Yamaha has just given scooter nerds a new reason to geek out on the latest tech innovation found in the new NMax Tech Max. This groundbreaking feature allows one to manually operate an automatic transmission scooter. Sounds pretty weird, but Albert Einstein once said: “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

Yamaha has taken the scooter world by storm with the introduction of the NMax Tech Max, a vehicle that puts riders in full control of the engine’s rev ranges, while allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient rpm range.

The Y-ECVT (Yamaha Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) is a first in the 150cc scooter segment, and promises to redefine the 150cc class.

We felt very lucky to be the first ones to try out this new scooter, on a well-designed route from Cabanatuan City going up to Baguio Country Club, passing through Dalton Pass, ascending though Kayapa and descending toward Bokod and finally zigzagging up to Itogon. I thought it was well-mapped-out to fully explore the new features on the scooter.

Design-wise, the new NMax Tech Max looks more sophisticated while maintaining a simple aggressive look. The boomerang motif is retained while adding a few touch-ups like the carbon panels. It looks more trimmed and compact that presents an edgy, modern-eclectic style.

The Yamaha NMax Tech Max is the most advanced 150cc scooter up to date. It currently sets the tone by adapting e-CVT to a scooter, commonly used on hybrid four-wheeled vehicles.

It brings another layer of fun and excitement over the standard comfort and elegance found in every Yamaha Max series. These new features include a three-level downshift control, two riding modes (Sport and Touring), dual-channel ABS, a 4.2-inch TFT display with connectivity, intuitive handlebar switch controls, rear sub-tank suspension, and projector LED headlight and taillight.

Definitely not your typical budget-meal scooter.

I was able to slowly explore the new tech features when Yamaha confidently allowed us to play around switching modes. Honestly, it’s very confusing to begin with. But the Y-ECVT is actually foolproof. I was actually scared at first by how abrupt the downshift button worked, but it moderately gives you extra 1,000rpm, leaving you low-gear-feeling, similar to engine brake. Not only once, but three times.

The NMax Tech Max has two riding modes: Sport (S) and Touring (T).

In Touring mode, the scooter cruises naturally, maintaining regular rpm automatic management. However, the downshift paddle engages automatically when the throttle is blipped, providing smooth and efficient torque output. I used it mostly when I wanted to enjoy the scenery.

Shifting to Sport mode simply raises the rpm by +1,000, offering more throttle feel that’s perfect for sporty riding. The blip function also works in tandem with the S-mode, providing engine braking and increased torque when accelerating. You can opt to use the downshift button as well, giving you a plethora of options on how you can manage your scooter’s driving performance.

It’s like manually commanding an automatic. Completely ironic, but it’s fun.

This technology bridges the gap between automatic and manual transmissions, giving riders the best of both worlds. With the Y-ECVT, riders can command an automatic scooter, amplify the excitement, and optimize your riding experience.

The NMax Tech Max also features a range of convenient connectivity options, including a Garmin Street Cross that mirrors navigation functions, minimizing the need for phone mounts. Riders can also connect simultaneously with Y-Connect to enjoy music and see weather updates.

This bike changes the dynamics of riding a scooter. Conventional automatic scooters suffer from intense hard braking from deceleration. It also kills the excitement of exiting a corner because of lack of torque. It takes a true rider to fully understand these situations. These major tweaks and additional function take the NMax to another new level of joy.

The SRP for the top-shelf NMax Tech Max is P175,900, while the Standard version (non-Y-ECVT) is priced at P155,900. Is it worth it? Definitely. The specs on paper do not give justice to the amount of fun and experience it gives you. It takes scooter riding to a whole new level.

This is, by far, the best and most advanced 150cc scooter your money can buy.