AT YAMAHA the goal we have set ourselves is to create scooters which encourage their riders to grow and develop. They are easy to ride for novices, but with the ability to satisfy the most demanding riders. So as their riders' skills and ambitions progress, the scooters are always ready, capable and dependable. Our scooters go even further, motivating their riders to seek out new challenges by touching all of their senses and offering much more than they ever expected.

This mission continues in 2004 as the luxury Majesty range moves into the maxi-scooter world with a new 395cc engine to complement the existing versions. The outstanding value Cygnus X is entirely new for 2004, boasting a frugal new four-valve engine, all new bodywork and a host of other improvements. Scooter markets are constantly evolving and Yamaha's thinking moves with them. The new Majesty 400 is designed to satisfy the increasing demand for a maxi-scooter with performance in excess of the Majesty 250 but without the premium prices associated with big capacity flagship machines such as Tmax.

The Majesty 400 takes on board all the values which have made the rest of the Majesty range the premium choice luxury scooter, then it refines and enhances every one of them and adds the power and long distance capability which come with a powerful 395cc engine. The combination of the Majesty's high quality suspension and stability with its 150km/h capability makes it ideal for long distance travel between cities or for a weekend away. Yet by remaining as compact as the Majesty 250, it is still easy to manoeuvre and agile enough for use in the crowded urban environment.

The Majesty name has always meant sophistication, high equipment levels, excellent build quality and superior rider and passenger comfort. The Majesty 400 adds a new sporting character with elegance and an even more relaxing ride, increased storage space and the safety and style that come with a twin headlight design. The liquid-cooled 395cc engine with electronic fuel injection features a balance shaft to minimise vibration while the four-valve head makes for high efficiency, improving power at the same time as meeting EU2 emissions requirements. It is also economical, giving the Majesty 400 an impressively large fuel range with its 14 litre tank. Running costs are further aided along with reliability by increased oil change intervals and a longer drive belt life.

The chassis comprises a lightweight aluminium upper frame matched to a tubular steel lower section, which is stiff with a low centre of gravity for optimum handling. The fat 41mm forks have 20 per cent more travel than the YP250's, helping them smooth out the roughest roads, and because of their rigidity they play a central role in the Majesty 400's steering precision. The rear shock absorber also features 20 per cent more travel, ensuring a fully balanced suspension system. With a 14-inch wheel at the front and 13-inch one at the rear, both the ride quality and high-speed stability benefit. Style and rider comfort have each moved forward with the Majesty 400's bodywork. The new fairing and screen provide excellent weather protection and with the twin 60/55W headlights they give the scooter an eye-catching and high-class look, as well as maximising visibility. The stunning LED tail light finishes off the appearance to perfection.

Equipment levels are as high as you could wish for, even on a Majesty, starting with the multi-function LCD instruments, including tachometer. There is an immobiliser linked to the ignition switch, a huge 60 litre storage space beneath the seat, sufficient for two full-face helmets, and a passenger grab bar --which is also handy for manoeuvring the Majesty 400 when parking. The range of Majesty 400 accessories is extensive and includes a topcase and rack, larger windscreen, leg shields, backrest and heated handlebar grips, all designed to the same high standards specifically to fit the Majesty.