The Yamaha NMAX is the brand’s entry model into their MAX series of maxi scooters, and it remains popular even after several years of existence in the local market. The NMAX is well sought-after by riders who require power and comfort but also look for subtlety and elegance in their daily ride.

Yamaha last updated the NMAX in 2021, adding handsome features to the already popular entry-level maxi scooter.  

What's cool about it?

The Yamaha NMAX is equipped with the brand-exclusive Y-Connect which gives an unprecedented connectivity experience. It provides the rider access to helpful information through the Y-connect app. This includes fuel consumption tracking, maintenance recommendations, malfunction notification, recent parking location, and more.

The NMAX also has a Smart Key System. A remote key enables the rider to start the machine using the main switch knob without inserting an actual key.

In addition, the latest NMAX now has Traction Control which reduces the drive to the rear wheel so that the tire maintains ample grip. This allows you to ride confidently in varying weather and road surface conditions.

Yamaha initially offered ABS as an option but has since dropped the non-ABS variant, settling with a single-variant NMAX with all the bells and whistles.

What sets its ride apart?

This latest NMAX version carried over its 4-stroke 155cc engine. It is a liquid-cooled, SOHC, single-cylinder, 4-valve fuel-injected mill with CVT and Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). It is also equipped with Smart Motor Generator (SMG) for quiet engine starting.

The NMAX also features a multifunction full digital speedometer with a larger easy-to-read LCD instrument display that includes a bar-type fuel gauge, speedometer, clock, and fuel economy data. It also displays Y-Connect notifications when successfully paired with your phone.

Equipped for safety and convenience

A 12V Electric power socket is in the left-hand storage pocket for charging digital devices. At the same time, the right-side storage pocket has a waterproof lid that can fit a large 7- or 8-inch smartphone or tablet. The NMAX sports a handlebar switch control with a convenient lever-style switch for cycling through displayed data for easy operation.

It adopts a 6-bulb LED headlight design—four lights on the top row for low and two below for high beams.

The 23.3-liter capacity of the big multifunction luggage is enough to fit an XL Full Face Helmet. At the same time, the 7.1-liter fuel tank is conveniently located inside the center tunnel and can be opened via a button press, with refueling performed without the need to open the seat.

Speaking of the seat, you can unlock it with an easy-to-access button. Its hinges have two springs that allow it to unlatch slowly and naturally. The maxi seat design with two seating levels provides comfort & plenty of space for both the rider and passenger.

Is the Yamaha NMAX worth it?

For an entry-level maxi scooter, the Yamaha NMAX is as good as it gets. It offers decent grunt (11.3 kW and 13.9 Nm) with safety features like ABS and Traction Control to back it up. Its riding comfort and cargo capacity are also hard to beat.

With an SRP of ₱151,900, I’d say that’s going to be money well spent. Well, it’s hardly surprising that there’s always an NMAX or two idling at stoplights (unless otherwise equipped with a Start and Stop System).

It would seem that Yamaha has it all, but what other features do you think Yamaha should come up with to improve on this already very successful scooter?