IMS Motorcycle Choice Award

Seen it all before?  Well with that in mind, we setout to bring you only the very best or should we say the “Ultimate” from the 28th annual International Motorcycle Show. 

Yes, we have shifted through the “has been” and the obvious in order to serve you, our discerning readers, the interesting and the “what’s hot” from the 13-city motorcycle extravaganza.

Our choice award in the category of "Power Cruiser" goes to the 2009 Star VMAX. Star Motorcycles by Yamaha has given birth to the 2009 Star VMAX, a reincarnation of the world’s foremost and most notorious power cruiser.  The long-awaited ultimate “drag bike that can corner” might not rid you of your sins but the tire-blazing 200hp will certainly help you leave your worries behind.  Yes, 1679cc 16-valve V4 engine provides an eye opening or should we say eyes-closed level of acceleration that will stand your hair on end.  But it is the other refinements that helped earn it a spot on this year’s choice awards list.

First, the Yamaha Chip Controlled (YCC) technology, pilfered from the road race program, controls the intake and fly-by-wire throttle to get the power to the ground.  Second, the lightweight aluminum chassis positions the engine low and forward to handle the ferocious straight-line acceleration and the curves.  Third, the slipper clutch, advanced braking system and highly adjustable suspension gives this creature the bit of refinement needed to make it an incredible package.

The iconic VMAX intake covers are no longer plastic but rather hand-buffed aluminum signifying the high quality and seriousness of this machine. Other new notable features include the oxidized-titanium-coated fork tubes, magnesium engine covers, fluorinated polyethylene fuel tank, EXUP exhaust, double cross joint shaft drive and a nifty organic electroluminescence multifunction display. The display is in addition to the drag style shift light and tachometer. The MSRP for this choice award is $17,990.

2009 Star VMAX Test

www.starmotorcycles.com