2024 Yamaha YXZ1000R Test Review

2024 Yamaha YXZ1000R Test Review. The Yamaha YXZ1000R is arguably the most updated and refined sport SXS on the market. For 2024, Yamaha YXZ1000R returns in both manual and Sport Shift versions with a new close-ratio, 6-speed transmission in search of enhanced low-speed performance and improved acceleration especially at lower speeds. New for the Sport Shift models are dual automatic shift modes adding appeal to a broader audience.
As impressive as 2019’s updates were, the update to a close-ratio 6-speed transmission with the addition of two auto-shift modes make the 2024 easily the most improved YXZ1000R to date since Yamaha added the paddle-shifter equipped Sport Shift model in 2017! The difference in drivability of the engine is profound thanks to the new gear set.
From its design, to the experience it provides, the YXZ1000R delivers the most race car-like experience in the naturally aspirated segment. With the addition of two well-tuned auto-shift modes in the transmission, the YXZ puts that experience within reach of many drivers building a skill set or who would rather simply relax and sightsee. We believe both casual drivers and racers alike will benefit greatly from Yamaha’s 2024 updates.
With dramatic improvements, thrilling performance and one of the most entry level price points in the Sport SXS segment, there are a lot of good reasons to consider or reconsider the YXZ1000R in 2024!
CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction
4:41 Trim Packages and Prices
5:31 Engine Performance
13:31 Suspension and Handling
16:55 Brakes
17:24 Interior and Other Details
19:13 Conclusion
RELATED VIDEOS
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2017 Yamaha YXZ1000R SS Test Review
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2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R Test
• 2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R Test
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[@UTVonDemand]

We think the 2024 Yamaha YXZ1000R is the most significantly updated version of the YXZ1000 since the Sport Shift model was introduced in 2017. Can't wait to see your thoughts and questions.

[@michaeldavison430]

As a YXZ owner, the change in the trans with the "crawler" 1st gear is outstanding. While there are many newer designs in the market I've yet to find anything that provides the "rally car" experience and intensity of interaction better than the admittedly dated YXZ. Yes the suspension sorely needs some updating but the rest of the car is still fantastic even after 6yrs of ownership. If I were buying new today I would still spend my money here and I guess thats pretty high praise for Yamaha's work.

[@UTVonDemand]

It's always great to hear owner feedback. Reading all of the comments there seems to be more demand for suspension updates than for a turbo or 4-seat model combined.

[@michaeldavison430]

@UTVonDemand as a northeast trail rider I honestly couldn't use more power without a change in suspension geometry. To be honest I don't think I would trade more suspension travel for less cornering stability and control, this car can be placed reliably within inches at speed in corners and this is where my enjoyment comes. A high spec RZR is a much better all arounder and faster but I still wouldn't trade for it.

[@GUTI-ps6oy]

​@@michaeldavison430how many miles did you already make on the machine? Colud you recommend Something like an Alba tune or so?

[@wun1gee]

As a Can-Am Mac 1000R owner who has always found the car to be very cramped, I got the chance to sit in one of these this past weekend and this will be my next rig. So much more roomy and comfortable than the Mav 1000R.

[@mingomane1]

I love when your guys reviews come out. You are honestly the best in the biz.

[@UTVonDemand]

Thank you very much we really appreciate it. We know purchasing one of these as a big financial commitment and want to make sure our viewers are as educated as possible.

[@nickibateson1466]

I agree 100%

[@mikeharlow2908]

Absolutely love my 19SSSE. I’ve done several upgrades and love it even more! I say all the time it needs one more gear on top end and now it has it. More low end for slower crawling and few more mph on top is perfect! Hopefully next year I’m going super charged for little more power, so the 19 gear reduction will be even better. In stock n/a form it’s not bad with the Graves titanium exhaust and tune that woke it up!

