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Yamaha hits 2001 with the near perfect fan-cooled sled. Already a staff fave, the Phazer in its deluxe outfit hints at stardom. Just add the same separate hand and thumb warmer controls along with the tactile feel to the switch and we'd be content to keep this sled for years to come. But, we figure that what's missing on the Phazer for '01 gives Yamaha a ready upgrade for '02 owners-to-be!
Yes, the Phazer is a low buck sled in the scheme of Yamahas. It is not a low feature one though. Check out the skis. Plastic compound and rocker styling mean it's quieter and has more precise turning and easier steering.
An interesting thing about Yamaha is how this snowmobile manufacturer looks at changes. Engineers don't just bolt on plastic skis. Such an upgrade is a lengthier process that involves a total re-examination of the trailing arm front suspension and then carries back to changes in the ProAction Plus long travel rear suspension as well.
Plastic skis ride the snow's contour differently. They bite into the snow differently. The wear rods react more positively on plastic skis. More stress and greater wear on the front end means totally recalibrating the front shocks, dampers, and their action on the front arm of the rear suspension.
All of this will be apparent if you comparison ride a 2001 Phazer Deluxe to last year's steel clad version.
So is the new Heat Red color and the multi-adjustable hand/thumb warmer combo.
Enjoy the SX-style easy adjustability of the rear suspension, capacious 12-gallon fuel tank, efficient hydraulic disc braking and mid-rise windshield.
Overall, we rate the 485cc Yamaha Phazer Deluxe as the best all around fan-cooled for 2001.