guys are hardcore!
Feature 12 – Hit the showers!! Cap it all off!

Anyone wishing to join us along the way are more than welcome! The more the merrier!

Please ensure you check back regularly to Bryan’s blog and the Twitter feed as things will be changing constantly.

If you won $10,000 to buy anything and everything Yamaha, what would you spend it on? A new Raider? Rhino? YZ? R1? WaveRunner? Much needed parts and accessories? You might not be wondering any longer as Yamaha Motor Canada launches their fall “Right Here Right Now” campaign that involves a $10,000 shopping spree on Yamaha-motor.ca.

Back in May, Yamaha kicked off their annual “Right Here Right Now” promotion with “Win Your Yamaha,” where one lucky contestant won their Yamaha purchase. That lucky individual was Quebec’s Philippe Gouger, who won his purchase of a Yamaha F6 Outboard and was awarded a big cheque at his dealer, Gregoire Sport.

“We were definitely happy to reimburse Philippe with the price of his outboard, but we were hoping to send off our winner with something a little bigger, a little more costly,” says Yamaha Motor Canada’s National Marketing Manager, Tim Kennedy. “But, hey, that’s how it worked out and we’re happy to have reimbursed Philippe a few thousand bucks.”

To ensure that every customer—no matter their purchase—was in contention to win some big bucks this time around, Yamaha has switched to the Shopping Spree method. From September 8 to October 12, those who purchase a new Yamaha motorcycle, scooter, ATV, outboard, snowmobile, side-by-side, WaveRunner, Sport Boat, or power product, is entered to win a $10,000 Shopping Spree for anything on yamaha-motor.ca!

“We’re even more excited with this new contest,” adds Kennedy. “The first one was great, but now everyone who purchases a Yamaha can win the same great prize of $10,000 to spend on whatever they want from our website!”

For more details on Yamaha’s $10,000 Shopping Spree, please see your local dealer or visit Yamaha-motor.ca. While you’re there, take a peak at some items you’d like on your “Yamaha Wish List!”

Yamaha has a video on YouTube that showcases the unique features of the 2010 Yamaha YZ450F. The video runs 1 min, 19 seconds and provides a great overview.

Check it out:

Radical, all-new 2010 YZ450F steals headlines with “reversed” engine, tornado exhaust, FI, and bilateral beam frame.

The motocross world is about to be turned upside down, and backwards (literally), with the release of the much anticipated 2010 Yamaha YZ450F. Credited with developing the first competitive four-stroke motocross bike—in both the 400 and 250 classes—Yamaha is proud to once again wear the hat of innovation.

Totally revamped for 2010, the YZ450F has received a laundry list of changes, beginning with the “reversed,” rear slanted, fuel-injected four-stroke engine. The FI throttle body and airbox are front mounted, while the exhaust exits from the rear of the cylinder. This design is used to centralize mass for excellent handling and a light feel.

The all-new “Tornado” design exhaust system exits from the rear of the cylinder and features a spiral winding of the header pipe. A power chamber is built into the header pipe to limit sound, and the entire system continues to centralize mass.

Like its little brother, the YZ250F, the 450F receives an all-new bilateral beam frame and sharp, new styling package as well. A unique incentive to the all-new 450F is the ability to optimize the power curve. For those who purchase a YZ450F before December 31, they’ll be given a “YZ Power Tuner” that allows for tailoring of FI settings and ignition mapping.

Yamaha didn’t forget the street, touring or four-wheeled enthusiasts either. For 2010, Yamaha welcomes aboard the all-new Stratoliner Deluxe. Based off the award winning, XV1900 Stratoliner platform, the Deluxe features a hard fairing with mini windshield, integrated speakers that are pre-wired for easy connection with an iPod, and colour matched hard saddlebags.

Also new for the street is the Valentino Rossi Replica YZF-R1. Complete with all of the great features of their standard R1, the Rossi Edition comes dressed just like “The Doctor’s” factory race bike.

Yamaha’s ATV lineup sees a host of changes. The all-new YFZ450X is a woods version of the 450R and has a narrower track chassis for better performance and confidence between the trees. On the utility side, Yamaha now offers GYPA kits (Explorer and Polar) for specific types of demand.

Get onto Yamaha-motor.ca today and find out the complete list of changes to see these and many more 2010 models!

Yamaha Canada has posted a new video on YouTube that showcases a unique artistical view of the all-new 2010 YZ450F. Definitely something a little different, something a little funky but cool.

Check it out here:

Yamaha is set to introduce the all new YZ450F in just a few short days - September 8th, to be exact.

In the meantime they've posted a funny little YouTube clip in which James Stewart telling you about a bunch of things that it doesn't have! None of which will be surprising.

Check out the YouTube clip here:

Helen Upperton, Canada's top bobsled driver and Calgary resident, is a bit of a daredevil. She likes to travel down a twisty icy track at 150 km/hr. Now she's had the chance to go a similar speed on two wheels. She bought her first motorcycle, a 1100 cc Yamaha V-Star cruiser.