[@heydude4532]

Still beating on my stock 19 with zero complaints

[@chrisvozza6530]

Such an awesome machine by Yamaha. Just wish they would come out with one with more seating. With all these same features. I love that it's manual shift

[@UTVonDemand]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@vandersnickmcduffle7333]

My buddy had a 2016 YXZ, and we would go to glamis. My 4 seat X3 would be just cruising and he would be balls to the walls. It's the driving experience he wanted. Always on the ragged edge and thinking ahead for shifting. That sort of thing was not for me, but his balls of steel were something to admire.

[@UTVonDemand]

😂

[@FragranceFrontier]

Okay so i just sold my raptor 700r i want something thats reliable and can be made fast and will only be driven at the dunes, what should i get thats new on the market?

[@MrSprintcat]

If you want reliability in fun fact that the one that was in the video​@@FragranceFrontier

[@toddsimone7182]

Honestly one of the biggest selling points in the YXZ is the sound and the gearbox options and having a sequential box like a rally car. If other manufacturers are moving away from CVT's it's gonna make the YXZ a tougher buy. I think DCT's would be a good fit and provide the best of both worlds so we'll see how the new Maverick turns out.

[@goldengear6125]

Yes! Never forget about the 5 speed manual! It's always going to be a blast to drive bud.

[@matty8272]

I chose my 2021 3 peddle for the experience of a full manual ride. Talent vs tech. also the minimal maintenance is nice. Are other machines smoother or faster? Sure. But they lack the experience i wanted.

[@UTVonDemand]

We get it..

[@DUNEATV]

I absolutely loved my 2017 YXZ!

[@UTVonDemand]

Just keeps getting better!

[@UTVonDemand]

They've probably been working on this since the honda talon came out with auto shift. Makes sensel, it usually takes the japanese 4 to 5 years to bring something to market because they test so thoroughly.

[@DUNEATV]

@@UTVonDemand I love the updates!

[@pauliewalnuts240]

Suspension is the biggest thing holding this back. I wish it was more popular, but they really need a wider version with premium shocks and stock turbo.

[@UTVonDemand]

Having added their turbo rods a few years back and mounting brackets for a turbo for 24, You would think it would be coming from the factory at some point. We'd like to see a wider version as well.

[@christophernoe5367]

Not sure why so many complain about wanting an increase in suspension size and design. Ive owned multi link suspension and double a arm (or equivalent design) machines and ill never go back to a multi link. They feel so floaty and lazy in a trail setting. Crawling or flat out theyre fine, but for 99% of trail riding, ill happily take the tighter and quicker responding double a arm machines.

[@UTVonDemand]

Good insight. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@brianhill4995]

I been researching the chit out of SXSs I think this is now my choice for the riding I like to do and the budget I have👍🏻

[@UTVonDemand]

Well, thanks for checking out our video. Yamaha certainly added value this year.

[@nickibateson1466]

Such a GREAT GREAT REVIEW! The price range of these machines the reliability I believe you can’t beat them if you are one to like a real driving experience. And the PRICE right I mean other brands $50K 🤮🤯

[@charlescorwin881]

Kinda wish my 22 X3 DS was a 6 speed. The YXZ's sounds nasty banging gears in the woods

[@UTVonDemand]

With Can-Am Using a gearbox in the new maverick, perhaps we will see it in more of their machines.

[@speedtrap173]

I had a 2016. I loved it. But sold it because my wife wouldn’t ride with me as it beats you to death. The suspension and handing are incredible for fast riding but anything other then wide open was painful. I would buy one of these over a rzr but I need to drive one first.

[@UTVonDemand]

If you can't soften it up enough stock, there's always the after market that can revalve the shocks. The suspension did get better in 2019 though.

[@kevinmcdonald1917]

I want a factory installed turbo and better suspension, than it will get my money.

[@UTVonDemand]

Seems like others feel the same.

