For 2011, Yamaha has come up with a significantly improved workhorse in the form of the Grizzly 450 (which gets Electric Power Steering) and an all-new entry-level quad, the Raptor 125 (which is the ideal way to have fun in the dirt). The two machines complete the Japanese manufacturer’s four-wheel lineup, so click past the break to find out more about them in the official press release.
Press Release
Yamaha Strengthens ATV Line With New Utility and Sport Models for 2011
Introducing New Grizzly 450 with EPS and All-New Raptor 125 Sport ATV
CYPRESS, Calif., June 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., continues to expand its ATV line adding the new Grizzly 450 4x4 utility ATV with Electric Power Steering (EPS) and the all-new Raptor 125 sport ATV. These are the latest models to join Yamaha's dominating 2011 model year fleet of the highest performing, top quality off-road machines.
"The new Grizzly 450 EPS is a mid-level machine with top-of-the-line features that excels in trail riding and utility functions. The Raptor 125 is the first in its class from a major ATV manufacturer with true sport performance," said Mike Martinez, Yamaha's general manager of ATV and Side-by-Side operations. "These two models give customers a couple of great new options within Yamaha's 2011 line. It's the superior functionality and performance in both of these ATVs, along with Yamaha's known durability and reliability, that provide the high value our customers expect."
The new Grizzly 450 EPS combines Yamaha's most innovative features for the outdoor and recreational enthusiast: award winning Electric Power Steering, industry exclusive Ultramatic® automatic transmission with the centrifugal clutch system, On-Command® 2WD, 4WD and 4WD diff-lock, and an all new rear sealed wet brake. The new 450 includes all of these key features in a mid-level chassis – with an all new one piece frame and independent rear suspension – and strong 421cc, 4-stroke engine able to handle more than 250 pounds rack capacity and 1,322 pounds in towing.
The all-new Raptor 125 introduces Yamaha performance and engineering to the entry-level or step-up sport ATV market. This is the first 125-class sport ATV from a major ATV manufacturer. The Raptor 125 is a true-sport machine with a 124cc, two valve, single overhead cam engine, five-speed manual transmission, electric start, hydraulic disk brakes and five-way preload adjustable suspension. All combined, the new 125 has the same great suspension components and handling characteristics of the award-winning Raptor 250. The Raptor 125 also gets new Maxxis sport tires – 19-inches in front and 18-inches in back.
Yamaha's complete utility ATV line for 2011 announced this June includes the Grizzly 700 EPS, Grizzly 700 (non-EPS), Grizzly 550 EPS, Grizzly 550 (non-EPS), new Grizzly 450 with EPS, new Grizzly 450 (non-EPS), Grizzly 350 IRS 4x4, Grizzly 350 4x4, Grizzly 350 2WD, Grizzly 125 2WD and Big Bear 400 4x4. Yamaha's 2011 sport ATV models announced this June include the Raptor 700R (also in a Special Edition model), Raptor 350, Raptor 250, Raptor 250R (with piggyback shocks), the all-new Raptor 125 and Raptor 90. The 2011 Rhino 700 FI, including a Sport Edition, was announced in February.
The 2011 models will be in dealerships across the country this summer. More details on these models, including specific pricing and availability, can be found at www.Yamaha-Motor.com.
About Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., (YMUS), a leader in the motorsports market, makes the toughest, most capable and versatile ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles. The company's ever-expanding product offerings also include motorcycles, outboard motors, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, boats, outdoor power equipment, race kart engines, accessories, apparel and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States.
Headquartered in Cypress, Calif., since its incorporation in 1976, Yamaha also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information on Yamaha, visit www.yamaha-motor.com.
SxS Vehicles are recommended for use only by licensed drivers age 16 years and older.
ATVs with engines of 70cc to 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 12 years and older, and always with adult supervision.
ATVs with engines greater than 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Van Holmes
Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
(714) 761-7370
van_holmes@yamaha-motor.com
SOURCE Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.