Been riding V-Maxes since 1985 (Gen-1 1985, 1992, 2006) and (Gen-2 2009).
Still have my 1993, 2006 and alternately ride the 2006 and the 2009.
First thing is...the Gen-2 2009 is a totally different machine. The lightning speeds achieved between traffic lights by the Gen-1 (which is what the Gen-1 was built for to begin with anyway) is history...the Gen-2 is quicker, smoother, handles the way that a bike should which was lacking in the Gen-1 and the Gen-2 is a totally re-engineered extremely sound machine.
If you only ride the Gen-1, no biggie...you'll have nothing to worry about and will have a great machine...since you have no Gen-2 to compare it to.
BUT...once you ride a Gen-2, there's no going back...
Many Gen-2 owners have opted to eliminate the 138MPH Top Speed by adding 'things'...but Yamaha had it right in their R&D; by having the 138MPH limiter.
What I mean is, from a stand-still in 1st gear, all the way through to top end in 5th gear, there is NO lack of torque or HP or acceleration and you almost have to 'duct tape' your wrists to the grips, from fear of being left behind on your butt.
What's the comparison between the Gen-2 and 'Crotch Rockets' and other bikes like the Hayabusa, B-King, Ducati, etc.???...
There's no comparison...each has it's strong and weak points...it's never about WFO or WOT or EGO...it's about personal satisfaction...having said that...the Gen-2 will give ANY other machine a good run for the money under all conditions, unlike the Gen-1...
Bottom line???...'THE LEGEND IS BACK AND ALIVE'!!!
Ride safe...
Upgrades/Accessories: 1) Self-done 'Low Down' rider seat
2) Blvd. Screen
3) Back Rest
4) Luggage Rack
5) Stiletto Seat (Sold without mounting)
6) High Flow Air Box Filter and Mod
7) SpeedHealer v1.1
8) Self-Machined SS Exhaust Pipe Gap Covers
9) Self-Installed Garage Door Opener
10) Started in put on Carbon Fiber Parts
Reviews are provided on an "as is" basis with no warranty and should be considered entertainment only. Reviews should not be used for any purpose whatsoever, including but not limited to, making decisions about any referenced vehicles, products, modifications or other information.
