Very good job Corey, completely unbiased opinion. I'm an old die hard Yamaha fan, but switched over to Polaris after my third Rhino and being left in the dust by all my RZR friends. The Rhinos were bullet proof and I never have had a clutch cover removed, until my first Polaris. I presently have a 2020 Polaris General Xp, which I love. I've spent $1500.00 to have a Duraclutch put in it as well as a $600.00 Gillomen ECU re flashed ECU to rid the "misfire code" problems. Once I get my usual 10,000 miles on the General, I'll be switching back over to Yamaha again and hopefully they'll have enough aftermarket accessories available to fill my needs.
Excellent comparison. I've watched a number on RUclips, and this is the best. Didn't hear you mention the metal bed on the Yamaha vs. plastic on the Polaris, though.
Thank you for the information i have a trail model sxs but looking to move to the sport utility and have been looking at both machines! Not that the decision is any easier just got some helpful insight from an owner of both machines not just a reviewer getting to test ride both.
thank you for a very honest comparison...i am buying a rmax 2 seater and your imput has confirmed my choice ...notice in canada the LE is not available only the xtr ...yamaha considers us second class consumers i guess which is too bad...great video
Well done on the comparison... I bought the RMax not even looking at Polaris. I considered it like buying a quality tool, and Polaris wouldn't match the Yamaha long term.
Kudos on your video, had seven Polaris machines only sxs was a rzr, bought wolverine X2 850 for price $14,000 generals are 1000 engine but start at over $20,000 both are great units and both would benefit from minor improvements enjoy your riding
I want American made! I really thought that, but...... I am looking to get a sxs and atv and Yamaha is really what i want; maybe Honda atv; I like Honda also; Polaris just dont get it; I hate plastic racks and too many recalls
Great review and I love yamaha too. But purchased my first Polaris for Christmas, 2021 General XP 1000 4, Limited Edition Factory Build. I really wanted a large 4 seater with a dump bed but the performance of a Rzr. Not worried about the length as much here in Arizona and my toyhauler has a 16 foot garage. We will see how it holds up and performs for the next few years. Excited Yamaha joined the category and looking forward to Can Am and Kawasaki response.
You'll love it. I will always be a Polaris fan. For me the length wouldn't work, but for a guy like you that can get past that, the dump bed is great and the longer wheelbase will probably result in a smoother ride too.
I really enjoyed this well thought out comparisons on the General XP 4 and the RMax4. I love the durability of the Yamaha, the shorter length for the technical trails and the fit and finish, but I live In a nicer but older home and the RMax4 is too tall for my Garage Door. Alas, I will have to choose another model that will fit into my garage door opening. I wish the cage wasn’t so tall. I’ve been looking at the General, Rzr and RMax4
Solid information sir... I've been in the market for a side by side for the last few months... It's been difficult to locate different machines at dealerships due to chip shortage/covid production delays... If I was forced to get a CVT machine, the Yamaha Rmax definitely would be it... Although I just drove a yxz1000R (non SS) and my decision just got much harder... The CVT machines are just so mind numbing compared to the analog feeling one gets having actual gears... Unfortunately as much as I'd like having a clutch, I need something the GF can operate without burning up the clutch, so I'm looking into the YXZ1000R SS SE... Haven't driven a Talon or Pioneer yet, but those also looks interesting... It'll mainly be a fun trail blazing toy for us down here in Florida, so storage capacity isn't a biggie, but can at times be nice to have... The yxz1000R's storage "rack" can hold up to 300lbs, which should carry all my guns, ammo, and steel plates for days I use it for range duty if I buy an aftermarket rack... It's just not as convenient as having an actual rear bed area...
Awesome comparison, however I have to disagree with your comment on the active descent control. My Polaris sportsman 850 has the ADC with 2 wheel and 4 wheel engine braking and works amazing! Anyway I have been a Polaris guy forever and love them but probably leaning towards the RMAX.
I actually didn't know that the Rmax didn't have the turf mode. That seals it for me for the General. I use it 90% of the time like the reviewer. Also, the Polaris did address the weaknesses in the turf mode with a redesign in 2018 I think it was. If you're considering the General, look it up to make sure.
