Yamaha Venture Royale (XVZ12/XVZ13) is a large and comfortable luxury tourer

2013 onwards , 499 cm 3 , 80 hp , 305 kg , 439,000 rub .

text: Vladimir Zdorov

photo: Alexey Ivanov, Yuri Banchukov

In the photo: Vladimir Zdorov

>>While “mountainers” and other “athletes” from the world of snowmobiles are increasingly moving into the composite heights of unattainable technologies and, accordingly, astronomical prices, having long surpassed most modern “liter” sportbikes in terms of power/weight ratio, not so much In a world remote from reality, “real” cars with reliable 4-stroke engines at a reasonable price are still extremely relevant and in demand. One of these snowmobiles is the multi-purpose Yamaha VentureMultiPurpose

In the quiet lake of utilitarian conquerors of snowy spaces, the multi-purpose Venture from Yamaha lives in its own isolated backwater, where there are no hysterics of twisted 2-stroke engines, but at the same time there are no 50-horsepower “consumptives” capable of only banal movement in space. Of course, to say that 80 hp. YamahaVentureMultiPurpose is a ferocious herd capable of tearing space and time apart; even the most odious and unprincipled manager of the “three tuning forks” cannot. However, originally designed for heavy work with a trailer and transporting a “mandatory” passenger, VentureMultiPurpose responds very cheerfully to the gas trigger in the range of 0-60 km/h. True, such agility, unexpected for a 500 cc 4-stroke engine, does not go well with a curb weight of over 300 kg and a chassis that was initially tuned for comfort. As a result, despite the relatively large track, the Venture can hardly be included in the camp of particularly stable vehicles. Especially when it comes to compacted snow or just a surface with a small amount of snow - in such conditions it is very easy to put the Venture on its side to “rest”. What can we say about the neophytes, one of whose first snowmobiles is often the YamahaVentureMultiPurpose!

Although, if we focus on the primary area of ​​use of this snowmobile - that is, multi-purpose, which, in fact, is reflected in its name, such claims are unlikely to be appropriate. Rather, you need to “emphasize” the large comfortable seat, where, if necessary, you can “drive” three homosapiens in full snowmobile gear. Of course, you shouldn’t do this, but, as they say, if you can’t, but really want to, then you can. It is curious that the passenger part of the seat is removable, which makes it possible to increase the already very large cargo area to the size of the trunk of a golf car. Against the background of such a fundamental approach and a very large and effective windshield, which almost completely “ate” almost two meters of my self-esteem, the savings on protecting the driver’s hands look somewhat strange, which is to some extent offset by the powerful heating of the steering wheel grips and the gas trigger (by the way , the seat is also heated).

Of course, all these are important, but far from the main components of YamahaVentureMultiPurpose. The main idea of ​​the model, which the designers were able to bring into mass production, is a design where, unlike the chunky and iron-shaped “scrap colleagues,” you will find practically nothing. To a person “not in the know,” the VMP may even seem like a sports vehicle, equipped with a passenger seat as an additional option.

However, from a technical point of view, Venture has long and far gone not only from the motorized sleighs of reindeer herders, but also from most of the fierce “utilitarians”, sometimes able to “please” their owners only with a manual starter and a huge list of parts with a glowing neon sign “we saved on you” wherever we could!” To begin with, despite the name and orientation of the model for all occasions, it is worth noting that the driver’s position, rather, gravitates not so much to “mountain bikes”, but to the company’s off-road motorcycles - and to such an extent that it is more convenient to ride a snowmobile while standing rather than “lying down” on the sofa.” Which, however, does not mean that sitting there will be uncomfortable - although in the last “layout” the designers “squeezed” the legroom for the tall “drivers” of the Venture.

Appearance

This equipment looks typical for a tourist class. Large dimensions, the ability to carry luggage, a high windshield... However, the Yamaha Venture Royal is not just a touring bike, it is a luxury tourer.

And this is evidenced by a special seat for the second passenger, located behind and above the driver’s seat. It is equipped with armrests, thanks to which the passenger is relatively safe.

The front fender protects the tire sufficiently. The rear wheel protection is also fine. Details are visible relatively well, but the frame covers much more than on classic motorcycles or cruisers.

