The second gen max is "bullet proof" (09-20) the early 09s had some recalls. Only difference between them all is the color, so any info about one year faster than the other is totally bogus info. It weighs 680 pounds, and guzzles gas. So if you don't like the heavy front end, or 60-100 mile gas stops it's not for you. Take the pros and cons with a grain of salt because 9 of 10 people are gonna compare it to their sport bike, or Harley and it's apples to oranges. Few mods and upgrades and you can easily smoke the tire in 3rd gear, or take leisurely Sunday ride. It's heavy, but very nimble. I have no problems dragging foot pegs, or in my case I've been dragging the rear brake lever.... Folding the pegs in corners. It's fast, but not top speed fast. Out of the hole there isn't much that will touch it.... Top end speed is where the super bikes will take it (zx14r, busa) unless they are stretched and modded then you'll have your hands full. I schooled my buddy on his FZ09.... He was in shock, and amazed.... And currently looking for a Vmax lol. It's front end heavy, and not setup like a touring, it typical v twin cruiser, so they're is allot weight on the front tire, so it is "heavy" feeling when stopped, or moving very slow. But the weight is low so it's very well balanced. It's designed for straight line speed. 4 gallon fuel tank, last gallon low fuel light is on. Like I said about every 100 miles you'll be stopping for gas, so if your after fuel economy is not for you. I've used a tank up in as little as 68 miles, and I've gotten to exactly 100 miles and the low fuel light come on. I've gotten 6,800 miles on my 18, 3rd rear tire, original front.... It does ride better now than when it was new, now that everything is settled in. Fully adjustable suspension front and rear except for spring load on the front. Yamaha did their homework when they built the second gen. ABS, front and rear. They are not linked so if anybody says otherwise they are full of s$@t. Shaft drive, no chain or belt to worry about. Brakes are adequate, no problem getting the abs to activate on the rear, plenty of brake power on the front. Besides the range on a tank of gas there isn't really any other complaints lol, about it. But it wasn't built for gas mileage in mind. Ride modes are what your wrist decide. No traction control, no rain mode. It's a raw bike with some shared R1 tech, not for beginners, or the faint of heart.... After the Nash flash, and exhaust I'm gonna say because it's night and day performance wise.