Yamaha has expanded its Side-by-Side (SxS) range with a brand new sports model packed with innovative, industry leading technology. Designed for ultimate off-road performance, the YXZ1000R goes up against the Polaris RZR and Can-Am Maverick in thefight for dominance in the pure sports class.
With aline-up of models like the Wolverine and the Viking, Yamaha was practicallyabsent from the sportier end of the SxS world. The introduction of the YXZ1000Raims at filling this void and Yamaha has made sure its new model is equippedwith the weaponry required for the task at hand.
The engineis a new three-cylinder four-stroke 998 cc unit – the first triple in a class thatuntil now has been dominated by twins. So far we have no word on power figures,with some (unconfirmed) initial reports putting the number in the 110 hp (82 kW) region. Fueling is assigned to a Mikuni injection system with triple 41 mm (1.6 in) injectors,fed with fresh air by a high mounted intake. For added reliability Yamaha hasopted for twin air filters, combining a foam and a paper element that are both accessiblewithout the need for tools.
Anotherindustry first is the new five-speed sequential transmission, a constant meshdesign with reverse, equipped with a torque limiter and mated to a 21-platehydraulic clutch. This system promises to deliver responsive gear shiftingwithout the losses that are usually associated with automatic CVTtransmissions.
Positioned infront of the engine and between the seats, this transmission incorporatesYamaha’s On-Command system which allows the driver to switch through 2WD, 4WDand 4WD with Differential Lock at the turn of a dial. Power is transferred tothe front and rear differentials via single-piece drive shafts.
Builtaround a steel chassis, the YXZ1000R is equipped with long-travel Fox PodiumRC2 piggyback shocks, adjustable for spring preload, rebound as well as hi andlow compression damping. The four alloy wheels with 27-inch Maxxis tiresconnect to the frame via double wishbone suspension in the front a single setupin the rear.
Braking isvia four disc brakes with 245 mm (9.6 in) discs and two-piston calipers allaround, plus a parking brake that acts on the drive shaft.
On the passenger comfort front, the driver is likely to appreciate the speed sensitive Electronic Power Steering system,especially in low speed steering over tough terrain. Both seats offer aselection of eight different positions on the longitudinal axis and the steeringwheel is tilt adjustable. A lightweight composite sunroof comes as standard, asof course are the three-point seat belts. The cargo bay with 136 kg (300 lb) capacityand the inclusion of four steel tie-down points is another feature that enhances the YXZ1000R’spracticality.
Yamaha willoffer its new SxS in three color variations, a yellow 60th Anniversary Edition(the SE), a blue/white and an orange/black combo. The SE is scheduled for a December release, the blue version is expected in February, and the orange will come at a later, as yet undefined date. Starting prices in USArange from $19,799 (orange) and $19,999 (blue) to $21,599 (SE).
Yamaha's promo video for the new YXZ1000R is below.
Source: Yamaha