Everything is as a tourer should ideally have. The steering wheel is located at medium height. The front headlight is square in shape.

Japanese manufacturer

In order to purchase the highest quality snowmobile, you need to decide on the manufacturer. It’s definitely worth considering the Japanese one, which has been producing various equipment for a long time.

It also produces snowmobiles, which allows anyone who wants to purchase truly high-quality, productive and easy-to-use equipment. Prominent representatives of this technology are the Japanese chainsaw Echo and the Japanese walk-behind tractor Cayman.

The company produces a variety of models, so the buyer will definitely have a wide choice.

The manufacturer always introduces the latest achievements into its machines, which allows it to produce units that meet all modern requirements.

Yamaha's undoubted trump card is the ease of service, because this company is represented almost all over the world, which means finding parts or repair service will not be a problem. You can find out all the necessary information on the official website of the company www.yamaha-motor.ru.

Comfort

This car is comfortable for the driver to sit on. As for the passenger, if the person is large, he is unlikely to feel comfortable in the back. However, if the passenger is small in size, then the driving experience will be quite comfortable. There is a seat back and a container at the back, and armrests at the sides.

The windshield is high to protect the driver's eyes. However, safety glasses will not be superfluous, because when there is an abundance of dust in the air flow, it sometimes gets in from somewhere on the side (taking into account the wind). Of course, this bike is not distinguished by maneuverability and cannot compare in this indicator with either a cross-country motorcycle, or a sport bike, or with road motorcycles.

Company pricing policy

Snowmobiles from Yamaha are equipped with truly high-quality Japanese parts and components, which are significantly reflected in the price. This can be called the only drawback of this manufacturer: its units are significantly superior in cost to their domestic counterparts.

The most affordable models start at 500 thousand rubles, while for this money you can buy a domestic snowmobile with the best technical characteristics.

But Yamaha’s undoubted trump card has always been and will be excellent quality.

You will be one hundred percent confident in this technology, while more affordable analogues can hardly compare with similar snowmobiles in strength, maneuverability and endurance.

The dimensions of the Yamaha Venture Royale are as follows:

• height – 1565 mm;
• width – 900 mm;
• length – 2705 mm;
• wheelbase – 1705 mm;
• saddle height – 750 mm;
• ground clearance – 150 mm;
• curb weight – 394 kg;
• Tank capacity – 22 l.

The mass is huge, but due to it there is good traction and stability. The tank capacity is sufficient for long trips in places where gas stations are rare. It is important to take into account that you cannot carry a canister with you, because if the car falls on one, a fire may occur (applies to all bikes).

Various add-ons

If you want to improve your equipment, there is every opportunity for this, because Yamaha offers the following options for additions to its snowmobiles:

• special trailers that allow you to transport goods over long distances in snowy areas. At the same time, you can transport not only cargo, but also a passenger;

Special trailers

• trunks that help you comfortably transport small loads or tools. Such accessories will be convenient to place, for example, purchases from the supermarket;

• protection from branches so that you can safely maneuver even in wooded areas without fear of damage from parts of trees;
• Various kits for tuning the appearance of a snowmobile are in demand. They will allow you to design the unit in the most attractive and original way;
• Yamaha also offers a variety of seating options to ensure you can travel through the snow in maximum comfort;
• as a rule, in snowy areas it gets dark quite early, so finder headlights , which will help the driver direct the light to absolutely any place, regardless of the direction of travel, which will be an excellent addition to conventional headlights;

• Spare helmets and ammunition are also in demand.

It is better to purchase all accessories for Yamaha snowmobiles from trusted manufacturers or from the same Japanese company, this guarantees the correct interaction of the snowmobile and accessories , as well as technical correctness of operation.

Specifications

Yamaha Venture Royale has impressive parameters. There is enough torque and power to travel comfortably with two people and with luggage. This is also helped by the durable, reliable chassis.

Considering the dimensions of the bike, a cardan drive is justified. Don't underestimate the dynamics of this motorcycle. Just over five seconds to accelerate to hundreds is a serious indicator that is important to take into account in order to avoid getting into a dangerous situation.

