Yamaha’s YXZ was a form of anomaly in at present’s go-fast side-by-sides. Whereas machines like Polaris’ RZR, Kawasaki’s Teryx, and Can-Am’s Maverick collection went for a extra typical structure, full with CVTs or dual-clutch transmissions, the Yamaha maintained an outdated 6-speed structure. In addition to a novel, extra short-course wheelbase, cage, and suspension setup.
It was one of many extra fascinating choices round.
However the tide waits for no man, and on this case, no machine, as after 9 years on sale, Yamaha is discontinuing the UTV from its lineup, and saying farewell to the final side-by-side with a regular transmission.
Pour one out for the three-pedalers.
Certainly, Yamaha’s YXZ side-by-side was the lone UTV with a correct guide transmission. Whereas others have paddle shifters, none have a clutch the motive force has to function. So it is actually solely an phantasm of a guide. That wasn’t the case for the YXZ, although it might be one of many the explanation why Yamaha’s discontinuing the mannequin. How many individuals are you aware who desire a guide side-by-side? Not to mention a guide go-fast side-by-side?
As for what’s subsequent, based on Yamaha’s 2026 lineup replace, the model can be specializing in its utility choices, together with the brand new RMax, the outdated RMax Compact, its Viking fashions, and Wolverine side-by-sides. No less than, that is what it says it will be specializing in for 2026. 2027 is not that far into the longer term, and based mostly on what I’ve personally seen within the new RMax, and the way different manufacturers have taken their extra humble utility side-by-sides and turned them into one thing fierce.
A go-fast return of the YXZ might be on the horizon, although it is prone to take a extra typical form. Perhaps one sporting a turbocharged or hybrid electrical powertrain based mostly on the RMax’s 999cc parallel twin? Stranger issues have occurred, and Yamaha’s no slouch at turning wild ideas into actuality. And the model has greater than sufficient patents and tech to play with to return the YXZ to the land of the residing. We’ll simply have to attend and see.
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