Yamaha has also added an air induction system for 2015, along with a new camshaft and cam profile, a new 10.0:1 compression piston, new connecting rod, new balancer shafts and a new muffler. These changes were certainly noticeable out on the dunes where power is a key factor.
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The 2015 Raptor 700R had plenty of power to climb all the dunes at Winchester Bay
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The Yamaha Raptor 700R has a heavy-duty flywheel that helps to provide plenty of power and tons of torque. We were able to climb the tallest dunes with no problem. With ample torque, the Raptor is a machine that you can lug with no problem. In some of the whooped out areas we dropped it into third gear and were able to almost come to a complete stop before the engine even so much as sputtered. This is an awesome thing for those that don’t like to continuously shift to keep their quad from bogging out and makes the Yamaha Raptor 700R very easy to ride.
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The 2015
Yamaha Raptor 700R features approximately
10 % more power from its fuel-injected
686cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC,
4-valve, single-cylinder engine. The
engine also received a new cylinder
head, increased compression ratio (10.0:1),
a new exhaust system, updated valve
timing and fuel injection mapping
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There are three models to choose from in the Yamaha Raptor 700 line up, the base 700 model, the 700R and the 700R SE. The 700R and 700R SE models come with upgraded shocks all around and we could certainly tell the difference. While jumping, the suspension soaked up the landing impacts nicely and helped give the machine a very stable feel in the turns, while still feeling smooth and plush in rougher terrain.
The 2015 Yamaha Raptor 700R also comes with new Maxxis front tires, with a size increase from 21” to 22”. We really liked the bigger tires, which reminded us of a cross-country style set up. The bigger front tires also contribute to a more comfortable ride and the flatter tread design improves the contact surface for improved traction in the sand and better handling. We think that these new Maxxis tires are a perfect fit for the Raptor 700R
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The front tires on the the Yamaha Raptor 700R were increased from 21" to 22" Maxxis Tires that contribute to better traction and control
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For 2015, Yamaha has also changed the chain on the Raptor from a typical T-ring chain to a DID X-ring chain. While the old chain style offered three sealing points to keep out dirt and grime, the X-ring design has four sealing points. This works great at keeping dirt out of the chain and vastly improves the durability and life of the chain especially in sandy conditions like at Winchester Bay.
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New DID X-ring Chain is also new on the 2015 Yamaha Raptor 700R. The DID X-ring Chain is stronger than the standard T-ring chain that came on last years model
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