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At SHOT Show 2015, Yamaha introduced the 2015 Yamaha Wolverine 700 R-Spec. This latest model is an adventure machine that will take two riders onto trails where few venture. With confidence inspiring control via electronic power steering, long travel suspension and the 708cc four stroke power plant Yamaha has promised to take its off road seriously with the Wolverine R-Spec.
You may remember the Viking and Viking VI as the last 2013-2014 model releases from the Newnan Georgia plant. Those were built for the working ranch and farmer who needed tough reliable grunt for a good days work. Now the Wolverine has been designed to tackle exploring, trail adventure, and hunting. With features like long travel suspension and high ground clearance, the Wolverine should take on trails that aren’t well-maintained, have plenty of downed trees and rocks, or maybe even trails that haven’t been developed just yet. Its suspension system is designed to keep the wheels in contact with the trail, and you in control of the rig. Long travel shocks are also included, which have multiple adjustments so every rider can taylor their personal Wolverine to the type of terrain they ride. Plenty of “over the nose” of the machine view makes it easy to see the obstacles in the trail. This will help boost on trail confidence for the driver.
If comfort is your game, the new Wolverine has a totally new cab with a center console and plush high back seats. These seats are bolstered on the sides to give its rider a secure feeling and to make the ride more enjoyable. Along with the seats Yamaha has integrated its 3-point seat belt harnesses for even more confidence and safety. Looking around the cab of this Wolverine you will see tons of storage space, which includes a glove box, center console cubby, and twin drink holders. The arm-rest also has a large removable storage bin, so the home mechanic can service the air filter in the Wolverine.
If there’s one thing about this machine that’s going to have to grow on me, it’s the appearance of the front end. I understand the hood is sloped for better visibility and that the huge halogen lights will provide plenty of light on the trail, but it’s a look that I’m just not in love with.
We’re planning to get behind the wheel of the Wolverine soon, so we’ll be back with an update once we get this machine into the woods.