Yamaha Viper mods and set up

[@sgt79]

Biker Mike just wanted to let ya know I picked up a 2107 viper ltx dx with 4 thousand kms and made an educated decision and asked the right questions thanks to your videos and info the viper thanks so much. Love the yamaha brand and hope to hit the trails as soon as the snow flys. Keep the vids coming!

[@bikermike]

Thanks Jordan! I enjoy making my videos in hopes they help people with the same passions! After the starting issue got resolved, and I made a few inexpensive tweaks to increase the reliability and longevity of my sled I am still very happy with my purchase! I will likely have it for a long time. The long track version would be very nice to have for the deeper snow, congrats on your purchase and good choice!

[@williamwind7328]

Awesome vids, really appreciate the detailed information . I'm a new/old Viper (2014) owner so you're my go to guy for viper info. Thank you for sharing your expertise.

[@bikermike]

Thanks for the kind words! Appreciate hearing that you found them helpful!

[@thomasperkins8925]

Great vids! After a 30 year hiatus I picked up a sweet 2015 RX1 last year. Amazed at how powerful and smooth it is. Last weekend, I found a ‘15 SR Viper STX DX with only 1800 miles/72 hours on it. Gonna put some miles on my new Viper this weekend, but around the house it does seem to have trouble digging into the corners. Guessing I need to set the suspension up for me (I’m a big guy). Happy riding!!

[@bikermike]

Thanks! Nice! Sounds like real low miles on it! Wait till you see how it handles on the groomed trails then make your changes from that. It's pretty hard to tell how it it corners till then. The dual keel tuner ski is kinda funny to get set up.

[@tome.2159]

Thanks for a couple ideas, especially the Ram mount. I have a Nuvi 56 and all Ram attachments except base plate. Any suggestions on mounting base plate in front of instrument cluster on the Viper?

[@rkestes1955]

Can't wait to watch this one !!

[@terryking3006]

Can u show the hitch and what kind and how to put it on

[@bikermike]

Hitch is Yamaha part number SMA-8JP79-00-00. Bolts right on the bumper easily.

[@terryking3006]

biker mike ok is there a space that is notched out to fit over the flap that is attached to the bumper

[@bikermike]

@@terryking3006 Check out my other video, (Yamaha Viper Snow Flap Instal). You'll be able to see it more clearly. I also added a small piece of rubber zip tied to the hitch to isolate the jingling noise it makes when not towing.

[@terryking3006]

biker mike thanks I will check it out

[@terryking3006]

Mike I can’t find the flash update video I called a dealer he wanted 65 bucks was it free ? Could u send me the link to the flash video

[@JamesWhite-bg2vf]

Sick vid man I’m from a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador I got a 2016 sr viper mtx 153 love Yamaha everyone says that they are to heavy but they are just mad because they went through 6 Motors and 23 belts lol

[@harveyjacque1501]

I'm from labrador, I own a 2016 xtx se 141,I just bought a evo turbo (run 210 hp or 275 by hitting a switch) and I love it

[@Silvertoburn]

Awesome sled right there! I use to ride back in the 90s Had a 94 670 2 stroke Mock 1 Skidoo It did a 100! I would pull a wheelie all the way to 90! Had pipe on it so it was loud! Snowmobileing is one of the best times ya can get! It use to dart back & forth on hard pack & was a little squarilly! There wasn't an easy way to adjust the shocks on the trail! Loved jumping driveways in the diches tho! Just keep it pinched when ya landed & hang on! I had a purple lenz for the head light! The coolest thing back then was a heated shield on our helmets so it wouldn't fog up! Oh & a heated thumb warner! Those muffs are awesome! That's a kick ass sled ya got right there! I've done a lot of ice fishing to! The ice was 3.5 feet thick & I use to use a hand auger! I'm from Minnesota & my dad use to rent out fish houses! I would have to open there holes up for them! It was a lot of work! Lol good times for sure! ;) Uncle Burnie.

[@bikermike]

Right on bro! ya your 94 670 would have no problem keeping up if not maybe even beat mine in a flat out race on smooth terrain! The four stroke is reliable but gives up some performance compared the two stroke. The newer sleds are amazing to ride with better ergonomics and suspension!! lots of people don't get the ice fishing thing but its all about concouring the elements and being out in nature! most Ive drilled through would be about 2.5 feet with my old hand auger. Have a gas Jiffy now (two stroke). Minnesota would be a great winter season place to be in! thanks again for stopping in to check the video! :) biker mike

[@Silvertoburn]

I'm 53 & I havend't ridden any sleds sence then! Very sad maybe again someday! I know they have better suspension now days maybe it's not as hard on you're body! ;) Sure was fun tho! That 670 was a blast! Be safe brother! STB

[@myroadtours6147]

Thats one trick rig. Snow riding is on my bucket list, probably want happen this season but maybe next season.

