5 Things We Love About the New Yamaha Wolverine RMAX 1000-4

Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha

A little while back, we got to check out what was new in Yamaha’s 2025 Wolverine RMAX refresh, and we quickly fell in love with the new RMAX 1000-4. Here are five of our favorite things about this new offering from Yamaha.

Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha

FOX 2.0 IQS Shocks


While being a new model to the RMAX lineup, the 1000-4 comes equipped with the same tried-and-tested FOX shock options, depending on the trim. Our time was in the limited edition, which meant we had a set of FOX IQS shocks with adjustable settings from a switch in the dash. In the XTR model, you have functionally the same shocks without electric adjustment, the QS3, and instead will rely on adjusting each shock to the desired setting.

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Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha

Updated Differentials


For 2025, Yamaha updated the differentials in all RMAX models. Namely, an unlocking rear differential was added to pair with an updated front diff. This allows for an even faster and more seamless use of the diff lock in rugged terrain without stopping or slowing down quite as much as the older models. Yamaha has also promised even more durability out of these updated differentials, with a mentality of “the machine protects itself,” limits built in.

Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha

“Turf Mode”


The new unlocking rear differential has opened the way for a “turf mode” for those who use their RMAX on gentle surfaces. This mode promises to minimize just how much your RMAX tears up the ground and is selectable off the tried-and-true drive mode switch, which previously only had options such as “trail” or “sport” and the ever-useful “crawl”. With the capabilities of an RMAX, this added option of a gentle touch is sure to be useful for those who use theirs in a working environment.

Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha

Updated Infotainment Screen


Yamaha’s new Adventure Pro system in the cabin has received a significant update as a part of this refresh. While the outgoing system was functional, using it could feel clunky and take some effort, but not anymore. This new system comes with a fully interactive 7” display, with “tiles” for customizing exactly what you want available at a touch from the home screen. Even more, the boot time on startups has been significantly sped up. When paired with the MTX audio system in this limited model, it’s easy and enjoyable to set up audio on your phone or display your desired GPS track.

Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha

Longer Wheelbase


While a bit of an obvious one here, the RMAX lineup is finally home to a “true” four-seater option. While the four compact lines offered four seats, you sacrificed bed capability and didn’t gain any wheelbase. This new four-seater rides like a limousine when faced with some bumpier terrain, yet still doesn’t feel unwieldy in tighter rock gardens on our ride. For those seeking more comfort or needing the added space of a “true” four-seater, the RMAX 1000-4 is a safe option with plenty of capability.

Photo Credit: Dave Schelske, Yamaha
Matthew J McNulty
Matthew J McNulty

Matthew McNulty is a desert born motorhead, with a thirst for hunting any story from the dirt to pavement and beyond. From getting pelted with rocks at KOH to testing the industry's latest and greatest releases, he's there.

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