Yamaha unveiled the TMAX in July 2000 as a 2001 model for Europe. The large scooter combined automatic transmission and luggage space with motorcycle-style chassis engineering. Its original liquid-cooled 499cc parallel-twin engine produced 29.4 kW, or 40 PS.
The engine was rigidly mounted at three points in a steel-tube frame, contributing to structural stiffness. A separate aluminium swingarm carried the rear wheel. The continuously variable transmission used a belt, while chains enclosed in an oil bath inside the swingarm carried drive onwards to the wheel.
The concept also embraced weekend trips for two beyond the city, supported by wind protection and underseat storage. Later generations evolved: fuel injection and twin front brake discs arrived in 2004, followed by a new aluminium frame in 2008. Those changes make the original TMAX worth examining on its own terms.