In 1985, Yamaha introduced the V-Max, a groundbreaking muscle bike aimed at the American market, challenging the dominance of Harley-Davidson in the cruiser segment. With its bold design and powerful engine, the V-Max quickly garnered attention and earned the title of "Bike of the Year." Designed to evoke the aesthetics and performance of 1960s muscle cars, the V-Max pioneered the power cruiser category. Led by Akira Araki, Yamaha's team modified a 1200 CC engine from their Venture touring bike, enhancing its power to 145 horsepower through innovative engineering, including the V-Boost system. The V-Max's exceptional acceleration and agility made it a hit among enthusiasts despite its braking quirks. Yamaha continued to refine the V-Max over the years, but due to European emission standards, production ceased in 2020. Nevertheless, the V-Max's legacy endures as a trailblazer in motorcycle design and performance, captivating riders with its raw power and unique character.