Motorhead Mark evaluates Yamaha’s all-new Wolverine R-Spec side-x-side featuring Yamaha’s bulletproof 708cc single cylinder engine.
Dirt Trax Television Co-Host Luke Lester faces off the Polaris RZR S featuring the company’s all-new 900 ProStar engine against Arctic Cat’s Wildcat Sport in this 60-inch wide, sport side-x-side shootout.
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, introduces the new 2016 Viking and Viking VI Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles, right on time for fall harvest and hunting seasons.
With class-leading cab room and comfort, coupled with superior handling and off-road capability, Vikings are the toughest and hardest working utility-based vehicles that are also fun to drive.
For 2016, along with a new premium Ranch Edition Viking VI, all Viking and Viking VI models receive multiple updates including a smoother, quieter cabin, additional rider conveniences and a reinforced chassis resulting in the smoothest running, strongest Vikings yet in Yamahas growing line of Real World Tough SxS vehicles.
The new 2016 Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition brings an all-new level of comfort and convenience to tough off-road work. This model features high-quality Copper Metallic painted bodywork with a color-matched brown interior and soft sun top, silver cast aluminum wheels, rearview center mirror, mud flaps, overfenders, underseat storage, a rear bed grab bar, a heavy duty front brush guard and unique Ranch Edition badging.
“The 2016 Viking and Viking VI Side-by-Sides are already in production and arriving at dealerships nationwide,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s ATV/SxS group Marketing Manager. “With the added comfort, increased convenience and an all-new Viking VI Ranch Edition, we know the success and enthusiasm towards the Viking and Viking VI will continue to grow in the utility, hunting and farming communities.”
The 2016 Viking model year updates include new automotive-style two-stage door latches and a parking brake warning buzzer. Noise and vibration reduction features include new rubber damper plates, a more rigid chassis, additional sound dampening materials and an all-new cylinder head torque rod for a more relaxing ride quality at any engine RPM.
The newly reinforced rear steel cargo bed now incorporates mounting points on the bed rails and a rubber cargo bed mat to further reduce sound and vibration, all while improving durability and cargo-carrying capability. Large enough for a fully loaded pallet, the assisted dump bed can pack up to 600 pounds of equipment and supplies.
The standard two-inch receiver hitch is rated to pull 1,500 pounds, making the 2016 Viking and Viking VI two of the toughest, hardest working and most off-road capable SxS vehicles ever.
The Yamaha Viking and Viking VI are multi-passenger off-road SxS vehicles featuring Yamaha’s time-tested and durable technologies. Their unique cab configuration allows for pass-through bucket seating and maximum headroom without sacrificing critical ground clearance.
All combined, this makes transportation easy and comfortable for up to three full-sized adults in the Viking, and up to six in the Viking VI. The Vikings utilize Yamaha’s powerful and proven 700cc-class engine, three-way On-Command system with 2WD, 4WD and 4WD differential lock engaged via an automotive-style rotating dial, and the industry’s most durable Ultramatic transmission with high, low and reverse, providing the most natural feeling all-wheel engine braking.
For the industry’s best balance of steering assist and positive feedback from the terrain, select Viking models are equipped with Yamahas Electric Power Steering (EPS).
Both the Viking and Viking VI feature nearly 12 inches of ground clearance, a full steel-composite smooth skid plate and an optimized frame with upturned side rails to allow smoother transitions over obstacles. The Vikings long-travel four-wheel independent suspension is perfectly balanced to provide a plush and comfortable ride with a quality damping feel in rough terrain, all while carrying either a light or full load.
Color options for the 2016 Viking EPS and Viking VI EPS are Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra camo. Additional options include the all-new Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition (MSRP $15,499) and a Special Edition (SE) Carbon Metallic for both the Viking EPS and Viking VI EPS (MSRP $14,049 and $14,999 respectively), as well as Steel Blue in the Viking EPS. Viking models now come standard with a sun top at an MSRP starting at $11,999.
Every Yamaha Viking and Viking VI is assembled in the USA at Yamahas factory in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution.
