First Looks

Published on June 9th, 2016 | by Joe

Yamaha Announces New 2017 Side-by-Side Models

New YXZ1000R Sport Shift Features Automatic Clutch and Paddle Shifting

 

 Yamaha recently invited editors from a number of top publications in the power sports industry to a private meeting in Greenville South Carolina to unveil their 2017 high-performance, recreation, and utility side-by-side models. Last year Yamaha added a significant level of performance to the high-performance UTV segment with the launch of the all-new, manual shift, YXZ1000R. With superb handling, suspension, and comfort, the 2016 Wolverine and Wolverine R-Spec provided recreational enthusiasts with the performance needed for trail exploration, weekend rides, and the ability to get some work done if needed.  All that and they still managed to add additional variations and updates to their hard working Viking and Viking 6 utility machines. For 2017, Yamaha is back with updated special edition models, variations of existing models, plus the addition of the brand new YXZ1000R Sport Shift with electronic paddle shifters seemingly right out of Formula 1 racing. We expect the SS to have a lot of 2016 YXZ1000R owners heading back to the dealer for a trade in as the SS will most certainly appeal to a larger number of divers.  The SS will undoubtedly be easier to live with in tight, technical situations. 2017 Looks to be another big year for Yamaha. Below are all the details as Yamaha presented them.

 

Taken From Yamaha’s official press release.

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The SS technology is defined by a 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission boasting an advanced automatic clutch and pure-sport inspired paddle shifters – eliminating the need for both the clutch pedal and taking your foot off the gas during shifting.

NEW 2017 YXZ1000R SS – Pure Sport Performance with Paddle Shifting and Auto Clutch

Innovating again this year, Yamaha introduces the new 2017 YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), the first and only SxS vehicle to combine pure-sport driving performance with an exciting and high-tech paddle shifting experience.

 

Boasting the same industry-first 3-cylinder 998cc engine and unparalleled direct-connection feeling as the original YXZ, the YXZ1000R SS features Yamaha’s all-new confidence-inspiring Sport Shift transmission. The SS technology is defined by a 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission boasting an advanced automatic clutch and pure-sport inspired paddle shifters – eliminating the need for both the clutch pedal and taking your foot off the gas during shifting.

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an auto downshiftfeature assists by automatically downshifting to first gear when the vehicle comes to a stop, even if the driver has not done so manually.

 

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the all-new “Launch System,” provides an exciting high-acceleration feeling from stop – similar to “dropping the clutch” in a manual vehicle with a clutch pedal

The pure-sport inspired paddle shifters on the YXZ1000R SS are mounted to the steering column and are synched to the Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology, an advanced automatic clutch system that eliminates the need for a clutch pedal. This allows a wide range of enthusiasts on a variety of terrain to enjoy the pure sport performance and direct connection of the world’s first and only manual transmission SxS.

 

The shift sequence – shift up with the right paddle and shift down with the left paddle – is designed to be highly intuitive for drivers, even if they are not familiar with operating a manual transmission. The YXZ1000R SS delivers a fun and exciting experience beyond what one would find in everyday automobiles with paddle shifters. The Sport Shift system incorporates features that complement the overall pure sport SxS experience – an auto downshiftfeature assists by automatically downshifting to first gear when the vehicle comes to a stop, even if the driver has not done so manually.

 

Another exciting and innovative feature on the YXZ1000R SS is the all-new “Launch System,” which is exclusive to the Sport Shift experience provides an exciting high-acceleration feeling from stop – similar to “dropping the clutch” in a manual vehicle with a clutch pedal – adding to the direct connection experience and exhilaration.

 



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New for 2017, the Special Edition YXZ1000R and YXZ1000R SS acquire industry-first twin-wall FOX® 2.5 Podium X2 Shocks®. These unparalleled shocks were developed in tandem with Yamaha specifically and exclusively for the new Special Edition YXZ models

New for 2017, the Special Edition YXZ1000R and YXZ1000R SS acquire industry-first twin-wall FOX® 2.5 Podium X2 Shocks®. These unparalleled shocks were developed in tandem with Yamaha specifically and exclusively for the new Special Edition YXZ models. They provide ultimate slow speed comfort without sacrificing performance during aggressive driving situations combined with unprecedented adjustability to suit a variety of driving types and preferences. A new level of performance and comfort are achieved by creating completely independent high and low speed compression and rebound adjustment, combined with huge 16.2-inches of front and 17.0-inches of rear travel. Additional features of the X2 shocks include dual adjusters on the upper cap and twin tube structure, dual rate springs with coupling and crossover adjustment, position sensitive damping, and more.

 



 

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the Team Yamaha Blue / White now comes with a color matched Team Yamaha Blue sun top, colored seat stitching, embroidered seats and race-inspired decals.

2017 YXZ1000R – The World’s First Pure Sport SxS for the High Performance Off-Road Enthusiast

Making its debut to the motorsports world in September of 2015, the wildly successful and highly anticipated pure sport YXZ1000R is available in exciting new color schemes for the 2017 model year. Augmenting the high-end look and feel, the Team Yamaha Blue / White now comes with a color matched Team Yamaha Blue sun top, colored seat stitching, embroidered seats and race-inspired decals. A new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black shares the same great accoutrements as the YXZ1000R SS SE, including the FOX Podium X2 shocks, yet with the industry-first 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission for ultimate driver-to-vehicle cohesion.

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A new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black shares the same great accoutrements as the YXZ1000R SS SE, including the FOX Podium X2 shocks and true beadlock wheels.

 

The YXZ1000R was the world’s first pure sport SxS, combining the industry’s first naturally aspirated three-cylinder 998cc sport engine with the first ever 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission. The YXZ1000R is born of Yamaha’s true high-performance DNA – creating a direct connection to the driver and serving up unmatched power and handling characteristics, resulting in a vehicle perfectly positioned as the only choice for the pure sport SxS enthusiast. MSRP on the 2017 YXZ1000R models will be announced this fall.

