The 2025 Yamaha YXZ1000R SS is a sport UTV for drivers who want to participate in the powertrain rather than let a CVT make every decision. Its 998cc inline-three makes about 112 hp, and the Sport Shift five-speed sequential transmission uses paddle controls instead of a belt-driven automatic. Four-wheel drive, Fox 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks and a 1,512 lb weight complete a focused two-seat package. It is not the most powerful sport machine in the dataset, and there is no towing capacity, but its geared layout offers a distinct experience. Our guide to reading ATV and UTV specs explains how power, weight and chassis dimensions work together.
The YXZ uses a 998cc liquid-cooled inline-three producing about 112 hp. The listed high-revving character separates it from a large-displacement utility twin and from the turbocharged, CVT-driven approach used by the Maverick X3.
One hundred twelve horsepower places the Yamaha close to the 114 hp RZR XP 1000 and ahead of the 104 hp Honda Talon 1000X. Peak output is only part of the story. The driver must choose gears and keep the engine in the useful part of its range, which can be rewarding for an engaged driver and tiresome for someone who wants simple point-and-go operation.
Sport Shift sequential transmission
The Sport Shift system is a five-speed sequential transmission controlled by paddles. It is not a conventional CVT, and that distinction is the main reason to consider the YXZ. A geared transmission creates a more direct relationship between engine speed, gear choice and acceleration.
That involvement also creates a learning curve. Drivers need to select the right gear for climbs, corners and changing pace. A CVT competitor asks less of the driver at low speed and can feel more natural to someone coming from a utility UTV. The Yamaha is best viewed as an intentional alternative, not an automatic upgrade over a belt-driven system.
Four-wheel drive and suspension
Four-wheel drive gives the YXZ traction for loose and changing surfaces. Fox 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks are included in the listed features, supporting the machine’s dedicated sport role.
The dataset does not describe selectable drive modes or a tow rating. This is not a recreation crossover pretending to be a work machine. Its hardware and specifications are centered on driving performance, and buyers who need cargo or trailer capability should look at the Wolverine RMAX2 instead.
Chassis and trail fit
At 64 inches wide with a 90.6-inch wheelbase, the YXZ fits common full-size sport dimensions. It is narrower than wide desert and rock-focused machines such as the 68.4-inch Talon 1000R or 68.5-inch Kawasaki KRX 1000. Ground clearance is 13.2 inches.
The 1,512 lb weight is close to the Honda Talon 1000X and lighter than the RZR XP 1000 by 31 lb. A 9-gallon fuel tank is smaller than the tanks in the RZR and Maverick X3 entries, so remote trips require appropriate planning. Trail-width rules should also be checked before assuming a 64-inch machine is permitted everywhere.
Who it is for
The YXZ1000R SS suits an experienced driver who wants paddle control, a high-revving engine and a sport chassis. It makes the most sense on recreational routes where choosing gears adds to the experience rather than becoming a distraction.
It is less suitable for work, towing or carrying more than one passenger. Drivers who prefer effortless low-speed operation may favor a CVT, while those wanting more ground clearance or a wider rock-crawling stance have better alternatives. Full protective equipment and an appropriate off-road environment remain essential.
How it compares
The Honda Talon 1000X makes 104 hp and costs $21,199. It uses a six-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddles, weighs 1,508 lb and is also 64 inches wide. The Honda saves $1,100 and has a shorter 87.6-inch wheelbase, while the Yamaha adds 8 hp, 0.1 inch of clearance and 1.7 gallons of fuel capacity. Compare their specifications.
The Polaris RZR XP 1000 makes 114 hp and costs $21,299. It uses an automatic PVT CVT, weighs 1,543 lb and shares the Yamaha’s 64-inch width. The Polaris adds 2 hp, 0.3 inch of clearance and a larger 9.5-gallon tank while costing $1,000 less. The Yamaha is 31 lb lighter and offers the geared Sport Shift experience. See the direct comparison.
The Can-Am Maverick X3 Turbo produces 120 hp and weighs 1,400 lb. It costs $22,899 and uses an automatic CVT with a turbocharged inline-three. The Can-Am adds 8 hp, saves 112 lb and carries a 10.5-gallon tank, while the Yamaha costs $600 less and provides sequential paddle shifting. Compare the Yamaha and Can-Am.
Where it sits in Yamaha’s lineup
The Wolverine RMAX2 1000 is Yamaha’s two-seat recreation crossover. It makes 108 hp, weighs 1,900 lb and costs $20,799. The RMAX2 uses an Ultramatic CVT, adds D-Mode settings, has 13.8 inches of clearance and tows 2,000 lb. The YXZ is 388 lb lighter and more specialized, while the RMAX2 is $1,500 less and much more practical. Compare both Yamaha UTVs.
Price and value
At $22,299, the YXZ costs more than the Talon 1000X and RZR XP 1000, despite making less power than the Polaris. Its value does not come from winning every specification. Buyers are paying for the high-revving triple, sequential gearbox and Fox 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks.
That is a narrow value proposition. A driver who does not care about choosing gears can spend less on a competitor or gain more practical ability from the RMAX2.
Pros and cons
The good: 112 hp inline-three, five-speed sequential paddle shifting, 1,512 lb weight, four-wheel drive, 64-inch width and Fox 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks.
The catch: no towing capacity, only two seats and a $22,299 price. Several rivals cost less or make more power, and the sequential transmission asks more of the driver than a CVT.
The verdict
The 2025 Yamaha YXZ1000R SS stands apart because it makes gear selection part of driving a sport UTV. Its 112 hp triple, paddle-shift sequential transmission and relatively low weight create an experience that specification tables cannot reduce to a single winner.
That difference only matters to the right buyer. Anyone seeking towing, easy low-speed operation or maximum output should look elsewhere. For an experienced driver who actively wants a geared sport machine, the YXZ offers something rare. Add it to the comparison tool, or browse the full database by power, transmission and price.