[@SKG1941]

I have had my YXZ since 2019. I added the garret turbo system. This thing screams and I just beat a new Can-Am turbo in a drag race. I had him by 4 Car links in 500 ft and he never closed up. No, it is not the fastest. But to say the suspension is not good. I just rode a new Polaris 2024 XP 1000 for about 400 miles in West Virginia and I wouldn’t have it if you gave it to me. Top-heavy,suspension bottoming out all the time. Sounds like a bucket of bolts and cost $24,000. With the turbo I’ve got about $26,000 in my YXZ. I can run twice as fast through really tough terrain with one hand on the steering wheel. What Yamaha lacks in innovation it more than makes up for and quality. I have literally beat the crap out of mine for five years. The only thing that I needed was a new shifting rod. I had three brand new Can-Am‘s and a Polaris four wheeler. I bought 22 belts, two sets of clutches, new rear end and so many repairs that I can’t even count. I will never buy Can-Am or Polaris crap. I challenge you to take a ride in the new YXZ Then tell me I’m wrong. I still can’t get over how crappy that 2024 XP 1000 was and it only had six hours on it. Buyer beware. P.S. My friend rented the same new XP 1000 and it was just as crappy as mine. Just so you know it was not only the machine I was riding. I forgot to say that you have to buy a aftermarket exhaust as the stock one will greatly decrease the horsepower from the turbo. I bought the Trinity and it completely changed the machine.

[@UTVonDemand]

Thanks for sharing your experience with the YXZ with us. Gotta say, the suspension on the new RZR XP 1000 is pretty good. We're surprised you felt that way. Makes us think the suspension needed tuned a bit. We were able to make the new RZR too hard or too soft with plenty of adjustment in the middle. Not taking anything away from the Yamaha, just sharing our experience with the RZR.

[@SKG1941]

@@UTVonDemand Great story. However, two different people drove two different razor XP 1000s. Both People that have been riding side-by-side’s for eight years said that it was extremely top-heavy would dive, terribly into corners and bottom out on everything. I know the shocks are supposed to be better than than the YXZ. If the shocks were set for comfort,they failed miserably. If they were set for aggressive riding they failed miserably. Not one to beat up someone’s product, but there is no way I would buy a Polaris XP 1000. Like I said drive the YXZ then ride the Polaris and you will understand what I’m talking about. One is a complete rattle trap. The other is a well thought out aggressive machine. It may not be the best suspension but it’s better than anything else we have driven. I have not Driven a new Can-Am. But after having three new Can-Am’s, I’m not Interested at all of going through that horror story again. Absolute crap. If you want to ride buy a Yamaha, if you want to turn wrenches and buy parts Purchase a Polaris or Can-Am.

[@Mittencarpentry]

Have a 2017, currently installing a 2019 gear set in it. Thinking about the 2024 model in the next few years. Is the YXZ the fastest or most comfortable machine? Nope. Is it the most fun SXS to drive? Definitely, at least for how I like to ride.

[@andrewhelgeson5523]

As a YXZ owner, I just recently bought a Maverick R. Yamaha is still stuck in 2016 with this machine. It's so outdated in power, suspension w/travel, comfort, wheel base, tires,and did I mention power. This machine just can't compete with Can Am and hate to say it Polaris. 100 hp to everyone else's 200 hp. Just watching this video, the tires are off the ground when going over mild rocks. To say this is arguably the most updated SXS is a joke.

[@BarnStangz]

This one is on my short list for sure. It'll be a good second machine. I will probably get the XT-R since it has more stuff that you'll want anyway. I think they missed the mark a bit however. The XT-R should have got a square set of 30 inch Carnivores I believe. That would be the first upgrade I would do. It'll be interesting to do a shootout with this and the Talon. I still like the Talon, but I think the YXZ has a better more proven engine and front locker is better than the good i-4wd I think. Thanks for the review.

[@UTVonDemand]

What do you think would make a more fair shootout, The 64 inch wide Talon or the 68 inch Talon R? Glad you enjoyed the review.