[@bikermike]

It definitely is a blast! thanks for checking out my video! much appreciated!

[@BluzGuitarGuyFishing]

Love Yamaha products ! ( Family owned a bike dealership) Well done, lots of good info.

[@muddygrizz700]

Nice gps set up! They are a great sled have a 2016 xtx the curve skis make a huge difference!

[@bikermike]

muddygrizz700 Thanks! I’m not familiar with those skis. Are they a single keel design like the cat version? I’ve heard they work good too. I may decide to try something different this year.

[@muddygrizz700]

biker mike yes single keel ski similar to cat ski. Even if you find a deal on cat skis they make a big difference also. Yamaha had them on the 2014 vipers then went to the tuners which I have never heard someone say they liked them

[@muddygrizz700]

Also meant to mention you should have a 12V 2 prong plug down in a wire clip on side of chain case, which is fused. Save you running wires to the battery.

[@bikermike]

muddygrizz700 that’s very good to know! Thanks!

[@rimmalek]

I love Yamaha. here to support.

[@lyndonaugot2300]

Need a video on coolant change ,any tips would be great ,Thanks. 2015 SR VIPER,STX DX.

[@bikermike]

Lyndon Augot I haven’t had the need to change mine yet, but might be a good idea! Only tip without ever doing it would be to mark your coolant reservoir and measure what you get out of it to ensure same amount goes back in. Make sure all air is out and fully warmed up after filling. Use coolant from Yamaha, or equivalent, premixed, no tap water.

[@lyndonaugot2300]

@@bikermike,50/50 Preston's should be ok ,and was wandering where the drain or bleed may be ..haven't looked t it yet ..

[@lyndonaugot2300]

Also .would it be a problem with mixing factory coolant with a 50/50,not sure of compatibility. Thanks.

[@bikermike]

@@lyndonaugot2300 I wouldn't think so, I know prestone does make a powersports blend Ive used it before in my Apex.

[@lyndonaugot2300]

@@bikermike 👌👍

[@Sciencewithkids]

Very nice mods. Looks very fast!

[@glenbo46]

Hey nice sled. Was considering the exact model & year RTX LE but was thinking of getting one with the MPI turbo installed and clutching/gearing modifications to allow the turbo to really do its job. I am selling my 2012 XRS 800 great sled but tired of looking to rebuild a 2 stroke engine every 4 years. Felt the turbo would help mimic the power of the 800 etec. Will I notice a huge difference in cornering with the Viper being heavier?

[@bikermike]

I've heard the 2016 model isn't a good year to put a turbo on, they changed the connecting rod and its not strong enough to withstand the turbo. I'd go with a sidewinder if you want a turbo. As far as the handling goes It likely won't be as nimble as a doo. But they still handle well with the right carbide/ski combo. For me the Viper has lots of torque when you can get it to hook up in the right snow conditions and goes fast enough for me. (160kmh/ 100mph). It is great peace of mind knowing the engine internals are being lubricated with 4.5 litres of oil being pumped through the engine at all times vrs a microscopic amount spread through a two stroke engine thats now required to meet emissions standards. Two strokes are great fun though but they won't hold up in the long run. Even if they don't fail totally they will be down on performance with the wear. (IMO) and experience.

[@sheddski2942]

im in the market for the same sled but people are asking way beyond the actual retail on their used units but I have hunted down a few but NADA says they are worth 8000,8100 retail but private partys are asking 9000,9500 so im in a limbo mode trying to find a low miles real world price and I just found one but haven't seen it yet what should I look for it has 500 miles and asking 8000 the big Yamaha decal is missing on both sides ? other than that in the pics looks great

[@bikermike]

Thanks for the view and question Sheddski! Price can range based on geographical location and what the (current) market will bare, I wouldn't be concerned if its a bit more then NADA says. Focus your efforts on finding one that hasn't been abused and best condition. They are great sleds and motors are almost industructable! 500 miles is very low! what year was that one? Just ask the owner why decal is missing you wouldn't want one that was crashed. Also a good idea to bring a second set of eyes when you go to look at one. Better if that set of eyes is a seasoned sledder too! Thank you also for supporting my channel! Maybe I should do a video on what to look for on buying a used viper in the future! Hope that helps a bit. biker mike

