The VMAX 600 Triple was the upgraded, triple-cylinder version of the deservedly popular VMAX 600 Twin. This high-performance machine was designed for trail riding and was known as one of the most reliable 2-stroke Yamaha snowmobiles ever built. Its big-bore version was the top-of-the-line VMAX 700.
If you want to find out more about this 2-stroke Yamaha trail snowmobile, this post is for you.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know into this Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple review!
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Review
The VMAX Line
The Yamaha VMAX line was introduced in 1994 when the VMAX 600 and VMAX 500 hit the marketplace.
This series was completed with the high-end VMAX 700, which debuted in 1997.
The early VMAX 600 was often referred to as the VMAX 600 “Twin” since its power source was a big-bore configuration of the 500 engine.
This unit was replaced by a de-bored version of the 700 triple engine in 1999. Referring to its new engine architecture, the 1999-2003 VMAX 600 was commonly known as the “600 Triple.”
Their race-intended relatives were the 4-cylinder VMAX-4 750 and VMAX-4 800.
In a nutshell, Yamaha’s VMAX trail snowmobiles were as follows:
- 1994-2001 VMAX 500 (Twin)
- 1994-1998 VMAX 600 (Twin)
- 1999-2003 VMAX 600 (Triple)
- 1997-2002 VMAX 700 (Triple)
- 1992-1994 VMAX-4 750 (Quad)
- 1995-1997 VMAX-4 800 (Quad)
The 600 was the longest-living sled in this breed since it was marketed in no less than 31 different configurations, including:
Yamaha VMAX 600 Models
| Year | Model | Model Code | Engine |
| 1996 | VMAX 600 | VX600W | Twin |
| 1996 | VMAX 600 DX | VX600DXW | Twin |
| 1996 | VMAX 600 LE (ELEC START) | VX600EW | Twin |
| 1996 | VMAX 600 MOUNTAIN MAX | VX600STW | Twin |
| 1996 | VMAX 600 XT PROACTION PLUS | VX600XTW | Twin |
| 1997 | VMAX 600 SX | VX600SXA | Twin |
| 1997 | VMAX 600 XT | VX600XTA | Twin |
| 1997 | VMAX 600 XTC | VX600XTCA | Twin |
| 1997 | VMAX 600 XTC (ELEC START) | VX600XTCEA | Twin |
| 1997 | VMAX 600 XTC (REVERSE) | VX600XTCRA | Twin |
| 1998 | VMAX 600 SX | VX600SXB | Twin |
| 1998 | VMAX 600 SXS (OHLINS FR SHOCKS) | VX600SXSB | Twin |
| 1998 | VMAX 600 XT | VX600XTB | Twin |
| 1998 | VMAX 600 XTC | VX600XTCB | Twin |
| 1998 | VMAX 600 XTC DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX600XTCDB | Twin |
| 1998 | VMAX 600 XTR (ELEC START+REVERSE) | VX600XTRB | Twin |
| 1999 | VMAX 600 CA | VX600C | Triple |
| 1999 | VMAX 600 DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX600ERC | Triple |
| 1999 | VMAX 600 SX | VX600SXBC | Triple |
| 2000 | VMAX 600 DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX600DXD | Triple |
| 2001 | VMAX 600 DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX600DXF | Triple |
| 2002 | VMAX 600ER | VX600ERG | Triple |
| 2003 | VMAX 600ER | VX600ERH | Triple |
Let’s drill into the details and take a closer look at the 1999-2003 VMAX 600 Triple!
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Review
The VMAX 600 was arguably one of the most popular performance trail sleds in the 1990s and early 2000s and with good reason.
It was known for its amazing performance, advanced technologies, and legendary reliable engine,
Sure, it wasn’t a racing sled like the much sportier 4-cylinder VMAX-4 700 and VMAX-4 800, but it still delivered great power for a reasonable price.
From 1994 to 1998, this model was manufactured with a twin engine, which was upgraded to a triple for the 1999 season. Because of this, the ’99-’03 models were often referred to as “VMAX 600 Triples.”
