Luke sets out on a high altitude off-road adventure with Yamaha in rugged and beautiful Taylor Park, Colorado. Starting from the base camp situated at 10,000 feet elevation, Luke climbs higher up into the mountains with a group of riders aboard a pack of Wolverine RMAX 1000 side-x-sides to test this machine’s ability to conquer terrain and conditions our crew doesn’t often get to experience.
In the world of off-road recovery gear, Afraid Knot Ropes has emerged as a standout player, bringing quality and integrity to every fiber of its products.
As the only Canadian manufacturer specializing in vehicle recovery gear, Afraid Knot Ropes is setting new standards in the industry with its meticulously crafted products.
The company’s commitment to excellence is evident in its rigorous testing procedures ensuring that its products are tested according to the Cordage Institute International Standard CI 1500-02 test methods for fiber rope.
The test bed, which is both calibrated and certified, guarantees that every rope meets the highest standards of strength and durability. This attention to detail ensures that off-road enthusiasts can rely on Afraid Knot Ropes in the most challenging conditions.
What sets Afraid Knot Ropes apart is its use of the highest-grade fibers and a century of rope-making experience. This combination results in ropes that are not only exceptionally strong, but also constructed to last.
Off-road adventurers can choose from a variety of ready-made recovery kits, tailored to different needs, or customize their own kits to suit specific vehicles or tasks.
In addition to top-notch products, Afraid Knot Ropes is currently running an exciting promotion. For every $20 spent from now until October 1st, 2024 customers are entered into a draw for a chance to win a 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570, a fantastic opportunity for any off-road enthusiast.
AJ evaluates the Work n’ Play nature of Honda’s Pioneer 1000-5P Trail checking off items on his honey-do-list and then he loads up the whole family for a fun day on the trail.
Luke extends a special invite to Mr. and Mrs. Ostacruiser to join him for a trail side adventure at Hatfield McCoy Trails in beautiful West Virginia.
As first timers to Hatfield McCoy, Luke treats Dave and Carrie to two fun filled days exploring the scenic trails of Bear Wallow, the technical rock crawling terrain found on the legendary Ivy Branch trail system and get to preview one of Hatfield McCoy’s newest trails named Big Coal River, which opens later this summer – 2024.
Then in TEST RIDE, Mike hits the trails aboard Yamaha’s 2024 Grizzly 700 EPS, which will also be the subject of our 2024 project ATV build!
Yamaha just pulled the sheets off its 2025 off-road lineup including a NEW addition to the RMAX family and Mike’s in Park City, UT getting up close and personal with the 2025 Wolverine RMAX4 1000 XT-R combing over all the exciting details of this new unit showcasing new technology available on it and the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 LIMTED.
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, expands its Proven Off-Road lineup of recreational Side-by-Side (SxS) models with the unveiling of the all-new 2025 Wolverine RMAX4 1000. Raising the bar for premium off-road family adventures and all-around multi-purpose use, the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 offers a full-size rear cabin to comfortably fit adult passengers, added cargo space, and a rear dump bed.
The all-new RMAX4 1000 also adopts multiple all-new Yamaha REAL World Tech developments, including an enhanced On-Command 4WD system now featuring Turf Mode, selectable Electric Power Steering (EPS), an all-new Adventure Pro system, and more.
“The all-new Yamaha Wolverine RMAX4 1000 sets a new standard in off-road family adventures with its unparalleled comfort, capability, and versatility,” said Ryan Stiver, Yamaha’s motorsports business planning director. “Yamaha is excited to offer another Proven Off-Road Side-by-Side that delivers exceptional experiences for families and adventurer-seekers alike, no matter the terrain or task.”
Key Features:
Newly enhanced On-Command 4WD with faster front-differential engagement and disengagement, and an all-new Turf Mode featuring an unlocking rear differential for expanded home utility use.
Higher output EPS with selectable High, Standard, and Low modes, plus an added 4WD Diff-Lock map for maximum driver comfort and confidence in challenging terrain.
All-new Adventure Pro featuring a 7-inch screen offering a variety of vehicle readouts, along with Bluetooth capability for connected devices, and new MTX audio system.
All-new rearview camera automatically displayed on the Adventure Pro when shifted in reverse or manually selected by the user.
All-new 4.3-inch color thin-film-transistor (TFT) meter equipped on Limited models with a variety of vehicle readouts for added customization.
