Yamaha reveals new ATVs, motorcycles (video)
Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A. launched several new ATV and motorcycle models simultaneously at five regional dealer meetings this week.
On the ATV side, Yamaha revealed the 2012 YFZ450, a 450cc high performance sport ATV, and the Grizzly 300, a 287cc 2WD utility ATV. The 2012 YFZ450 is priced at $6,799, and the Grizzly 300 is priced at $4,099.
The new YFZ450 features 449cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine, with improved timing and construction for more low- and mid-range power. The quad also has a larger carburetor with throttle position sensor to maintain top-end performance. It will all be controlled by a ratchet-type 5-speed transmission, heavy duty clutch and push-button electric start.
All of this will be wrapped in a compact steel frame with aluminum sub frame, cast aluminum swingarm and aluminum upper A-arms, supported by KYP front shocks and piggyback Showa shock system in the back. The wheels on the quad were designed to be lighter and more rigid than previous models.
The Grizzly 300 is powered by a 287cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine and a dual range transmission. The Grizzly can pull 720 pounds and supports 140 pounds combined on the front and rear racks. It also features a double wishbone front suspension, with 5.9 inches of travel, and rear swingarm, with 6.5 inches of travel, as well as a push-button start like the YFZ.
The new Yamaha YFZ450 will start arriving in dealers by the end of September, in Black Metallic and all white finishes. The all white models come with a choice of one of 11 custom graphics kits. The Grizzly 300 arrives in December in Steel Blue and Hunter Green.
In introducing its 2012 Star Motorcycles lineup, Yamaha showcased the Raider SCL, of which only 500 will be produced. The Raider SCL features high-metallic Blazing Orange paint created specifically for the bike; stainless steel mesh throttle cables, clutch and brake lines; custom five-spoke chrome wheels with matching pulley and chrome belt guard and a leather two-tone seat with the SCL logo and matching orange stitch. The seat has been designed to develop a character of its own, so no two are alike. The bike will be available in dealerships beginning in February.
The Stratoliner Deluxe has been updated with a motorcycle-friendly Garmin Zumo 665 GPS, a new closeable lid, chrome speaker trim and a redesigned tank emblem.
Other updates can be found on the Roadliner S, Stratoliner S, VMax, Stryker and V Star series.
For the sport bike crowd, the R1 returns with updated technology. The 2012 bike includes an all-new seven-level Traction Control System, which was developed so riders don’t feel unnatural or harsh intervention from the system. It also features a new ECU optimized for acceleration and controllability in the mid-to-low speed range, as well as the three-level D-Mode electronic throttle response control. With these options, riders have 21 choices available to tailor their riding preference.
Other updates include an all-new top triple clamp, designed footpegs for improved boot-sole contact and better ergonomics, a new upper fairing with a revised headlight cowl, new LED position lights and new hexagon-shaped muffler caps and heat shields. The R1 will be available in October in Raven, Pear White/Candy Red, Team Yamaha Blue/White and the limited edition Pearl White/Rapid Red 50th anniversary version. Only 2,000 of 50th anniversary models, celebrating Yamaha’s 50th year in World Grand Prix Road Racing, will be produced.
To see video of the R1 at the West/Northwest regional dealer meeting in Las Vegas, check out the Powersports Business YouTube channel click here. The YZF-R6 will also be available in the limited edition 50th anniversary colors.
- For more of the latest news, click here.