In terms of specifications, the new engine was a 2-stroke, 698cc, non-power valved, parallel triple, which put out 98hp on the dyno.
This unit was a de-bored version of the lightweight 700 triple engine. They shared the same stroke (59.6mm) but the bore of the VMAX 600 was reduced to 65mm.
It also featured smaller, 31mm carburetors while the 700 utilized 33mm carbs.
Due to their red paint job, these engines were often referred to as “red head triples,” which were widely used in the SX, SRX, VMAX, and Moutain Max models.
To the regret of performance-minded riders, this engine lacked power valves since they were only reserved for high-end models like the SRX 600 and SRX 700.
In return, it came standard with many innovative features, including Nikasil-plated cylinders, three rack-mounted Mikuni TM33 flat slide carburetors, CDI ignition, NGK BR9ES spark plugs, and an automatic oil injection system.
The carburetors were installed on an innovative rack that featured a rotary throttle shaft. This design ensured a smooth, very easy throttle operation.
As reported by SnoWest, the 600 “red head” engine was one of the most durable 2-stroke Yamaha snowmobile engines ever built. The lack of power valves meant less power but lower complexity and higher reliability.
There are rumors that this motor could hit up to 8,000-10,000 miles without any rebuild or refresh.
All this, of course, with reasonable use and proper lubrication!
This engine was used in some other sleds including the 1997- Venture 600.
Unlike the engine, the chassis and suspensions of the VMAX 600 Triple were carried over from its twin-cylinder predecessor without any significant changes.
This means the sled still enjoyed the Yamaha Pro Action rear suspension, featuring adjustable coil springs and rebuildable gas shocks.
On the front, you could find the Yamaha-exclusive Telescopic Strut Suspension (TSS) with two nitrogen gas shocks. They supported the lightweight skis, which came with plastic skins from the factory.
In 1999, Yamaha marketed the VX 600 in the US in two different configurations, the SX (VX600SXBC) and the Deluxe (VX600ERC).
The sporty SX was designed with performance-minded riders in mind. It featured short travel suspensions, which ensured a lower center of gravity and a more aggressive riding experience.
Thanks to these features, the SX turned sportier and was noticeably faster than the Deluxe. Unfortunately, it was only available with a manual start.
As the name suggests, the Deluxe was engineered for comfort rather than high performance.
It came standard with comfortable, long travel suspensions, which ensured 8” of travel at the front and 11.5” at the rear.
Besides its softer suspension, the Deluxe came standard with a wide range of convenience features, including:
- Manual and electric start
- Reverse
- Dual mirrors
- Indicatoor lights
- High windshield
- Variable hand and thumb warmers
- And more
Aside from these minor dissimilarities, the VMAX 600 SX and the Deluxe were almost identical. They shared the same engine, chassis, suspensions, and track.
Performance?
You could expect the top speed of a VMAX 600 Triple to be in the ballpark of 100-103 mph on the speedo.
For some extra horsepower and a nicer sound, many owners replaced the factory single-pipe exhaust with a much more powerful triple-pipe system.
This upgrade was often accompanied by other modifications on the clutch, jetting, or on the air intake system.
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the 1999 Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple into these charts.
(Note that this sled had been manufactured for many years, and the specifications may be different in other model years.)
