The Sidewinder family made its debut in 2017 as the new flagship Yamaha snowmobile line. These sleds are powered by a 998cc 4-stroke turbo engine rated at 200 HP. Thanks to this amazing power source, Sidewinders can reach an amazing top speed of 110-120 mph under ideal conditions.
If you want to find out more about these amazing snowmobiles, you’ve come to the right place.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know into this Yamaha Sidewinder review!
Yamaha Sidewinder Models
When it comes to the Yamaha Sidewinder, we’re talking about a complete line of snowmobiles instead of a single model.
Without further ado, the latest Yamaha Sidewinder lineup is as follows:
- Sidewinder SRX LE EPS (Trail)
- Sidewinder SRX LE (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT LE EPS (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT LE (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT SE (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT GT EPS (Trail)
- Sidewinder X-TX LE 146 (Crossover)
- Sidewinder X-TX SE 146 (Crossover)
- Sidewinder S-TX GT EPS (Touring)
Most of these models are intended for trail use, but some of them are designed to be crossover sleds.
The most luxurious Sidewinders come with many premium features like Fox QS3 shocks and electric power steering (EPS).
However, basic models with conventional steering should not elicit complaints, since they are loaded with a plethora of advanced systems and features as well.
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about these in detail!
Yamaha Sidewinder Review
(This post will focus on the flagship Sidewinder SXR LE configuration, but the entire Sidewinder family shares most of these features.)
Yamaha Sidewinder Engine
The Yamaha Sidewinder is powered by the 998 Genesis Turbo engine, which delivers incredible power. This 998cc, 4-stroke, fuel-injected, turbocharged power mill is designed and manufactured by Yamaha.
The 998 Genesis is rated at 200 HP at 8750 RPM, which makes the Sidewinder the most powerful production snowmobile.
It’s boosted by a side-mounted high-performance turbocharger featuring a Nickel alloy turbine body. This strong construction can withstand high pressure and temperature fluctuations with ease.
Inside the body, you can find a lightweight yet strong Inconel turbine blade utilizing ceramic ball bearings.
The engine intake system has three separate throttle bodies mounted close to the intake valves. This unique design ensures quick air delivery from impeller to intake valves, resulting in a crisp engine response with virtually no turbo lag.
Another advanced feature of the Yamaha Sidewinder engine is the Electronic Air Bypass Valve (ABV).
Unlike regular turbo valves, this valve is engineered to redirect the air pressure into the turbo’s intake side. It helps maintain the speed of the impeller but prevents surge.
The turbo is powered by a hardened but lightweight carburized metal connecting rod for maximum power delivery and durability.
What’s more, the turbo body is wrapped with a liquid-cooling system that cools down the turbo even if the engine is shut down. How is this possible?
In a nutshell, the high-temperature coolant in this jacket is kept circulating by convection energy. In other words, the temperature difference keeps the coolant in motion even without the coolant pump running.
This means that you don’t have to bother with a cooling procedure after it stops since the circulating coolant will automatically cool down the turbo.
The electronic system of the Sidewinder is controlled by a Yamaha-developed Mitsubishi Engine Control Unit (ECU).
This main computer is connected to 9 sensors intended to monitor the systems. These can help tune fuel delivery, ignition, turbo pressure, and manifold air pressure for the highest continual performance.
Yamaha Sidewinder Clutch
The Yamaha Sidewinder features the proven YSRC High-Performance Clutch System.
This heavy-duty CVT (Variable Ratio) clutch packs innovative technologies including electronic shift reverse and a magnesium chaincase and cover.
The primary clutch acts quickly to transfer all the massive torque of the turbo engine while the secondary clutch has oversized sheaves that ensure an additional ratio for smooth acceleration. They also produce quick backshifts for the best throttle response.
Yamaha Sidewinder Platform
The Sidewinder SRX LE is built on the SRV platform engineered for the highest top speed available. According to Sledmagazine, this machine feels like an ice drag sled!
The main advantages of the SRV chassis are as follows:
- Centralized mass design: Yamaha designed the SRV platform with maximum mass centralization in mind. And they did a great job since about 60% of the Sidewinder’s weight is kept in the main triangulation. Results? A well-balanced chassis with responsive handling!
- Lightweight but rigid construction: The SRV platform successfully blends lightweight aluminum construction with a load-bearing triangulated design.
- “Over the engine” steering: Keeping simplicity in mind, the Sidewinder has a straight steering post positioned over the engine featuring a single bell crank connection.
- Low stance: For the best aerodynamics, the platform has a really low stance. This design not only makes the Sidewinder the fastest production snowmobile, but it offers excellent cornering abilities as well.
- Tapered tunnel: The chassis utilizes a two-piece, tapered tunnel, which contributes to a convenient riding position and leg comfort.
- Advanced running boards: The SRV platform also comes with reinforced running boards as standard, which have massive boot hold serrations. They remove the snow effectively so you don’t have to worry about your feet slipping.