Details at YamahaViking.com and YamahaOutdoors.com.
This is a sweet video outlining the all-new YXZ1000R’s Features and Benefits, plus some crazy footage and the sound of the exhaust might make you wanna drool…
Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd. introduces the all-new YXZ1000R, the world’s only pure sport Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicle. Boasting a high-performance 3-cylinder 998cc engine with a class-defining 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission, the two-seat YXZ1000R provides a superior driver-connected experience in the dunes, desert or on the trail.
“The YXZ1000R redefines the sport Side-by-Side category and solidifies Yamaha as the leader in powersports performance,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha US Recreational Vehicle (RV) group Vice President. “In the YXZ1000R, Yamaha has combined industry-first technology and performance with the durability and fit-and-finish SxS enthusiasts have been craving, and were confident the YXZ1000R will exceed all expectations.”
All-New Three-Cylinder, 998cc Side-by-Side Engine
The YXZ1000R’s 3-cylinder, 12-valve, DOHC, liquid cooled, 998cc engine puts out the most reliable and durable power of any 1,000cc-class machine. As the industry’s first sport 3-cylinder engine, it boasts an aggressive 11.3:1 compression ratio and 10,500 RPM redline to provide a true sport SxS experience.
With broad, linear torque, the YXZ1000R responds to driver input with exciting sport performance power from low- to high-rpm range, and the triple throttle bodies provide a more direct connection between driver throttle input and engine response.
A high-mounted, high-volume clean air inlet provides maximum airflow, while dual air filters – one oiled foam and wet pleated paper type – provide maximum filtration and superior engine performance in even the harshest riding environments. The durable and reusable foam filter features tool-free access for simplified maintenance.
The YXZ1000R incorporates an all-new high volume stainless steel exhaust system, complementing the vehicle’s aggressive styling. The three-into-one YXZ1000R exhaust is tuned for maximum power output and meets EPA/CARB regulations with a muffler mounted integrated honeycomb catalyzer and removable spark arrestor.
Industry First Sequential Manual Side-by-Side Transmission
The YXZ1000R features the industrys first fully manual 5-speed sequential shift transmission in a SxS vehicle, delivering a direct connection between driver and machine for superior performance, confidence and the first and only true pure sport SxS experience.
The 5-speed sequential shift is manually operated via a clutch pedal and short-stroke shift lever for smooth, secure gear engagement. With the YXZ1000Rs direct-drive transmission, driveline efficiency is increased, supplying optimal engine power directly to the rear wheels, while cam dampers on both the input and output shafts keep shifting smooth and precise.
The YXZ1000R’s all-new clutch design is optimized for the vehicles class-leading engine output, providing a smooth and connected shifting feeling with reliable power. The all-new sport-inspired foot-pedal operated hydraulic clutch system provides light, consistent and natural feeling feedback to the driver, increasing confidence in challenging off-road terrain.
Unmatched Handling and Performance
The YXZ1000R is born of true Yamaha performance DNA serving up unmatched handling characteristics, resulting in the vehicles features being perfectly positioned and integrated into a single, seamless package working as one.
Strategically mounted low and longitudinally in the chassis, the engine placement affords the YXZ1000R long rear wheel and suspension travel for superior sport SxS performance. A single shaft, one-axis balancer reduces engine vibration by 25% for a more comfortable ride while also allowing a rigid engine mount to reduce weight and offer a more direct throttle/engine feel for the driver.
The vehicle’s front differential incorporates Yamahas proven On-Command 2WD, 4WD and 4WD full diff-lock – a driver-controlled system that eliminates the hesitation or slipping experienced in computer-engaged systems. An automotive-style 4WD dial is intuitive and conveniently located on the center console, and provides simple and seamless transitions between the 2WD, 4WD and 4WD full diff lock settings.
The YXZ1000R employs Yamaha’s proven Electric Power Steering (EPS). Set in a new, more compact and lightweight EPS unit, the optimized steering ratios provide precise handling through the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the terrain. This combination creates maximum comfort and confidence in rough off-road conditions. The steering wheel is located in an optimal position and features a steel armature, soft grip over-mold, and driver tilt adjustability for maximum cabin comfort, fit and feel.