[@BarnStangz]

Either or I guess, but since the YXZ likes to go fast, maybe the wider Talon. I've seen pretty good prices of used '19 and up but I sort of want to hold out for a brand new '24. That 6 speed seems like a game changer to me.@@UTVonDemand

[@huntingstill]

All I want to know is what it would take to fit the new trans and associated running gear into my 2019. Curious if it would be cheaper than the crawl box or about the same cost.

[@UTVonDemand]

We will look into it for you.

[@huntingstill]

@@UTVonDemand also I have to say you added some information about updates that haven't been super clear anywhere else so thanks for that.

[@billapplegate6750]

I just bought a 2024 RSS. I always wanted one but now I own one I don't really like it. I live in East TN and ride Rocky trails and rutted out trails. It rides like a brick and it's real clunky when going slow crawling. So what I can tell it doesn't want to go slow it just wants to run. It wasn't really made for the East Coast. Mostly out west.but I'm stuck with it.

[@447Film]

Should have done this in 2019.

[@UTVonDemand]

Adding auto was probably in response to the honda talon. The japanese take time to test things thoroughly before they bring them to market. That might explain why it took them until now to do it.

[@447Film]

@@UTVonDemand makes sense

[@jasonlara1943]

good car for a base to build. what yamaha should do to stay competitive are 200 hp. better front shock tower brace and shocks mount to the bottom a arm or the front a arms (like avid made.) get rid of shitty seats.

[@UTVonDemand]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@AngryOscar]

Would love a true low range. Is this machine truly capable slow rock climbing sand hollow?

[@UTVonDemand]

Our driver, Ed Teixeira felt so. Articulation could be a bit better for rock crawling. I guess we should get a Honda and Yamaha together at some point to compare Honda's dual-range transmission with the Yamaha's.

[@tammyforbes2101]

If I ever buy another one it will be a Yamaha 1k R only one I truly like! The others are faster but feel lifeless with there CVT’s I just don’t like them as much as gears! I feel way more connected to the trail in the Yamaha over the Polaris or Can Am’s ! They are all rocket ships for the woods you punch any of them and they will throw you up a mountain trail like nothing.

[@UTVonDemand]

Some of us on staff certainly share your opinion on banging gears. We love the higher level of control and connectivity.

[@virginianative847]

Are these better than can am and Polaris?

[@UTVonDemand]

Better how? Certainly not in every way.

[@demwillams8898]

More top end and better low end. Good and good. Sadly that suspension REALLY needs love to be considered by many. Its positively ancient at this point; it might as well be a horse and buggy compared to comp. Best shocks/springs in the world cant fix physics.

[@UTVonDemand]

Seems like a lot of viewers share your thoughts.

[@demwillams8898]

@UTVonDemand I think a lot of folks strongly want an updated / improved yxz. I own a 21 ss se and I mostly love it. But the core design has been here since inception. Get that line of force from the rear below the cg, at least. They made meaningful and proper changes with each update but imo they need to take a bigger swing at the biggest deficit. Im fine with it being slow, because its fun to drive. But I don't think many non-yamaha ppl are going to buy this.

[@funtyes1970]

wonder why Yamaha wont add there own turbo charge like buying it brand new with turbo charge

[@UTVonDemand]

Considering they keep adding features that make installing the turbo easier, you would think that it will be coming from the factory at some point.

[@gangsta19x]

No roll cage upgrade??

[@UTVonDemand]

We don't recall hearing about one.

[@boatlakemead1]

I have a 19 and run it at Sand Hallow a lot. They need a real roll cage. It’s ridiculous that they still use a crappy cage.

[@toben42]

Buying one once my Rmax is paid for.

[@UTVonDemand]

Awesome! Hope that RMAX is treating you well.

[@whosurdaddyds650]

For God's sakes bring out a Turbo model As an option, you're almost dam there with the brackets and basically bolting it on, please bring to dealer now. And make it with a trailing arm. Design So no more huck a buck in the whoops.

