The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a classic motorcycle that was first introduced in 1982. It is a mid-sized cruiser that is powered by a 550cc engine. The Maxim is known for its comfortable riding position, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It is a popular choice for both new and experienced riders.
The 550 Yamaha Maxim was a significant motorcycle in the history of Yamaha. It was the first motorcycle in the Maxim line, and it helped to establish Yamaha as a major player in the cruiser market. The Maxim was also one of the first motorcycles to feature a shaft drive, which is a more efficient and reliable way to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheel.
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is still a popular choice for riders today. It is a versatile motorcycle that can be used for commuting, touring, and even some light off-roading. The Maxim is a great value for the money, and it is a motorcycle that will provide years of riding enjoyment.
550 Yamaha Maxim
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a classic motorcycle that is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable riding position. It is a popular choice for both new and experienced riders.
- Engine: 550cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve
- Power: 43 hp @ 8,500 rpm
- Torque: 34 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed
- Final drive: Shaft
- Suspension: Front: 35mm telescopic forks, Rear: Dual shocks
- Brakes: Front: Single disc, Rear: Drum
- Seat height: 28.3 inches
- Weight: 439 pounds
- Fuel capacity: 4.2 gallons
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a versatile motorcycle that can be used for commuting, touring, and even some light off-roading. It is a great value for the money, and it is a motorcycle that will provide years of riding enjoyment.
Engine
The engine is the heart of any motorcycle, and the 550cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve engine in the 550 Yamaha Maxim is a reliable and powerful performer. This type of engine is known for its durability, fuel efficiency, and smooth power delivery.
- Displacement: 550cc is a relatively large displacement for a motorcycle engine, which gives the Maxim plenty of power for both city and highway riding.
- Air-cooled: Air-cooled engines are simpler and less expensive to maintain than liquid-cooled engines, and they are also lighter weight.
- 4-stroke: 4-stroke engines are more efficient than 2-stroke engines, and they produce fewer emissions.
- SOHC: SOHC (single overhead camshaft) engines are simpler and less expensive to manufacture than DOHC (double overhead camshaft) engines, and they are also more reliable.
- 2-valve: 2-valve engines are less efficient than 4-valve engines, but they are also simpler and less expensive to manufacture.
Overall, the 550cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve engine in the 550 Yamaha Maxim is a good choice for riders who are looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and powerful motorcycle.
Power
The 550 Yamaha Maxim produces 43 horsepower at 8,500 rpm. This is a relatively high power output for a motorcycle of this size, and it gives the Maxim plenty of power for both city and highway riding. The Maxim's power is also very smooth and linear, which makes it easy to ride at all speeds.
The Maxim's power is due in part to its relatively large engine displacement (550cc) and its high-revving nature. The Maxim's engine is also very efficient, which helps to produce more power with less fuel.
The Maxim's power is a major advantage for riders who want a motorcycle that is both fun to ride and practical for everyday use. The Maxim's power makes it easy to accelerate quickly, pass other vehicles, and climb hills. The Maxim's power is also very smooth and linear, which makes it easy to ride at all speeds.
Torque
Torque is a measure of an engine's ability to produce twisting force. It is important because it determines how well an engine can accelerate a vehicle from a standstill and how well it can climb hills. The 550 Yamaha Maxim produces 34 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 rpm. This is a relatively high torque output for a motorcycle of this size, and it gives the Maxim good acceleration and hill-climbing ability.
The Maxim's torque is due in part to its relatively large engine displacement (550cc) and its high-revving nature. The Maxim's engine is also very efficient, which helps to produce more torque with less fuel.
The Maxim's torque is a major advantage for riders who want a motorcycle that is both fun to ride and practical for everyday use. The Maxim's torque makes it easy to accelerate quickly, pass other vehicles, and climb hills. The Maxim's torque is also very smooth and linear, which makes it easy to ride at all speeds.
Transmission
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is equipped with a 5-speed transmission. This is a common type of transmission for motorcycles, and it provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy.
- Gears 1-4: These gears are used for normal riding conditions, such as accelerating from a stop, climbing hills, and passing other vehicles.
- Gear 5: This gear is used for highway riding at cruising speeds. It is the most fuel-efficient gear, and it helps to reduce engine wear.
The 5-speed transmission in the 550 Yamaha Maxim is a reliable and durable component. It is easy to shift, and it provides a smooth and positive feel.
Final drive
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is equipped with a shaft final drive. This is a type of final drive that uses a driveshaft to transfer power from the transmission to the rear wheel. Shaft final drives are known for their durability, reliability, and low maintenance requirements.
