Form, Function, and the Open Road: YAMAHA V-MAX Custom by KITAGAWA MOTORCYCLES

• V-MAX
• V-MAX1200

• Share:

• 
• 
• 

KITAGAWA MOTORCYCLES' V-MAX

The metallic silver exterior and comfortable looking seat make you want to hop right on this V-MAX (1200). The K-Factory blue heat-colored titanium exhaust system fitting snugly against the underside of the engine and the slim-spoke ADVANTAGE EXACT front and rear wheels give the impression that this bike was built with an attention to weight reduction. Along with this first impression, another distinctive feature can be seen; the U-shaped plate on the pillion seat.

"This is a side bag bracket made at the request of the bike's owner. Originally, he was using a bar type accessory made for the MT-09, but that caused the bag to protrude outward from the bike, and left the possibility of it moving or dangling when it was empty. We solved these problems, examined the height and position of the bag, and reworked it so that it stays away from the exhaust," says Mr. Kitagawa of KITAGAWA MOTORCYCLES.

The shop mainly performs maintenance and repair work on vintage bikes with carburetors and Ducati bevel-gear models. Both the original bracket and the overall look of the bike showcase their expert style.

"The owner of this V-MAX has a clear idea of what he wants the bike to be like and what kind of customization (in this case, a focus on touring) he wants to do, so he chooses the parts himself. I just install them. For example, the EXACT wheels are commercially available for the V-MAX, so I don't have to do anything in particular. The same goes for exhaust pipes,” says Mr. Kitagawa.

But we all know that not just anyone can do the work he does. As mentioned above, the parts must be installed properly, and the overall look must be agreed upon with the owner before being assembled to achieve this beautiful finish. Knowing what went into building the custom just makes you want to ride it even more.

The bag is securely fastened, and the bracket provides a secure way to attach and detach it, allowing the rider to concentrate on riding with peace of mind. The concept of this custom was to allow the owner to enjoy touring both on day trips and for overnight stays. This has definitely been achieved.

Handle

The characteristic layout of the V-MAX (1200) cockpit is retained, but the meter has been replaced with KOSO's T&T Multifunction Meter. Various information is displayed in a centralized manner. A Yupiteru navigation system and Y'S GEAR Windshield Meter Visor have also been added. Their effectiveness is significant not only for touring but also for everyday use.

Intake & Exhaust

The exhaust system is titanium by K-Factory, brought in by the owner. A one-off bracket has been made so that the silencer can be switched between two different types.

Chassis

The step, which has the bar behind the clutch cover in stock form, was moved to the front side of the clutch cover using OVER Racing's 4-position Step. MORIWAKI sliders are also equipped.

The OVER Racing aluminum swingarm is standard length with a reinforced cross-section. The rear shock is a Nitron R3.

The front brakes are MOS (now ADVICS) calipers + SUNSTAR Custom Type Discs, and the wheels are forged magnesium alloy ADVANTAGE EXACT for V-MAX, in 3.00-18/5.00-17 sizes.

Gallery

Specifications

Part	Details
Engine	MORIWAKI Skid Pad Engine Slider
Exhaust	K-FACTORY Full Exhaust
Frame	OVER RACING Swingarm Aluminum Standard Length
Brake	SUNSTAR Custom Type Front Disc Rotor
Wheels	ADVANTAGE EXACT Full Forged Magnesium Wheel (Front/Rear)
Suspension	NITRON Rear Suspension Twin Shock TWIN R3 Series
Steps	OVER RACING Forward Step
Handle / Steering	KOSO T&T Multi Function Meter [Black Panel] TANAX BAREN Neo Mirror C
Bodyworks	Y'S GEAR Windshield Meter Visor

Original Source of this Article

Heritage & Legends