This pure sport Yamaha side-by-side is an atypical machine in the quad world: a three-cylinder engine, a sequential manual transmission, and a manual or automatic clutch. Here is another excellent example of the genius of the designers at Yamaha when they decide to follow their own path to come up with a revolutionary vehicle.
The three-cylinder Genesis engine is found throughout other Yamaha product lines, such as snowmobiles and motorcycles. Therefore, it is natural to see it in a sporty side-by-side vehicle. This engine provides generous torque at low and midrange, but it becomes explosive as its revolutions approach the 10,500 rpm redline. Its strong mid-range note and raucous high-rpm howl are intoxicating. A dual air filter provides air to this engine for longer maintenance intervals and easy cleaning on the trail.
With two-stage compression adjustments, rebound tuning, and bottom control, the FOX 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks it can be fitted with are sensational in many ways. The front shocks are beautifully and intentionally protruding from the hood, creating the illusion of providing more travel. You could say it’s the hood that drops low and around the top of the shocks for better visibility, but it’s both at the same time, and with 41.1 cm (16.2 in.) of travel the suspension is as extreme as it looks.
That look is also the result of the manual transmission, the nicely tiny soft-to-click sequential gear selector, and the paddle shifters at the tip of your fingers. The machine sounds much more like a powerful sportbike than an ATV. The YXZ1000R is the unique marriage of genuine passion for all the elements that create an incredibly responsive and controllable high-performance machine. The five-speed sequential transmission also stands out on this vehicle.
When it comes to pure fun, nothing compares to the new YXZ1000R, and that’s because you, the driver, feel so much more active in the process of overcoming obstacles or flawlessly negotiating bends.
Not enough power with the Genesis engine? Be aware that in Europe, there is a GYTR YXZ1000R turbo kit developed jointly with Yamaha. By purchasing the GYTR kit, you ensure that all components are calibrated for the YXZ1000R and that you will not have any part incompatibility. The turbo with intercooler will allow you to increase the power up to 200 horsepower, enough to be close to the RZR Pro and Maverick Turbo RR of this world. However, check if this affects the vehicle’s warranty.
WHAT’S NEW?
- Nothing for 2025.
Pros:
- Its incredible maneuverability and power. Its handling highlights the qualities of its driver, who feels the very essence of a super sport machine.
Cons:
- We’d like to see a factory-equipped version with the turbo.
Skills:
