Scooter – Yamaha Tmax 2015 test: maximum efficiency! – Better and better

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Yamaha Tmax 2015 test: maximum efficiency !

Scooter - Yamaha Tmax 2015 test: maximum efficiency! - Better and better

Spearhead of maxi-scooters, the Yamaha Tmax 530 is evolving smoothly for 2015 with a small aesthetic facelift and more qualitative equipment, without significant price increase … A good thing these days ! First try.

Better and better

Regularly revised and optimized (more powerful engine and key coded in 2004, ABS in, new frame and design in, makeover, lighter chassis and 530 cc engine in), the Tmax has occupied since its introduction in 2001 a dominant position in the maxi-scooter market, with more than 200,000 units sold, of which nearly .

This scooter is 98% acclaimed by a male clientele, mostly between 30 and 50 years old. Remember that it can be used with the A2 license.

This 2015 vintage has not undergone any major changes, but benefits from a more aerodynamic front end which incorporates a central delta deflector in place of the previous position light. This is designed to improve air flow over the body and wind protection for the driver.

We also note the appearance of new mirrors, placed higher and farther apart so as not to interfere when moving up the line between cars in town, as well as a new dual optical LED headlight..

A powerful and aesthetic element which reinforces the sporty look of the Tmax, all the more so since the two lights remain on permanently as soon as the ignition is switched on..

Another nice change: the Tmax now benefits from a new inverted tube fork with 41mm diameter, combined with radial-mounted 4-piston brake calipers (similar to those of the) and a new front fender more style. ABS is now fitted as standard.

Increased practical aspects

In terms of practicality, the Tmax 2015 is notably equipped with a smartkey-type starting system. You just need to keep your key in your pocket less than one meter from the vehicle to be authorized to activate or deactivate the ignition, start or stop the scooter, activate the parking lights, open the saddle or lock the steering via a small multifunction console..

A button located on the key preserves the internal battery if the vehicle is not used for a long time, while a lock placed at the bottom of the glove box allows the saddle to be opened manually in the event of a system failure.

Always to counter any thieves, the Tmax is equipped with a new central stand equipped with a ring designed to receive a disc lock preventing its folding..

The on-board instrumentation evolves slightly, with new graphics and increased colors for better readability, less vibrations, as well as a red backlight. Unsurprisingly, we find the two round analog meters separated by a digital display dial (fuel level gauge, water temperature, odometer, exterior temperature, clock, reserve indicator, instantaneous and average consumption) of the previous model..

A 12 volt outlet also appears on the left of the apron. The right glove box is lockable, but the left one disappears altogether.

As before, the Tmax 530 easily accepts a full face helmet and personal effects in its trunk under the saddle – lighted and carpeted – the opening of which is assisted by two hydraulic jacks. The parking brake located on the left of the apron is retained.

Motorization unchanged

Contact, start: the Tmax responds immediately present, with an always discreet but virile exhaust sound. A few short bursts of angry gas are enough to feel the liveliness of its in-line twin which is just waiting to be expressed !

A slight twist of the throttle grip makes it take off smoothly, with very gradual acceleration that is easy to dose. Unchanged on the engine plan, the Tmax 530 remains a model of docility in the urban cycle, responding instantly to the slightest request of the throttle and literally leaping as soon as the throttle is opened wide..

A real treat, especially as the exhaust sound changes proportionally to the acceleration, with the characteristic hearing signature of this scooter. Still, its saddle remains a little wide for small riders, who will have more difficulty putting both feet on the ground when stationary.

In the city, we appreciate its ability to move smoothly between motorists, now without touching the mirrors of the cars when moving up a line thanks to its mirrors placed higher.

In this urban context, the dynamic behavior of the Tmax 2015 turns out to be similar to that of the previous vintage, with an inscription on the round and precise angle, identical agility and excellent heading in curves..

The relatively low seat and the low center of gravity favor low-speed movements and general maneuverability. A little push on the handlebars is enough to take the Tmax where you want it.

In reality, it is necessary to understand a road course at a faster pace to better understand the developments of this 2015 vintage: by forcing the pace, we better perceive the joint benefit of the new fork – which gives the Tmax increased rigidity in the changes of ” fast and full speed angle on the angle – and 4-piston radial calipers – which provide power and progressive braking.

On the winding roads of our test, in the vicinity of Nîmes (30), this new definition of suspensions appeared to us to be perfectly effective, especially as the 2015 Tmax benefits from a specific Dunlop tire fitment (Sportmax GPR-100 M ) which demonstrated the most satisfactory grip throughout this test.

At peak, the Tmax remains capable of a good 170 km / h chrono at 7200 rpm, which allows it to take expressways and highways without incident. The driver’s wind protection is significantly increased, but the knees must always be tightened to effectively protect the legs behind the apron. In terms of consumption, the Tmax 2015 displays an average of 5.2 l / 100 km which provides approximately 290 km of autonomy..

Still in the game

Offered at € 10,999 in standard version, the Tmax 2015 is certainly not lacking in attractions. More rigorous, aesthetically modernized and equipped with significant practical aspects, it remains the benchmark maxi-scooter in the category. A "must have" able to appeal to young and old generations alike.

In its version, the Tmax 2015 offers for 300 euros more a fork and gold anodized brake calipers, a specific two-tone saddle, black rims, a metal-look headlight interior, aluminum footrests and a specific finish. from the dashboard.

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