- Durability: Shaft final drives are more durable than chain or belt final drives because they are not exposed to the elements. This makes them a good choice for riders who ride in all types of weather conditions.
- Reliability: Shaft final drives are also very reliable. They are less likely to break or need to be replaced than chain or belt final drives.
- Low maintenance: Shaft final drives require very little maintenance. They do not need to be lubricated or adjusted as often as chain or belt final drives.
The shaft final drive is a major advantage for riders who want a motorcycle that is both durable and reliable. It is also a good choice for riders who do not want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Suspension
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is equipped with a suspension system that consists of 35mm telescopic forks in the front and dual shocks in the rear. This type of suspension system is common on motorcycles, and it provides a good balance of comfort and handling.
- Telescopic forks: Telescopic forks are the most common type of front suspension on motorcycles. They are simple and reliable, and they provide good damping and rebound control. The 35mm forks on the Maxim are relatively large, which gives them good stability and handling.
- Dual shocks: Dual shocks are a common type of rear suspension on motorcycles. They are simple and reliable, and they provide good damping and rebound control. The dual shocks on the Maxim are adjustable, which allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their liking.
The suspension system on the 550 Yamaha Maxim is a good choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is both comfortable and fun to ride. The telescopic forks and dual shocks provide a good balance of comfort and handling, and they are easy to adjust to suit the rider's preferences.
Brakes
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is equipped with a braking system that consists of a single disc brake in the front and a drum brake in the rear. This type of braking system is common on motorcycles, and it provides good stopping power and control.
The single disc brake in the front is more powerful than the drum brake in the rear. This is because disc brakes use a caliper to squeeze a pair of pads against a rotating disc, which creates friction and slows the wheel. Drum brakes, on the other hand, use a pair of shoes to press against the inside of a rotating drum, which also creates friction and slows the wheel. Disc brakes are more powerful than drum brakes because they have a larger surface area for friction to occur.
The combination of a single disc brake in the front and a drum brake in the rear provides the 550 Yamaha Maxim with good stopping power and control. The single disc brake in the front provides most of the stopping power, while the drum brake in the rear helps to stabilize the motorcycle during braking.
Seat height
The seat height of a motorcycle is an important factor to consider, especially for shorter riders. A seat that is too high can make it difficult to reach the ground and can be uncomfortable to ride. The 550 Yamaha Maxim has a seat height of 28.3 inches, which is a good height for most riders. This seat height allows riders to easily reach the ground and provides a comfortable riding position.
The seat height of the 550 Yamaha Maxim is also important for handling. A lower seat height makes it easier to maneuver the motorcycle at low speeds and can make it easier to control the motorcycle in tight turns. The 28.3-inch seat height of the Maxim is a good compromise between comfort and handling.
Overall, the seat height of the 550 Yamaha Maxim is a good choice for most riders. It is low enough to be comfortable and easy to handle, but it is also high enough to provide good ground clearance and visibility.
Weight
The 550 Yamaha Maxim weighs 439 pounds. This weight is relatively light for a motorcycle of its size and type. The Maxim's light weight makes it easy to maneuver and handle, especially at low speeds. It also makes the Maxim more fuel-efficient than heavier motorcycles.
The Maxim's weight is also important for safety. A lighter motorcycle is easier to control in an emergency situation, and it is less likely to cause serious injury to the rider in a crash.
Overall, the 550 Yamaha Maxim's weight of 439 pounds is a major advantage. It makes the Maxim easy to maneuver, handle, and stop, and it also contributes to the motorcycle's fuel efficiency and safety.
Fuel capacity
The 550 Yamaha Maxim has a fuel capacity of 4.2 gallons. This is a relatively large fuel capacity for a motorcycle of this size and type. It gives the Maxim a good range of over 200 miles on a single tank of gas.
- Range: The Maxim's 4.2-gallon fuel capacity gives it a range of over 200 miles on a single tank of gas. This is a good range for a motorcycle of this size and type, and it makes the Maxim a good choice for long rides.
- Fuel economy: The Maxim's fuel economy is also very good. It gets around 50 mpg, which is excellent for a motorcycle of this size and power. This means that riders can go a long way on a single tank of gas.
- Convenience: The Maxim's large fuel capacity and good fuel economy make it a very convenient motorcycle to own. Riders don't have to worry about stopping for gas very often, and they can travel long distances without having to refuel.