Features and operating experience

Cars of the Ventura line are ideal tourists. The devices are designed for fast and comfortable driving on any terrain. But according to owners, the versatility of Japanese snowmobiles is greatly exaggerated. Touring models do not behave well on rough terrain. The carrying capacity also suffers; when driving with a passenger, the device behaves slightly clumsily.

Advantages of Ventura machines:

• Reliable engine that allows you to reach high speeds. The cruising speed of a snowmobile on the highway is 100-120 km/h.
• Comfortable seats.
• Low fuel consumption.
• Stability and maneuverability.

Unfortunately, it was not without its drawbacks. The main disadvantage of the Japanese is the high price. Most buyers prefer cheaper Polaris cars.

A noticeable disadvantage of the GT model can be considered the absence of a breaking suspension. When reversing, the car is guaranteed to get buried in the snow. The “slimes” of the caterpillars will also cause inconvenience. When driving on ice or shallow snow, the driver will be accompanied by the smell of burnt plastic. Components wear out quickly and require regular replacement.

History of changes

Over the entire production period, the bike has not undergone significant changes. This is due to the fact that touring motorcycles, in principle, rarely undergo changes, except when updating international standards, for example, environmental ones. But this did not happen with this model, since the release period was relatively short.

If you look at the photos and videos where this bike appears, it becomes clear that there is nothing to add or take away. The machine embodies the ideal of a comfortable touring motorcycle. So, perhaps, the designers and management were right when they decided not to make changes to the model.

Video

Video review of the Yamaha XVZ 1300 Venture Royale motorcycle:

Repair and tuning

It is impossible to complain about the design and technical characteristics of the Ventura model. The Japanese manufacturer gave it 100%, so no tuning is needed. But repairs and technical inspections of the machine must be performed regularly.

Every season you should check the spark plugs, tighten the tracks, change the slippers, inspect the skis, etc. The cost of spare parts will also be an unpleasant surprise for owners. A repair kit will cost 5 thousand rubles, a new set of skis will cost 10 thousand rubles. The cheapest track for a Yamaha Ventura costs 25-30 thousand rubles.

What do the owners say?

Judging by the reviews, this is a reliable bike that will be convenient on a tourist trip. They note its practicality, large container, comfortable place for a passenger. However, not all avid travelers prefer the class of luxury tourers and tourers in general.

It’s just that many bikers are attracted to off-roading, and this requires a touring enduro.

Among the disadvantages of the model, some difficulties in maintenance are noted. This is due to the fact that the motorcycle ceased to be produced in the last century, and thirty years will soon pass since then. Therefore, it is not so easy to get spare parts for this equipment, especially in good condition. This is mentioned in almost every review.

As for maneuverability, then, of course, they note some clumsiness of the car. For this reason, it is advised not to accelerate too much on such equipment. According to the description of those who often ride this bike both in urban environments and on the highway, it is possible to move around in the city, but not particularly convenient. However, this is natural, given the gigantic dimensions of this bike. It is designed for a spacious track.

In conclusion, the Yamaha Venture Royale is a bike that copes well in different conditions. However, it is not intended for off-road use, and this should not be forgotten. The model is suitable for traveling along the highway with two people and with small luggage.

Comparison with analogues and competitors

One of the analogues of equipment from the Japanese manufacturer is the BRP Lynx snowmobiles. They are designed for prolonged use and operation at extreme sub-zero temperatures. In any conditions they demonstrate reliability and practicality. The model range is distinguished by high-quality assembly, high power and the ability to maneuver.

The Yamaha Venture snowmobile is a reliable vehicle that can compete with many travel devices. The main opponents of the Japanese line are the Polaris 550 Indy LTX, 550 IQ LTX and 600 IQ LTX. American vehicles are inferior to Yamaha in power, but perform better in deep snow.

Polaris equipment also benefits in price. The cost of the 550 Indy LTX touring model is approximately 650 thousand rubles. But for the Japanese Ventura device you will have to pay from 1.1 to 1.3 million rubles.

There is also competition within the series. The devices in the line are similar, but there are still differences. The TF model handles better in deep snow, and the GT develops greater speed. Therefore, the buyer will have to choose what is more important to him.