[@munkyspanker1]

What skis are you running I got a 2015 viper with dual runners it seams to jart back and fourth

[@bikermike]

I’m using stock tuner skis 2” and 4” of carbide on round bars. (I like some understeer for easier steering)

[@Swade177]

Nice rundown on your accessories. I have a 2016 S-TX DX. Very similar to your sled I think. I am quite disappointed with my headlight, in particular the high beam. My other sled is a 2006 RS Rage and it has an amazing headlight - stock too. I was wondering if you experience this issue. Adjusting my headlight doesn't seem to help a lot, it appears that the projected beam on high is not a good pattern. Thanks! BTW I used your guidance a while back on doing an oil change & chaincase lube change. Great tips!!

[@bikermike]

Thanks Wade, yes the Vipers are all pretty similar. I've heard that complaint about the headlight from others as well, I found I needed to get the rear suspension set correctly so the headlight would shine properly especially under acceleration. Its not the greatest lighting system but I didn't find it to be too terrible either. You could always try one of the HID Kits. I haven't had experience with them myself though. It may or may not help if your thinking its an issue with the pattern. Perhaps something I could try out in the future as well! Thanks again for the view and comment! I hope to continue making more viper videos so be sure to subscribe and if you already have Thanks!

[@fuzzy176]

Is there a reason for runnig your skis on the narrow position i have the same sled and set my skis on the wider position to my point of view is the way to go

[@bikermike]

Yes wider is better for most all situations on trail. Thought I'd try to see if it makes it a bit easier to get over on side for some carving.

[@222miner]

Where would recommend the best place for mirrors with stock windshield?

[@bikermike]

Hey Gary, thanks for the view and great question! To be honest I've wondered the same thing myself but never really looked into them so I can't answer that. (sorry) I do think it is definitely a good idea to have them, or at least one. Let me know what you come up with and how they work if and when you get them! Until then enjoy the rest of the season and ride safe buddy!

[@BlunderBustee]

Beautiful!! And happens to be my fave color!

[@gilbertglabb3209]

I’m just wondering how the DuPont sliders are holding out❓

[@bikermike]

They are holding up great! Granted I haven't put many miles on them..... I have had them in the past on my Apex and they do hold up better. I also believe they give a bit better fuel economy as well!

[@gilbertglabb3209]

biker mike awesome thank you

[@bigmike3639]

Did your ram mount come complete or did you have to buy the lower mount separately? If so is the the medium length?

[@bikermike]

The adapter for Garmin was separate. Then needed mounting ball and the extension to connect them. The extension is 4” overall and 3” ball center to ball center. Hope that helps you. 1” ball mounts

[@fradoche]

I have an Artic Cat XF7000 with the same chassis as your Yamaha. I would like to install my old GPS the same way you did. Did you have to take out the cab to drill and fix the plate ??

[@bikermike]

I think I was able to get the base installed without removing to much, started with windshield though. If you need to remove the whole hood I have a video on that but I don't remember having to do that.

[@fradoche]

Thanks I'll have a look at that !!

[@fradoche]

I've finally did it. Just took off the windshield and the plastic grill at the base of the digital panel. Thanks !!

[@gilbertglabb3209]

I’m just wondering if you had a chance to check your top speed with the new clutch kit I have a xtx 141” track with stock clutch and I’m getting 135 km max

[@R1D387]

I changed my clutch kit to thunder products after using the stock 1 season. I noticed it got a little bit better top speed, better shifting and smooth first gear. Haven't really tested myself either on a perfect road or anything (I don't have studs). But one thing I don't like about the clutch is when you give it full throttle from a stand still, it will hit the revlimiter (I believe) and lose power. It's really annoying and they recommend to buy a adjustable "thingy" (911 response) for the primary so you can adjust the space between the sheaves and the belt. With a brand new belt it will be somewhat better, but it still annoys me! Do you have that problem? And do you really need to buy that 911 response thingy? It's $350 in Sweden! :/

[@bikermike]

rajdR that’s interesting you mentioned that I never gave it too much thought but did notice the same thing you mentioned when punching the throttle from a stand still. I thought it may have had something to do with the Cat ecm they used. I never rode my viper with the stock clutch. But am happy with it still. I prefer to roll it on at first anyways and make best use of the four stroke power curve. As well as saving the track from that abuse too. I wouldn’t get that myself I may be more inclined to try the EVO reflash for premium fuel and the intake mod.

