2015 is a very special year for the legendary Yamaha VMAX as it celebrates its 30-year anniversary. The game-changing bruiser dropped jaws across the motoring world on its original launch in 1985 with its awe-inspiring power. To mark the special occasion Yamaha has formed a new collaboration in the Yard Built world with cult German builder JvB-moto to create a fitting tribute to the iconic VMAX.

The Cologne-based custom builder is a long-time fan of the VMAX, and credits the machine as one of the sparks that ignited his passion in motorcycles at the age of 15 in 1985. Despite not being available in Germany at the time due to its outrageous power, it has inspired JvB-moto’s Jens vom Brauck to this day, where he has finally had the opportunity to pour that passion into this stunning creation.

JvB-moto’s vision for the VMAX Yard Built special was to transfer the stock VMAX into a radical dragster meets café racer concept, exaggerating the brutal power for all to see. A second key element in the design is a tribute to the 30-year history of the machine, encapsulating elements from the first roll out of the bike in 1985.

Starting at the front end, a custom-made aluminium mudguard sits below a JvB-moto signature style custom carbon fibre headlight unit integrated into the front forks and Motogadget indicators above custom carbon wheel covers. Modified aftermarket clip-on bars add the café racer element and the rider looks down on an authentic American dragster rev counter by Autometer. A beautiful custom carbon tank cover sits over a heavily modified airbox and electrics and is complemented by special air intake scoops crafted from stock aluminium units taken from the original 80’s VMAX.

The stunning craftsmanship continues with a handmade aluminium subframe crafted from bits of the stock unit and a custom fuel tank placed under the seat, also made from aluminium and holding the same fuel as the standard tank for an unspoiled riding experience. The rear is beautifully finished with another JvB-moto signature piece, a custom carbon tail unit, handmade by Jens. A bike that looks this good needs the right sound and this machine doesn’t disappoint. The exhaust system is modified with a custom 4-1 collector and finished with a growling Termignoni silencer.

Last but by no means least is a beautiful paint job. Again reflecting the history of the bike, and of Yamaha, JvB-moto chose a retro colour scheme based on the livery of Yamaha’s 1985 GP team for real authenticity. Every custom aluminium and carbon part on this Yard Built special was handmade by JvB-moto, perfectly blending the VMAX story with the German builder’s signature style.