Critical for premium handling is strong, smooth and predictable stopping power, and the YXZ1000R accomplishes this by featuring four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes with twin piston calipers at all corners. The resulting unmatched brake “feel” delivers added confidence during aggressive driving. Large 245mm rotors were adopted for enhanced cooling and reduced brake noise.
Massive FOX 2.5 Podium Shocks Standard
The YXZ1000R boasts massive long travel FOX 2.5 Podium Shocks with 16-inches of travel in front and 17-inches out back. The piggyback reservoir shock absorbers provide top performance, confidence and comfort for driver and passenger.
The YXZ1000R front suspension catches the eye as it protrudes upward through the hood of the vehicle, making their top end visible from outside and inside the cockpit, projecting an aggressive, defiant image. The fully adjustable front and rear FOX shocks feature adjustable hi- and low-speed compression, adjustable rebound, and adjustable preload settings. The rear shock utilizes a FOX Bottom Out Cup (BOC) technology that helps maintain ongoing comfort while reducing the chance for bottoming out in extreme conditions.
The vehicle’s color matched, rigid bushing pivot double A-arm design is uniquely configured and provides superior handling and a comfortable, confidence-inspiring planted feeling in tough terrain, over deep whoops, and throughout all-day off-road punishment. The front A-arms have optimized castor, bump steer and Ackerman – throughout the travel and steering angle – to achieve the best cornering ability and positive steering feedback with light effort.
The rear double A-arm design is uniquely configured to provide superior handling and a comfortable, confidence-inspiring planted feeling. Spherical bearings ensure accurate tire alignment and the rear shocks are mounted as far out as possible, providing the longest and optimum stroke. The rear suspension design provides superior straight line stability with minimal camber variance throughout the entire range of travel.
All-New Styling and Design
The YXZ1000R boasts all-new styling, embodying Yamaha’s passion for pure sport performance and the SxS enthusiasts independent, confident, and aggressive attitude.
A sleek and nimble appearance plants the driver and passenger in the vehicle, creating a total man-machine integration and connection. The YXZ1000R features sharp lines and angles, jaw-dropping suspension projecting through the vehicles hood, and stylized wheels and tires.
The front fender gets a unique and aggressive look complementing the vehicles overall high-performance styling and enhanced visibility, and showcasing its massive front suspension. The newly designed front grill and carry bar continue the aggressive theme outlining the ominous four-eyed LED headlight system for high-performance illumination.
The rear fender features a unique, durable and functional design, also with an aggressive, compact look and an efficient, highly visible LED taillight. The lightweight and durable cargo bed provides the best combination of function and durability for high-performance sport SxS performance. The fixed position bed is rated to carry up to 300 pounds and features a water resistant sealed storage compartment, plus four steel tie-down points welded to the frame for strong and secure storage.
The standard YXZ1000R sun top has sharp styling and is seamlessly integrated into the chassis, complementing the entire design. All-new color-matched doors incorporate inset handles that are convenient, durable and easy to operate with two-stage automotive style latches and coil style door return springs.
Cab and Ergonomics
The YXZ1000R’s sporty two-seat chassis features a cockpit-like cab with comfortable and convenient ergonomics, plush contoured high-back, cut-and-stitch seats, sliding adjustable drivers seat, and a soft-grip, tilt adjustable steering wheel with 147mm of vertical travel.
The cabin allows for quick and easy access to functional items for both the driver and passenger. A first for the sport SxS segment, the YXZ1000R features throttle, brake, and clutch pedals for true sport driving performance. The vehicles floorboards are positioned for maximum legroom, while maintaining a planted feeling in tough terrain, with dedicated closed-in floorboards for both driver and passenger.
Three-point seat belts, integrated shoulder bolsters and passenger hand-holds provide optimal support and occupant comfort, while the drivers side features a new and durable 8 position (90mm) adjustable seat that smoothly slides by a convenient lever, quickly locking into the preferred location without any tools necessary.