Regarding dimensions, the Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE measures 125 inches in length, 53.5 inches in height, and 48.4 inches in width.
Although Yamaha discreetly keeps the weight of its snowmobiles a secret, based on our research you can expect the weight of Yamaha Sidewinders to be in the ballpark of 650-700 pounds. The exact weight depends on the model and its features.
Yamaha Sidewinder Suspensions
Yamaha uses the best shocks on their snowmobiles, and the Sidewinder family is no exception.
For example, the Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE comes with a high-performance Fox® Zero iQS Shock Package and an Advanced Rolling Centre Suspension (ARCS) front suspension design.
The latter includes lightweight upper A-arms and long, forged alloy spindles.
They work together with the electrically adjustable FOX® 1.5 ZERO intelligent Quick Shift (iQS) front shocks offering a travel of 10 inches.
This well-designed and sturdy system can handle any trail conditions while producing highly responsive handling.
In the skid, you can find an adjustable Dual Shock SR 137 rear suspension width with a travel of 13.5 inches. Its torsion spring set-up is completed with an intelligent FOX® iQS shock for the best performance.
What’s unique in the Fox® Zero iQS Shock absorbers?
Unlike conventional snowmobile shock absorbers, this advanced suspension system can be adjusted on the fly at the touch of a button.
This button allows you to adjust the compression damping in three steps from soft to firm.
To this end, the system features a suspension control unit (SCU) that can adjust the flow of oil within all shocks. This advanced technology allows you to tailor the damping of the shock absorbers based on the terrain.
The current setting is displayed on the handlebars (Soft/Med/Firm) and you can also save two pre-set modes in the memory.
Yamaha Sidewinder Track and Skis
The front suspension is planted on a pair of Stryke single keel skis, which perfectly balances between precise control and easy steering effort.
For the best bite and responsiveness, the skis come with staggered carbides and adjustable shim pads.
The Yamaha-exclusive electric power steering (EPS) is also available on certain Sidewinders as an extra.
Under the tunnel, the extrovert drive sprockets deliver engine power to a 15”x137″x1.0″ Camso Ripsaw track.
This low-profile RipSaw multi-ply track features a 2.86 fully clipped design for less friction and maximum track speed.
At the same time, the low lugs ensure less wind resistance, weight, and stress, which also contribute to better performance and a longer track life.
Yamaha Sidewinder Brakes
High-performance snowmobiles require a solid brake system for safety reasons.
That’s why the Yamaha Sidewinder comes with a Radial master cylinder hydraulic brake system.
This advanced brake system utilizes a dual-piston brake caliper, transferring braking forces directly to the driveshaft through a lightweight driveshaft-mounted disc.
Yamaha Sidewinder Features
Beyond the above, the Sidewinder SXR LE comes with many advanced features as standard, including:
- Dual digital gauges
- Low windshield
- Extrovert drive sprockets for secure grip on the track
- Luxury, heated seat plus cozy thumb and hand warmers
- J-hook handlebar and riser
- Electric start
- Pushbutton reverse
- LED headlight
- Heated trail seat
- Stealth Control System
- 20″ Tunnel Bag
- Automotive & RCA DC output
- Electric Power Steering (optional)
Yamaha Sidewinder Specs Charts (SRX LE)
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the Yamaha Sidewinder specifications into these charts:
Yamaha Sidewinder Engine Specs
| Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE | Engine Specs |
| Type | Horizontal in-line |
| Engine stroke | 4-stroke |
| Cylinders | 3-cylinders |
| Displacement (cc) | 998/60.9 |
| Displacement (cu in) | 60.9 |
| Bore (in/mm) | 3.15/80 |
| Stroke (in/mm) | 2.61/66.2 |
| Valves | 12 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4, DOHC |
| Starter | Electric |
| Turbocharged | Yes |
| Carburetion | Turbo boosted 41 mm Mikuni x 3, Fuel Injection, Liquid Heated |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled |
| Ignition | Digital T.C.I. w/T.P.S. |
| Intake design | 2-valves |
| Exhaust | 2-valves, Rear Exhaust |
| Clutch/Transmission | YSRC, Variable Ratio, Electronic Shift Reverse, Magnesium Chaincase & Cover |
Yamaha Sidewinder Dimensions
| Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE | Dimensions and Capacities |
| Fuel capacity (gal/L) | 8.9/33.7 |
| Ski Stance (ctr to ctr) | 42″ (1,067mm) adjustable |
| Track / W x L x H | 15″ x 137″ x 1″ |
| Track Type | Camso Ripsaw |
| Overall Height | 53.5″ (1,360 mm) |
| Overall Length | 125″ (3,175 mm) |
| Overall Width | 48.4″ (1,230 mm) |
Yamaha Sidewinder Suspension Specs
| Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE | Suspension Specs |
| Front Suspension | Independent, Double Wishbone |
| Front Shocks | Fox 1.5 Zero iQS with SRX Dual Rate Springs |
| Front travel | 10″ (254mm) |
| Ski Type | Yamaha Stryke Single Keel |
| Rear Suspension | Dual Shock SR 137 |
| Rear Shock(s) | Fox 2.0 Zero iQSro iQS |
| Rear Travel | 13.5″ (343mm) |
| Center Shock | Monotube Alum-HP GAS 1.5 |
Disclaimer: These charts are for informational purposes only! For more information, please check the official factory manuals!
