The VMAX 700 was the top-of-the-line performance trail sled in the widely popular VMAX series. It was powered by the extremely reliable liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 698cc, “redhead” triple rated at 110hp. This model was also marketed in a de-bored (600cc) version under the name of Yamaha VMAX 600 Triple.
If you want to find out more about this high-performance classic sled, this post is for you.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know into this Yamaha VMAX 700 review!
Yamaha VMAX 700 Review
The Yamaha VMAX Snowmobile Series
The legendary Yamaha VMAX snowmobile series was launched in 1994 with the introduction of the VMAX 500 and VMAX 600.
The latter was available with both twin (‘94-‘98) and triple (‘99-‘03) engines, while the 500 was exclusively marketed with a twin power source.
This family was expanded with the 1997 VMAX 700, which debuted as the most powerful triple-cylinder Yamaha VMAX available.
Its 4-cylinder brothers were the VMAX-4 750 and VMAX-4 800. These machines were real racing sleds out of the box.
In summary, the production Yamaha VMAX 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 popular VMAX 700 was offered in many different configurations, including:
Yamaha VMAX 700 Models
| Year | Model | Model Code |
| 1997 | VMAX 700 SX | VX700SXA |
| 1998 | VMAX 700 SX | VX700SXB |
| 1998 | VMAX 700 SXS (OHLINS FR SHOCKS) | VX700SXSB |
| 1998 | VMAX 700 XT | VX700XTB |
| 1998 | VMAX 700 XTC | VX700XTCB |
| 1998 | VMAX 700 XTC DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX700XTCDB |
| 1998 | VMAX 700 XTCP (PLASTIC SKI, 1.5″TRACK) | VX700XTCPB |
| 1999 | VMAX 700 | VX700C |
| 1999 | VMAX 700 DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX700ERC |
| 1999 | VMAX 700 SX | VX700SXBC |
| 2000 | VMAX 700 | VX700D |
| 2000 | VMAX 700 DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX700DXD |
| 2001 | VMAX 700 DELUXE (ELEC START) | VX700DXF |
| 2002 | VMAX 700ER | VX700ERG |
Let’s drill into the details and take a closer look at this classic Yamaha trail sled.
Yamaha VMAX 700 Review
The VMAX 700 was considered one of the most popular high-performance trail sleds in its time and with good reason.
This machine built its reputation on outstanding engine reliability, high performance, and innovative technologies.
Since it was powered by a 3-cylinder engine, the VMAX 700 was often referred to as the VMAX 700 Triple.
To be more precise, this power source was a liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 698cc, non-power valved, parallel triple. According to this review at SnoWest, this lightweight engine cranked out a remarkable 110hp in stock condition.
This unit was a big-bore configuration of the 600 triple engine, which was used in many 600 models including the VMAX 600 Triple.
These engines were commonly known as the “redhead Yamaha triples” since their head was covered by a bright red paint job. They were referred to as the most durable 2-stroke snowmobile engines ever built.
So, it was no surprise that they found their way into many popular performance sleds like the SXR, VMAX, and Mountain Max models.
The only drawback of the 700 triple was that it lacked power valves and came with a single pipe exhaust from the factory.
This is the reason why it was less powerful than the high-end ‘98-‘99 Yamaha SRX 700, which was rated at 138hp.
In return, the 700 triple was more reliable and came standard with a wide range of advanced features, including:
- Nikasil-plated cylinders
- Three rack-mounted Mikuni TM33 flat slide carburetors
- CDI ignition
- Reed valves
- NGK BR9ES spark plugs
- Automatic oil injection system
- Electric start (depending on the model)
Three-carb snowmobiles were known for their heavy throttle pressure, but VMAX Yamahas were the exception.
This is because their carburetors were installed on a rack that featured a special throttle shaft.
These rack-mounted carbs ensured a light throttle pressure which translated to easier handling and less hand fatigue.
Unlike the engine, the suspensions and the chassis were borrowed from the 600 and 500 models, the key features of which were as follows:
- Monocock aluminum/steel chassis
- Rear Yamaha Pro Action rear suspension (adjustable coil springs and rebuildable gas shocks)
- Front: Telescopic Strut Suspension (TSS) (with two nitrogen gas shocks)
- Lightweight metal skis
- Plastic ski skins
- Well-shaped, convenient seat
- Storage unit
Yamaha marketed the VMAX 700 in many different variations, but the two main breeds were the long and short suspension lines.
As a rule of thumb, the VMAX 700 SX and SXS were the short suspension models, which came with stiffer suspension settings and a lower center of gravity.
These sleds were tuned for performance, so they offered higher speeds and a sportier attitude than their siblings.
In contrast, the XT, XTC, and Deluxe were designed with more convenience features and long travel suspensions, so they offered a “plushy” riding experience.
They were a common choice of senior riders while youngsters appreciated the aggressive attitude of the SX/SXS.
