Viper owners

[fusion]

>Hey, this is still a Yamaha and that drivetrain has been rated as one of the most reliable and durable in the snowmobile business. The only place where we see the Viper falling down a bit comes from the sled’s fit and finish. It seems to be improved for 2015, but remember to set your expectations a bit lower on the “Yamaha-scale.” This sled may be powered by Yamaha, but it is built by Arctic Cat and we couldn’t help but notice the differences between the Yamaha-built and the non-Yamaha built models. For the most part, only long time Yamaha owners would recognize the differences. Long time Cat owners wouldn’t know what we’re talking about. They’d accept the fact that sometimes the grey reverse pushbutton wouldn’t come back out. Or, that some cowling pieces didn’t fit or line up as well as they would on, say, a Yamaha Vector or Apex.<

Not me talking - it's a well known magazine review. I really want one, but not sure I can hold my nose long enough to see past the AC componentry.
Viper owners I'd like to hear your opinions and observations from a season of riding, particularly quality experiences, and top end performance you've seen.
You look everywhere and can't find a thing about dry weight on these. Last I heard the short track was about 530?
Before Kip calls, I'd like to know for sure I want this over an E-Tek.

 

[dfattack]

I think without question you will experience what the article says. No matter what anyone says...it's made by Cat. That's not a criticism...only a statement of fact. Therefore you will need to accept whatever level of fit and finish you would find on any other Cat sled. In my opinion it would be very difficult for Yamaha fit and finish to carry over to the Cat assembly line just because it's a Yamaha motor.

Also, in my opinion...Yamaha dealers need to make a living to stay in business. I can't imagine any Yamaha dealer criticizing the Viper. It wouldn't make any sense and I don't blame them. I'm in the same exact situation trying to decide between a Viper or An 800 e-tec (MXZ or Renegade) for my son. I'm a Yamaha guy but have bought Doo's before and would Doo again.

 

[Joe M]

If you want to visually see a first hand experience with a 2014 Viper. Its issues, Fit and Finish etc take a look.

I would ride with these guys any time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpMWJCvhZo0&list=PLQ6aKNKkYGAm7t5ySE9c2NfbhhRMAfgBt

 

[fusion]

When the Vector drove into the new owners garage I immediately felt I'd miss that motor.
That's the best powerplant in the industry IMO. So good it has me thinking of overlooking my dislike for AC just to get it back. That's a tough one for me.
If that was a Doo or Poo chassis I'd already have one ordered.

 

[Banks93]

I was in your position last year and went from Yamaha to Ski doo 800 etec. I have been very happy with the ski doo fit and finish. No motor issues. I just don't see paying top dollar money on a Viper for a 700 power sled and then having to add a turbo to make it equal to the ski doo 800 Etec when you can just buy the 800 etec and have the best suspension and one of the best motors on the market for less money than a viper.

 

[groomerdriver]

Somebody correct me if I'm wrong but even on the Vipers, they're only using the Nytro engine block, not the EFI systems, clutches, etc.

Go on YouTube and watch the 2013-2014 season video's posted by "Yellowknife". Some might say "extreme conditions" but last season I watched a Viper get pulled out of a gas line because it wouldn't start....in 10 degree weather. And the fuel remap's are just coming out now? Really?

I am on record on another site saying "Yamaha or Cat couldn't give me one of these sleds for FREE." No thanks....the season is too short.

If the 2015 models are ironed out....then it's all well and good. But no remap's until just recently? I'd be really pissed!

Flame away!

 

[fusion]

Wow- didn't expect some of this. Last time I was in TY they were really sensitive to criticism of this sled. Seems a lot if it was justified.
But the wife likes the heated seat! LOL

 

[kip]

Started doing our first reflashes today for the 2014's. It works well. Overall the first year problems for the Viper were not all that bad. Our customer's were disappointed at times but 99% of the time it did not cause them to lose any downtime. Granted the sled is not perfect but Yamaha always gets it right in the dependability category and they are always quick to fix things. There are times such as groomerdriver mentioned they were tardy with the diagnostic reflash but they were held up by a distributor. As far as the price comparison Banks93 makes I don't quite follow that. The SR Viper is no more than a 800 etec, actually it's a bit cheaper depending on what models you're looking at. It does not use oil which is a big upside which everyone already knows. I will not argue against a ski-doo, they make a great sled but don't act like it's just head and feet above everything else because it's not true. The Viper is a dependable fun sled and it is without a doubt more dependable than a 2 stroke and I mean any 2 stroke. Also, it does not need a turbo to compete with 800's. Obviously it doesn't match up on top end but it will definitely hold it's own up to 90 with any 800 out there and will jump some of them right out of the hole. Any rider should buy what they most feel comfortable with. If it's weight look at a Poo or Doo. If it's dependability look to the Yamaha. If you want the most dependable 2 stroke engine than buy a Cat. All are good and that's why customers are having hard time making decisions and I think that's a good thing for the customers!!! Let is snow!!

 

[Banks93]

Yes, they were really sensitive about their $14,000 sleds having issues.

 

[kip]

They sell for much less than 14,000 dollars Just ask people who buy them.