Takeaways – FAQs About the Yamaha Sidewinder
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most frequent questions about the Yamaha Sidewinder!
What is a Yamaha Sidewinder?
The Yamaha Sidewinder is claimed to be one of the world’s fastest stock snowmobiles. Although this machine is primarily designed for the trail, the Sidewinder family has some crossover models as well.
What Year did the Yamaha Sidewinder Come Out?
Yamaha introduced its all-new Sidewinder lineup for the 2017 model year.
Which Models are in the Sidewinder Lineup?
The latest Yamaha Sidewinder lineup contains nine models, namely:
- Sidewinder SRX LE EPS (Trail)
- Sidewinder SRX LE (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT LE EPS (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT LE (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT SE (Trail)
- Sidewinder L-XT GT EPS (Trail)
- Sidewinder X-TX LE 146 (Crossover)
- Sidewinder X-TX SE 146 (Crossover)
- Sidewinder S-TX GT EPS (Trail)
How Much Does a Yamaha Sidewinder Weigh?
The dry weight of Yamaha Sidewinder models falls into a range of 650-700 pounds (official weight figures aren’t advertised).
What Size is a Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE?
The Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE is 125 inches long, 48.4 inches wide, and 53.5 inches high.
What is the Track Size of the Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE?
The track size of the Yamaha Sidewinder SRX LE is 15” x 137” x 1” (Camso Ripsaw).
What Kind of Engine does a Yamaha Sidewinder Have?
The power source of the Yamaha Sidewinder is a 998 Genesis Turbo Engine designed and manufactured by Yamaha. This 4-stroke, 998cc, turbocharged, horizontal in-line triple features 12 valves, a liquid-cooling system, Mikuni fuel injection, and an electric start.
How Much HP does the Yamaha Sidewinder Have?
The Yamaha Sidewinder has a claimed horsepower of 200 HP, but it often does 203-205 HP on the dyno!
How Many ccs is a Yamaha Sidewinder?
The Yamaha Sidewinder has a 998cc, 4-stroke engine.
Which Turbo is in the Yamaha Sidewinder?
The Yamaha Sidewinder houses a side-mounted high-performance turbocharger that packs many advanced features, including:
- Nickel alloy turbine body
- Inconel turbine blade
- Ceramic ball bearings
- Electronic Air Bypass Valve (ABV)
- Carburized metal connecting rod
How Much Fuel Does a Yamaha Sidewinder Hold?
Trail and crossover Yamaha Sidewinder models pack an 8.9-gallon fuel tank, while the touring Sidewinder S-TX GT EPS can hold 13 gallons of gas.
How Many MPG Does a Yamaha Sidewinder Get?
As a rule of thumb, a Yamaha Sidewinder gets about 12-15 mpg depending on environmental conditions and the rider’s attitude.
How Far Can a Yamaha Sidewinder Go on a Tank of Fuel?
Trail and crossover Sidewinders featuring the 8.9-gallon fuel tank have an estimated fuel range of 110-133 miles. In contrast, the touring Sidewinder S-TX GT EPS can go as far as 160-200 miles on one tank of gas, thanks to its 13-gallon fuel capacity.
How Fast Can a Yamaha Sidewinder Go?
The top speed of the Yamaha Sidewinder is about 110-120 mph under ideal conditions.
Does Yamaha Sidewinder Have Power Steering?
Yes, power steering is available on certain Yamaha Sidewinder models. These sleds are easily identifiable since they are marketed with an “EPS” (Electronic Power Steering) tag in their name.
How Much Does a Yamaha Sidewinder Cost?
The price of Yamaha Sidewinders varies between $18,000-$20,000 depending on the model and its features.
Is the Yamaha Sidewinder Reliable?
Yes, just like any Yamaha powersport product, Sidewinders are known for their outstanding reliability and durability.
Where is the Yamaha Sidewinder Built?
As reported by SnoWest, Yamaha Sidewinders are manufactured in Japan, which is why these sleds are so well-built and reliable!
References:
https://www.supertraxmag.com/videos/2022-yamaha-sidewinder-srx-le-review/
https://sledmagazine.com/2022-yamaha-sidewinder-srx-le-incredible/
https://sledmagazine.com/2021-yamaha-sidewinder-srx-le-review-hold-on-tight/
https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/trail/models/sidewinder-srx-le
https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/