Advanced spring rate and damping suspension settings for improved ride quality in a variety of terrain and speeds.
All-new brake system with new calipers, pad material, and more to provide ideal braking power and feel with reduced brake noise.
Larger, relocated dashboard wet storage area for enhanced quality feel and function.
Yamaha’s Proven Off-Road reliability and durability, including an industry-exclusive 10-Year Belt Warranty.
High-Performance Capability and Comfort in a Premium Adventure Side-by-Side
The all-new 2025 Wolverine RMAX4 1000 maximizes comfort, versatility, and next-level fit and finish in Yamaha’s most feature-rich SxS to date. Powered by Yamaha’s stout 999cc DOHC, eight-valve, parallel-twin engine, the all-new RMAX4 1000 delivers smooth and consistent power delivery in a variety of terrain. The new On-Command system includes 2WD, 4WD limited slip, 4WD full-differential lock, and now an all-new Turf Mode with an unlocking rear differential for expanded home utility use. To best suit driver preferences, the all-new RMAX4 1000 is equipped with Yamaha’s new higher-output torque- and speed-sensitive EPS with selectable High, Standard, and Low modes, delivering maximum comfort and confidence in challenging terrain. Reducing driver fatigue, an additional 4WD full-differential lock EPS setting is automatically applied when the On-Command setting is engaged. The RMAX4 1000’s parallel-twin engine, featuring Yamaha’s YCC-T drive-by-wire technology, is further optimized with Yamaha’s D-Mode, offering three power delivery settings (Sport, Trail, and Crawl) at the turn of a dial to match the terrain and driver mindset, while still providing full engine power.
Roomy Cabin and Technology Upgrades for Improved Driver and Passenger Comfort
The all-new 2025 Wolverine RMAX4 1000 is the ideal family and friend adventure SxS, with a full-size rear cabin to comfortably fit adult passengers, even on all-day rides. More comfort and convenience features include new rear passenger grip handles, sloped, textured footrests for increased support, and full-sized doors for easier passenger ingress and egress. A defining interior characteristic of the Wolverine RMAX 1000 lineup is premium automotive-style features, including tactile driver controls, interior lighting, strategically placed soft touchpoints for knees, a rubber over-molded tilt steering wheel, adjustable seatbelts and driver’s seat, center console storage and accessory switch, a new MTX audio system, and more. The rear cabin also features a new 23-liter dry storage area with a USB port and cable slots to keep devices charged and out of the elements when traversing terrain.
An all-new Yamaha Adventure Pro enhances exploration with multiple high-tech features. Now with Bluetooth integration, users can connect their devices to receive call and text notifications, as well as control audio functions from the 7-inch display. The onscreen display shows navigation, multiple new vehicle readouts, controls the new factory installed MTX Audio System, and more. The Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited is also equipped with an all-new rearview camera (prewired on XT-R), which is automatically displayed on the Adventure Pro when the vehicle is shifted into reverse, or when manually turned on by the user.
The RMAX4 1000 Limited is also equipped with an all-new TFT meter, providing a variety of high-tech display options on a premium 4.3” color screen with different display styles (Classic, Sport, and Adventure) in both light and dark modes. Information displayed on the all-new TFT meter includes a tachometer, water temperature, On-Command, D-Mode, iQS, and EPS indicators, battery voltage, service reminders, and more.
Donning FOX QS3 shocks on the XT-R, and FOX iQS suspension on the Limited, the all-new RMAX4 1000 features 16.9-inches of rear, and 14.2-inches of front travel with new suspension tuning to maximize comfort and capability across various terrains and speeds. Like the RMAX2 1000 models, the new RMAX4 1000 receives the rugged and popular 30-inch Maxxis Carnivore tires in a “square setup” (same size all around) configuration.
Boasting 13.8-inches of ground clearance at a 118-inch wheelbase, the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 can REALize Your Adventure over challenging terrain with family and friends, and while tackling chores around the home and farm. When the trail ride ends and work begins, this Wolverine is fully equipped for even the toughest of tasks, thanks to its 2,000-pound towing capacity and versatile 600-pound capacity piston-assist dumping cargo bed.
Proven Off-Road Confidence
The 2025 Wolverine RMAX4 1000 is built with pride and Assembled in the USA at Yamaha’s manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia, delivering the durability, reliability, and superior build-quality off-road enthusiasts around the world demand and expect from Yamaha.
