Diamond originates under conditions of extreme pressure for very long periods of time. Stress that finally has its reward, beauty and unique qualities. The 2022 Yamaha T-Max also has roots forged in harsh conditions, the chaotic traffic of the 21st century. A precious stone that has been polished for years until it reaches its maximum degree.
The 2022 version of the maxiscooter from the house of tuning forks represents the evolutionary climax of a concept that mixes motorcycle and scooter virtues in equal parts. A miscegenation that proved fundamental to the success of this product that saw the light for the first time in 2001.
There are already eight generations of T-Max, a scooter that Yamaha has been polishing facets, carving edges, to allow it to fully display its virtues.
And it has not been an easy task. Just over two years ago, at the end of 2019, the seventh version of this sporty scooter was presented and our colleague Jordi Mondelo began his report like this: “when it seemed impossible to improve a product like the T-Max, Yamaha has once achieved more, place your maxiscooter one step above”.
Like good goldsmiths, the Japanese brand’s engineers and designers have sought ways to make their most precious gem shine even more.
With more than 350,000 units sold, the T-Max surprises with its infinite capacity to captivate the public. Throughout more than two decades it has maintained a stable sales level and has always been one of the most requested large displacement scooters.
Especially in Latin countries, it seems that the sporty vein of the model is very attractive to the southernmost Europeans and proof of this is that France, Italy and Spain are the reference markets for this model. A public that also tends to remain faithful to their choice since, according to Yamaha, approximately 40% of customers who choose the T-Max repeat their choice when a new version comes out.
Saving the essences
The Yamaha T-Max 2022 represents the sublimation of that concept inaugurated in 2001 and as such, introduces a series of important changes without losing the fundamental essence of the scooter. In this way, both the engine and the cycle part remain unchanged to continue offering the same feel and performance that have made it an icon.
Thus, the Yamaha maxiscooter maintains its 562 cc twin-cylinder plant with a crankshaft set at 360º and an alternative piston as a balancer to avoid vibrations. A mechanic that adapts to the Euro 5 regulations and that continues to yield a good 47.5 CV with solid torque figures that reach 55.7 Nm.
The frame does not receive changes either and continues to rely on the lightweight cast aluminum structure that has provided such good results. The suspensions maintain the 41 mm inverted fork and the rear monoshock absorber, as well as the braking equipment, faithful to the double front disc with 4-piston radial calipers.
However, although the heart of the Yamaha T-Max 2022 remains unchanged, its brightness has been renewed by improving such important details as the front. The most visible face of the quintessential maxi shows a more compact body, with a sharper face, fins and more angular air intakes, as well as a double headlight equipped with LEDs.
In the same direction, the design of the rear part seeks to contribute to that sensation of lightness and slenderness that the T-Max exudes. For this reason, the taillight sharpens its shapes while preserving the T-shaped outline.
And as man does not live by image alone and in addition to being attractive the T-Max must be comfortable and functional, Yamaha has proceeded to review its ergonomics.
racing spirit
This model has always been characterized by offering a attack, compared to the rest of the models on the market. The Yamaha T-Max 2022 abounds in this aspect and as soon as we get on the scooter we feel that inclination towards the front, that racing vocation made even easier in this case thanks to a new bare forged aluminum handlebar, slightly lower and forward.
The seat has been lengthened and the footrests offer more space to move your feet, which together with an adjustable screen (by means of screws) and a seat that now has a 30 mm adjustable backrest, improve the posture at your controls. By the way, this last adjustment is manual and very easy to regulate thanks to a simple stop located on the inside of the seat.
Before continuing, a small note. We have mentioned that the cycle part was unchanged and in essence it is completely true… except for a few minor caveats. Few but extremely important as we could see on the fly.
In the first place, the suspensions receive a new adjustment of a sportier character to better deal with the weight and power of the whole. To this Yamaha adds the use of the new Spin Forged rims, lighter thanks to a manufacturing process that allows much thinner sections to be produced while maintaining the same resistance.
That nature reduces unsprung weight and reduces moment of inertia by about 10% at the front and 6% at the rear. If we add a new shoe to that, specifically a sporty-cut Bridgestone Battlax SC2, the result is easily predictable.