An 1100cc bike is not a typical first time rider bike but Upperton isn't a typical rider either. She bought her bike after the 2006 Olympics in Turin Italy as a present to herself for her fourth-place finish.

In a recent interview with driving.ca she said riding her motorcycle at 150 km/hr makes her realize just how crazy bobsledding is! There's so much going on during the bobsled run that you're not really paying attention to the speed as much, but on a motorcycle you're "out there" and more exposed to the wind.

The parents of the 29 yr old Upperton aren't said to be too thrilled about the motorcycle, her coaches haven't really said too much about it, and she's been told by several people that they think the bike is too big for her. She takes it all in stride though and plans to enjoy the off-season from her winter training and competing.

Her teammates, well they just want to go for a ride with her! They've already experienced riding with her at speed.

Pro Racer Kyle Beaton has been riding Yamaha’s for nearly a decade and Yamaha recently had him test out their brand new 2010 model YZ250F. The bike features a new bilateral beam frame, quicker revving motor, better handling, and revised ergonomics and they wanted Beaton's impressions and see what he could do with it.  Massive air!

If you put down a $1,000 (non-refundable) deposit on a 2010 Yamaha VMax between August 5 and 12 noon EST on November 30th, 2009 you'll get a few extras to go along with that monster torque engine.

Yamaha will throw in Yamaha Protection Plus for an additional 2 years. That extra time means you'll have total coverage 36 months when you include the standard warranty.

You'll also receive a special edition VMax development book.

MSRP for the 2010 Yamaha VMax is $22,999. Not cheap, but don't forget it comes with an arm stretching 1679cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, 65 degree V-4 engine. Approximately 200 hp and mounted to a chassis that's much upgraded from the original class breaking VMax. This one actually doesn't mind corners!

- Full details of the promotion HERE.
- More Yamaha News HERE.

Details about the new YZ250F have been released and are published on Yamaha's Canadian website. It sounds like it's going to be a killer off-road! An all new Bilateral Beam aluminum frame centralizes mass and according to Yamaha the new frame provides "exceptional cornering and handling performance."

The new YZ also features improvements to the intake and exhaust system, lighter valve train, and new carburetor settings which should boost power at low- to mid-revs, result in a more rider friendly engine, and provide more linear power.

The liquid cooled, 250cc DOHC engine has titanium valves (40% lighter than than conventional steel) and a 13,500 RPM redline.

Canadian MSRP is $8,599

Some breaking Internet rumor is surfacing about Yamaha developing an inline 4 turbo-charged diesel motorcycle. Hell For Leather has come upon what are patents reportedly filed in July by Japanese motorcycle manufacturer, Yamaha.

In the patent drawings it appears that the intercooler is located above the engine or could be concealed in the frame; the turbocharger itself is mounted adjacent to the cylinder head. This placement provides some protection for these sensitive components.

If it gets the green light, Yamaha would be the only major manufacturer producing a diesel motorcycle.



More diesel related posts here.
More rumor related posts here.

Two great Canadian Bands will be entertaining the masses at Mosport this July 17-19 weekend at the 2009 BMW Motorrad Summerfest. Halifax based Sloan and Toronto based Crash Parallel will be taking the stage on Saturday.

There's going to be a lot more than music at Summerfest too though. Racing, BMW Marketplace, on and off-road test rides, an off-road skills course, and demo rides.

Plan to be there! Full press release follows -

Courtesy of Canadian Superbike:

Canadian recording artists Sloan and Crash Parallel will headline the BMW Motorrad Summerfest as part of the Parts Canada Superbike Doubleheader at Mosport, July 17-19, Canada’s biggest motorcycle road racing event of the year.

The bands will take to the BMW Motorrad Concert Stage on the Saturday of the manufacturer’s three-day motorcycle lifestyle experience, making its return to Mosport for the third year. Designed to cater to the motorcycle enthusiast, Summerfest features the BMW Marketplace, on and off-road test rides and an off-road skills course. New for 2009 is the addition of BMW Motorrad Enduro rider Guy Giroux, who will act as an instructor for the off- road skills course.

Formed in 1991 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, four-member Sloan released its first record in 1992. Since then, the band has recorded and released 10 records to critical acclaim across North America. Sloan’s contemporary, yet instantly recognizable rock and roll sound has endeared them to a large and devoted fan following across the continent, particularly in Canada. Nominated numerous times during their career, Sloan has won four East Coast Music Awards and a Juno Award. Now based in Toronto, Sloan’s latest record, Parallel Play, was released in 2008.

Relative newcomers to the Canadian rock music scene, Toronto’s Crash Parallel was formed in 2005 and released their successful debut album, World We Know, in May 2008. The record has produced five singles to date, including the smash hit, World We Know. The band hit number one on the Billboard Emerging Canadian Artist Chart in the spring of 2008 and won the 2009 Canadian Radio Music Award for Best New Group of the Year.