The YXZ1000R dash layout balances functional features with intuitive ergonomics for both driver and passenger. A hybrid digital-analog multi-function meter features speedometer, tachometer and shift light, providing critical information with sport-inspired styling. The center console incorporates a parking brake handle, headlight switch, On-Command® dial, and the all-new sequential manual shift lever. A convenient center storage tray and passenger-side latching glove box offer quick and secure storage options, while a center-mounted 12V outlet powers accessories and personal items.
Industry Leading Durability and Reliability
Yamaha SxS vehicles are known to be the most durable and off-road capable, and the YXZ1000R continues that tradition bringing an all-new level of reliability to the sport SxS segment.
The YXZ1000R’s all-new sport-inspired frame was built to provide the industrys most durable and reliable performance with nimble handling and a comfortable, secure-feeling pure sport SxS experience. Its optimized frame dimensions result in the best handling sport SxS ever.
Full underframe protection covers the bottom of the vehicle from front-to-back and side-to-side while still incorporating easy access to service points. Yamaha employed lightweight and extremely durable Thermoplastic Olefin to provide the best impact resistance, flexibility and wear reduction, while also allowing the vehicle to easily glide over obstacles encountered on the trail.
All New 27-Inch Tires and Cast Aluminum Wheels
The YXZ1000R features Yamaha-exclusive 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 radial tires with standard 14-inch cast aluminum wheels, providing the best combination of styling, durability, ground clearance and handling. The tires 6-ply radial construction allows for optimum traction, durability, comfort and steering precision, and the standard 14-inch cast aluminum rims have a unique, durable and functional design.
The all-new YXZ1000R SE Yellow and Black 60th anniversary edition with bead lock rims will be in Canadian dealer showrooms in October, with an MSRP of $26,149 CDN. Pricing for the blue and white YXZ1000R model is yet to be determined and will not be available until February. Canadian colour options are limited to the two aforementioned models.
To view the official launch videos, visit: yamaha-motor.ca/micro/yxz1000r
Costco Auto Program and Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) have teamed up to bring Costco members their biggest joint offer. Starting today, Costco members will receive promotional benefits on a selection of Polaris brands for all model years.
The promotion runs from Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, 2015. The offer features Polaris side-by-sides, excluding the RZR XP Turbo EPS; all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles, excluding the Indy 120; Victory Motorcycles; and GEM electric vehicles. Costco members must register for the offer on CostcoAuto.com/Polaris to be connected to a participating Polaris dealer to receive:
– Exclusive member pricing
– A $200 Costco Cash Card for submitting a redemption form and completing a Costco Auto Program member satisfaction survey after purchasing an eligible model
– Any applicable consumer incentives
Additionally, Costco members save 15 percent (up to $200) on regular-priced parts, service, accessories and apparel year-round, when they present their membership card at participating Polaris powersport dealers.
“The two previous Costco Auto Program and Polaris promotions helped boost awareness with Costco members. In fact, 81 percent of members who participated said it was their first Polaris purchase,” said Cory Benwell, executive general manager of powersports at Costco Auto Program. “Now that members have been exposed to the product, we’re excited to see how they will respond to receiving exclusive savings on nearly all models. Polaris features some of the industries cutting edge products, and we expect a great response to this offer.”
“We are excited to continue our partnership with Costco Auto Program and offer great value on our diverse selection of powersport products,” said Tim Larson, vice president, global customer excellence at Polaris. “This current offer ensures that we will have something to meet the needs of nearly every Costco member who is interested in purchasing our powersport products at a great value. We look forward to connecting with more Costco members and assisting them with selecting a vehicle that fits their lifestyle.”
Costco Auto Program has been providing Costco members with great service and value for more than 25 years. It provides a streamlined buying experience to Costco members on automobiles, RVs, motorcycles and powersports year-round, through its network of hand-selected dealerships nationwide.