And we can confirm it. The new Yamaha T-Max 2022 remains firm under braking and holds the trajectory when releasing the brakes, smoothly absorbing irregularities, while changes of direction are made smoothly and safely and the grip seems infinite. So much so that almost without intending to, the stand rubbed from time to time when negotiating some curves and not precisely due to lack of free height, but because of the Yamaha’s ability to tilt.
Better in open spaces
It is true that the T-Max is still a bit bulky for city driving and that the width of its central part makes the 800mm seat height seem further from the asphalt than it actually is. Also, its little more than 200 kilos does not help the maneuvers in standstill, but all that vanishes as soon as the horizon clears a bit.
On the road, all its qualities are uncovered, the engine, smooth and sweet in the city, turns up easily and roars, squeezing its nearly 50 CV, reaching speeds that are not compatible with the points card as soon as you are not careful. On fast roads it maintains the trajectory in an exemplary way and in fast curves it does not hesitate in the slightest, while on more twisty paths it gave me the feeling that it turned with more precision than the previous version. It accelerates very well at the exit of the angles and when you want to speed up the entry to the next one, the braking is powerful and manageable, although perhaps a little more initial bite would not hurt.
Another point in its favor is that thanks to the new ergonomics and despite its subtly more racing stance, it is very comfortable over long distances and it is not at all ruled out to consider touring with it.
But let’s continue, there are still many news to tell about the 2022 version.
For example, the smart key is now associated with a two-button main switch, located under the handlebars. Switch that makes it possible to open the refueling cap, now located just in front of the seat, and which also allows the engine to be started, the seat to be unlocked and the center stand to be released.
Another very important change refers to the instrumentation. The old clock panel and LCD screen are replaced in the new T-Max with a modern 7-inch color TFT screen. With the already digitized Yamaha T-Max 2022 we are facing a new dimension in its electronics that also has a ride-by-wire throttle grip, traction control and two driving modes, S with a sportier character that enhances acceleration and T , with smoother reactions.
Everything under control
Returning to the TFT, you can choose between three display modes Sporty, Intelligent and Authentic. In addition, connectivity is ensured via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or USB and the Yamaha MyRide application. Garmin Navigation offers a full map for orientation (although this requires a subscription contract for Garmin services).
Control of all this information is handled from a small joystick on the left pineapple. All very simple and intuitive, although with thick gloves you run the risk of activating some functionality of the menu when you put on the turn signals. The indicator knob and joystick are quite close together.
Of course, if you want to customize your Yamaha T-Max 2022 and take it to a somewhat sportier terrain or, on the contrary, you want to enhance its touring qualities, Yamaha has a series of accessories and packs that can help you. A short screen, aluminum footrests, brake covers or an Akrapovic exhaust will serve you in the first case, while for the second you can opt for various types of top case, backrests, body protectors…
In short, a Yamaha T-Max 2022 that shines even brighter and that, although it seems impossible at this point, is capable of improving its offer for the umpteenth time. The crown gem is getting more and more carats.
What we liked the most and the least…
alone+
A part impeccable and solvent cycle and a powerful and smooth mechanics are its main assets to which are added a much improved aesthetics.
Only-
It is still a wide and tall model that makes it difficult for the less tall to reach the ground.
The turn signal control is very close to the joystick and you can accidentally activate the menu.
Data sheet
Engine type: Parallel twin, 4T, LC, DOHC, 4 valves
Bore x Stroke: 70mm x 73mm
Displacement: 562cc
Maximum power: 47.5 hp at 7,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 55.7 Nm at 5,250 rpm
CO2 emissions: 112g/km
Feeding: Electronic injection
Transmission: CVT automatic variator
Clutch: Multi-disc in oil
Secondary transmission: V-belt
Chassis type: Double beam in cast aluminum
Steering geometry: Nd
Swingarm: Aluminum double arm
Front Suspension: 41mm inverted fork with 120mm travel
Rear Suspension: Hydraulic shock absorber with 117mm of travel (preload adjustable on Tech Max)
Front Brake: Dual 267mm disc, 4-piston radial calipers, ABS
Rear brake: 282mm disc, single piston caliper, ABS
Tires: 120/70×15” and 160/60×15”
Axle distance: 1,575 mm
Seat height: 800mm
Weight -full-: 218 kg
Tank: 15 liters
Average consumption: 4.8 l/100 km
Theoretical autonomy: 310 km
Official warranty: 3 years
Importer: Yamaha Motor Spain
Contact: 935776000
Web: www.yamaha-motor.eu/en/
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