Yamaha is one of the most recognized brands in the world of off-road vehicles. Among its top side-by-sides (SxS), the Yamaha Wolverine and Yamaha Viking stand out for their reliability, versatility, and performance. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle to explore rugged trails or haul heavy loads, these models can fulfill your needs. However, when it comes to acceleration, how do the Wolverine and Viking compare?
Yamaha Wolverine Compared to the Viking: What’s the Best UTV for You?
When searching for the ideal Yamaha UTV, two machines often come up for comparison: the Yamaha Wolverine and the Yamaha Viking. Both Yamaha side by sides are built for rugged terrain, but they serve different purposes. From exploring tight trails to tackling heavy loads, this article will help you decide which of these Yamaha machines is the best fit for your needs.
Yamaha Wolverine: The Sporty Trail Rider
The Yamaha Wolverine is perfect for those who prioritize adventure and performance. With an 847cc engine and Yamaha’s Ultramatic™ CVT transmission, this side by side is built for power and speed. Designed for trail riding and rough country exploring, the Wolverine is equipped with 12.2 inches of suspension travel, making it ideal for absorbing the impact of tight trails and rocky terrain. The anti-sway bar helps maintain stability during sharp turns, and its power steering ensures a smooth and comfortable ride.
The Wolverine’s ground clearance of 11.4 inches, combined with its nimble frame, allows it to easily navigate mud and uneven trails. This machine can reach speeds of up to 55 mph, providing a thrilling off-road experience. Yamaha’s machines are known for reliability, and the Wolverine is no exception. Its liquid-cooled engine ensures consistent performance in hot conditions, making it a versatile new machine for outdoor enthusiasts.
Design and Features
The Yamaha Wolverine is designed for comfort, with two ergonomic seats that offer plenty of cab space. The center console is well-organized, with easily accessible controls. You’ll also find features like a folding windshield and the option for a light bar, which enhances visibility during nighttime rides. The Wolverine’s compact size makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a new UTV focused on riding style rather than heavy-duty work.
The Wolverine offers various customization options, from bigger tires for improved grip to accessories like rough country roof covers. Whether you’re using it for recreational riding or need a Yamaha side by side for specific tasks, the Wolverine is a new thread in Yamaha’s lineup.
Yamaha Viking: The Workhorse with Capacity
On the other hand, the Yamaha Viking is designed for utility. Powered by a 686cc engine, it may not have the top speed of the Wolverine, but its power lies in its durability and bed capacity. Capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds and hauling 600 pounds in the cargo bed, the Viking wins when it comes to tasks like farm work, property maintenance, and other heavy-duty jobs. With fuel-injected reliability and a wet weight optimized for stability, the Viking is a side by side made to pull heavy loads without sacrificing performance.
The Viking VI model adds to the Viking’s versatility with room for up to six passengers. Its third seat and extended cab space make it perfect for transporting people or equipment over large areas of land. The Viking’s wheel travel of 8.1 inches, paired with its power steering, ensures that even when loaded, it remains easy to drive.
Design and Utility
While the Viking may not be as sporty as the Wolverine, it offers plenty of functional features. The center console provides ample storage, and the Viking’s longer wheelbase offers better stability on uneven ground. Many forum community dedicated to Yamaha side by sides discuss the Viking’s impressive reliability for long-term use. Whether you’re towing, hauling, or simply transporting passengers, the Viking stands as a machine designed for real work.
Additional accessories like the JBS sheave improve torque, and alignment list options can enhance tire performance on varied terrains. Many Viking owners opt for bigger tires to better handle different environments.
Comparing the Two Machines
When comparing the Yamaha Wolverine to the Yamaha Viking, speed and trail riding capabilities set the Wolverine apart. Its higher top speed and more advanced suspension system make it a thrilling option for those who want an agile, performance-focused machine. The wheel travel and anti-sway bar ensure that even during fast turns and uneven terrain, the Wolverine remains stable.
On the other hand, the Viking excels in utility. If you need a reliable Yamaha side by side for work purposes, the Viking’s bed capacity, towing power, and ability to seat up to six people make it the better choice. The Viking is often the preferred option for those who need to pull heavy loads over long distances or require a more comfortable ride for multiple passengers.
What the Forums Say
In various forum communities, top contributors highlight the Wolverine’s ability to handle tight trails and rough terrain, while others praise the Viking for its bed capacity and reliable performance under heavy loads. Both models are well-respected among Yamaha side by side enthusiasts. Old threads often feature discussions comparing the two, with comments noting that the Wolverine offers more excitement for recreational use, while the Viking delivers better performance for work-related tasks.
Related threads on forums also mention common accessories for both models. For instance, adding a light bar or folding windshield to the Wolverine can enhance night riding, while upgrading to bigger tires on the Viking improves stability when towing. Many users share images in image galleries to showcase their modified machines, illustrating how both the Wolverine and Viking can be adapted to suit different needs.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a new UTV for recreational trail riding or need a reliable vehicle for work, the Yamaha Wolverine and Yamaha Viking offer two distinct solutions. If performance, speed, and rough country exploring are your top priorities, the Wolverine’s agility and advanced features make it the clear choice. However, if you need a powerful side by side that excels in utility, towing, and cargo capacity, the Viking is built to handle the toughest jobs.
Ultimately, both of these Yamaha machines are well-regarded in the off-road community. By considering your specific needs—whether it’s work, recreation, or a mix of both—you’ll be able to determine which Yamaha side by side is the best fit for you.