In addition to Summerfest, the Yamaha Riding Academy will once again be offering it’s free riding clinic for children ages 6 to 12. The Academy provides professional instruction to youngsters on how to ride off-road motorcycles in a safe and fun manner.

Adults will also have any opportunity to do some riding when top manufacturers such as Suzuki offer demo rides on their latest models on neighbouring roads near Mosport. With the exception of the Yamaha Riding Academy (which supplies all required equipment), participants for all riding activities must have a valid motorcycle license, riding gear and helmet.

The Parts Canada Superbike Doubleheader, the only Toronto-area stop for the national Parts Canada Superbike Championship, features Canada’s top riders.

Three-time defending Superbike champion Jordan Szoke of Brantford, Ontario, and current points leader, 17 year-old phenom Brett McCormick of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan will battle it out in two points races against a deep field of perennial contenders and up-and-coming stars.

The weekend schedule also includes races in the Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike class, the Armour Bodies Amateur 600 Sport Bike Championship, the Suzuki SV650 Cup, the Pro Honda Oils Women's Cup Challenge and the Honda CBR125R Challenge.

A three-day SuperTicket is just $50 until July 15 ($60 at the Gate) and each ticket includes parking, paddock admission, and entrance to Saturday Night Stock Car racing at Mosport Speedway. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult admission. Single day tickets are also available.

General and family camping areas are available complete with full-service washrooms, showers and children's playgrounds. An advanced three-day weekend general camping pass is just $30 (for tents or pop-up trailers). RVs are $50 for the weekend.

For more information about Mosport ticket packages and camping, call the Mosport Hotline at 1-800-866-1072 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm ET) or visit online at www.mosport.com. Tickets are also available at Ticketmaster.

Fans of the Canadian motorcycle program Motorcycle Experience which airs on TSN may recall the Scooter Sense segments that aired with each episode. If you tuned in regularly chances are you've already seen Yamaha Canada PR specialist Bryan Hudgin talk about all the things that make scooters so popular, practical, and fun! But, maybe you missed an episode or two, or maybe you'd just like to revisit some episodes.

All 12 episodes of the Scooter Sense segments are posted on Yamaha Canada's website HERE. Be sure to check them out!

The folks at Yamaha Motor Canada have updated their Yamaha Bike Blog with a few new posts so if you're interested in some of the latest news from Yamaha check it out here:

http://motorcycles.yamahablogs.ca/

Looks like Yamaha Canada is going to be offering some TRIC gear. They're starting with a roll-out of ATV accessories but indicate TRIC accessories will eventually be available for motorcycles too (and all Yamaha powersport lines).

Toronto, ON) - The iconic TRIC brand first introduced by Yamaha Motor Canada in the late 1970’s is being reintroduced to better serve the needs of Canadian motorsport enthusiasts. TRIC, which stands for; Tested, Reliable, Innovative, and Canadian, represents the highest quality accessories in the industry and will be made available only through our premium Yamaha dealer network.

Similar to the Yamaha’s they will be mounted to, TRIC accessories measure up to the durability and reliability that Canadians demand and provide features and benefits to perform well in our unique environment. While many powersport accessories are made by foreign companies for use all over the world in many different types of situations, TRIC accessories are developed for and tested in Canada for Canadians. TRIC accessories have the ability to handle our harsh climate, rugged terrain and high mileage treks.

Starting with the roll out of several new ATV accessories, TRIC brand products will continue to expand and represent select accessories throughout all Yamaha powersport lines.

If Spanish motorcycle website solomoto is to be believed, Yamaha is working on a rival machine to Honda's automatic scooter/motorcycle "crossover bike", the DN-01.

In the report on solomoto they indicate that three Yamaha engineers from the Janapese factory have patented a new motorcycle design that's similar to the DN-01. The engine for the Yamaha "crossover bike" will come from Yamaha's big T-Max scooter.

Patent drawings registered early in June seem to suggest that Yamaha is working on some sort of an automatic transmission similar to that on the DN-01.

Pure Internet speculation!

Via CMG Online.

Toronto, Ontario/ Cypress, CA — Yamaha Motor Canada (YMCA) and Yamaha Motor Corporation USA (YMUS) are excited to announce that they have forged a partnership with KLIM® Technical Riding Gear of Rigby, Idaho, to offer branded versions of the company’s line of premium, high tech enduro riding apparel at its dealerships.

“We are very excited to offer the new KLIM products through our Yamaha dealer network. The Yamaha brand is known around the world for offering quality and performance. The premium line of KLIM gear is a perfect fit with Yamaha and will most assuredly meet the highest expectations of our dealers and customers.” said YMCA National Planning & Research Manager, Chris Reid.

Yamaha riders will now have Yamaha-branded enduro in-the-boot-pants, along with enduro over-the-boot-pant which will keep the enduro rider performing at the highest level. Yamaha dealers will also offer branded versions of KLIM’s F4, fully-vented enduro-style helmet, jerseys and gloves.