- Peace of mind: The Maxim's large fuel capacity also provides riders with peace of mind. They know that they can travel a long way on a single tank of gas, and they don't have to worry about running out of gas in the middle of nowhere.
Overall, the 550 Yamaha Maxim's fuel capacity of 4.2 gallons is a major advantage. It gives the Maxim a good range, good fuel economy, and convenience. It also provides riders with peace of mind, knowing that they can travel a long way on a single tank of gas.
550 Yamaha Maxim FAQs
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a popular motorcycle that has been around for many years. It is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable riding position. Here are some frequently asked questions about the 550 Yamaha Maxim:
Question 1: What is the 550 Yamaha Maxim?
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a mid-sized cruiser motorcycle that was first introduced in 1982. It is powered by a 550cc engine and is known for its comfortable riding position, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
Question 2: What is the difference between the 550 Yamaha Maxim and the 650 Yamaha Maxim?
The 550 Yamaha Maxim and the 650 Yamaha Maxim are very similar motorcycles. The main difference between the two is the engine size. The 550 Maxim has a 550cc engine, while the 650 Maxim has a 650cc engine. The 650 Maxim is also slightly heavier than the 550 Maxim.
Question 3: What are the pros and cons of the 550 Yamaha Maxim?
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a great motorcycle for beginners and experienced riders alike. It is easy to ride, fuel-efficient, and reliable. However, it is not as powerful as some other motorcycles in its class.
Question 4: What is the value of a 550 Yamaha Maxim?
The value of a 550 Yamaha Maxim depends on a number of factors, including the year, condition, and mileage. However, a well-maintained 550 Maxim can be worth anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000.
Question 5: What are some common problems with the 550 Yamaha Maxim?
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a reliable motorcycle, but it does have some common problems. These problems include:
- Carburetor problems
- Electrical problems
- Oil leaks
Question 6: How do I find parts for a 550 Yamaha Maxim?
Parts for the 550 Yamaha Maxim can be found online, at motorcycle salvage yards, or at Yamaha dealerships. However, some parts may be difficult to find, as the Maxim is no longer in production.
Overall, the 550 Yamaha Maxim is a great motorcycle for beginners and experienced riders alike. It is easy to ride, fuel-efficient, and reliable. However, it is not as powerful as some other motorcycles in its class, and it can be difficult to find parts.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know more about the 550 Yamaha Maxim, you can decide if it is the right motorcycle for you. If you are looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and easy-to-ride motorcycle, the Maxim is a great option.
550 Yamaha Maxim Tips
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a classic motorcycle that is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable riding position. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your 550 Yamaha Maxim:
Tip 1: Keep up with maintenance. Like all motorcycles, the 550 Yamaha Maxim requires regular maintenance to keep it running properly. This includes changing the oil and filter, checking the brakes, and inspecting the tires. By following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, you can help to extend the life of your Maxim and avoid costly repairs.
Tip 2: Use the correct fuel. The 550 Yamaha Maxim requires unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91. Using the correct fuel will help to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.
Tip 3: Ride responsibly. The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a powerful motorcycle, and it is important to ride responsibly. This means obeying the speed limit, wearing a helmet, and being aware of your surroundings. By riding responsibly, you can help to reduce the risk of an accident.
Tip 4: Store your motorcycle properly. When you are not riding your 550 Yamaha Maxim, it is important to store it properly. This means keeping it in a dry, well-ventilated area. You should also cover your motorcycle to protect it from the elements.
Tip 5: Customize your motorcycle. The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a versatile motorcycle that can be customized to suit your individual needs. There are a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available for the Maxim, so you can make it truly your own.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- By following these tips, you can help to keep your 550 Yamaha Maxim running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.
- The Maxim is a great motorcycle for commuting, touring, and even some light off-roading.
- The Maxim is a very customizable motorcycle, so you can make it truly your own.
By following these tips, you can help to get the most out of your 550 Yamaha Maxim.
Transition to the article's conclusion:
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a great motorcycle for riders of all levels of experience. It is reliable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable to ride. By following these tips, you can help to keep your Maxim running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.
Conclusion
The 550 Yamaha Maxim is a classic motorcycle that is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable riding position. It is a popular choice for both new and experienced riders. The Maxim is a versatile motorcycle that can be used for commuting, touring, and even some light off-roading. It is a great value for the money, and it is a motorcycle that will provide years of riding enjoyment.
As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, motorcycles are becoming a more popular form of transportation. The Maxim is a great choice for riders who are looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable motorcycle. It is also a great choice for riders who are new to motorcycling and are looking for a motorcycle that is easy to ride.
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