Yamaha TMAX 560

An actual alternative to owning a car – It’s Yamaha’s top-spec commuter scooter that blurs the line between a conventional scooter and a touring motorcycle. There’s an extensive feature list for this bike, but there’s also a higher-than-your-average scooter asking price. At $20,649 as a ride-away price, this is one of the most expensive learner approved scooters you can buy. You’re looking at buying this bike because you’re commuting farther than your average scooter. You want the most comfortable ride, and one of the most capable scooters when it comes to handling and power.

If those reasons don’t sound like your requirements, you’re better off checking out something like a Vespa, which is a cheaper and more simple alternative that’s ideal for shorter trips.

The warranty is 24 months, unlimited parts and labour. Servicing costs are set by the individual dealers, but service intervals are every 10,000km.

It’s a heavy bike, but thanks to an upgraded twin-disc brake up front and a sizable rear brake, you can smoothly operate the T-MAX to a stop. In addition, you get a dedicated parking brake to avoid any awkward roll-aways when stationary.

The T-MAX produces 35kW (46.94hp) at 7500 rpm and 55.7Nm at 5250 rpm. It’s a rapid scooter. There’s no doubt you’ll be able to swiftly ride up to the speed limit and have no problem overtaking at highway speeds.

You also have two ride modes: ‘Touring' and 'Sport'. Touring simply limits the amount of power delivered for a more relaxed riding experience, while Sport ups the ante to complement the mode.

Not to mention the fact you have an electronically controlled windshield which you can adjust to block wind or rain while riding, and this scooter has cruise control too.

You’re operating the T-MAX via a single-speed CVT transmission. It’s not an engaging gearbox, but it does make for a very simple and easy ride.

I rode the T-MAX immediately after returning the XSR700 I had on loan, and all I can say is that this felt like a sofa on wheels in comparison. It’s a plush ride when commuting out on the highway; you’re disconnected from the road in all the right ways.

There’s no shortage of storage on board the T-MAX. There’s a convenient box to place your phone and keys just to the right of the start button. That’s right, a start button, since this bike has keyless start/stop and lock. Underneath the seat, you’ll struggle to fit anything more if you’re carrying a spare helmet in there.

That large, soft heated seat helps you get comfortable with plenty of lower back support, too. I really appreciated the two feet position, allowing me to recline and activate cruise control for those long stretches of highway riding.

If the thought of owning a car makes you sick with disgust as you imagine having to sit in traffic and find parking spaces in overcrowded urban areas, then it might be for you.

*Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.