Excellent video. These two machines are very very similar and I test drove both. This is only my opinion and what I found out. YAMAHA Rmax (Likes) Power, 8 more HP, 10-year belt warranty, engine redline only 8500 RPM, easier to shift, pre-cut toggle switch spots, I Rank Yamaha one notch better for dependability, (Dislikes) No turf mode, Verry little center council room, I could not fit my cellphone and wallet in it, No outside door handle, if you put any type of window in it how do you open it? can't remove doors without losing your speakers, for farm use picking rock, again that won't pertain to anyone else, When you pull the ebrake but not hard enough and step on the gas it will still drive and wear out your ebrake. This happens to me when I let my Dad drive my things. Less radio reception, 5 oil plugs to change oil, 20 min, and 4 Qt. Not a fan of the shoulder pad. POLARIS GENERAL (Likes) The clutch and differentials for 2021 on the XP only was updated with a heavier duty drive system than the standard General, Easy door removal for 2 weeks out of the year for rock picking and stereo still works, 5 min oil change 2.5 Qt, Way more aftermarket acc, Very good stereo reception, 52oz bubba keg will fit inside the center council with the cover closed and huge storage under the shift council to add $25 soft carry bag, Turf mode differential will not tear up your lawn, Shoulder pad built into the door, (Dislikes) Not as smooth to shift, engine redline 9400 RPM These engines seem to over-rev a lot when not driving hard, Less dependable, My opinion only my Last Polaris Ranger lasted me 9 years and the only problem I ever had was a torn cv boot but I also Raced Motocross for Many years with Yamaha and they were bulletproof 4 strokes, ++++ I bought the General it checked my boxes better and I love it. Both machines are awesome. it was a tuff decision, The dealer is 10 miles from my house compared to 40 and I know the guys that work there.
All of the things you listed for the Polaris were just minor things and all of the things listed in favor of the Yamaha were major things so how is it a tough decision at all?
Wish I would have mentioned that the General 4 has a dump bed and the RMAX 4 bed does not. Won't matter for some, will for others. Nevertheless, a worthy distinction.
@@rodneytroyer2043 The 4 seaters sure. But comparable in every other way. That would be like saying you can't compare an f150 to a Silverado because one is a V6 and the other a v8. Or that you can't compare a mega cab ram to an f250 because ones cab is longer They are direct competitors. The 2 seaters are even closer. Certainly, both sport/utility class.
@@coachvonyo the closest thing in size and passenger capability would be the Pioneer 1000-5, but it isn't a sport machine. The coolest part for me about the rmax 4 is the size. It will ultimately go more places easier for exploring. Do a lot of woods trail riding here in the midwest.
@@rodneytroyer2043 yes, the convertible seating and wheelbase on the 4 is similar to the pioneer 5. But the rest of the machine lines up pretty well with the general XP.
Does anyone know if tipping or rolling over is an issue for the RMAX4 with 4 passengers? Due to it being shorter and taller than the General, I was curious if this has become a common issue/concern. I ask as back in the day, we used to ride with a guy who had an older Canam Commander 4 seater that would tip just about every time we were on an incline running horizontally. It was very top heavy with 4 passengers compared to every other machine-taking the incline like a champ. Rather scary for his kids and really a pain for all parties. It soon became an issue for someone else as he sold it as soon as he could. Any advice here would be helpful as I would prefer not to be that guy having to pick up my rig every time I hit a rut.
It is going to be more prone to tip than some other machines. But it is 66" wide and the majority of it's mass is low. With 2 passengers I would compare it to a Polaris General 2 seater in terms of tippiness. With 4 passengers that would make it a little more prone, but not dangerous or unpredictable. The vast majority of terrain it will be fine. If you find yourself at a super tricky obstacle you can't find a good line over, you could always have the kids get out at that point just for safety. If someone is having issues with this machine due to multiple tip overs, that is going to be rider error or just riding extreme trails that are beyond it's intended purpose.