KLIM® President Justin Summers stated, “Two industry innovators and leaders in advancing technologies are coming together to give the enduro rider a line of clothing that meets their needs. With our KLIM® high-quality apparel and Yamaha’s high-quality machines, riders will have the ultimate outdoor experience.”

Stop by the Klim Technology section of Yamaha's website to see the whole line of Yamaha-branded KLIM® technical gear and other Genuine Yamaha Apparel and Accessories.

Piloting the potent YZF-R6, Royce Mclean stepped up to the plate at Circuit ICAR in Mirabel, QC this past weekend claiming a noteworthy seventh place in both Pro Superbike and Pro Sport Bike racing action. His results saw him chalk up top finishing rookie honours in both championship series.

Check out the latest posting on the Yamaha Canada blog where you get some behind the scenes footage and information from the Team Toyota Yamaha OTSFF at the opening round of the Parts Canada Superbike Championships in Calabogie, ON.

http://motorcycles.yamahablogs.ca/

Or you can watch the footage via YamaTube - Yamaha Canada's YouTube channel:

The Yamaha Power Tour is stopping in at Dartmouth, NS based dealership - Pro Cycle Limited. It's happening TODAY!  So if you want to get on the new cross-plane crank R1 you'd better get over there right away.

Yamaha is bringing their roadshow across Canada, exact locations haven't been listed. They indicate that you should contact your local dealership for further details.

What they have provided is a list of motorcycles that will be available in the different regions of Canada though. Looks like everybody is going to get the new cross-plane R1!

Here's the information:

Beginning this May, Yamaha will be traveling across the country with our latest and greatest motorcycles for you to demo!

Get your gear and come and test ride our Yamaha 1900s, and the new V Star 950 Tourer! We haven’t forgotten about the rest of our amazing motorcycles. Below is a sample of the product that will be available on our tour this year. (Dealer may supply more)

Western Canada: R1, FZ6R, T-MAX, V Star 950 Tourer, WR250X, 1900 Stratoliner S

Central Canada: R1, FZ6R, V Star 950 Tourer, V Star 1300 Tourer, 1900 Stratoliner S, 1900 Raider

Quebec and Eastern Canada: R1, FZ6R, T-MAX, V Star 950 Tourer, V Star 1300 Standard, 1900 Roadliner

Check the schedule for the dealer nearest you… this is an experience you don’t want to miss.

Transport Canada posted a recall affecting Yamaha BWS 125's on April 20th/09. Here's all the details:

*Update - We added details of a Ducati 696 recall that we didn't catch when it was released. Details below!

Make, Model, Model Year(s) Affected: YAMAHA, BWS 125, 2009

Transport Canada Recall # 2009115
Recall Date: 2009/04/20
System: Lights And Instruments
Units Affected: 380

Recall Details:

On certain scooters, the taillight bulb does not meet the regulation standards for intensity of illumination for the brake lamp.

A brake lamp which isn't as bright as required could result in following road users being unaware of the driver's intentions, as well as reducing vehicle conspicuity during hours of darkness.

This could result in a vehicle crash causing personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will replace the taillight bulb.

Make, Model, Model Year(s) Affected: Ducati, Monster 696, 2009

Transport Canada Recall # 2009089
Recall Date: 2009/03/26
System: Electrical
Units Affected: 240

Recall Details:

On certain motorcycles, the main wiring harness may contact the vertical cylinder head and become damaged. This could result in a loss of vehicle lighting and/or degradation of engine performance. Failure of the lighting system may result in the following road users being unaware of the rider's intentions, as well as reducing vehicle conspicuity during hours of darkness. This could result in a vehicle crash causing personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will reposition the wiring harness.

Yamaha has signed a multi-year deal in Europe with the National Basketball Association (NBA) - North America's premier professional men's basketball league. To commemorate the partnership Yamaha has launched a new BW's NBA scooter in Europe.

Here's the most recent recalls from Transport Canada. They affect models by Aprilia and Yamaha. The Yamaha model affected is the Trailway 200; more commonly known as a TW 200.

The person writing the Aprilia recall must have had a thesaurus nearby: "could cause a litany of drivability concerns." My dictionary gives "a repetive series" as an alternate for litany. However you say it, sounds like it's something you should get fixed ASAP.


Transport Canada Recall # 2009064
Recall Date: 2009/03/02
Notification Type: Safety Mfr
System: Emissions
Manufacturer Recall Number:
Units Affected: 276
Make: APRILIA
Model SCARABEO 200
Model Year(s) Affected: 2008, 2009

Recall Details:

On certain scooters, should the fuel tank be overfilled, or the motorcycle be tipped-over on it's side, raw fuel may be allowed to enter the hoses of the evaporative emissions system. This could cause a litany of drivability concerns including: difficulty starting, random stalling, low power, reduced top speed, float bowl overflowing, etc. Engine stalling would result in lost propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the rider's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will re-route emission system hoses and replace the "Hose Routing Diagram" sticker.

