• First V-Max appears on American market with 145 HP announced and 400 m covered in 11 seconds. V-boost equipped.

Introduction for Europe in France:

• 104 HP at 7,500 rpm and a torque of 11.48 mkg (83.03 ft-lb) at 6,000 rpm
• No V-Boost for Europe
• Rear aluminum dished wheel
• 2 front 282mm ventilated discs with opposed pistons.
• 3D V-max emblem

1987

• Front aluminum dished wheel
• Black air scoops, side covers and tail lamp mount

• Digital electronic ignition.
• Back to aluminum color for air scoops
• Introduction for Japanese domestic market

For Europe:

• Modifications to suit noise regulation from 83 to 81 dB.  Exhaust system changed and max. power decreases from 100.2 HP/ 7,500 rpm to 95.2 HP/ 8,000 rpm.
• New camshafts with lengthen valve opening to improve character: Max torque of 10.3 mkg (74.5 ft-lb) is at 3,000 rpm only (formerly 10.9 mkg (78.8 ft-lb)/ 6,000 rpm). To keep superb acceleration, rear transmission ratio is changed from 33/9 to 33/10.

Fundamental chassis changes:

• Fork tubes increased from 40 to 43 mm. Ventilated-drilled discs of 298 mm with 4 pot calipers.
• Metzeler tires instead of Dunlop.
• More powerful generator.

1996

• Black wheels, air scoops, exhaust system and fork outer tubes.
• Cartridge type oil filter element

• Back to chrome exhaust system

1999

• Back to polished wheels and fork outer tubes
• Carbon look for fenders

• Front fork seal guards
• Carbon looks for tank cover