Yamaha Celebrates 60 Years with 2016 ATV and Side-by-Side Models

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA has announced its 2016 line of ATVs and Side-by-Side vehicles while celebrating its 60th anniversary as one of the world’s leading motorsports companies. This significant and extensive announcement covers Yamaha’s utility ATV, sport ATV, youth ATV and recreational Side-by-Side (SxS) categories.

“This year marks one of Yamaha’s most significant new ATV and SxS model launches in history,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha’s Recreational Vehicle (RV) vice president. “Everyone at Yamaha is excited to introduce a number of all-new ATV and Side-by-Side models, redefine some existing categories, and celebrate the company’s 60th anniversary with classic Yamaha yellow and black special editions. And we’re not done yet.”

Yamaha’s new 2016 models include: the all-new 2016 Wolverine and new 2016 Wolverine R- Spec in Alpine White SxS vehicles, the all-new 2016 Grizzly and all-new 2016 Kodiak 700 line of 4×4 ATVs, the all-new 2016 Raptor 90 youth ATV, and the 60th anniversary Special Edition Yamaha yellow-and-black Raptor 700R and YFZ450R sport ATVs.

2016 Wolverine SxS

The all-new 2016 Wolverine is a fun, comfortable and off-road capable SxS for trail and outdoors enthusiasts. At a $10,999 MSRP, the Wolverine offers new and existing SxS customers alike a full-featured, supremely off-road capable option at a value-packed price point.

2016 Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White SxS

The new Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White features Yamaha’s Electric Power Steering (EPS), plus long-travel suspension with standard KYB piggyback shocks featuring 9.7 inches of travel in front and 10.6 inches of travel out back. With an 81.3-inch wheelbase, 11.4-inches of ground clearance and wide-arc A-arm design, Wolverines provide a superior combination of terrainability, ground clearance and handling.

All of the Yamaha Wolverine SxS models feature a new double overhead cam (DOHC), 708cc engine with optimized torque, power delivery and engine character for exciting recreational driving. The Wolverine’s automotive-style cab is designed to provide maximum comfort and confidence for both driver and passenger, especially in extreme off-road environments.

The new Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White gets cast aluminum wheels, white painted plastics and aggressive graphics for the hardcore off-road enthusiast looking for custom features. MSRP for the Alpine White is $13,499.

2016 Grizzly 4×4 ATV

The all-new 2016 Grizzly 4×4 ATV combines superior handling, comfort and performance in a machine purpose- built for exploring, hunting and recreational riding.

From front to back, top to bottom, the 2016 Grizzly 4×4 is designed to be the most comfortable, off-road capable and durable big bore ATV for riding enthusiasts who enjoy recreational trails and technical terrain. Aggressive new styling and a new chassis incorporate redesigned front and rear fenders, an all-new handlebar mounted work light, new 26-inch tires, twin-piston four-wheel disc brakes, new suspension, and Yamaha’s proven core drivetrain technologies. The new Grizzlies come in non-EPS, EPS, Special Edition and Limited Edition variations with multiple color and styling options. Non-EPS models start at $8,899 MSRP and EPS models start at $9,699 MSRP.

2016 Kodiak 700 4×4 ATV

The all-new 2016 Kodiak 700 line of 4×4 utility ATVs includes the Kodiak 700 (MSRP $6,999), Kodiak 700 EPS (MSRP $8,199) and Special Edition (SE) Kodiak 700 EPS (MSRP $8,899) all boasting class-leading performance and value for the hard-working utility ATV customer.

Assembled at Yamaha’s U.S. factory in Newnan, Georgia, the all-new Kodiak 700 ATVs are built for work with a comfortable and compact feeling new chassis. New styling, smooth power and increased torque create the foundation for a range of features that all combine to make the Kodiak 700 ATVs the most powerful in their pricing categories, while maintaining Yamaha’s legendary durability and off-road performance.

2016 Raptor 90 Youth ATV

The all-new 2016 Raptor 90 youth ATV is built for riders ages 10-years-old and up. The entry-level Raptor serves up styling and a sporty ride reminiscent of its big brother, the Raptor 700, but at a size and performance level appropriate for younger first-time riders and budding enthusiasts.

The new Raptor 90 mounts an 89.9cc air-cooled 4-stroke SOHC engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) on a newly designed lightweight chassis. The CVT provides seamless acceleration without the need to shift, and reverse gives young riders more versatility on the trail. With increased power over Yamaha’s previous Raptor 90, the new model provides sporty performance while maintaining a comfortable ride and simple operation. The Raptor 90 comes in Team Yamaha Blue/White at $2,799 MSRP.

Raptor 700R Special Edition in Yamaha Yellow-Black

60th Anniversary Special Edition Raptor 700R and YFZ450R Sport ATVs

Yamaha is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year with classic Yamaha yellow and black styling on the 2016 Special Edition Raptor 700R (MSRP $8,899) and Special Edition YFZ450R (MSRP $9,199) sport ATVs.

The Raptor 700R and YFZ450R are the best selling and highest performing models in the world of sport ATVs. They epitomize the pinnacle of ATV performance and racing dominance on the track, trail and dunes. The 2016 anniversary models combine motorsports history with the height of modern performance.

YFZ450R Special Edition in Yamaha Yellow-Black

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame recently named Marilyn Stemp and Steve Piehl to its board of directors.

Stemp is a pioneering figure in the motorcycle industry, founding IronWorks Magazine with her late husband, Dennis, and becoming the first female editor of a nationally circulated, mainstream motorcycle magazine. She also revived their trade magazine, Iron Trader News; edits the monthly Kiwi Indian News; contributes to several powersports media outlets; and is the founding editor of Sturgis Rider Daily. Stemp is a noted editor and writer of several motorcycle-focused books. Her consistent support for charitable efforts in the industry include the annual Biker Belles Celebration, Las Vegas BikeFest and as campaign chair for the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s development plan in 2014. She co-founded the Flying Piston charity events taking place in Daytona and Sturgis each year and is a National Ambassador for All Kids Bike. Stemp was inducted into both the Las Vegas Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the Sturgis Museum's Hall of Fame in 2018, and in 2022 she was recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Powersports by DealerNews.