autoevolution
 

2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R Is a Three-Cylinder Supersport SxS

Welcome the 2015 YXZ1000R, the newest addition to Yamaha's SxS line-up, a machine that promises thrills no other side-by-side can provide today.
2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R 43 photos
Photo: Yamaha
2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R  Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R Special Edition2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R shifter2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R wheels2016 Yamaha YXR1000R top view2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R dash2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R reverse lever2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R2016 Yamaha YXR1000R
We knew that Iwata was working on a three-cylinder beast from the teaser video we showed you in late July, but it looks like everyone was mistaken believing Yamaha would use the MT-09/FZ-09 847cc mill.

When the YXZ1000R showed up we thought it would be a longer-stroke version of the MT-09 unit, but both bore and stroke are bigger for the SxS. We have no doubts that the motorcycle engine served as inspiration for the YXZ1000R, if not even as a starting platform.

A rally car-like sequential gearbox

The fact is that the 2016 YXZ1000R engine packs 998cc and is the first triple in the segment. The red line sits at 10,500 rpm, and it is fed through three Mikuni 41mm throttle bodies. The single-piece shaft drive is mated to a 5-speed sequential gearbox that mimics those found in rally cars. Iwata says that the YXZ1000R is the first-ever SxS to sport this type of transmission.

The reverse gear is easy to engage via a small lever behind the steering wheel. Yamaha also uses a hydraulic clutch with a torque limiter to absorb shocks generated by the vile engine. The 2WD/4WD/4WD with Diff-Lock modes are easy to access using a dashboard dial, making switching between them fast and convenient.

The high-tensile steel frame has a 2,300mm (90.5") wheelbase, while the overall length and width of the YXZ1000R are 3,121mm and 1,626mm (122.9" and 64"), respectively. The minimum ground clearance is 330mm (13") while the wet weight including oil and 34 liters (9 US gal) of fuel reached 699 kg (1,543 lb), with a 136 kg (300 lb) cargo bed capacity.

Electronic power steering, anti-sway bars for both front and rear, and Maxxis MU09 AT27x9.00R-14 tires are also on the list. The YXZ1000R comes in traditional Racing Blue/ White livery, but a 60th Anniversary Special Edition in Yellow/Black speed blocks is also up for grabs. We'll be back with the price and availability. Meanwhile enjoy the sound of a superbike engine in the desert!

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories