2018 Yamaha XMAX Scooter | First Look Review

Along with its new-for-2018 XSR700, at the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) in Columbus, Ohio, Yamaha unveiled the new XMAX scooter, which is powered by a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, four-stroke 292cc single with an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). With the 530cc TMAX maxi-scooter no longer in Yamaha’s lineup, the XMAX is now the largest-displacement scooter offered by the tuning fork company.

In addition to its twist-and-go convenience, the XMAX includes standard confidence-inspiring safety measures such as traction control and dual-disc brakes with ABS. Large-diameter wheels are 15 inches up front, 14 inches out back, with cast wheels shod with Dunlop Scoot Smart tires. Suspension is handled by a 33mm telescopic fork and dual rear shocks, with 4.3 and 3.1 inches of travel, respectively. Claimed fuel economy is 75 mpg, which should yield more than 250 miles from the 3.4-gallon tank.

Further convenience comes courtesy of the Smart Key proximity fob, which starts the bike, accesses the storage compartments and fuel door, and unlocks the handlebar. The locking, underseat storage compartment holds two full-face helmets and the front fairing includes two storage bays, one of which locks and includes a 12V power socket. The windscreen and handlebar are adjustable, and all lighting is LED. The XMAX weighs a claimed 397 pounds wet and seat height is 31.3 inches.

The 2018 Yamaha XMAX scooter comes in Vivid White for $5,599 and should be in dealerships in October.