[@R1D387]

Ok, that's only what i've red about the issue. Doesn't have to be a fact :) I don't do it all the time, but sometimes it's quite fun to send the skiis to the sky hehe. Reflash and intake mod is surely something that seems to be a big up on these machines.

[@bikermike]

rajdR it may in fact be true but I personally am not too bothered by it. Yes it’s fun to lift the skis! So see your point to that. You should try and Make your sled work the way you’ll be happy with it.

[@johnnysvideos1]

@@bikermike rajdR A quick note about the Thunder Products clutch... take the time to double check your heel weight on the heavy hitters. if its too light it will let the clutch stay engaged too low on the sheeves and engine over rev. Experiment with it I guess.

[@EYECOMEINPEACE]

Good vids buddy. I'm from Ontario too. I think we chatted in the comments a while back about the apex. Thinking about selling my 07 apex and switching to a 15+ viper. You still happy with the upgrade? Do you ever wish you went for the 137?

[@bikermike]

Thanks man! I actually traded in my 06 Apex on my new old stock 16 Viper RTX. I will say I do miss the Apex 4 cylinder 20 valve engine. It definitely had a peak power advantage over the 3 cyl 12 valve design. However the Viper has a very strong, very usable and fun torque curve. The ergonomics and chassis are superior on the Viper as well! I at first wanted the LTX 136" but what sold me on my 129 RTX was the deal I got on it and the shock package with the Q3 fox shocks (to me suspension is more important) .It only works out to 3.5" less track on the snow anyways too. 137 would be a must for the turbo'd sidewinder version or if you do a bit of some back country riding (IMO). Over all Im happy with it now that they finally figured out the ECM mapping to cure my hard starting issues, and I feel it runs stronger on top end now too!

[@terryking3006]

biker mike mine starts hard to the guy I bought it from said it has always started hard

[@EYECOMEINPEACE]

@@bikermike perfect thanks brother. Good info.

[@bikermike]

@@terryking3006 You may want to see if it has the latest flash update. I believe the one that came out last fall is the latest. It worked wonders for mine, much much better now. I did a video on the update. Check that out. Any Yamaha Dealer can do it for you.

[@EYECOMEINPEACE]

@@bikermike what year is your viper again?

[@darrrenbetker4266]

Must be nice to live by these trail systems. Up here our trail pass fee is over $300 and they dont even groom the trails. This isnt a empty complaint.....they literally havnt groomed east of my town for years.

[@bikermike]

We do have a great trail system here, as long as there is snow! Quebec is still tops from what I've ridden.

[@darrrenbetker4266]

@@bikermike our problem here is we are too far away from any major center that can provide gas.too far away not enough gallons in the tank.

[@EYECOMEINPEACE]

Where in Ontario are you located bro?

[@bikermike]

thanks for the view and sub! Im near london ontario, yourself?

[@EYECOMEINPEACE]

biker mike I'm 1hr north of Toronto. . About to attempt a donut replacement on my 07 apex. Ugh. Not really looking forward to it. Lol.

[@gilbertglabb3209]

Ok I’m very interested in a better ride now my viper is a xtx it comes with float fox shocks I was just wondering if you had some suggestion on a spring for the middle shock of my skid that would make for a better ride thanks

[@bikermike]

You want to make sure your shocks are in good shape to start with, sadly they do not hold up long with the abuse of a 600lb machine plus rider in sub zero conditions, oil gets broken down seals wear and nitrogen pressure can leak out causing shock fade...I'm actually looking into getting some equipment to rebuild and recharge my own shocks to keep them fresh. My sled has 5,000kms on it and it is definitely due to be done. Im not sure what your centre shock set up is but there are dual rate shock springs available if it has a spring. This can help with the ride a bit as it counter acts the failing rate linkage in a snowmobile skid. But honestly properly rebuilt fresh shocks will restore the original ride or even better with better oils.

[@gilbertglabb3209]

Thanks for the info the 2 front and very back shocks I can add air or take some out with a pump depending on the riding I’m doing and they don’t have springs on them the middle shock of the skid looks like a ordinary shock with a spring on it and I was wondering if it would benefit with a better spring I’ll do a bit more research and keep the videos coming 👍👍

[@MarkStamcoff]

Awesome LIKE 14

[@yusufbapu7412]

It eis bob

[@willystroker8939]

This dude really edited this on iMovie. Love the vids man but just cannot stand the iMovie music