Owners can drive with confidence, thanks to Yamaha’s industry-best Ultramatic automatic transmission, which is backed by the unmatched Yamaha 10-Year Belt Warranty. Furthering capability, the 2025 Wolverine RMAX4 1000 features an all-new brake system with updated calipers, pad material, front and rear hoses, and mounting knuckles for enhanced braking power, brake-pedal engagement, and reduced brake noise.
The Wolverine RMAX4 1000 is also designed for seamless accessory integration of Yamaha Genuine Accessories to ensure confident installation and performance that meets expectations. These factory-designed, tested, and approved accessories include multiple windshield options, rearview mirrors, brush guards, hard cab-enclosure systems with lockable doors, and more, enabling owners to easily tailor their Wolverine RMAX4 1000 to their specific needs, preferences, and adventures.
The all-new 2025 Yamaha Wolverine RMAX4 1000 will be available fall of this year at Yamaha dealers nationwide. The XT-R sports painted bodywork with a color-matched interior, beadlock wheels, and a factory-installed WARN VRX 4,500-pound winch, starting at $27,999 MSRP. The RMAX4 1000 Limited is available with painted body work, color matched interior, WARN VRX 4,500-pound winch, and FOX iQS switch-controlled suspension, starting at $29,199 MSRP.
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States. YMUS has a corporate office in California, three corporate offices in Georgia, as well as facilities in Wisconsin, Alabama, and Florida. YMUS subsidiaries Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC), based in Georgia, and Yamaha Jet Boat Manufacturing U.S.A. (YJBM) based in Tennessee, each assemble and manufacture selected Yamaha brand products. YMUS owns Skeeter Boats [Texas] with its division G3 Boats [Missouri]. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company, Inc. (YMSC) with subsidiary Siren Marine [Rhode Island] and divisions Bennett Marine [Florida], Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders [Wisconsin] and Yamaha Precision Propeller Inc. [Indiana]. Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, USA (Yamaha Financial Services), an affiliate of YMUS, offers financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. Yamaha Financial Services provides retail and commercial financing for the diverse line of Yamaha brand motor products based out of Cypress, CA and Marietta, GA.
Luke provides all the details of the 2025 Polaris Sportsman 570 Touring ULTIMATE edition complete with comfortable seating for two, arched lower dual A-arm front suspension, 7S display with Ride-Command and the 44 horsepower ProStar single cylinder engine.
Luke extends a special invite to Mr. and Mrs. Ostacruiser to join him for a trail side adventure at Hatfield McCoy Trails in beautiful West Virginia.
As first timers to Hatfield McCoy, Luke treats Dave and Carrie to two fun filled days exploring the scenic trails of Bear Wallow, the technical rock crawling terrain found on the legendary Ivy Branch trail system and get to preview one of Hatfield McCoy’s newest trails named Big Coal River, which opens later this summer – 2024.
Polaris Off Road, the leader in innovation, today announces the redefined 2025 RZR Pro lineup, featuring the race-inspired toughness of RZR Pro R, wide open RZR Pro S (formerly Turbo R) and fast paced RZR Pro XP trail machine. Elevating these dominant vehicles with unparalleled performance even further, this RZR Pro lineup showcases revitalized RZR styling and bold, refined fit and finish to deliver an exceptional rider experience. The result is an uncompromising lineup of vehicles—the most durable, versatile, capable, and stylish RZR vehicles on the market.
The RZR Pro lineup delivers riders the best of the best. It redefines what premium means for performance side-by-sides, while still delivering groundbreaking levels of power, strength, and control. The 2025 RZR Pro R, Pro S, and Pro XP feature an all-new patent pending fresh cabin air intakes that force fresh air into the cab as you drive.
Working with the radiator deflectors, the dual hood scoops more effectively manage airflow, reducing overall cabin temperature for improved rider comfort. Additionally, all three models feature a commanding look that demands respect in the desert and on the trail, highlighted by the return of the iconic RZR Fang Lighting. The new lighting’s sharp design and dynamic up-and-down animation exudes the fierce attitude that RZR has long been known for.
In response to consumer feedback, the RZR Pro lineup now features a refined interior, meticulously designed to enhance comfort and convenience for the rider. This includes an upgraded dash with optimized touch points that bring the vehicle controls to the rider’s fingertips. Riders can easily map routes on RIDE COMMAND and switch tunes without taking their focus off the terrain. Additionally, convenient and accessible storage options allow riders to stow valuables easily and securely.
