We had the chance to get behind the wheel of a Yamaha RMAX 1000 during the SxS Adventure Rally at Sand Hollow State Park in Utah. We were lucky enough to get the chance thanks to Kyle Anderson who actually raced an RMAX at King of the Hammers in 2023 with a first in class finish. Along with us was BC from GBC Tires in his 4 seat RMAX.
This was our first chance driving the RMAX and we headed right to my favorite trail - Double Sammy. This trail has lots of action in a short period of time and was perfect for what I wanted to experience - How does the RMAX rock crawl!
This was a quick opportunity and we didn’t do any real trail riding or high speed test, just rock crawling. Here are some takeaways:
1. CVT - Yamaha’s Ultramatic system is backed by the industry's only 10-year belt warranty, the CVT system utilizes a centrifugal wet clutch purpose-built to withstand the power from the potent 999cc engine, and a constant-tension belt system for tackling obstacles in high rev range without fear of damaging the belt. The CVT is confidence inspiring for rock crawling. No signs of belt slippage.
2. Diff Lock - Front differential has an easy to use diff lock that just takes a quick turn of the knob to engage. Locker is very effective.
3. Sway Bar - The RMAX2 is equipped with a front sway bar only and feels a bit stiff for rock crawling. Sway control is tough for all UTVs for pure rock crawling. There is always a compromise to be made. If it was my unit, I’d probably disconnect the sway bar if I was going to rock crawl.
4. Solid - The RMAX feels very solid and well built. No clunks or rattles.
5. If I was going to buy an RMAX, I’d certainly look into a unit with factory FOX iQS. I have had this feature on other UTVs and the ability to adjust damping levels from a switch in the cockpit is priceless.
6. Cab - Comfortable seats, easy to use features and good visibility.
Please keep in mind that the RMAX isn’t designed for blasting through big desert whoops or drag racing up Olds in Glamis. The RMAX is a rec-utility trail machine built for adventure.
16 май 2023