To ensure superior customer service, Costco Auto Program trains and certifies Authorized Dealer Contacts at these dealerships. The program also provides Costco members with online tools to assist with their vehicle search, locate a participating dealer, and make a purchase at a low, prearranged price. Additionally, member advocates are available and prepared to support Costco members throughout their vehicle purchase process.
Visit CostcoAuto.com/Polaris or call 1-855-703-2559 to learn more about Costco Auto Program and the Polaris Special Offer.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry with annual 2013 sales of $3.8 billion. Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all- terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER and RZR side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles, and on-road electric/hybrid powered vehicles. Polaris is among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles and has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with the Victory and Indian Motorcycle brands. Additionally, Polaris continues to invest in the global on-road small electric/hybrid powered vehicle industry with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), Goupil Industrie SA, Aixam Mega S.A.S., and internally developed vehicles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Polaris Engineered parts, accessories and apparel, Klim branded apparel, and ORV accessories under the Kolpin and Cycle Country brands. Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII,” and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel, and vehicle accessories is available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime at www.polaris.com.
USSOCOM has awarded Polaris Defense a new, sole source, firm-fixed-price contract for the MRZR off-road vehicle platform and vehicle delivery started earlier this month.
The $83 million, five year, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract, signed in July, continues delivery order options on MRZR 2 and MRZR 4 vehicles – along with contractor logistics support (CLS) for spares, training and support as part of the light tactical all-terrain vehicle (LTATV) program. Since 2013, Polaris Defense has been delivering MRZR vehicles to USSOCOM under a blanket purchase agreement (BPA) against a GSA contract.
“We’ve been providing the MRZR for three years to USSOCOM and this contract reiterates that ultralight mobility is still a critical component of Special Operations Forces missions,” said Rich Haddad, Polaris Defense General Manager. “These are extremely configurable platforms, providing operators the ability to quickly prepare for missions even in the most extreme terrain. MRZRs provide extreme mobility SOF can count on, that deploys in tactical air, providing maximum flexibility.”
The MRZR is a highly mobile off-road platform that is CV-22 internally transportable and can be configured a number of ways to help expeditionary forces meet mission requirements for emerging threats, while forward deployed.
Some common tactical features of these off-road platforms include increased payload, standard winch, electronic power steering, aircraft tie-downs, fold down rollover protective structures (ROPS), large cargo boxes, IR light capability and blackout mode.
“Our customers appreciate that we use robust commercial off-the-shelf components for intuitive operation and easier maintenance worldwide,” said Haddad. “Our MRZRs are in service in more than 20 countries, providing a high degree of interoperability and commonality among U.S. and allied forces.”
Polaris Defense brings game-changing resources to the military in the area of ultra-light off-road mobility as part of a larger, commercial company. Polaris provides a wealth of engineering, production and sustainability resources that come with being a recognized leader in the off-road vehicle industry.
Polaris maintains a robust global network of dealers, distributors, and subsidiaries, providing dedicated full life-cycle support for these vehicles throughout the world. And with a proven and well-established Defense team, the company works closely with military customers to gain a thorough understanding of their off-road mobility needs, as well as their support requirements when they operate globally.
Sometimes it just doesn’t matter how big the rear cargo bed on our Side x Side is it still isn’t large enough to fit all your gear. In those cases, Seizmik’s hood rack offers the perfect solution for hauling up to 30% more gear.
The 2-piece tubular steel rack holds up to 75lbs of gear and comes powder coated for added durability. It is also easy to install with no drilling and it can be adjusted to different angles. There are also a variety of accessories such as optional gun mounts and a light bar available.
For more information on Seizmik’s complete line of Side x Side accessories visit seizmik.com
Here’s a behind the scenes look at the making of Dirt Trax Television’s special production shoot of the Polaris Sportsman ACE 570 SP.
Click to watch UNLEASHED – Polaris ACE
Here’s a behind the scenes look at the making of Dirt Trax Television’s special production shoot of the Polaris Sportsman ACE 570 SP.
Click to watch UNLEASHED – Polaris ACE
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