 

[Banks93]

The price is down some from last year $11,899 vs I think $12,500 last year. Add in tax, studding track, DuPont slides, hand guards and other goodies it would be close to my number. I have owned 5 Yamaha sleds in the last 4 years so I am well aware of the offerings.

My point about the Viper and 800 etec is that if I am going to spend $13,000 -$16,000(viper or viper with turbo kit) for a sled I want it to be the best money can buy. The viper in NO way is that sled on the market by a long shot.

If guys want to pay the current price for an 600 etec equal sled then more the power to them. A 600 carbed ski doo can ride with an 800 etec too in the trails. You are right different sleds for different folks. It took me 4 years before I listened to my buddy and went ski doo.

If Yamaha comes with a new sled that has the fastest engine, best suspension or is the lightest handling sled. I will be back to Yamaha.

 

[groomerdriver]

Wow- didn't expect some of this. Last time I was in TY they were really sensitive to criticism of this sled. Seems a lot if it was justified.
But the wife likes the heated seat! LOL

I just added heated seats to my 14 Vector LTX and my 05 Vector. Pretty simple really! Be happy to walk you thru it.....PM me if you want.

 

[groomerdriver]

If you want to visually see a first hand experience with a 2014 Viper. Its issues, Fit and Finish etc take a look.

I would ride with these guys any time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpMWJCvhZo0&list=PLQ6aKNKkYGAm7t5ySE9c2NfbhhRMAfgBt

"Allan Gofenko" IS "Yellowknife" that I mentioned in my post.

- - - Updated - - -

When the Vector drove into the new owners garage I immediately felt I'd miss that motor.
That's the best powerplant in the industry IMO. So good it has me thinking of overlooking my dislike for AC just to get it back. That's a tough one for me.
If that was a Doo or Poo chassis I'd already have one ordered.

So it sounds like you had a Vector.....why not buy another one?

 

[switch07]

I don't know but the fit and finish of my two 15 LTX DX's looks pretty good to me. Compared to my 11 & 12 Rushes, I see absolutely no drop off, and maybe some improvements. I don't care where they were built or by whom, I think they are a good quality sled with probably the best motor in the business. Are they perfect? No. Then show me one that is.........ride safe everyone!

 

[fusion]

>So it sounds like you had a Vector.....why not buy another one?<

Several reasons....1st - if I was going to ride a Vector I would of kept the one I had as I had no complaints other than weight, but we won't go there again. (Wouldn't of sold it except my brother wanted it)
2nd - Really looking for something lighter, even if it's a 45 lbs. lighter Viper
3rd - Love the style of the Viper

All that said, I was actually thinking about another Vector.

I know where I can get a new 2014 Nytro in black for a good price. Worried about resale though.

 

[timo]

I don't know but the fit and finish of my two 15 LTX DX's looks pretty good to me. Compared to my 11 & 12 Rushes, I see absolutely no drop off, and maybe some improvements. I don't care where they were built or by whom, I think they are a good quality sled with probably the best motor in the business. Are they perfect? No. Then show me one that is.........ride safe everyone!

u see no drop off??
you're comparing a 2015 with a 2011 & 2012. And I would hope you see improvements it is 3 or 4 years newer.

 

[buddah2]

Somebody correct me if I'm wrong but even on the Vipers, they're only using the Nytro engine block, not the EFI systems, clutches, etc.

I'm kinda surprised Kip didn't jump in on this one........don't know for sure about the EFI but clutches, chaincase, chain, and gears are all Yamaha for extra durability......seems some of the Cat parts weren't up to the torque........

 

[switch07]

u see no drop off??
you're comparing a 2015 with a 2011 & 2012. And I would hope you see improvements it is 3 or 4 years newer.

According to the earlier posts that said the fit and finish is the worst in the business from the AC plant, I disagree. The fit and finish from all the rushes from what ever year was about the same, new axys may be better, never looked. I also stated I thought the fit and finish was better than my Rush. Now how can that be if the AC plant puts out the worst? And I tell you what, never paid close to 14K for my Vipers........thanks Kip!!!

 

[ezra]

I have owned 5 Yamaha sleds in the last 4 years so I am well aware of the offerings.

My point about the Viper and 800 etec is that if I am going to spend $13,000 -$16,000(viper or viper with turbo kit) for a sled I want it to be the best money can buy.
.

sp let me get this straight . U have owned 5 Yamaha's in 4 yrs ok.
when u buy a sled u want to spend your money on the best sled money can buy ok .
so what was your justification in buying 5 completely outdated chassis with sub par suspensions 5 times in the last 4 ys?
not saying I am a viper fan. I do like the fact if gets cat EPA credits to keep building a reliable 800

 

[fusion]

Ez, not to fight other peoples battles but I bought 3 Yams in the last 5 years and I'm out too, because bottom line other than motors, they were all seriously lacking in some area.
You don't find that out until you experience it. This is easy to do especially when you are buying multiple sleds for riders other than yourself. (like me)

I'm still trying to understand how Kip says Cat makes the most reliable 2-stroke...hmmmm. You'd figure he'd know because he's in the biz, but doesn't sell that particular brand.
Of course if everything else breaks and is substandard, I'm not sure what good a reliable motor is.