Transport Canada Recall # 2009066
Recall Date: 2009/03/02
Notification Type: Safety Mfr
System: Suspension
Manufacturer Recall Number: M09-045
Units Affected: 1,948
Category: Motorcycle
Make: YAMAHA
Model: TRAILWAY 200
Model Year(S) Affected: 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Recall Details:
On certain motorcycles, the rear shock absorber lower mounting boss could fail. Should this occur while underway, the shock assembly could detach, allowing the rear suspension to completely sag, possibly resulting in a loss of vehicle control and a crash causing personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will replace the rear shock assembly with an updated version.

Yamaha Motor is forecasting a net loss of approximately $570 million Cdn coupled with a 22 per cent drop in worldwide sales for 2009.

This would be the company's first net loss since since the last major recession in 1984. Reasons behind the projections for 2009 are said to be the rising yen's effect on Yamaha's export market coupled with the current global financial market downturn.

The projections have forced the Yamaha Motor execs to make or consider some big cost cutting decisions. They're considering postponing a new test track and parts plant in Japan as well as putting the brakes on production expansion for a plant in Indonesia. The company is also cutting back executive salaries by as much as 20% for the remainder of the year.

Yamaha has issued a massive recall that involves 53,814 motorcycles. The recall is to replace a defect in rear-wheel shock absorbers that caused slight injuries to one rider.

The TW200E models were manufactured between 1987 and 2001 and all sold in Japan, the motorcycle firm said in a statement. So, there should be nothing to worry about here in Canada.

The recall followed six reports of problems with the joint part due to a lack of tenacity, the statement said. The problem could result in a breakdown of the part and a loss of stability.

One rider was slightly injured when a TW200E motorcycle with the defect scraped a guardrail, a Yamaha spokesman said.

Japan's Yamaha Motor Co Ltd. said last Friday that they'd be halting production temporarily at 11 of their facilities because of the global economic slowdown.

In a news release, they indicated that the stoppage would be for seven to 10 days in February and March.

Affected facilities produce motorcycles, recreational vehicles, marine sports vehicles, industrial robots, and parts.

Yamaha motorcycle rider Pascal Terry, age 49, died during the Dakar while in the race. He was found 15 meters away from his motorcycle, sitting in the shade in an area of dense vegetation, with his helmet off, and with food and water.

He went missing on Sunday during the second stage of the race, between Santa Rosa and Puerto Madryn.

Local police performed an investigation as to the cause of death and it was determined he died of pulmonary edema. According to the Argentinian military body charged with police duties, his life could have been saved if he would have been treated immediately.

Dakar organizers (ASO) indicate there was an unfortunate breakdown in communications between the local event organizers, the local head office, and the French based head office. The breakdown in communications caused a prolonged delay before a search was held to try to find Terry. Terry had called race organizers Sunday on a Sat phone, to indicated that he had run out of gas but then obtained some from another rider. It's not clear what happened after that call and the time up to his death.

The tracking device was showing his bike in one place but there was reportedly some confusion as to whether he had made it back to the base camp without his bike. This delayed rescue attempts.

Before the race he spoke about his long-held desire to compete in the event.

“I’ve dreamed about being in the Dakar since it started,” said Terry, who had been racing motorcycles for 29 years. “I think it’s going to be great. ... I’m going to do all I can to take full advantage of all the legs of the race.”

His body was found on Wednesday and the ASO have vowed to review their communication procedures.

It's a very unfortunate incident that highlights the dangers of the race. Even with all the modern technology and tracking devices available to us that things like this can happen.

The Toronto Motorcycle show is this coming weekend.

We can't possibly tell you everything that's going on at the show, with upwards of 150 exhibitors you can bet there will be something that should interest just about every motorcycle enthusiast. But as a bit of a sneak peak, here's what the big names are scheduled to display:

BMW Motorrad Canada will be bringing the new K1300S, R and GT along with the F800GS that has finally started to show up at dealers (much to the delight of those who've already put deposits on them and anticipated a September arrival). Riders that like the dirt might be interested in seeing the G450X Enduro. Those of you who are more World Superbike than off-road adventure will surely enjoy BMW's, still under development, S1000RR, BMW's World Superbike entry that won't hit the racetrack in 2009.

Ducati will have the new 1198S Superbike, the Monster M1100S, and may also bring along a Desmosedici Moto GP replica streetbike with a retail price in the 80 thousand
range.

Honda should have the 2009 DN01, a $17,499, 680cc tourer with an automatic transmission. Not to disappoint, the CBR600 and CBR1000 sportbikes should be there as well showing off the new optional anti-lock brakes.

Kawasaki will show off the Vulcan 1700 series and the new ZX-6R 600 sportbike that is said to be an almost unbelievable 10 kg lighter than last year's model. Canadian Superbike and Pro 600 Champion Jordan Szoke and teammate Alex Welsh will be there too doing some autograph sessions.

