Since its introduction, Yamaha’s Rhino series of side-by-side utility vehicles has been popular among off-road enthusiasts and professionals. Known for their durability, versatility, and innovative features, the Yamaha Rhino models have set a high standard in the market. This guide will delve into the various Yamaha Rhino models, highlighting their features and specifications to help potential buyers make informed decisions.
Yamaha Rhino Models Overview
Yamaha Rhino 660
The Yamaha Rhino 660 was among the first in the series, featuring a 660cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine. This model was appreciated for its robust performance and reliability, making it a favorite for recreational and work purposes.
Yamaha Rhino 450
The Rhino 450 was introduced as a more affordable and slightly less powerful option, featuring a 421cc engine. Despite the smaller engine, it maintained many features that made the Rhino series popular, such as the durable frame and versatile utility functions.
Yamaha Rhino 700 FI
The Yamaha Rhino 700 FI represents the pinnacle of the Rhino lineup. Equipped with a 686cc engine and electronic fuel injection, it offers enhanced power and efficiency. The 700 FI model includes advanced features that improve performance, comfort, and safety.
Key Features and Specifications
Engine and Performance
- Yamaha Rhino 700 FI: The 686cc engine with electronic fuel injection ensures instantaneous cold starts and efficient power transfer. The advanced drive system, including the fully sealed steering column and electronic fuel injection, allows for superb power characteristics and minimum noise output.
- Yamaha Rhino 660: Features a 660cc liquid-cooled engine known for its broadband power and reliability.
- Yamaha Rhino 450: Powered by a 421cc engine, providing a balance between power and affordability.
Transmission and Drive Train
The Yamaha Rhino series features a Direct Rear Shaft Drive, which ensures more efficient power transfer and reduced maintenance compared to chain-driven systems. This design choice enhances the vehicle’s reliability and longevity, making it a practical option for various demanding applications. The Console Mounted Dual Range (H/L/N/R) provides smooth operation and easy shifting for different terrains, allowing drivers to seamlessly transition between high, low, neutral, and reverse gears. This feature enhances the vehicle’s versatility and adaptability to various off-road conditions. The Four-Wheel Drive Train ensures maximum tire contact and pulling power, making it easier to navigate rough terrain. This robust drive train design maximizes traction and stability, ensuring that the Yamaha Rhino can tackle challenging environments with confidence and ease.
Suspension and Handling
The Yamaha Rhino series is equipped with an Independent Double Wishbone Suspension, which provides superior rigidity and the smoothest ride, allowing for better handling on rough terrain. This advanced suspension system enhances stability and comfort, ensuring the vehicle can easily tackle challenging environments. The Dual Hydraulic Disc Brakes ensure reliable stopping power under various conditions, offering enhanced safety and control. Enhanced Wheel Travel enables the Yamaha Rhino to navigate rough terrain more effectively, maintaining a smooth ride even in the most demanding situations. This combination of suspension and braking features ensures the Rhino offers exceptional performance and comfort across diverse off-road landscapes.
Body and Frame
The Yamaha Rhino series boasts a Steel Frame with outstanding durability and superior rigidity, ensuring the vehicle can withstand harsh conditions and provide a solid foundation for all its components. Complementing this robust frame is the Stamped Steel Dump Bed, which offers exceptional utility for carrying loads while providing maximum underbelly protection against rock and debris damage. This feature enhances the vehicle’s practicality and durability in various work and recreational scenarios. Aluminum Heat Shields are incorporated to provide extra protection and help manage heat, ensuring that the vehicle operates efficiently and safely under different conditions. Together, these design elements make the Yamaha Rhino a reliable and versatile choice for off-road and utility use.
Comfort and Convenience
The Yamaha Rhino series is designed with driver and passenger comfort in mind, featuring Thick Bucket Seats specially designed for all-day comfort. The Standard Center Mounted Console Shifter ensures easy access and operation, allowing for smooth and intuitive gear changes. A Multifunction LCD Display provides essential information at a glance, including a fuel gauge, hour meter, dual trip meters, and indicator lights for transmission position, enhancing the driver’s control and awareness. Passenger Grab Handles are incorporated for passenger safety and comfort, providing secure handholds during bumpy rides. The vehicle is equipped with a Maintenance-Free Battery, which reduces the need for regular upkeep, adding to the overall convenience and reliability of the Yamaha Rhino series.
Safety and Protection
The Yamaha Rhino series prioritizes safety and protection with several key features. The Fully Sealed Steering Column protects against dirt and debris, ensuring smooth operation even in harsh environments. The Dual Range Transmission provides greater control over different driving conditions, enhancing versatility and stability. The Four-Wheel Disc Brakes are essential for reliable braking power, ensuring safety across various terrains. The Screen Type Spark Arrestor reduces the fire risk in dry, explosive environments, adding an extra layer of safety. The Maximum Underbelly Protection safeguards vital components from damage due to rocks and debris, ensuring the vehicle’s longevity and reliability.
Additional Features
The Yamaha Rhino series includes numerous advanced features that enhance performance and convenience. Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI) ensures a more efficient fuel supply and improved throttle response, contributing to better overall performance. Constant Belt Tension maintains consistent performance and reduces wear, while the Electric Transmission simplifies gear changes and improves reliability. The Low Maintenance U-Joint enhances durability and reduces the need for frequent maintenance, making the vehicle more user-friendly. A Digital Instrument Panel provides clear and precise information about the vehicle’s status, complemented by Indicator Lights that offer visual cues for essential functions and statuses. The Parking Brake Lever and Shift Lever are easy to access and use, enhancing convenience and safety. The Yamaha Rhino is also designed with Cold Weather Capability, ensuring peak performance even in cold conditions, making it a versatile choice for various environments.
Model-Specific Highlights
Yamaha Rhino 700 FI
- Engine: 686cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke with Yamaha fuel injection.
- Drive System: Advanced drive system with fully sealed steering column and electronic fuel injection.
- Suspension: Independent double-wishbone with dual hydraulic disc brakes.
- Comfort: Thick bucket seats, multifunction LCD screen, and passenger grab handles.
- Protection: Stamped steel dump bed, aluminium heat shields, and screen-type spark arrestor.
Yamaha Rhino 660
- Engine: 660cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke.
- Drive System: Direct rear shaft drive and console-mounted dual range.
- Suspension: Independent double-wishbone with dual hydraulic disc brakes.
- Comfort: Thick bucket seats and multifunction LCD display.
- Protection: Stamped steel dump bed and fully sealed steering column.
Yamaha Rhino 450
- Engine: 421cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke.
- Drive System: Console-mounted dual range and four-wheel drive train.
- Suspension: Independent double-wishbone with dual hydraulic disc brakes.
- Comfort: Thick bucket seats and multifunction LCD display.
- Protection: Stamped steel dump bed and screen-type spark arrestor.
The Yamaha Rhino series, particularly the Yamaha Rhino 700 FI, stands out for its robust design, advanced features, and versatility. Whether you need a reliable vehicle for recreational off-roading or a dependable workhorse for various tasks, the Yamaha Rhino models offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Key features like electronic fuel injection, fully sealed steering columns, independent double wishbone suspension, and a multifunction LCD display ensure that these vehicles provide outstanding performance, comfort, and safety.
When choosing a Yamaha Rhino, consider your specific requirements, such as engine power, suspension needs, and additional features, to find the best model. With their superb handling, efficient power transfer, and robust construction, Yamaha Rhino vehicles remain a top choice in the utility vehicle market.