City Smarts | XMAX 300, Endless Benefits

How a Scooter Can Free Up Your Life

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As someone who spends a lot of time navigating the daily crawl on inner-city roads, I’ve been a fan of scooters as a mode of transport for many years. Having been given the keys to a shiny new XMAX300 from Yamaha’s scooter range I decided to give you an example of why a scooter is not only a better way to get around, but a smarter, more enjoyable one.

For me the XMAX 300 hits the sweet spot in Yamaha’s MAX scooter range—it’s the goldilocks of urban mobility. Not too big, not too small, and packed with clever technology, performance, and comfort.

The styling alone deserves attention. With its sharp, aerodynamic bodywork, distinctive boomerang side panels, and that bold X-shaped LED headlight. There’s a definite TMAX-inspired design language here—this scooter looks sporty and premium from every angle. But it’s not just about good looks. That large front fairing helps to reduce wind buffeting and add comfort when you’re moving quickly through traffic or cruising down open roads.

Starting the bike is as effortless as the ride. Thanks to Yamaha’s Smart Key keyless ignition system, I didn’t even have to fish my key out of my pocket. Just press the button and you’re ready to go. That same smart key lets you access the fuel tank, under-seat storage, and front compartments with a simple twist of the dial built into the bike’s console.

And then there’s the engine—Yamaha’s Blue Core 300cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor. It’s smooth, responsive, and surprisingly quick off the mark. Whether I was darting between lanes or pulling away from traffic lights, the power delivery was strong but controlled. It’s powerful, eco-friendly and capable of longer freeway runs. For a LAMS-approved scooter, it absolutely punches above its weight.

Comfort? Absolutely. The adjustable windscreen—now electrically operated for 2025—is a brilliant touch. With the push of a button, it can be raised to cut wind on the freeway, then dropped it back down when filtering through city traffic or to enjoy the sea breeze by the beach. Combined with adjustable handlebars and a plush, supportive seat, it’s easy to find a setup that suits your size and riding style. I rode for hours without any hint of discomfort.

Storage is another huge win. Under the seat, I could fit my lunch and a backpack without a struggle—it will also swallow two full-face helmets if needed. The front compartment is handy for smaller items like keys, wallet, or phone, and there’s a USB-C port to keep your devices charged while you ride.

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One of my favourite new features is the 4.2-inch full-colour TFT display. It’s crystal clear in all light conditions and integrates seamlessly with your smartphone via Yamaha’s MyRide app. With Bluetooth connectivity, I could see incoming messages and calls, track my ride stats, and even check fuel consumption.

To put the XMAX 300 to the test, I set myself a challenge—could I squeeze a proper lunch adventure into a single break from work? I left the office, zipped across town to my pre-ordered lunch from my favourite cafe, then rode out to the beach to enjoy my sandwich overlooking the surf. Not only did the scooter get me there quickly and stress-free, but I still had time to relax before riding back. No parking drama. No traffic ques. Just a smooth, enjoyable ride, rockstar parking at event stop and a clear head. That’s the kind of midday reset you don’t get behind a desk or behind the wheel of a car.

Even the safety features impressed. The Emergency Stop Signal system flashes the indicators under heavy braking to alert drivers behind—a small but smart touch. Combined with ABS and traction control, the XMAX 300 feels reassuringly safe and stable, even in wet conditions.

So, is the XMAX 300 the answer to Australia’s growing congestion problem? Absolutely. It’s convenient, stylish, practical, and packed with features that make city navigating easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or sneaking out for a lunchtime coastal cruise, this scooter just works—and makes you smile while it’s doing it.