KTM has said said they'll be showing off the 1190 RC8 Superbike and their single-cylinder 690 Enduro; the most powerful single cylinder on the market.

Deeley Harley-Davidson will have the 2009 touring models and Tri-Glide trike and the previously Euro-spec only XR1200 Sportster. You'll get a look at the Police Edition of the Buell Ulysses too.

Suzuki will be bringing the all new GSX-R1000, new Boulevard M90, and the SFV650 (or Gladius)- a naked styled bike using the famed SV650 v-twin engine. Suzuki will also show off some Canadian only models such as a 650 and 1000 V-Strom that come with locking hard bags and topbox as standard equipment.

Yamaha will have the new V Max, the 200-horsepower rocket!

Yamaha is running a promotion right now that might appeal to some Christmas shoppers. If you buy a new 2009 sportbike before December 31, 2008 you'll have the choice of:

- Bonus instant customer rebate of up to $800
- Up to 12 months Yamaha protection plus
- Power financing as low as 5.99%
- Up to $300 in Yamabucks.

Santa, I've been very good this year so if you're reading this I'd like an FJR1300A please!

World's biggest motorcycle exhibition will open its doors on November 4th at Milan, Italy to an ever increasing public.

This year at Milan's EICMA exhibition, we should see several new motorcycles and scooters - probably not as many as last year when it seemed everybody had something new.

But like at Intermot show in Germany, there will no doubt be a lot of Asian manufactured electric motorcycles and scooters showcased.

The main conference day is Tuesday, with 2 conferences called on Monday and one on Wednesday.

Several companies have announced that they're be doing a press conference at the show. Which would generally indicate that they have something interesting they want to make public - but time will tell. Here's the list of companies:

Yamaha - Yamaha have organized a conference the day before the show opens (Monday), and it's held off-site.

Ducati - They're having their press conference the day before the show opens. Fighter model perhaps?

Honda - Honda starts off the press conference heavy Tuesday

New Max - New Max have several brands of clothing and helmets. Haven't heard of these folks.

BMW - Having already announced three new K series models at Intermot it's hard to say what they'll have to say.

Husqvarna - These guys immediately follow BMW (they're a subsidiary of BMW) and both are scheduled for 30 minutes a piece.

Leo Vince - Might be a good guess that the Italian Leo Vince will probably be presenting new exhausts.

KTM - KTM have two conference, one on Tuesday and one on Wednesday (together with Zadi - an Italian parts manufacturer). Rumors are that they may show an electric motorcycle.

Aprilia - The Piaggio group's Aprilia have 15 minutes so not too much time for big announcements here.

Moto Guzzi - Piaggio group's Guzzi have 10 minutes

Gilera - Piaggio group's Gilera have 15 minutes

Vespa - Piaggio group's Vespa have 15 minutes

Piaggio - Piaggio themselves took 15 minutes

Scarabeo - Piaggio group's Scarabeo have 10 minutes

Derbi - Piaggio group's Derbi have 10 minutes

Kymco - Scooter manufacturer Kymko rarely call for conferences so there will likely be something new out of this Taiwanese company.

Nipponia - Never heard of these guys.

Suzuki - Suzuki have 30 minutes but announced new bikes at Intermot so we're not sure what to expect here.

Metzeler - Tire manufacturer Metzeler are closing the day with a press conference

Two of the worlds largest motorcycle companies; Honda Motor Co. and Yamaha Motor Co., are said to be developing electric models to attract riders amid high gasoline prices.

"We are pushing forward with the development of electric two-wheeled vehicles, but we haven't decided on the price or the release date," said Honda spokeswoman Akemi Ando.

Honda plans to debut its electric bikes by 2011, while Yamaha will introduce its version in 2010, the Japanese business newspaper (Nikkei newspaper) reported.

Yamaha is working on an electric two-wheeler to market along the lines of their 50 cc scooter, said spokesman Takashi Kitagawa. Yamaha stopped selling its EC-02 and Passol-L electric scooters last September after a battery recall.

According to the report in the Nikkei, both firms will use lithium-ion batteries to power the vehicles.

No word of course on whether these will come to Canada but probably not initially. No doubt we'll see a day in a few years time when electric motorcycles will come though.

New for 2009 Yamaha has a new entry-level sportbike - the FZ6R. It's a bike that looks very sporty but has a toned down engine so that you don't have the intense performance of a 600 sportbike, or the big price tag they usually come with either.

Yamaha tells it like it is on their website, in Yamaha's own words,

"Somewhere between cruisers and supersport bikes exists a genre simply known as "sports" bikes.

The new FZ6R fits perfectly into the less intense sport bike world with its easy to control engine, light weight and low seat height. A slim compact chassis and low seat height complement the fuel injected engine and its very linear throttle control. No lap records here, just a bike that inspires rider confidence and is a blast to ride."

