1995 yamahas

You can expect pretty much the same line-up from Yamaha in 1995 as you saw in 1994. Key changes are an increase to 791cc on the Vmax-4 quad; new clutching on all Vmax models; and one less Vmax 500.

All Vmax models get the new Yamaha VX Clutch (YVXC) system, which consists of new primary and secondary clutches. The result is said to be a more efficient and sensitive drivetrain that should assure smoother shifting, increased acceleration and top-end, and longer belt life.

All Vmax models from the 500 to the 800 will also get a new infinitely adjustable hand and thumb warmer switch. "Max" riders will be able to dial in the desired amount of heat to suit their needs.

Bold new graphics and colors are among the changes to all the Vmax models. The "Power of 10" is now the power of nine as Yamaha drops the long tracked Vmax 500 ST from the line.

Vmax-4

The Vmax-4 remains as the only production snowmobile with a four cylinder engine. For 1995, the 750 is bored out to become an 800. The bore was increased two millimeters to increase displacement to 791cc. Cylinder port timing, combustion chamber shape and larger reed valves also contribute to a horsepower gain.

As it was last year, there will be two Vmax-4 versions. The standard model receives a wider 40 inch ski stance to further enhance handling. It got a new look with an aerodynamic, blacked-out windscreen.

Western riders will find the larger displacement Vmax-4 ST more to their liking as, in addition to getting the 800cc engine, it gets a new Mountain Master high profile track to enhance performance in deep snow. Ski stance on this model remains at 38.5 inches. Both Vmax-4s are black with coordinating accents.

Vmax 600

The Vmax 600 is offered in four versions:

Vmax 600 - the standard model available in black or red;

Vmax 600 LE - offered with electric start and available in black;

Vmax 600 DX - a two-up touring model with king-queen seating, reverse, electric start and available in metallic blue; and

Vmax 600 ST - the second of the "Mountain Max" series, it is available in red and has the extended length Mountain Master high profile track.

All Vmax 600s receive YVX clutch, new warmer switch, etc.

Vmax 500

There will be just three Vmax 500 models as Yamaha has discontinued the "small" long tracked Vmax 500 ST model for western riders. Instead, the long track Vmax 500 is a touring machine, designated DX, which stands for deluxe.

These models, whether the DX version of the 500 or the 600, come "fully equipped" as touring machines. The DX models now have 136 inch tracks that increase the wheel base and ride comfort whether riding one or two-up. A tall windshield, passenger grip warmers and large storage box in the rear of the seat have been added to the long list of standard features which include the new two-passenger king and queen seat, electric starting and reverse gear.

The base Vmax 500 and LE with electric start comes in black; the two-up DX is available in metallic blue.

The Rest of the Line

The Phazer II, Phazer II LE, Phazer II ST, VK540 II, Venture XL, Enticer II LT, Ovation LE and Bravo LT round out the 1995 line with minor changes and new colors and graphics.

The Bravo LT does receive a larger 6.1 gallon capacity fuel tank, which is up 2.1 gallons or 50 percent from last year.

While this is preliminary and we have yet to see the new Yamahas, we had hoped for an "SX" type sports model similar to what Yamaha did with the last year of the Exciter. We certainly will not downrate Yamaha because of a hoped-for sled that we wanted.

The fact that Yamaha has opted to put more emphasis on the clutching suggests to us, at least, that we can expect an even stronger performing 600 and 500. The 600, as we discovered with our long term test model, has a very strong motor. Anything that can be done to get more of its potential to the snow is a major positive stop. The move will also make the 500 a much better performer as well. We look for the Vmax 500 to be the "sleeper" in that category. If you Indy 500 and Formula STX riders get blown away by a buddy on a Vmax 500, remember that we told you so.

What we're seeing from Yamaha in 1995 is a fine-tuning of what was introduced last year. We suspect that the dollar/yen situation has kept the Japanese snowmobile company from putting a major push on the competition. We also suspect that Yamaha's US-based outlet may be still working its way through the demise of the independent "snowmobile division," an experiment that lasted two years and was ended this past September.

Frankly, we expected Yamaha to take the "Ski-Doo" route and offer its fan-cooled engines in the current Vmax chassis. The Phazer twin and 400cc Enticer twin in a "Max" shell would create a good basis for consumer interest. And, since both fan-cooled engines are battle-tested, we would expect such models to be low in warranty claims. But, hey, we're just snowmo-journalists with no sense of the real business world nor what Yamaha customers might be prone to buy.

Honestly, though, we have a real hard time figuring out where Yamaha is going in the snowmobile business. On the surface, we see a commitment to the sport but we also see Yamaha looking at snowmobiles as just another product in its recreational mix. Nothing wrong with that, but you don't build a lasting clientele that way.