In Depth: Yamaha Introduces New 2016 Wolverine Side-by-Side Models

New standard Wolverine, Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White extend Yamaha’s side-by-side options

June 2015 Powersport News

In unveiling its 2016 lineup last week, Yamaha Motor Corp., announced two new Wolverine models for 2016: the Wolverine side-by-side for casual trail riders and the Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White for serious off-road enthusiasts.

The 2016 Wolverine and 2016 Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White complement Yamaha’s existing line of Wolverine R-Spec models that were introduced in January and have quickly set a new standard in the recreational SxS category for off-road capabilities combined with class-leading comfort.

“Yamaha continues to expand its offerings to side-by-side enthusiasts with more models for utility users and recreational enthusiasts than ever before,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha’s Recreational Vehicle (RV) vice president. “These new Wolverine models give people more options—from entry level pricing to high-level customization.”

The all-new 2016 Wolverine is a fun, comfortable and off-road capable SxS for trail and outdoors enthusiasts. At a $10,999 MSRP, the Wolverine offers new and existing side-by-side customers alike a full-featured, supremely capable option at a value-packed price point.

The new Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White is based off the R-Spec model with Electric Power Steering (EPS). It gets cast aluminum wheels, white painted plastics and aggressive graphics for the hardcore off-road enthusiast looking for custom features. MSRP for the Alpine White is $13,499.

Both models possess many of Yamaha’s core technologies, legendary performance and industry-leading durability, along with aggressive styling and a nimble and compact-feeling chassis.

Yamaha’s On-Command four-wheel drive system lets the driver decide when to switch from 2WD to 4WD and even 4WD with full differential lock. The Ultramatic fully automatic transmission with high, low, neutral and reverse gears boasts the industry’s most durable CVT transmission with consistent and natural feeling engine braking.

Wolverine R-Spec models utilize long-travel suspension with standard KYB piggyback shocks featuring 9.7 inches of travel in front and 10.6 inches of travel out back—and more suspension customization than any other model in their class with high- and low-speed compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload adjustability. With an 81.3-inch wheelbase, 11.4 inches of ground clearance and wide-arc A-arm design, Wolverines provide a superior combination of terrainability, ground clearance and handling.

All of the Yamaha Wolverine side-by-side models feature a new double overhead cam (DOHC), 708cc engine with optimized torque, power delivery and engine character for exciting recreational driving. The Wolverine’s automotive-style cab is designed to provide maximum comfort and confidence for both driver and passenger, especially in extreme off-road environments.

Yamaha employed all-new exclusive 26-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires and durable four-wheel disc brakes that provide strong and predictable stopping power and feel, while a separate new wet parking disc brake system provides increased durability and protection from the elements.

Yamaha Wolverine SxS vehicles are built for expedition length adventures with a 9.7-gallon gas tank and a lightweight and durable injection-molded composite fixed-position cargo bed rated to haul up to 300 lbs. of gear and supplies.

2016 Yamaha Wolverine

Engine Type 708cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke; 4 valves

Bore x Stroke 103.0mm x 85.0mm

Compression Ratio 10.1:1

Fuel Delivery Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI), 44mm

Ignition TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition

Starting System Electric

Transmission Yamaha Ultramatic V-belt with all-wheel engine braking; L, H, N, R

Final Drive Yamaha On-Command 3-way locking differential; 2WD, 4WD, locked 4WD; shaft

Suspension/Front Independent double wishbone, 5-way adjustable preload; 9.7-in travel

Suspension/Rear Independent double wishbone with anti-sway bar, 5-way adjustable preload; 10.6-in travel

Brakes/Front Dual hydraulic disk

Brakes/Rear Dual hydraulic disk, multi-disk wet parking brake

Tires/Front AT26 x 8-12

Tires/Rear AT26 x 10-12

L x W x H 116.9 in x 60.6 in x 74.2 in

Seat Height n/a

Wheelbase 81.3 in

Turning Radius 181.1 in

Ground Clearance 11.4 in

Fuel Capacity 9.7 gal

Wet Weight 1287 lb

Rack Capacity Front /

Rear

300 Lb

Towing Capacity 1500 lb

Dual 35/35W headlights, 21/5W brake light

Warranty 6 Month (Limited Factory Warranty)

Color Realtree Xtra; Hunter Green

More information on the Yamaha Wolverine and Wolverine R-Spec is at www.yamahawolverine.com.

Follow Yamaha at www.Facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors, www.Twitter.com/YamahaOutdoors, and

www.Instagram.com/YamahaOutdoors.

#YamahaWolverine #YamahaOutdoors

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