So if you're looking for a sporty bike you can have some fun then this might be just the bike for you. The MSRP is $8,299, which seems a pretty decent bargain considering the FZ6 is $1,000 more ($9,299).

What do you get for $8,299? You'll get a steel frame, budget suspension, and a 212 kg (466 lb) wet weight, 17-inch wheels, a 1,440 mm (56.7 in) wheelbase, 6-speed gearbox, and 44 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm.

The bore-stroke ratio of 65.5 x 44.5 mm, similar to the FZ6, provides fewer max horsepower but gives more midrange when compared to the wider-shorter R6 bore and stroke.

So, if you want some sporty looks but comfortable ergonomics and don't have a huge bankroll the FZ6R, this might just be your next bike.

Each of the four Yamaha MotoGP riders took part in the global unveiling of the all-new Yamaha R1 this week in big glittery show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fiat Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, plus Tech 3 Yamaha team-mates Colin Edwards and James Toseland were surprise guests at the unveiling. It took place in front of 3,000 Yamaha US dealers at the famous Mirage Hotel.

The all-new version of the R1, Yamaha's premium performance road bike, is more closely linked than ever to the YZR-M1 on which the four riders compete in the MotoGP championship. The riders each came on stage aboard a different colour version of the machine, before being interviewed about it in relation to their own MotoGP bikes.

Yamaha is indicating some pretty impressive numbers for the new R1 on their site to back up the claims of M1 like technology:

"Pushing out 182 PS at 12,500 rpm with 115.5 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm, this MotoGP-inspired engine is without a doubt the most technologically advanced powerplant ever seen on a Yamaha supersport bike."

Here's some quotes from the MotoGP guys:

Valentino Rossi:

"This is a great bike, it's very like my M1 and it's exciting to see so many MotoGP qualities now appearing on a bike for the road. I think everyone who loves the R1 and Yamaha will be very excited about this new version, it's fantastic!"

Jorge Lorenzo:

"I think this bike will be very popular. Yamaha have worked very hard to try to make it as like our M1 as possible and it seems they have done a fantastic job. The cornering and agility especially is great, which is of course one of the best qualities of the M1."

Just days after the big news of the release of the 2009 V-Max, Yamaha took the wraps off another couple new models. With gas prices rising and more consumers looking for cheaper alternatives Yamaha made a smart move and introduced two new scooters; a maxi-scooter, the T-Max 500 and a larger model of tremendously popular BW 50, which bumps the displacement up to 125.

The largest displacement of the new scooter models is the new T-Max 500. The T-Max has been available in Europe for some time now (around 8 years) but gets an major refresh for 2008 (lighter, new styling, and sporty updates).

It features a liquid cooled, DOHC, 499 cc four-stroke parallel twin engine. With a maximum horsepower rating of 42 (@7,500 rpm) and torque of 34.2ft-lbs @ 6,500 rpm this maxi-scoot should be a commuters new best friend. Highway speeds should be a breeze.

You'll have no trouble stopping this scoot with its R6 inspired dual 267 mm discs up front and a 267 mm disc in the back. They're mounted on sporty 15" wheels. Front suspension is by way of a conventional motorcycle style 43mm hydraulic fork with 120mm or 4.7" of travel. In the rear there's a single shock swingarm with 116mm or 4.6" of travel.

Wet weight is a claimed 222 kg or 488.4 lbs with a fuel capacity of 15 litres. Yamaha claims that the T-Max will get an estimated 47 mpg or 5 litres per 100 km.

Base MSRP of the T-Max 500 is $9,999 and it should make it's way into Canadian dealerships in July.


The new, larger, BW gets a 124 cc 4-stroke, air-cooled (with fan assist), SOHC, 4-valve, single. The fan-assisted cooling system maintains consistent engine temperatures, even while idling at stoplights or in stop and go traffic to improve efficiency and extend engine life.

The seemingly simple engine packs quite a bit of modern tech inside.

- Light weight aluminum cylinder features a ceramic composite coating on the cylinder bore which insures uniform heat dissipation, reduced friction, reduced weight and an extended service life.
- Four valve cylinder head design utilizes two intake valves and two exhaust valves for maximum breathing efficiency and great power output.
- Both the intake and exhaust valves feature a special "carbon cutter" design which removes any carbon build up from the valve stem, keeping the engine operating at maximum efficiency, even during extended slow speed use.
- 16 bit ECU (electronic control unit) is used to control the fuel injection and ignition systems.

The big wheel, twin headlight - rally inspired styling is still present on the new, larger, BW. The "underbone-style" steel frame is visible and even incorporates and anti-corrosion paint process.

Of course the new scooter also features fuel injection so there's no choke or idle adjustment to fuss with. The fuel mixture s all controlled automatically for maximum performance and reduced emissions.

No gears to worry about either, as it uses a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT); just twist the throttle and go. Yamaha expects that the BW will return an estimated 88 mpg, that's only 2.67 litres per 100 km.

