The Yamaha SXR 700 was a high-performance 700cc sled offered from 2000 through 2001. The SXR 700 and the SRX 700 are often confused, but they are two completely different models! If you want to find out more about these iconic machines, this post is for you.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know into this Yamaha SXR 700 review!
Yamaha SXR 700 Review
Yamaha introduced its high-performance SXR line in late 1999 and marketed it from 2000 through 2003. This popular family consisted of three models, which were as follows:
- Yamaha SXR 700 triple (SX700R)
- Yamaha SXR 600 triple (SX600R)
- Yamaha SXR 500 twin (SX500R)
It’s a lesser-known fact that the official model names of these sleds were SX 700 R, SX 600 R, and SX 500 R, but they were more commonly known as SXRs.
Unlike the sportier SRX, these models were built on the more comfortable SXR chassis.
The most famous sled in this line was arguably the flagship 700cc model, and with good reason.
Powered by a liquid-cooled, single-piped, 698cc, 2-stroke, 3-cylinder engine, the SXR 700 offered a remarkable 115 HP!
This machine was not only extremely powerful, but it offered excellent handling as well. Unlike the “drag racer” SRX line, the SXR family utilized an outstanding long-travel rear suspension, which offered comfortable rides even on moguled trails.
According to the reviews, the SXR 700 was probably the best-handling trail snowmobile of its time.
Standard features included the adjustable thumb and hand warmers, hydraulic brake system, mechanical parking brake, headlights powered by a 300W magneto, tunnel protectors to keep studs away from the tunnel, and the unique Throttle Override System (T.O.R.S.).
The SXR 700 also had a 15” wide, 121” long rubber track with 0.92” lugs.
What is the Difference Between a Yamaha SXR and SRX?
Although these models are often confused, the Yamaha SRX and the SXR were two completely different sleds. The latter was officially called SX 700 R, but it was commonly known as the SXR 700. The main differences between the SXR and SRX models were their engine, suspension systems, and body.
Although both machines utilized a 2-stroke, 3-cylinder engine, these power sources were completely different.
The SRX 700 was powered by a triple-piped, 696cc engine with power valves, ensuring more power and higher top speeds than the SXR.
In contrast, the SXR 700 utilized a single-piped, 698cc engine with no power valves that cranked out about 20-30 less horsepower than the SRX.
So, in a nutshell, the significant differences between the Yamaha SRX and SXR are as follows:
- Yamaha SRX: more powerful three-piped engine, better top speed and acceleration, short travel suspension, different belly pan and hood, Yamaha Pro Action System chassis.
- Yamaha SXR: single-piped engine, less HP and top speed, fewer engine issues, “SXR” chassis, more comfortable ride due to long-travel rear suspension (11.5”).
Yamaha SXR 700 vs. SRX 700 Comparison Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key differences into this chart:
| Model | SXR 700 | SRX 700 |
| Length (“) | 108.7 | 108.7 |
| Width (“) | 47.2 | 46.1 |
| Height (“) | 48.4 | 42.7 |
| Ski tread (“) | 42.1 | 40.9 |
| Engine | Single piped, parallel 3-cylinder | Tripe piped, parallel 3-cylinder |
| Cylinders | 3 | 3 |
| Engine stroke | 2 | 2 |
| Cooling system | Liquid cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Bore x Stroke (“) | 2.78 x 2.35 | 2.72 x 2.44 |
| Displacement (cc) | 698 | 696 |
| Horsepower (Approx.) | 115 | 138 (98-99) and 142 (00-02) |
| Turbocharged | No | No |
Yamaha SXR 700 Problems
Even if the SXR 700 was considered the “hottest sled” in the 2001 Yamaha lineup, it had some weaknesses.
One of the biggest problems with the Yamaha SXR 700 was the lack of a reverse system.
Let’s face it, having a reverse on a snowmobile is a game-changer in many situations. This is why you will find an aftermarket reverse kit on many vintage SXR sleds!
Another common complaint against the SXR 700 was T.O.R.S issues. Yamaha’s Throttle Override System, known as T.O.R.S., was a safety feature designed to shut off the engine in case of a malfunction with the carbs or the throttle cable.
Although this technology was a revolutionary idea, this particular unit was prone to producing various malfunctions, resulting in many headaches.
Last but not least, don’t forget that the SXR 700 wasn’t a lightweight machine, so it was primarily recommended for trail riding.
