This week, Yamaha Motor Canada unveiled its 2026 ATV and side-by-side lineup. True to its image, the Japanese manufacturer combined reliability, performance, and innovation while celebrating its 70th anniversary in the motorized sports industry.
The presentation highlights new models, special editions, and a clear intention to meet the needs of all types of riders: farmers, hunters, trail enthusiasts, or sport-performance fans.
The 2026 Yamaha Wolverine Family: Versatility and New Features
Wolverine X2 and X4
The Wolverine X2 and X4 return with their 847 cc twin-cylinder engine, known for smoothness and reliability. These compact and quiet models offer excellent value. The X2 comes with a hydraulically assisted dump bed, while the X4 offers foldable rear seats, perfect for group adventures.
Wolverine X2 1,000
The new star of the lineup, the Wolverine X2 1,000, combines the agility of the X2 with the premium equipment of the RMAX2 1,000:
- 999 cc parallel-twin engine, automotive-style cabin, and pre-wiring for the D-Mode system.
This optional feature on the Wolverine X2 1,000 is standard on the RMAX 1,000 XT-R. It allows the rider to select different drive modes depending on terrain and riding preferences, adding versatility to the Wolverine X2 1,000.
Wolverine X2 850 Utility: The Workhorse
A major Canadian debut, Yamaha introduces the 2026 Wolverine X2 Utility. Built for demanding tasks, this side-by-side inherits a Viking-inspired dump bed capable of hauling a full-size pallet and carrying up to 600 lb.
Its 2,000 lb towing capacity combined with a speed management system (limited to 40 km/h) makes it ideal for farms, sugar bushes, or worksites. It would have been interesting to see this model offered with the 999 cc engine as well. Perhaps this option will come in future years.
RMAX 1,000 2026: Yamaha’s Most Advanced Side-by-Side
The Yamaha RMAX 1,000 series remains the benchmark for sporty yet utility-focused side-by-sides. Available in two- and four-seat versions, highlights include:
- Ultramatic transmission with 10-year limited belt warranty;
- On-Command 4WD and Turf Mode for delicate terrain (lawns);
- Multi-mode electric power steering;
- 2,000 lb towing capacity and 600 lb dump bed.
RMAX4 1,000 and RMAX2 1,000
The RMAX4 1,000 focuses on family comfort with spacious four-seat layouts and a refined cabin. The Compact variant adopts a shorter frame for tight trails. The more compact RMAX2 1,000 retains its dump bed.
Interesting Onboard Technologies
The RMAX 1,000 XT-R variant features three-mode D-Mode (Crawl, Trail, Sport), a 7-inch Adventure Pro display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Upgraded FOX suspension and improved brakes complete the package.
Yamaha 2026 Models Available in Canada
- Wolverine RMAX2 1,000 Limited
- Wolverine RMAX2 1,000 Sport
- Wolverine RMAX2 1,000 XT-R
- Wolverine RMAX2 1,000 R-SPEC
- Wolverine RMAX4 1,000 Limited
- Wolverine RMAX4 1,000 Limited Compact
- Wolverine RMAX4 1,000 XT-R
- Wolverine RMAX4 1,000 XT-R Compact
- Wolverine RMAX4 1,000 R-SPEC Compact
Yamaha Viking 2026: Strength Above All
Designed for work, the 2026 Viking stands out with proven reliability. Powered by a 700-class engine, it seats three in a spacious cabin. Key features:
- Ultramatic transmission with 10-year limited belt warranty;
- On-Command 4WD system;
- Electric power steering;
- 1,500 lb towing capacity;
- Hydraulic 600 lb dump bed.
The complete Viking 2026 lineup includes
- Viking EPS Ranch Edition 2026 (Winter White)
- Viking EPS Steel Blue
- Viking EPS Tactical Green
Yamaha 2026 Sport ATVs: Heritage and Performance
70th Anniversary Special Editions
To celebrate 70 years of innovation, Yamaha launches special editions of the YFZ450R and Raptor 700R, featuring red-and-white liveries inspired by 1,990s–2,000s YZ motocross bikes and R superbikes.
YFZ450R 2026
A true race machine, the YFZ450R runs a 449 cc titanium-valve engine, a seamless aluminum frame, and long-travel suspension. Its clutch enhances precision while reducing lever effort, a real advantage for racers.
Raptor 700 2026
Known for power and versatility, the Raptor 700 continues with its 686 cc engine and hybrid steel/aluminum frame. The 700R version adds fully adjustable suspension for demanding riders. For younger riders, the Raptor 110 is designed for ages 10+, featuring a user-friendly CVT transmission.
Yamaha 2026 Utility ATVs: Grizzly and Kodiak
Grizzly 2026
The Grizzly 2026, a trail icon, returns with its 668 cc engine, electric power steering, and independent long-travel suspension. With Maxxis tires and hydraulic brakes, it remains the utility ATV benchmark. The Grizzly 110 introduces youth riders from age 10.
Kodiak 2026
Offered in 700 cc and 450 cc versions, the Kodiak emphasizes toughness and manoeuvrability. The Kodiak 700 carries the Grizzly’s engine in a more compact frame, perfect for job sites or tight trails. The Kodiak 450, with its 421 cc engine, provides a versatile and affordable mid-size option.
Shared Features
All Yamaha 2026 utility ATVs come with Ultramatic transmission and a 10-year limited belt warranty, On-Command 4WD, and dual A-arm suspension for added stability and comfort.
A Complete and Diversified 2026 Yamaha Lineup
With this new 2026 lineup, Yamaha covers all bases:
- Farmers and landowners will appreciate the Viking, Kodiak, and Wolverine Utility.
- Trail and adventure enthusiasts will lean toward the Wolverine X2/X4 and RMAX 1,000.
- Performance fans will get their thrill with the YFZ450R and Raptor 700.
- Yamaha also caters to youth with models like the YFZ50, Raptor 110, and Grizzly 110.
Balancing tradition and innovation, the Japanese brand once again proves itself a pillar of the Canadian ATV and side-by-side market. The first 2026 units are expected to arrive at dealerships by late September 2025.
Keep Reading
- Yamaha Grizzly: An off-Road Legend for Over 25 Years
- Yamaha Banshee 350: A Look Back at the Legacy of a Quad Legend
- Yamaha Wolverine X2: Evolution Without Compromise
- Wolverine RMAX4 1000 2025 Long Chassis: Yamaha’s New Trail Beast
- A New Twin-Cylinder ATV Soon at Yamaha?
- Manufacturer’s ATV Page
- Manufacturer’s SxS page