[@buckssenditinfochannel5263]

Wish they would give it big suspension and flex with gears that can handle 35s in the rocks😢

[@UTVonDemand]

You're the second person in the comments asking for longer travel suspension. Whiter/longer.

[@tammyforbes2101]

It’s not a Rock crawler more of a sport SBS! At least it has real gears I’m not a CVT fan except on scooters then it’s fine but not anything bigger. I like gears on dirt track lot safer to me. And just fun to row the gears!

[@buckssenditinfochannel5263]

@tammyforbes2101 I hate belts never previously had a belt, but have changed plenty. Unfortunately, no one makes a big suspension, front dif lock sxs that's geared to handle 35s. I held out hoping the Yamaha update or honda 4 seater R would be that, but unfortunately, not. I'm okay without big power for reliability, but wanna be able to tackle the big obstacles

[@DoubleTap702]

Yamaha is 10 years behind. It’s time for something new.

[@jmumm422]

They need to extend the wheel base for better Handling and more power

[@UTVonDemand]

They might as well widen it out a little bit while they're at it.

[@funfreq9282]

Agreed! but in conjunction, the YXZ's rear suspension geometry was poorly designed. Stretching the chassis a good 6-8" and moving to a rear trailing arm design would fix a lot of issues! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipjMkKlvi9CBhrs

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA : YXZ 1.000 CILINDRADAS : TURBO ; TRAÇÃO : (4x4 ) Rodas ; Potência : 450 H.P. : Força : Trailer ~ Trilhas : P / RALLY ~ DAKAR ! : ÓTIMO !!! ; COMPETIÇÕES ; MUNDIAL ! ; 2024 ~ 2025 ; YAMAHA .

[@UTVonDemand]

Got it!

[@ACSharkey]

Looks cool but seems slow. And unless i can get three peddles who wants to paddle shift.

[@michaellesley467]

Nice machine but ho can afford it

[@UTVonDemand]

I don't know it's one of the least expensive on the market.

[@Upliftyourbrothers]

Horrible suspension design/geometry. Needs major refresh!! Like 4 years ago

[@447Film]

Damn. I hate my 2021. Rough and loud on the trail and the gear ratio sucks for the dunes. Also resale value is terrible

[@UTVonDemand]

They certainly improved the gear ratios for 2024 but it seems like many people are asking for a suspension update.

[@zackeryeckenrod6549]

You can keep your rubber band trans crap am,s kawisukis an slolaris junk YAMAHA IS THE BEST MLST RELIABLE MACHINES MADE FACT !!!!

[@Loop307]

Needs low range

[@UTVonDemand]

It has it

[@Loop307]

No it don’t. It might have a lower than it did before but does not have a low range like a regular sxs

[@longboardguy]

@@Loop307doesn’t need it you obviously don’t understand how the transmission is completely different in design then any other sxs on the market so it can’t be compared.

[@Charlie-rt7sb]

The very minute they realize one with 72 inch width and redesigned suspension I will literally throw my cash at the local salesman. These thing ride like golf cart compared to everything else out there

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA : YXZ - 1.000 R : TURBO = CILINDRADAS ; TOP - PICK - UP : WOLVERINE : POTÊNCIA ~ FORÇA ! : PICK - UP ; P / TRAILER ~ TRILHAS ! ÓTIMO !!! : YAMAHA : 2024 ~ 2025 ; YAMAHA ~ U.S.A. ; ( Competições de RALLY = 2024 !!! ; SIM !!! ; 2025 .

[@atctraveler6218]

A very long detailed dramatic video to compensate for a machine that is seriously behind the market. But I like it.

[@UTVonDemand]

LOL, Well glad you like the video.😂

[@jordancomeaux6888]

You ain't lying. I absolutely love the yxz just for the fact of a high reving, high compression 3 cylinder and a manual. But it's miles behind the competition, they really should atleast do a 72" and a turbo on this or a different motor out of the line up. He'll, a r1 motor.

