CHATTANOOGA, TN- Yamaha Marine Group introduced today two new V MAX SHO outboard models, both with 25-inch shaft lengths - the V MAX SHO 250 X-Shaft and the V MAX SHO 150 X-Shaft. These new outboards will provide more choices for anglers and boaters, particularly those in Northern and Midwestern waters.

The 4.2-liter V6 V MAX SHO family changed the game in the market for high-performance four-stroke outboards. Having proven the reality that Yamaha technology can provide a four-stroke that rivals a two-stroke in weight, hole shot and top speed, the V MAX SHO family later expanded to include the V MAX SHO 150. Now, it expands again with the V MAX SHO 115, V MAX SHO 175, V MAX SHO 150 X-Shaft and the V MAX SHO 250 X-Shaft.

"The five-inch longer shaft for these models means that the users of multi-species boats can now enjoy the benefits for which the V MAX SHO has become famous," said Ben Speciale, President, Yamaha Marine Group. "The X-Shaft models are also perfect for a variety of other applications that require a 25-inch shaft length."

V MAX SHO 250 (25-inch Shaft Model)
The 4.2-liter V6 outboard was the original game changer, offering light weight, outstanding performance and all the attributes of a four stroke. While originally envisioned as a bass boat solution, it has found a following among boaters with a wide variety of interests and preferences.

The V MAX SHO 250 has 4.2-liter big-bore V6 displacement thanks to plasma-fused sleeveless cylinders. With it, displacement is increased without enlarging the outer diameter of the cylinder, resulting in an outboard with the largest displacement in its class. That technology also contributes to a lighter weight and outstanding fuel economy.

The V MAX SHO 250 also uses Yamaha's Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT™) system, which advances and retards the angle of the intake camshaft to dramatically increase power and throttle response in the low- and mid-rpm ranges.

The V MAX SHO 250 has instant throttle response, especially in the mid-range, for performance you can feel. It also burns an average of 12 percent less fuel than a comparable direct-injection two stroke. That fuel efficiency is hard to beat. At the same time, with no need to carry two-stroke oil, the available space in the boat can be used more efficiently. It opens up a whole compartment in the boat for tackle, batteries or storage.

The outboard is also quiet. Thanks to features such as advanced four valves per cylinder and precision components, the V MAX SHO 250 X-Shaft offers smooth performance.

V MAX SHO 150 (25-inch Shaft Model)
The V MAX SHO 150 joins the 250 in offering a 25-inch shaft version. It features a 2.8-liter inline four-cylinder powerhead, and uses Yamaha's advanced four-valve-per-cylinder, 16-valve technology and the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) system.

The V MAX SHO 150 also gets Yamaha's variable trolling RPM switch (VTS), which allows anglers to adjust the trolling speed in 50 RPM increments from 650 to 900 RPM using a Yamaha Command Link® gauge.

It's smooth, thanks to its advanced design and counterbalance shafts. The V MAX SHO is also extremely fuel efficient, delivering 30-to-40 percent better fuel efficiency than a carbureted two stroke.

Like others in its family, the V MAX SHO 150 allows more efficient use of space in the boat because it does not require carrying two-stroke oil. There's no need for a tank, which means more room for tackle, batteries or storage. With mechanical control, the outboard also offers easy rigging.

The V MAX SHO 250 X-Shaft and V MAX SHO 150 outboards are expected to be available in early spring 2015.

Yamaha Marine products are marketed throughout the United States and around the world. Yamaha Marine Group, based in Kennesaw, Ga., supports its 2,000 U.S. dealers and boat builders with marketing, training and parts for Yamaha's full line of products and strives to be the industry leader in reliability, technology and customer service. Yamaha Marine is the only outboard brand to have earned NMMA®'s C.S.I. Customer Satisfaction Index award every year since its inception. Visit www.yamahaoutboards.com.

This document contains many of Yamaha's valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement.

Contacts
Martin Peters
Manager, Communications
Yamaha Marine Group
Office: (770) 420-5829
Mobile: (678) 763-2583
martin_peters@yamaha-motor.com
or
Heidi Weber
Communications Coordinator
Yamaha Marine Group
Office: (770) 420-5848
Mobile: (770) 547-4748
heidi_weber@yamaha-motor.com