Meanwhile, new solid doors, with a double latch and door seal, shrug off more dust, water and other elements when out on the trail or in the dunes. The entire lineup also received upgraded seating with enhanced contouring for comfort. Additionally, the RZR Pro R received a new dual retractor harness that mounts above and behind the seat for easier retracting and enables riders to quickly fine-tune the fit before taming the trail. Finally, the top-tier Ultimate trims also receive new Rockford Fosgate Stage 4 Audio with 10″ subwoofer and new front and rear speakers, delivering powerful, clear sound that enhances riders’ off-road experience with immersive audio.
RZR PRO R
As an off-road beast that is champion of the desert, the RZR Pro R delivers heart-pounding performance, with toughness proven through the winning track record of its race variant from SCORE to DAKAR.
Fueled by the ProStar Fury 2.0 naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine that seamlessly puts out 225HP, the RZR Pro R unleashes relentless power through intense dune and desert terrain. With a 74″ stance and 104.5” wheelbase for maximum stability, MaxLink suspension with 29″ of usable travel that absorbs whoops, and a rear toe link to keep the machine grounded and tracking, the RZR Pro R delivers precise control. Additionally, the DYNAMIX DV semi-active suspension automatically adjusts shocks to the terrain, allowing it to conquer it all. Pro Performance True 4WD with driver-selectable modes allows riders to seamlessly adapt traction to changing conditions, optimizing performance and enabling them to tame the terrain.
The 2025 RZR Pro R lineup will feature exclusive Pro R badging, adding a distinctive touch that elevates the design even further. Additionally, the top-of-the-line RZR Pro R Ultimate trim will receive 15″ wheels and stylish color-matched beadlock rims, plus the industry’s first heated and vented seats, providing an enhanced comfort on hot and cool days. Finally, the new 2025 RZR Pro R Sport trim provides all the same refinements while being offered at a lower price-point across both two- and four-passenger vehicles, giving riders unparalleled performance at an unbeatable value.
The RZR Pro R Sport trim will be available in Storm Grey with Blue, while the Ultimate trim will be available in Super Graphite, Black Crystal with Shadow Bronze, and Black Crystal with Radiant Green.
RZR PRO S
The RZR Pro S—formerly Turbo R—delivers nimble handling, dependable stability, and unmatched agility. With the 2025 updates like bold RZR Fang Lighting, a refined interior, and new fresh cabin air intakes for increased comfort, riders can experience pure exhilaration on rugged, wide-open terrain at an unbeatable value.
The Pro S lineup unleashes a 181 HP turbocharged engine and touts an optimized 74″ width and 96″ wheelbase that delivers the ultimate balance of stability and agility for high performance on twisty terrain. From braking to wide-open throttle, a Pro S CVT transmission flawlessly handles varying desert terrain. It automatically adjusts to changing trail conditions, delivering consistent control. Riders can push the vehicle’s capabilities further with fast on-demand AWD that anticipates driver needs as they brave challenging terrain—whether muddy, snowy, rocky, or uphill—delivering instant traction to keep the vehicle grounded and chasing thrills.
New for 2025, the RZR Pro S mid-level Premium trim will now be equipped with Polaris’ industry-leading RIDE COMMAND system, plus a rear camera providing enhanced visibility. This advanced technology offers a seven-inch touchscreen display and makes riders more confident with GPS navigation and group ride tracking that works without cell signal to keep riders connected and on course. These value-added components, along with the enhanced vehicle aesthetics and lower pricing across both Sport and Premium trims, deliver incredible value to riders.
For 2025, the Sport trim is available in Storm Grey, the Premium trim in Zenith Blue with Orange Burst, and the Ultimate trim in Onyx Black, Moss Green, and Zenith Blue with Orange Burst.
RZR PRO XP
Experience next-level exhilaration with cutting-edge features on the RZR Pro XP, designed to conquer tight terrain, including narrow wooded trails and windy forest paths. The bold new design of the 2025 RZR Pro XP provides more style and performance to take on the off-road confidently.
For 2025, the RZR Pro XP model is equipped with a new lower low gear, thanks to receiving the Pro S (formerly Turbo R) transmission that makes it easier to modulate speed on grueling uphill climbs, enabling riders to confidently conquer ascents on rocky or technical terrain. Similarly to the RZR Pro S, the 2025 Pro XP Premium model now receives the industry-leading RIDE COMMAND system with 7″ display.