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

All due respect, but I still think Can Am makes the best side by sides...

[@hillbillycustom1730]

I want you one anyone like to buy a 2024 krx 1000 es. Low mi hit me up please

[@TheBandit7613]

Needs a complete refresh. Suspension geometry way off. Horrible desert machine. No one I know still has one.

[@philjenkins2320]

I had a 2019. Drink holder was on the passengers floor. That along with no way to haul anything in the rear and no interior storage to be found. I put on 238 miles in 12 months. I hated that machine. So happy it's gone!

[@UTVonDemand]

LOL, We could be wrong on the cup holder thing. I thought that's what Ed told us. Good or bad thanks for sharing your experience with us.

[@randolphjackson5946]

I would have love for them to compete with Can-am and Polaris so I could have matched my Raptor 700 with my side-by-side. But nothing here will make me go to Yamaha to buy a side by side. Come on Yamaha step your game up your falling behind in every area of the side-by-side game.

[@UTVonDemand]

Gotta say we love the raptor too.

[@johnathansilva2823]

Yamaha is the shît, they basically made the 2jz.

[@boomerps2]

Again...no competition to the Pro R and Maverick R

[@UTVonDemand]

So you want Yamaha to build a side by side that cost between $40,000 and $50,000? Are you ready to make that financial commitment? Do you believe Yamaha needs to build such a machine for status? Or because people really need that much performance?

[@denniesmith1886]

No, but a 72 inch track width and 100 inch wheelbase version would be nice to compete with Honda and Kawasaki.

[@UTVonDemand]

@@denniesmith1886 We definitely like the sound of that.

[@boomerps2]

@UTVonDemand I've already committed to a 2023 Pro R but really would have loved to see a Yamaha is the $40 to $50K space. It would be a badass unit. At least have the option. Kawasaki is around the corner from realasing theirs, it's time Yamaha does the same.

[@UTVonDemand]

@@boomerps2 Good input

[@Jizden_Mipanz]

Typical yamaha... update very little to keep up sales to brand boys. Absolutely nothing to attract new buyers.

[@UTVonDemand]

We respectfully disagree. Maybe nothing new to attract you, but....

[@Charlie-rt7sb]

I totally agree I’ve been considering adding one to the stable for years but man the suspension design is terrible! They have the foundation to build a wicked wide open 72inch machine but everyone I k ow who has dumped money into long travel and shocks say they still don’t compare to even the turbo s suspension

[@boatlakemead1]

I ride all day at Sand Hallow while my Polaris buddies are always fixing there junk.

[@Jizden_Mipanz]

@@boatlakemead1 that's a lie...lol

[@motorcyclestig8539]

​@boatlakemead1 I go to sand hollow every weekend in my pro r haven't worked on it yet 1600miles on it not one thing has gone wrong. What do you have!?

[@5AO172]

This machine hasn't been cool or innovating since 2016

[@motorcyclestig8539]

This is such a out dated machine along with the rest of the japanese manufacturers. Twin NA machines making lil power with lil a arms, lil swing arms and lil radius rods plus this car doesnt come in 4seat. These japanes sxs are mid level machines at best and if i bought a mid level machine id buy the new polaris xp because atleast they overhauled the machine unlike the japanese companies. We have machines like the pro r, mav r and speed utv now with big hp big travel numbers and big wide arms im not saying to stop making this machine im saying this is literally the best you have to offer yamaha!? Honda? Kawasaki? Seriously the krx, talon and yxz are the best the japanese can do!? Lol what a joke. Japanese cars and japanese superbikes are known for performance but the japanese sxs market is sad.

[@311hitwall]

Yeah but even with all that Polaris is crap when it comes to quality and everybody knows it.

[@josephchintella9026]

Yama turd

[@Gemini-kl1wn]

It is dated, hence it will continue to be a niche machine. The competition left the YXZ in the dust., regardless of the latest updates and improvements.