A few weeks ago Yamaha was so excited about one of their models, they released its information; FX Nytro X-TX. It fills the crossover segment in the Yamaha lineup and expands the FX Nytro model. While that is exciting enough, Yamaha has a few other new things to talk about.
Entry or Not
Two seasons ago, Yamaha introduced the new Phazer. It became an instant hit with nearly all riders. They also showed everyone that they could have an entry level 4-stroke sled that offered fun for everyone whether you were a novice or an expert. The Phazer continues to thrive for 2009 in four versions; Phazer base model, Phazer GT, Phazer RTX and Phazer Mountain. Other than 
color and decals, most everything stays the same on the Phazer with the exception of the closed-off tunnel. This reduces ice build-up when snow hits the hot exhaust pipe, melts, drips and freezes back down onto the tunnel. Yamaha added more heat barriers between the seat and the exhaust pipe to prevent the seat from melting, which is one reason they left 
the opening in the tunnel to begin with. The photo shows a prototype of the sealed off tunnel. The production units will simply be a solid tunnel without an opening cut in it.
The Phazer is a sled you can have fun on the trails, in the ditches, or boondocking and is still one of the Max Sled Staff’s favorite rides.
Trail and Ditch Performance
Last year the FX Nytro came on the Yamaha scene and stole the thunder. It is wicked quick, has good ergonomics and provides really good bumpability. Last year it made a great ditch rider, but suffered on the trails due to steering and front end performance. For 2009, Yamaha has changed the geometry of the FX Nytro to give it flatter cornering and a more predictable feel while cornering. It is a huge improvement over the 2008 version. While nothing has changed in the motor (it is still wicked quick), the FX Nytro family has expanded to five iterations.
For those wanting a more trail friendly ride, the base FX Nytro ER offers decent shocks and wind protection. You can then step up to the FX Nytro RTX and get a more bump absorbing version if you are an aggressive bump rider. Then if you want to have fun on the trails with the ability to do a little off-trailin’, the FX Nytro X-TX with its 144” track and tipped rail will fill the bill. If you are a mountain rider and like smooth power and easy maneuverability, the FX Nytro MTX (Mountain) version is for you.
The fifth version is a spring-only model that offers a lot of cool stuff for only a few hundred over the Nytro RTX. the all-new FX Nytro RTX SE is modeled after the Nytro Racer with white hand guards, solid-blue windshield, exclusive Fox Float-X front shocks, SOQI 46mm rear shock with high and low speed adjustments, reinforced rear suspension arms, a lightweight race-inspired tapered tunnel and a full bumper-to-bumper four-year warranty. It is only available pre-order until April 15th, 2008 and dealers will not be able to order them and hold them until fall. If you are even remotely thinking about ordering a Nytro, the FX Nytro RTX SE with $4,200 worth of extras for only $400 more than the regular RTX is the one to buy.
Mid-Level Performance
The RS Vector returns in 2009 in the updated Deltabox II chassis. This model didn’t really get the kudos it deserves as it was outshined by the FX Nytro last year, but it truly is a trail sleeper. The RS Vector performs very well, is very predictable on the trails and in the corners and is one of the best snowmobiles out there. The 120HP carbed motor performs well with quick response and gets probably the best fuel economy of any of the 4-stroke motors out there in a snowmobile. The RS Vector is available with a standard 121” or longer 136” track and in standard and GT versions; 4 in all.
Top-Level Performance
The fastest production sled for 2008 was the Yamaha Apex. This 150HP powerhouse has been a top performer since its introduction and continues to shine. Every time we get one to ride, it’s like putting on a comfortable pair of gloves; everything just seems to fit. The Apex returns in six versions for 2009. You can get the base model Apex (121”), an Apex LTX (136”) with standard 
shocks and dial-adjust rear monoshock suspension, Apex GT and Apex LTX GT with GYT-R dual clicker front shocks and remote adjust monoshock suspension, Apex RTX with Fox Float front shocks, ProActive CK torsion rear suspension and updated hand guards, and lastly the Apex MTX mountain version with new aluminum HPG center and rear shocks and taller handlebar risers. If you’re looking for top performance in a sled, the Yamaha Apex will not disappoint.
Touring and Utility
More big news from Yamaha comes from the all-new RS Venture GT. This model is built upon the Deltabox II chassis with rider forward ergonomics and updated styling. It is powered by an all-new Genesis 120FI engine, which is remotely based on the Nytro motor. It is not, however, a detuned 130FI motor, but rather a unique engine of its own. It is a 3-cylinder 1050cc 4-stroke 
and it built for low RPM and high torque. It is fuel injected and provides better fuel economy over the 2008 Venture. While it is designated as a 120FI, the actual horsepower is 6 more than the Genesis 120 engine. This motor is smooth and is perfect for the touring chassis. You can feel the response difference between the Genesis 120 and the 120FI motor.
The RS Venture GT gauge includes some new features as well with a Fuel Trip to keep track of mileage and an Oil Trip to keep track of oil changes. The gigantic windshield keeps both driver and passenger warm and while it looks a bit awkward, it does work extremely well. Other amenities include a DC outlet and RCA heated shield outlet, a spacious trunk with built-in mounts for external accessories and quick-adjust backrest.
For a sporty ride, the RS Venture GT comes with GYT-R clicker front shocks and a new ProComfort CK 144 rear suspension. The wheels are now designed to be able to replace bearings rather than having to replace the entire wheel for better maintenance.
For entry-level touring, Yamaha still offers the RS Venture unchanged from last season, and the Venture Lite based on the Phazer chassis with the 80HP Phazer motor.
For the utility segment, returning next year in two, yes count them, two color choices is the RS Viking Pro utility model. You can get it in a Dark Silver or Candy Red color.
New Accessories
Yamaha is expanding their accessories catalog for 2009 and two new cool items for the FX Nytro are a designer front bumper and rear fuel tank bags. The front bumper replaces the stock bumper and adds styling and a wider coverage area. The rear fuel storage caddies allow you to carry an extra 2.5-gallons of fuel for those longer trips or back-country riding.
Gaining Ground
Yamaha is not letting up and continues to make a strong presence in the marketplace with its 4-stroke offerings. They have a model for nearly every category and sub-category, all in 4-stroke technology, all with electric start and all with reverse.
