2023 Yamaha YXZ1000R SS XT-R: 2-Seat Thriller

Hop in a 2023 Yamaha XT-R UTV for side-by-side four-wheeled fun.

There’s no doubt that rolling over dirt trails and crawling over rocky terrain in our 4×4 rigs is the thing we love to do the most. For us, driving a purpose-built off-road vehicle always equates to good times after all. There are times however, that getting into a much more compact vehicle can lead to exciting and fun times too. Yes, that’s right, we’re talking about UTVs. Jumping into a go-anywhere rig that can take us where big rigs can’t go is just as exhilarating. Yamaha’s latest adventure worthy side-by-side, the 2023 Yamaha YXZ1000R SS XT-R, is introduced as a part of Yamaha’s Pure Sport line of side-by-sides.

Meet the 2023 Yamaha XT-R

The XT-R is packed full of features that allow you drive the tightest trails. (Even ones that would be usually very difficult to traverse in other side-by-sides.) This UTV comes from the factory complete with a range of high-spec upgrades. These include advanced Fox dual spring suspension, beadlock rims wrapped in Yamaha-exclusive Maxxis Carnage tires, and enhanced underbody protection. Additionally, the XT-R comes standard with a custom front grab bar that mounts a heavy duty Warn winch package with integrated driver controls.

Designed around Yamaha’s Pure Sport responsive riding characteristics, the XT-R’s engine was built for high-revving power with the flexibility and character that only an inline triple can provide. With a compact, counterbalanced, DOHC cylinder head, its engine offers exceptional power, a thrilling 10,500 rpm redline and high-strength internals that ensure reliability on the trail.

The XT-R is as ready for night action as much as day. Four super bright LED headlights provide brilliant forward illumination to light up the terrain ahead. A bright LED taillight also comes standard for extra visibility. For even more visibility, the XT-R package provides even more light thanks to additional center-mounted auxiliary lights.

We’ve found that Yamaha’s side-by-sides are a thrill to drive and the Pure Sport YXZ1000R SS XT-R is even more so. Jumping into one from a fullsize rig is an eye-opening experience. Complete with a Warn VRX 45 recovery winch, impressive ride comfort and loads of performance, there’s not much more we’d want out of a two-seat sport side-by-side.

Performance

Engine:

The YXZ1000R SS XT-R’s high-revving inline triple engine offers exceptional power. A thrilling 10,500 rpm redline and high-strength internals are ready to handle high-output demands.

Transmission:

XT-R runs Yamaha’s Sport Shift, a sequential five-speed manual transmission that features Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology. This system combines the power, durability and efficiency of a traditional manual transmission with an advanced automatic clutch system controlled with sporty paddle shifters mounted to the steering column. Its optimized gearing is good for wide-open desert trails to first-gear crawling.

Suspension & Chassis

Fox Suspension:

While the high-end Fox suspension on the YXZ1000R SS XT-R is primarily focused at maximizing adjustment range for various terrain, that same range of adjustment adds flexibility, too. With a couple of quick tweaks, the XT-R can be tuned to deliver a plush, smooth ride that defies the idea that sport and comfort can’t coexist.

Chassis:

The XT-R’s handling impresses drivers for a reason; it attacks corners with agility, light steering feel and straight-line stability across even the roughest terrain. Spherical-joint double A-arms retain ideal castor angle and bump response throughout the entire travel range, and front and rear sway bars minimize body roll for flatter, more responsive cornering.

Tech

On-Command 4WD:

The drivetrain incorporates Yamaha’s proven On-Command 4WD system, giving the driver ultimate traction to tackle the most challenging terrain with easily selected 2WD, 4WD limited- slip, and 4WD full diff lock modes. This system also incorporates an over-torque protection system that eliminates spike loads to the front drive case on hard impacts, protecting it from damage without affecting performance.

Cool Running:

The side-by-side features a vented, rear-mounted radiator. It not only reduces heat in the cabin, but also remains clear of mud and debris and is designed to funnel cool air through the radiator at low or high speeds equally well.

Instrument Panel:

The 2023 YXZ1000R SS XT-R features instruments inspired by Yamaha’s high-performance SuperSport motorcycles. Functions include a digital speedometer, analog tachometer, and programmable shift light. Plus, it also does readouts for 4WD mode, gear position, fuel level, trip meters, hour meter, and coolant temperature.

Features

Bumper & Winch:

Recovery ready. To ensure you can get out of even the toughest spots when far away from civilization, the XT-R features a WARN VRX 45 winch package mounted via a new custom front grab bar. Since the Yamaha engineered the winch package along with the XT-R, the winch’s controls integrate seamlessly into the electrical system, putting the controls right where the driver needs them.

Cargo & Storage:

There’s plenty of cargo space. Load up what you need thanks to a cargo rack with a 300-pound capacity. A glove box in the cab provides additional storage as do passenger-side cup holders and a central storage tray in the dashboard.

How much will it run ya?

$24,699

Wheelbase

90.5 in.

Ground Clearance

12.4 in.

Wet Weight

1,625 lbs.

Fuel Capacity

9.0 gal.

Tires:

29 in. Maxxis Carnage

What’s New for the 2023 Yamaha XT-R

Last year, we covered the 2022 Yamaha YXZ1000R SS XT-R. Read our article on that below to compare and see what’s new on the 2023 model!

Yamaha XT-R: Pure Sport

Editor’s Note: A version of this story previously appeared in the March/April 2023 issue of Tread Magazine.