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YAMAHA have just launched their new 500 cc high performance scooter. The Tmax sets a new standard in the maxi scooter world. Its performance and comfort is breaking new ground in the scooter category. The development project started when the New Product Planning Team at YAMAHA MOTOR EUROPE realized the potential of maxi scooter.
Until now the biggest scooters were 250-400 cc single cylinder models, selling mainly in countries like Italy where a strong scooter culture dominates. But many of these vehicles are lacking the levels of performance and riding fun that riders in other countries demand. And at the same time, many existing maxi scooter owners are already eagerly awaiting a higher level model. Which is why YAMAHA embarked upon a project to develop the best and most impressive scooter ever seen before.
Working together with ELM Design - a YAMAHA related design consultancy - the engineers and planners at YAMAHA MOTOR JAPAN turned the concept of the ultimate maxi scooter from a dream into reality.
Development of Tmax
Sven Ermstrang is head of the European Product Planning Department at YAMAHA MOTOR EUROPE office in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and was deeply involved in this project.
His philosophy:
1. More enjoyment with more performance and more active riding fun.
2. More possibilities of usage - even touring trips with a passenger - due to long distance comfort.
Toshiyuki Suzuki is the Tmax project leader, and is one of the key engineers in YAMAHA MOTOR JAPAN. He coordinated the entire technical development of Tmax.
His philosophy:
To develop new technical solutions that combine middleweight motorcycle performance with scooter comfort.
He designed a new high-rigidity chassis incorporating bigger size wheels, running with an all-new twin cylinder 500 cc engine equipped with an automatic CVT transmission.
Akihiko Tanaka is President of ELM design’s European office. Elm design are responsibie for the body styling of Tmax.
Design philosophy:
A really exciting looking machine that combines scooter and motorcycle elements. Strong visual impact with strong lines, but at the same time the scooter had to look pure, clean and sophisticated.
Download the movies below about the Tmax development!
Photo Gallery 1: 2001-TMAX Action
Click to enlarge.
Photo Gallery 2: 2001-TMAX Details
Click to enlarge.
Photo Gallery 3: 2001-TMAX Colours
Click to enlarge.
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