For thrill-seekers who want a fast, high-performance side-by-side that can also masterfully tackle extreme terrain, Yamaha builds the YXZ1000R SS XT-R. This thing promises to be a serious contender for the title of the world’s most capable UTV.
Designed to handle a wide variety of terrain, this ultimate pure-sport, high-performance off-roader is the flagship model of Yamaha’s YXZ1000R range. It comes with a wide range of exclusive components like an advanced suspension system, off-road tires, enhanced underbody protection, or heavy-duty Warn winch.
The SS XT-R is built on a high-strength steel chassis with optimized geometry. It uses an independent double-wishbone suspension system on each wheel, aided by front and rear sway bars that reduce body roll and improve cornering at high speeds.
Photo: Yamaha Corporation
To easily cope with the most difficult terrain, the vehicle is equipped with FOX 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks with dual-spring-rate adjustable crossovers. Spring preload rebound and both high and low-speed damping are fully customizable.
They deliver a massive 16.2 inches (41 cm) of front travel and 17.0 inches (43 cm) at the rear, along with excellent ride quality and maneuverability.
To further enhance the off-road capabilities of the SS XT-R, Yamaha offers a set of ultra-aggressive 29-inch Maxxis Carnage radial tires fitted to durable beadlock rims as standard.
Photo: Yamaha Corporation
Power comes from a 998-cc liquid-cooled inline three-cylinder engine that features a compact, counterbalanced DOHC cylinder head, an 11.3:1 compression ratio, and a dry-sump lubrication system. Clean air is provided through a high flow intake system with dual air filters that should provide optimal filtration in the dirtiest riding environments.
The powerplant offers outstanding power thanks to its high-strength internals and is ready to handle high-output demands with an exhilarating 10,500 rpm redline. Using the ergonomic steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, riders can easily control the five-speed sequential Sport Shift manual gearbox. The latter uses Yamaha’s innovative Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology that automatically operates the clutch.
Photo: Yamaha Corporation
In addition, the Japanese manufacturer’s proven On-Command 4WD system enhances the vehicle’s ability to tackle the most challenging terrain with easily selectable 2WD, 4WD limited-slip, and 4WD full differential lock modes.
For precise handling, the SS XT-R features speed-sensitive electric power steering (EPS), which Yamaha claims is a unique feature among side-by-sides. The compact and lightweight EPS unit is fitted high on the rack-and-pinion steering system to protect it from dirt and debris.
Stopping power is provided by double-piston calipers that hug large 10-inch (255 mm) rotors in the front and 9.6-inch (245 mm) rotors in the rear. Also, an automotive-style parking brake lever is installed in the cabin's center console for those who want to try and drift the machine - and you know there will be many of those.
Photo: Yamaha Corporation
Inside, the vehicle offers an ergonomic cab, built for performance. Plush, high-back seats with extra lateral support and outside shoulder bolsters provide an extremely comfortable ride.
The supersport-style dashboard inspired by Yamaha’s high-performance motorcycles comes with a digital speedometer, analog tachometer, and programmable shift light with readouts for 4WD mode, fuel level, coolant temperature, and gear position.
Yamaha offers a wide range of accessories for all YXZ1000R models, which include audio options, lighting, and performance upgrade kits. The SS XT-R can also be fitted with the optional Adventure Pro trail-focused GPS system.
Yamaha’s flagship UTV model is assembled in the U.S. and will be available in Covert Green painted bodywork with prices starting at $21,799.
Vlad's first car was custom coach built: an exotic he made out of wood, cardboard and a borrowed steering wheel at the age of five. Combining his previous experience in writing and car dealership years, his articles focus in depth on special cars of past and present times. Full profile
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