With unbeatable trail performance, the 181HP turbocharged engine unleashes peak power within the 20- to 50-mph range, optimizing corner-to-corner performance. Narrow trails become a playground for the RZR Pro XP, with a 64″ width and 96″ wheelbase that delivers the ultimate balance of razor-sharp agility and dependable stability for high performance on tight terrain. From braking to cornering, a Pro XP CVT transmission flawlessly handles abrupt trail transitions, while the fast on-demand AWD anticipates driver needs in different terrain and delivers instant traction.
Also boasting refreshed colors and graphics across its lineup, the RZR Pro XP Sport trim is available in Storm Grey, while the Premium trim will come in Zenith Blue, and the Ultimate is offered in Onyx Black, Moss Green, and Zenith Blue. All of this comes at an exceptional value to riders, with price reductions across both the two and four-passenger Sport trim and the four-passenger Premium and Ultimate trims.
Accessories
To accompany the 2025 RZR Pro lineup, Polaris also introduced over 120 new accessories designed to enhance, protect, and customize riders’ vehicles. These new options allow riders to uniquely upfit their vehicles for various riding terrains. Highlights include updated rock slider & bumper designs with six color customization options, Rockford Fosgate® Stage 1-6 audio kits with a new active bass control knob and armrest pads & a roof liner from new partner GatorStep®. Additionally,improvements to the upper door sealing and windshields, plus a new flat rear panel design, provide added comfort to elevate the overall riding experience.
Trim and Pricing Breakdown
The 2025 RZR Pro R, Pro S, and Pro XP will be available in both 2-seat and 4-seat configurations, with the Pro S and Pro XP coming in three trim options, Sport, Premium, and Ultimate, while the Pro R will be available in Sport and Ultimate trims. All RZR Pro models will begin shipping to dealers in August 2025.
RZR Pro R Sport: Starting at $34,999/$43,999 (CAN) RZR Pro R Ultimate: Starting at $42,999/$52,999 (CAN)
RZR Pro S Sport: Starting at $26,999/$32,999 (CAN) RZR Pro S Premium: Starting at $30,999/$38,499 (CAN) RZR Pro S Ultimate: Starting at $36,999/$45,799 (CAN)
RZR Pro XP Sport: Starting at $23,999/$28,999 (CAN) RZR Pro XP Premium: Starting at $27,999/$34,499 (CAN) RZR Pro XP Ultimate: Starting at $33,999/$40,999 (CAN)
About Polaris – As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris’ high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER, RZR and Polaris XPEDITION and GENERAL side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves nearly 100 countries across the globe.
We love listening to our tunes when we’re out on the trail and soundbars and stereos are one the top selling products for anyone who owns a side-x-side.
KEMIMOTO’s line of sound bars caught our attention as a great alternative to many of the more expensive stereo systems on the market today. The Midnight line of soundbars are offered in three sizes: The Midnight 40 is 18-inches the 60 is 26-inches and the Midnight 80 is 32-inches long and incorporates 6 speakers.
Featuring 500 watts of peak power and two tweeters, two midrange speakers and two woofers, plus a total harmonic distortion rate of less than 1% providing higher fidelity sound quality out on the trails, there’s a lot to like about the Midnight 80.
KEMIMOTO designs their soundbars for outdoor, off-road rugged use. They come with aluminum mounting clamps to attach to your side by side or golf cart roll bar and are IP66 rated. All aluminum housed soundbars with waterproof controls, speakers and connections so you know you are safe to take the Midnight soundbar anywhere your adventures take you.
You can connect to your midnight 80 via Bluetooth, auxiliary input or USB input. The Bluetooth will work up to 33 feet away and you can control the stereo remotely up to 66 feet away. But there’s always the push button controls on the front of the sound bar if you prefer to use it that way too.
All KEMIMOTO sound bars come to life when the sun goes down. There are over 200 lighting modes, controlled with the included remote or through a phone app, which you can play around with and change light color and illumination modes. Everything from strobe to fade and jump this soundbar even syncs with your music for a perfectly choreographed light show.
Should you need more visibility in cab while trying to read maps or locate gear at night, no problem the Dome light setting will turn on all white light on the sound bar so you and your riders can see inside the side by side better.
CLICK HERE to watch our special Trail Tech segment on the KEMIMOTO Midnight 80 Soundbar.
For more information on KEMIMOTO’s full line of products visit kemimoto.com