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Dimensions and Capacities
| Dimensions | 1999 VMAX 600 Triple |
| Length | 2760 mm (108.7 in) |
| Width | 1200 mm (47.2 in) |
| Height (VX600SXB) | 1170 mm (46.1 in) |
| Height (VX600ER) | 1300 mm (51.2 in) |
| Ski Tread (VX600SXB) | 1040 mm (40.9 in) |
| Ski Tread (VX600ER) | 1070 mm (42.1 in) |
| Dry Weight (VX600SXB) | 226 kg (498 lb) |
| Dry Weight (VX600ER) | 242 kg (534 lb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44.3 L (11.7 US gal) |
| Oil Tank Capacity | 3.0 L (3.2 US qt) |
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Engine Specs
| Engine Specs | 1999 VMAX 600 Triple |
| Engine type | Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 7-port |
| Cylinder Arrangement | Parallel, 3-cylinder |
| Engine stroke | 2 |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled |
| Bore x Stroke | 2.56 x 2.35 in (65.0 x 59.6 mm) |
| Displacement | 593cc |
| Idle Speed | 1600 +/- 100 r/min |
| Carburetor | Mikuni TM33 x 3 |
| Turbocharged | No |
| Engine oil type | YAMALUBE 2-cycle oil |
| Throttle Operation | Handle lever, right-hand operated |
| Fuel type | Unleaded gasoline. Pump octane (R+M)/2; 88 |
| Starting system (VX600SXB) | Manual with recoil starter |
| Starting system (VX600ER) | Electric and manual with recoil starter |
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Track
| Track Features | 1999 VMAX 600 Triple |
| Track | Molded rubber, fiberglass rod reinforced |
| Length on ground | 29.6 in (752mm) |
| Width | 15.0 in (381mm) |
| Track deflection | 0.98-1.18 in (25-30mm) / 10 kg {22lbs} |
| Drive Sprocket (VX600ER) | Quadruple polyethylene, 9 teeth |
| Drive Sprocket (VX600SXB) | Double polyethylene, 9 teeth, and guides |
| Suspension type | Slide rail suspension |
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Transmission
| Transmission | 1999 VMAX 600 Triple |
| Primary reduction system | Belt |
| Primary reduction ratio | 3.8:1-1:1 |
| Type | Automatic centrifugal engagement, infinitely variable |
| Drive | Silent chain enclosed in oil bath |
| Secondary Reduction Ratio | 1.857 (39/21) |
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Electric Features
| Electric Features | 1999 VMAX 600 Triple |
| Ignition system | C.D.I. |
| Spark plug type | BR9EC (NGK) |
| Spark plug gap | 0.028 – 0.031 in (0.7 – 0.8 mm) |
| Headlight | 12 V, 60/55 W x 1 |
| Tail/brake light | 12 V, 8/23 W x 1 |
| Meter light | 12 V, 1.7 W x 2 |
| Indicator light | 12 V, 1.7 W x 3 |
These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.
Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple For Sale
Yamaha produced numerous VMAX 600 Triples, so it is no surprise that you can still find many of them in good shape.
If you are considering buying one, you can find some used Yamaha VMAX 600 Triples for sale on Craigslist, eBay, and snowmobile ad sites like Sledswap.
You can also find some good deals and plenty of useful information on this model on Yamaha snowmobile forums and Facebook groups.
If you are considering other brands, you may want to take a closer look at the Ski-Doo Formula Z, Polaris Indy XLT, or the Arctic Cat ZR 580. These were the main competitors of the VMAX 600.
Takeaway – FAQs About the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple
What year did the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple come out?
Yamaha launched the VMAX 600 Triple for the 1999 model year.
What years was the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple made?
The Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple was manufactured from 1999 to 2003.
What size was a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple?
The (98) Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple measured 108.7 inches in length, 47.2 inches in width, and 46.1/51.2 inches in height.
What was the track size on the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple?
The track of the (98) Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple was 15 inches wide, while its length on the ground was 29.6 inches.
How much did a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple weigh?
The Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple SX weighed 498 pounds while its Deluxe brother 534 pounds.
What kind of engine was in a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple?
The power source of the VMAX 600 Triple was a liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 593cc, triple-cylinder engine.
How much horsepower did a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple have?
The 199-2003 Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple delivered 98hp.
How fast did a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple go?
The top speed of the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple was about 100-103 mph under ideal conditions.
Was the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple a 2-stroke?
The Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple was powered by a 2-stroke engine.
Did the Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Have a Reverse?
The VMAX 600 Deluxe came standard with a reverse but the SX lacked this important feature.
How Much Oil Did a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Hold?
The VMAX 600 Triple had an oil injection system featuring a 3.2-quart oil reservoir.
How Much Fuel Did a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Hold?
The fuel capacity of the VMAX 600 Triple was 11.7 gallons.
How Much Does a Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple Cost?
The asking price of a used VMAX 600 Triple snowmobile averages between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the year and condition.
References