Dual-shock rear suspension provides a plush, comfortable ride wheel travel is 71mm (2.8"). Up front you get a 220mm hydraulic disc brake with single piston caliper while the rear gets a 150mm drum. They're mounted on rugged but lightweight die cast aluminum 5-spoke "mag style" wheels.

You get a 6-litre fuel tank, which should be good for quite a bit of driving time even if you're carrying a passenger on the roomy 2-person seat. The locking seat includes 20l of storage underneath that will fit some, but not all, full face helmets.

Base MSRP of the 125 BWs is $3,999.

The new 2009 V-Max has arrived and Yamaha Motors Canada has released the pricing information on their website. Drum roll please... MSRP $21,999. Yamaha's US site lists the MSRP at US $17,990.

According to various sources the 1679 cc engine of the V-Max pumps out 200 PS which is the equivalent of right around 197 horsepower.

Despite all the lightweight aluminum on this power cruiser beast it's still not a lightweight. Wet weight is 683 lbs.

It's official! The 2009 Yamaha V-Max has been released after some 10 years in development.

The V-Max started production way back in 1985 and is considered a power cruiser class motorcycle. Previously it was powered by a liquid cooled 1,200 cc V4 engine, with shaft drive, and very distinctive styling that earned it the nick name "Mad Max." It's one of the best selling Japanese motorcycles of all time.

Well, for 2009 the 1,200cc capacity has been uped to 1,679 cc with a reduction in the angle of the V-engine from 70 to 65 degrees. The new engine is more compact front to back allowing the engineers to place the engine in the "sweet spot" of the frame. While no horsepower figures have been provided by Yamaha, there is a huge torque increase with the new model, Yamaha claims a monster 123 ft-lbs (presumably at the crank) while the old Max's rear wheel torque was just about 80 ft-lbs.

A hydraulic slipper clutch reduces rear wheel hop when making hard downshifts or under hard braking. You've got five gear ratios optimized for maximum acceleration and performance; fifth gear is an overdrive gear to reduce engine rpm at highway speeds for a comfortable ride. The final drive is a compact rear shaft.

The exhaust system is a four into one into two into four that retains the Yamaha patented Exhaust Ultimate Power (EXUP) valve while keeping emissions down with a catalytic converter.

Gone is the steel cradle frame, replaced with a lightweight cast aluminium model with detachable sub frame and extra long swingarm to keep the power to the ground. The frame is designed to offer optimized rigidity balance to maximize handling performance. This frame is very rigid or stiff at the head pipe, engine mounts, and swingarm pivot point. In other areas, material is less rigid in order to allow for "tuned flex".

In terms of suspension; up front you get conventional forks but they're a stout 52 mm and fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound. They're good for 4.7 m of travel. In the rear you'll get a fully adjustable mono-shock offering 4.3mm of travel. Seat height should allow for all size of rider as 775mm (30.5"). Just in case that low seat height has you thinking it might be good for new riders - think again. If those specs we just posted aren't convincing enough Yamaha offers a warning: IMPORTANT NOTE: The VMAX offers a significant level of power and performance. It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.

The 15l capacity fuel tank remains under the rider's seat, with the airbox making its home in the top of the bike where tank resides on many motorcycles.

How do you slow this rocket? In the front you've got 320 mm wave style rotors with massive 6 piston radially mounted calipers. Out back you get a 298 mm, single piston caliper. ABS is now also included to help maximize the safety and ability to slow the bike in all situations.

The wheels are 18" diameter in both the front and back. The rear tire is a huge 200/50 wide. That'll be an expensive one to replace when you smoke it off!

Yamaha has thought to include their immobilizer system on the bike as well. The key needs to be recognized before the bike will start (don't lose it!).

As for colors, as the old Model-T car joke goes - You can get it any color you want, as long as it's black.

No word on pricing yet but we'll let you know as soon as we do.

For more information and to see the full specs of the bike be sure to take a look at Yamaha Canada's website.

A few more photo's of the 2009 Vmax has made their way to the Internet. Some numbers being thrown around for specs are that it'll have a 1800 cc v4 with 210 horsepower. They're not official specs from Yamaha which won't be released until June 4th.

Here's a shot from the side.

Here's a shot of from the rear end of the bike:

Image courtesy of motoryclenews.com

Motorcycle news has released a sneak peak photo of the new 2009 Yamaha Vmax. Said to offer approximately 200hp. It is expected that the bike will be unvelieved on either June 4th or June 6th if we're to believe the countdown clock on Yamaha's website.

A mysterious counter has sprung up on the Yamaha Motors Canada website. It's not really clear what it's counting down but a little bit of digging seems to suggest that it's the arrival date of the long awaited Yamaha Vmax!

Yamaha Canada have confirmed that two models will be officially released on the 4th and 6th of June. The clock counter shows the moment the announcement for the June 4th announcement will be made in fact.