Monster Torque Machine by One-off Parts: V-MAX Custom
Esper's V-MAX
This VMAX1200 was custom-built by ESPER for a customer who wanted to make it his last bike ever, with the concept of creating a bike that didn't exist anywhere else in the world by using the engine of the YAMAHA Royalstar.
The VMAX was inspired by the Venture Royal, which was the predecessor of the XVZ13 Royalstar. The engine used in this custom is from such XVZ13, but it was a challenge to fit it into the frame. Additionally, the stock carburetor did not fit with the XVZ13 engine, so they incorporated intake manifolds into twin FCR carburetor to solve the problem. The additional 100cc of space allowed for significant torque improvements, resulting in a unique riding experience that differs from turbo custom builds. The VMAX also has a distinct appearance, with the classic fins of an air-cooled engine, making it a true masterpiece.
Handle
A GIVI visor windshield has been added for comfort. The front master cylinder is a Brembo radial pump.
The center monocular speedometer and the layout of the engine tachometer and indicators on the tank cover are the same as on the stock VMAX1200.
Bodyworks
The exterior is the stock '05 North American-spec red of the VMAX 1200, with a hidden flare pattern and VMAX 20th anniversary emblem visible on the tank cover.
The split front and rear seats, aluminum grab bars on the tail, dummy air ducts in the front half, and side covers are all stock VMAX1200 parts.
Engine
The engine with air-cooled wind finned cylinders is Royalstar's 1294cc, V4 engine, up about 100cc from VMAX's 1199cc. This bike is loaded using a one-off design to avoid interference with the frame and other parts.
Intake & Exhaust
Removing the dummy tank cover reveals a twin downdraft FCR carburetor and radiator reservoir tank. A one-off manifold was needed for them.
Chassis
The Φ43mm front fork is stock VMAX, the front calipers are Brembo 4-piston, and the discs are wave type.
The quad-pipe exhaust is ESPAR's original and supports the V4 engine character in sound and torque. Of course, it also matches the V4 Royalstar. The rear brake calipers are Brembo 4-piston.
The suspension, including 2.15-18/3.50-15-inch wheels and shaft drive and pipe swingarm, is based on the stock late VMAX 1200. The rear shocks are by Ohlins.
Gallery
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Specifications
Part | Details |
---|---|
Carb / Intake | KEIHIN FCR Φ41mm Carburetor (x2 pcs.) ESPER Intake Manifold (One-off) |
Exhaust | ESPER Original Quad Exhaust (One-off) |
Brake | Brembo 4P Calipers (the same type for front, rear) BRAKING Wave Disc Rotor STX21D Brembo Radial Master Cylinder YAMAHA OEM Rear Disc Rotor from Other Model |
Suspension | OHLINS Rear Suspension |
Steps | LSL Foot Rest VMAX1200 1985-2004 |
Bodyworks | GIVI A123 Windshield |
Original Source of this Article
Heritage & Legends


editor
Hakuyo
A foreigner who rides in Japan, Japanese call this "Gaijin Rider". 6th year in the Webike global team. He feels and shares the real bike life in Japan then presents you how interesting Japanese customs are.