Not long ago, AutoEvolution was invited by Yamaha to the rainforests of Ketchikan, Alaska, for a unique mission. Step one was to ride a well-prepared Yamaha Wolverine 850 X2 through the vast, rugged wilderness of the Tongass National Forest, enjoying the spectacular scenery and some fun off-roading. Step two was to conduct an unbiased and authentic review of the Wolverine, highlighting its significant advantages and minimal disadvantages. Step three was: is it a benefit? No. But the drive left us wanting to ask Yamaha a few questions:
To understand why the Wolverine 850 has become one of the best value bikes in the powersports world, we had to talk to a Yamaha team member who explained how it got there. Enter Scott Newby, Senior Communications Specialist at Yamaha USA. For the past decade, Scott has overseen Yamaha’s UTV lineup, which is the most rugged, value-driven product in North America. With side-by-sides targeted at users who don’t need all the bells and whistles, that value is reflected in more than just shiny nav screens and big stereos.
“During the development of the Wolverine 850, we kept the needs of our target customers top of mind and focused on delivering a smooth, quiet ride. These models continue to be in high demand due to their superior cabin comfort, compact and agile trail capability and versatile performance for both work and play. Plus, they offer incredible value backed by Yamaha’s renowned reliability and durability,” Scott said of the company’s efforts to continue offering the market a loyal, bare-bones UTV.
This trend continues despite a recent industry-wide trend of equipping luxury side-by-sides with Ram Longhorn and F-150 King Ranch-like trim. That said, at least Yamaha isn’t leaving behind those who object to that experience. If all you’re looking for is four chunky tires, plenty of ground clearance and a reliable drivetrain, the Wolverine 850 R-Spec is just perfect.
“The Wolverine X2 appeals to a wide range of buyers, but the common threads are exceptional value, versatility and quiet, smooth engine performance,” Scott said of the unique customer demographic that may utilize the side-by-side, which sits just right between work and play. “Customers also appreciate Yamaha’s proven off-road durability and reliability, plus the overall fit and finish. The Yamaha 10-year warranty belt (CVTWarranties are another important factor that resonates with buyers.”
Photo: Dave Schelske
Knowing this, it’s the quality of construction materials, not a collection of screens and microchips, that makes up the bulk of the entry-level Wolverine’s MSRP of $15,799. After a few years on the market and earning our staff’s stamp of approval after test drives, the folks at Yamaha’s Georgia factory are building a product that the Japanese bigwigs would be proud of. From the pep of the 847cc twin-cylinder with four valves per cylinder to the overbuilt rubber-belt CVT, there’s enough power in the powertrain to satisfy both the thrill-seekers and pragmatists a side-by-side of this caliber will inevitably undertake.
“The Yamaha Wolverine X2 is powered by an 847cc DOHC, 8-valve, in-line twin-cylinder engine that’s ideal for tight, technical terrain. Forged pistons and connecting rods provide sustained high-revving performance, while Yamaha’s 270-degree crankshaft format provides linear torque development and excellent power throughout the rev range. Yamaha’s Wolverine X2 is equipped with industry-leading durability and reliability to handle a wide variety of off-road conditions,” Scott said, talking about the rugged performance of the Wolverine 850’s engine hardware. He went on to talk about the CVT.
“Yamaha’s exclusive Ultramatic transmission is the most advanced and durable CVT drive system available today, designed to handle more than 60 pound-feet of torque. A large centrifugal clutch maintains constant belt tension, eliminating belt slippage and jolts at idle and during operation, and reducing heat in high-torque situations for improved durability. This constant belt tension allows us to offer our customers an unprecedented, industry-exclusive 10-year belt warranty and natural-feeling all-wheel engine braking that eliminates ‘freewheeling’ even on rough, technical terrain.”
It is only thanks to Yamaha’s mega factory just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, that Yamaha is able to build powersports vehicles to the same ultra-high standard as those built for the domestic Japanese market. Like Toyota in the automotive industry, success in the Far East translates to great results abroad. “At Yamaha, we pride ourselves on the durability, reliability and proven off-road performance of our products. This commitment allows us to offer our customers unparalleled benefits, such as the Yamaha 10-Year Belt Warranty on all ATVs and Side-by-Sides equipped with Ultramatic transmissions.” Scott spoke about the “special sauce,” so to speak, of why Yamaha Side-by-Sides are currently the best in the industry.
Photo: Dave Schelske
“Our vehicles are designed, thoroughly tested and developed in Georgia to ensure they not only meet but exceed our standards and our customers’ expectations. Additionally, our side-by-sides and full-size ATVs are assembled in Newnan, Georgia, and shipped worldwide. Our dedicated team ensures that the fit and finish of each vehicle is premium, a detail that many customers immediately notice. We also work closely with Yamaha in Japan to integrate advanced technology and innovations from across Yamaha’s diverse lineup.”
Delivered in the rainy forests and rugged terrain of Alaska’s Pacific Northwest, this was perhaps the purest side-by-side experience you can still have in 2024. Without a stereo, radio, navigation screen, air conditioning or any of the luxuries that side-by-side manufacturers always tempt customers with, you get to appreciate the finer points of what makes a good side-by-side better than a middling one. Through rough, wet terrain and relentless, seemingly never-ending downpours, the Wolverine X2 850 R-Spec never lagged.
Experience the thrill of driving a Yamaha Side-by-Side without having to take the bike home, thanks to the Destination Yamaha program, which allows you to get behind the wheel of one of these bikes for an affordable price all afternoon. With such a great deal, it’s hard to turn down.