 

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The Wolverine R-Spec is now offered in Yamaha Blue with machined aluminum wheels

2017 Wolverine and Wolverine R-Spec – Most Off-Road Capable SxS with Class-Leading Comfort

The new Wolverine R-Spec SE in Matte Silver features painted bodywork with color-matched seats and springs, convenient under seat storage, and durable injection-molded polypropylene overfenders for increased protection from the elements. Furthering the off-road capability and comfort of the Wolverine R-Spec, the new SE adopts a stout yet lightweight full-length, full-coverage aluminum skid plate set – including the front bash plate, center, rear and side frame skids – aluminum a-arm guards, robust 12-inch true bead lock wheels and a new soft grip over-mold steering wheel with a design exclusively developed for ultimate off-road control and handling. MSRP for the new Wolverine R-Spec SE is $14,799.

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The new Wolverine R-Spec SE in Matte Silver features painted bodywork with color-matched seats and springs, convenient under seat storage, and durable injection-molded polypropylene overfenders for increased protection from the elements. Tue beadlock wheels, factory installed aluminum full coverage skid plates, and front bash guard for add durability.

 

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New for 2017, every Wolverine R-Spec now comes with Yamaha’s proven Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing precise handling through the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the terrain.

New for 2017, every Wolverine R-Spec now comes with Yamaha’s proven Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing precise handling through the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the terrain. In addition to the new SE, the Wolverine R-Spec is now offered in Yamaha Blue with machined aluminum wheels. Returning colors include the Alpine White with machined aluminum wheels, Hunter Green and Realtree Xtra®. MSRP starts at $13,199.

 

The 2017 Wolverine is a fun, comfortable and off-road capable SxS for trail and outdoors enthusiasts. The Wolverine offers new and existing SxS customers alike a full-featured, supremely off-road capable option at a value-packed price point starting at $10,999 MSRP. Adding to the Wolverine’s value-packed features, the 2017 is now offered with Yamaha’s durable and reliable EPS system.

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The Wolverine offers new and existing SxS customers alike a full-featured, supremely off-road capable option at a value-packed price point starting at $10,999 MSRP.

 

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For the Wolverine R-Spec, returning colors include the Alpine White with machined aluminum wheels, Hunter Green and Realtree Xtra®.

Setting the standard in off-road capability and class-leading comfort, all Yamaha Wolverine SxS models feature a new double overhead cam (DOHC), 708cc engine with optimized torque, power delivery and engine character for exciting recreational driving. The Wolverine’s automotive-style cab is designed to provide maximum comfort and confidence for both driver and passenger, especially in extreme off-road environments. Designed and engineered for exploring extreme terrain, the Wolverine features a nimble chassis with a compact design, look and feel, along with Yamaha’s proven core technologies:  Ultramatic® fully-automatic transmission, On-Command® four-wheel drive and EPS.

 

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The 2017 Viking and Viking VI are now offered in a new Midnight Blue Metallic SE with silver cast aluminum wheels, overfenders and silver seats.

2017 Viking and Viking VI – The Leading Multi-Passenger SxS with Best-in-Class Features

With class-leading cab room and comfort, coupled with superior handling and off-road capability, Vikings are the toughest and hardest working utility-based SxS vehicles that are also fun to drive. The 2017 Viking and Viking VI are now offered in a new Midnight Blue Metallic SE with silver cast aluminum wheels, overfenders and silver seats.

 

 

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Leading the 2017 Viking line is the premium Ranch Edition Viking VI in Copper Metallic painted bodywork

 

Leading the 2017 Viking line is the premium Ranch Edition Viking VI in Copper Metallic painted bodywork with color-matched brown interior and soft sun top, silver cast aluminum wheels, review center mirror, mud flaps, overfenders, underseat storage, a rear bed grab bar, a heavy duty front brush guard, and unique Ranch Edition badging, bringing an all-new level of comfort and convenience to tough off-road work.

 

Viking enhancements carried up from 2016 include 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 engine-mounted torque rod for a more relaxing ride 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 options and capacity. 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.

2017 Viking and Viking VI

All coming standard with a sun top and at an MSRP starting at $11,999, additional Viking colors include a new Steel Blue with cast aluminum wheels, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra®

 

All coming standard with a sun top and at an MSRP starting at $11,999, additional Viking colors include a new Steel Blue with cast aluminum wheels, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra®. MSRP for the 2017 Viking VI EPS starts at $13,999, with Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra® rounding out the color options.

 

ery Yamaha SxS and full-size ATV is Assembled in the USA at Yamaha’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution.

 

View additional details on Yamaha’s all-new 2017 SxS and ATV lineup online at www.yamahamotorsports.com. Follow Yamaha at www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa, www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa or www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa. To follow Yamaha Outdoors, go to www.facebook.com/yamahaoutdoors, www.twitter.com/yamahaoutdoors or www.instagram.com/yamahaoutdoors. #Yamaha #YamahaJune8 #YXZ1000R #YXZ1000RSS #YFZ50 #YamahaWolverine #YamahaGrizzly #Kodiak700 #YamahaRaptor #YamahaViking #VikingVI #YFZ450R #YamahaOutdoors

 

About Yamaha Motor Corp., USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, (YMUS) a leader in the motorsports market, makes the toughest, most capable and versatile ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings also include motorcycles, outboard motors, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, boats, outdoor power equipment, accessories, apparel and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States.

 

Headquartered in Cypress, Calif., since its incorporation in 1976, Yamaha also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information on Yamaha, visit www.yamahamotorsports.com.

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