Yamaha SXR 700 Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the Yamaha SXR 700 into these charts:
Yamaha SXR 700 Engine Specs
| Engine type | Single-piped, 2-stroke, 7-port |
| Cylinder arrangement | Parallel 3-cylinder |
| Engine stroke | 2 |
| Cooling system | Liquid cooled |
| Bore x Stroke (“) | 2.78 x 2.35 |
| Displacement (cc) | 698 |
| Horsepower | 112-115 (Approximately) |
| Idle speed (rpm) | 1600 +/- 100 |
| Starting system | Manual with recoil starter |
| Carburetor | Mikuni TM33 x 3 |
| Turbocharged | No |
| Engine oil type | YAMALUBE 2-cycle oil |
| Fuel type | Premium unleaded gasoline. Pump octane (R+M)/2; 88 or higher |
| Fuel tank capacity (gal.) | 11.7 |
| Oil tank capacity (qt.) | 3.2 |
Yamaha SXR 700 Dimensions
| Length (“) | 108.7 |
| Width (“) | 47.2 |
| Height (“) | 48.4 |
| Ski tread (“) | 42.1 |
Yamaha SXR 700 Weight Chart
| Dry weight (lbs.) | 2000 | 2001 |
| Yamaha SRX 700 | 486 | 489 |
Yamaha SXR 700 Track and Suspension
| Track | Molded rubber, fiberglass rod reinforced |
| Track Dimensions (“) | 121 x 15 x 1 |
| Track deflection (“) | 0.98 – 1.18 / 100 N (10 kg, 22 lbs.) |
| Length on ground (“) | 29.6 |
| Suspension type | Slide rail suspension |
| Drive sprocket | Quadruple polyethylene, 9 teeth |
Yamaha SXR 700 Transmission
| Type | Automatic centrifugal engagement, infinitely variable 3.8:1-1:1 |
| Sheave distance (“) | Approx. 10.57 |
| Sheave offset (“) | Approx. 0.59 |
| Engagement speed* (r/min) | Approx. 3,900 |
| Shift speed* (r/min) | Approx. 8,300 |
| Drive chain | Silent chain enclosed in oil bath |
| Reduction ratio (98-99 models) | 39/22 (1.77) |
* Subject to change according to elevation settings.
Yamaha SXR 700 Electric Features
| Ignition system | CDI |
| Spark plug type | BR9ECS (NGK) |
| Spark plug gap (“) | 0.028 ~ 0.031 |
| Headlight (Bulb x Quantity) | 12 V, 60/55 W x 1 |
| Tail/brake light (Bulb x Quantity) | 12 V, 8/23 W x 1 |
| Meter light (Bulb x Quantity) | 12 V, 1.7 W x 2 |
| Indicator light (Bulb x Quantity) | 12 V, 1.7 W x 3 |
Yamaha SXR 700 Features
| Primary Drive | Belt |
| Reverse | No |
| Front suspension type | Independent double wishbone |
| Break type | Hydraulic disc brake (ventilated) |
| Track | Molded rubber, fiberglass rod reinforced |
| Break operation | Handle lever (left hand) |
| Throttle operation | Handle lever (right hand) |
| Chassis material | Aluminum |
| Body Material | Plastic |
| Rider capacity | 1 |
Source: Yamaha Owner’s Manuals. These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, refer to the factory manual.
Yamaha SXR 700 Top Speed
Thanks to its powerful triple engine, the innovative Yamaha SXR 700 reached a top speed of 112-115 mph under ideal conditions.
Yamaha SXR 700 For Sale
Surprisingly, the SXR 700 is still a popular choice among performance-minded riders. Let’s face it, these old sleds are far cheaper to buy and maintain than their new counterparts!
If you’re considering buying one, you can find a Yamaha SXR 700 for sale on Craigslist, Snowmobiletrader, eBay, Sledswap, Snowmobilesoup, and other dedicated snowmobile ad sites.
Also, it’s worth visiting some snowmobile forums and FB groups where you can find a lot of helpful information on these sleds, along with some good deals!
Takeaway – FAQs About Yamaha SXR 700 Triple
What year did the Yamaha SXR 700 come out?
The Yamaha SXR 700 was introduced in 1999 and was marketed from the 2000 season.
What years was the Yamaha SXR 700 made?
The Yamaha SXR 700 was only available in the 2000 and 2001 model years.
What size was a Yamaha SXR 700?
The Yamaha SXR 700 was 108.7 inches long, 47.2 inches wide, and 48.4 inches high.
What size track did the Yamaha SXR 700 have?
The stock track size of the Yamaha SXR 700 was 121” x 15” x 0.92”.
How much did a Yamaha SXR 700 weigh?
The 2000 Yamaha SXR 700 weighed 486 pounds, while the 2001 SXR 700 was slightly heavier at 489 pounds.
What kind of engine was in a Yamaha SXR 700?
The engine of the Yamaha SXR 700 was a single-piped, 696cc, 2-stroke, 3-cylinder power mill (with no power valves) that featured a liquid-cooling system and three Mikuni TM33 carbs.
How much horsepower did a Yamaha SXR 700 have?
Powered by this high-performance engine, the Yamaha SRX 700 had no less than 115 HP.
How fast did a Yamaha SXR 700 go?
Under ideal conditions, the top speed of the Yamaha SXR 700 was about 112-115 mph.
Can you add reverse to a Yamaha SXR 700?
Yes, it is possible to install an aftermarket reverse kit on a Yamaha SXR 700, but keep in mind that this is not an easy task!
References:
