Yamaha has unveiled a significantly updated 2022 TMAX. The class leading sports scooter has been redesigned from the ground up with a striking new supersport inspired profile and some handy tech to keep it ahead of the competition.
The TMAX was launched back in 2001 and created a new class all of its own. Since then it’s evolved into what is still arguably the most sports-biased and dynamic maxi scooter ever built. For 2022 it gets even better…
Tech Max for the UK
Although the TMAX is available as both a standard model and Tech Max the UK will only get the higher spec Tech Max. That model comes with the following extras…
Heated seat with improved temp control
Electrically adjustable screen
Cruise control
Backlit handlebar and centre switches
Adjustable rear suspension
Premium quality interior
The model also get a nifty new 7-inch full-colour TFT screen, it’s customisable so riders can choose from there different stylers, Sporty, Intelligent and Authentic. Of course it’s fully connectable as well and once your phone is connected you can use a joystick on the left handlebar to choose music/check weather etc. Riders can also access full Garmin Navigation (a subscription applies).The scooter has keyless ignition, a phone holder and USB point as well as an electronically operated aero-style fuel filler cap.
High performance Euro 5 engine
The 46.6 bhp 560cc twin cylinder power plant is fast but still A2 licence compliant. Its 360-degree crank and horizontally-opposed reciprocating piston balancer cancels out engine vibration and is designed to be quiet. Yamaha have always given the TMAX an unmistakable sound though and the latest version is no different, the deep exhaust note is very distinctive and you can identify a TMAX before you actually see it.
With its motorcycle-style lightweight die-cast aluminium tubular chassis and engine mounted rigidly (like a bike) the TMAX has always been designed for the rider. Adjustable rear suspension and 41mm forks have been enhanced with sportier damping for 2022. The Tech Max also has adjustable rear suspension. Of course the brakes come with ABS and the engine also boasts traction control and D-Mode selectable engine mapping.
Lighter and more ergonomic
Now into its eighth generation, every panel on the new TMAX has been redesigned, it’s a scooter that certainly blends nicely between the bike and maxi scooter worlds very well (it can out ride plenty of bikes as well in the right hands). The redesign isn’t just to look good though, its narrower, more compact, more ergonomically friendly and the whole scooter weighs less than it did. The new lightweight 10-spoke forged alloy wheels help to reduce weight. They’re made using Yamaha-exclusive technology which allows them to be much thinner and lighter whilst still offering the same strength. The reduction in unsprung weight helps deliver a sportier ride than ever before. They’re shod with newly developed, model-specific Bridgestone Battlax SC2 tyres – tyres developed alongside the new wheels and revised suspension. The scooter weighs in at 218kg making it the lightest in class.
Coming soon?
We’ve always been a big fan of the Yamaha TMAX, we also ran one as a long termer in 2019 (read about it here). We’ll certainly be looking forward to swinging a leg over the 2022 model as soon as we get the chance. Dealers will receive the new model in March 2022.
Sadly for British riders the Extreme Yellow TMAX won’t be coming here but it’s been introduced on the standard model as a nod to the 21-year-old’s colourful past.