The high-end model in this line was the VMAX 700 Deluxe, which came standard with some extra features, including:
- Long travel suspensions
- High-profile windshield
- Reverse
- Electric start
- Dual mirrors
- Variable hand and thumb warmers
- And more
Performance?
You could expect the top speed of a VMAX 700 to be anywhere from 100 to 110 mph (on the speedo) depending on the model and its gearing.
Even though its engine offered plenty of power even in stock condition, many owners tuned it for higher performance.
Its single-pipe exhaust was often replaced with a more advanced triple-pipe exhaust system, which was often completed by other mods like adjusting the clutch, jetting, or improving the air intake system.
These modifications typically resulted in a power gain of 25-30hp!
To the greatest regret of many performance-minded buyers, Yamaha discontinued the VMAX 700 at the end of 2002.
Yamaha VMAX 700 Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve listed the key specifications of the latest model, the 2002 Yamaha VMAX 700 ER in these charts.
(Note that this sled was manufactured for many years, so the specifications may be different in other model years.)
Yamaha VMAX 700 ER Dimensions and Capacities
| Dimensions | 2002 VMAX 700 ER |
| Length | 2780 mm (109.4 in) |
| Width | 1200 mm (47.2 in) |
| Height | 1230 mm (48.4 in) |
| Ski Tread | 1070 mm (42.1 in) |
| Dry Weight | 229 kg (505 lb.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44.3 L (11.7 US gal) |
| Oil Tank Capacity | 3.0 L (3.2 US qt) |
Yamaha VMAX 700 ER Engine Specs
| Engine Specs | 2002 VMAX 700 ER |
| Engine type | Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 7-port |
| Cylinder Arrangement | Parallel, 3-cylinder |
| Engine stroke | 2 |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled |
| Bore x Stroke | 2.78 x 2.35 in (70.5 x 59.6 mm) |
| Displacement | 698cc |
| 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 Or Min. research octane: 93 |
| Starting system | Electric and manual with recoil starter |
Yamaha VMAX 700 ER Track
| Track Features | 2002 VMAX 700 ER |
| 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 |
| Suspension type | Slide rail suspension |
Yamaha VMAX 700 ER Transmission
| Transmission | 2002 VMAX 700 ER |
| 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 | 1.77 (39/22) |
Yamaha VMAX 700 ER Electric Features
| Electric Features | 2002 VMAX 700 ER |
| Ignition system | DC-CDI |
| Spark plug type | BR9ES (NGK) |
| Spark plug gap | 0.028 – 0.031 in (0.7 – 0.8 mm) |
| Battery Capacity | GM18Z-3A/12 V 20 Ah |
| Battery Maximum Charge Rate | 1.0 Amperes/hp for 10 hrs |
| Headlight | 12 V, 60/55 W x 2 |
| 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 700 For Sale
Interestingly, you can still find some used VMAX 700s in decent shape.
If you are considering buying one, you should start your research on Yamaha snowmobile FB groups and forums.
Also, you may find some used Yamaha VMAX 700s for sale on Craigslist, eBay, or snowmobile ad sites like Sledswap or Snowmobiletrader.
If you are considering rebuilding one of these amazing classic sleds, you will also find this site useful.
Takeaway – FAQs About the Yamaha VMAX 700
What year did the Yamaha VMAX 700 come out?
Yamaha launched the VMAX 700 for the 1997 model year.
What years was the Yamaha VMAX 700 made?
The Yamaha VMAX 700 was manufactured from 1997 to 2002.
What size was a Yamaha VMAX 700?
The (2002) Yamaha VMAX 700 ER measured 109.4 inches in length, 47.2 inches in width, and 48.4 inches in height.
What was the track size on the Yamaha VMAX 700?
The track of the Yamaha VMAX 700 was 15 inches wide, while its length on the ground was 29.6 inches.
How much did a Yamaha VMAX 700 weigh?
The latest 2002 Yamaha VMAX 700 ER weighed 505 pounds.
What kind of engine was in a Yamaha VMAX 700?
The power source of the VMAX 700 was a liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 698cc, triple-cylinder engine.
How much horsepower did a Yamaha VMAX 700 have?
The Yamaha VMAX 700 produced 110 hp.
How fast did a Yamaha VMAX 700 go?
The top speed of the Yamaha VMAX 700 was about 100-110 mph on the speedo.
Was the Yamaha VMAX 700 a 2-stroke?
The Yamaha VMAX 700 was powered by a 2-stroke engine.
Did the Yamaha VMAX 700 Have a Reverse?
The more featured VMAX 700 models came standard with a reverse.
How Much Oil Did a Yamaha VMAX 700 Hold?
The VMAX 700 had an automatic oil injection system featuring a 3.2-quart reservoir.
How Much Fuel Did a Yamaha VMAX 700 Hold?
The fuel capacity of the VMAX 700 was 11.7 US gallons.
How Much Does a Yamaha VMAX 700 Cost?
The asking price of a used VMAX 700 snowmobile averages between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the year and condition.
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