Absolutely fantastic review!!! I've owned 3 Rangers and my current 2020 General EPS that we bought new has 7200 miles on it. We are looking at an update and the RMAX has always been on my radar... TURF MODE, TURF MODE, TURF MODE....come on Yamaha!! My question that I don't think you covered is in cab heat. It sounds like you have a 4 seater RMAX and possibly a 4 seater General so it may be tough to compare. We had a 2012 Ranger that literally melted the bottom of the seat it got so hot so we are super cautious about that. Any thoughts? Seems like where the engine is in the RMAX it would give off some heat more than the General. Again, thanks for this video you touched on so many points that I feel are super important to making a educated decision in purchasing one or the other.
Really well done Corey. I'm a first SxS shopper and really think the Rmax is a better fit for me. The big unknown is the importance of turf mode. I'll be doing a fair amount of pavement riding driving ( 1- 20 miles) at a time from home to the trails. Would you think lack of turf mode a concern? I don't know how hard that would be on drive line components. Thanks for your opinion
I do wish it had turf mode, but it's not a big deal as long as you can avoid full lock type turns. General turning you'd do driving down the road isn't a problem.
My Yamaha Wolverine X4 saw about 50/50 pavement dirt. I was at over 11K miles when I sold it. I have pictures of my diffs if you look up my threads on Wolverine Forums. Mobil 1 75w90 along with Gear Butter and the gears look brand new.
I have been in the market for a new SXS I owned a Polaris I did install a Dura clutch great machine. I bought a Teryx LE it is a POS, I have looked at the Yamaha because of the Polaris catching fire at random what do you know about the fires??
Pretty similar honestly. The Rmax 4 feels a little heavier than the General 2. But I recently got to spend some time in an Rmax 2 and that was right on par weight feel wise.
Yamaha dependability over Polaris all day. In an off-road machine, I don’t need turf mode. I want true lockers and to get where I’m going. That Yamaha will be running for years longer than a Polaris
There is easier out there, but the short wheelbase is partly to blame. Getting in around the shoulder bolster is a minor annoyance at best for me. But I'm OK with it due to the safety it brings. The back seats are easy for kids to get in and out of, a little tougher for adults. But once you learn where to grab, pull, and slide your rear, it's really not a big deal.
@@brianhill4995 went to purchase a brand new 2021 General, plastic gaps the size a large canyon, driver door refused to open... no thanks Polaris, came home with the RMAX!!!
I finally got my hands on an RMAX2. Checkout my thoughts here: ruclips.net/video/9mwEOcrRLVY/видео.html
Probably the best comparison video without either machine being in it. Good job ;)
I listened to every word which for me is rare. Very well spoken and I feel honest review. Thanks!!!
Dude. Yamaha. More power. More suspension more quality. Same price. No brainer
Very good job Corey, completely unbiased opinion. I'm an old die hard Yamaha fan, but switched over to Polaris after my third Rhino and being left in the dust by all my RZR friends. The Rhinos were bullet proof and I never have had a clutch cover removed, until my first Polaris. I presently have a 2020 Polaris General Xp, which I love. I've spent $1500.00 to have a Duraclutch put in it as well as a $600.00 Gillomen ECU re flashed ECU to rid the "misfire code" problems. Once I get my usual 10,000 miles on the General, I'll be switching back over to Yamaha again and hopefully they'll have enough aftermarket accessories available to fill my needs.
That was the best review I've ever seen great job!!
Excellent comparison. I've watched a number on RUclips, and this is the best. Didn't hear you mention the metal bed on the Yamaha vs. plastic on the Polaris, though.
Thank you for the information i have a trail model sxs but looking to move to the sport utility and have been looking at both machines! Not that the decision is any easier just got some helpful insight from an owner of both machines not just a reviewer getting to test ride both.
thank you for a very honest comparison...i am buying a rmax 2 seater and your imput has confirmed my choice ...notice in canada the LE is not available only the xtr ...yamaha considers us second class consumers i guess which is too bad...great video
Great info. Helped me out a lot.
Great video brother lots of help!
Well done on the comparison... I bought the RMax not even looking at Polaris. I considered it like buying a quality tool, and Polaris wouldn't match the Yamaha long term.
Kudos on your video, had seven Polaris machines only sxs was a rzr, bought wolverine X2 850 for price $14,000 generals are 1000 engine but start at over $20,000 both are great units and both would benefit from minor improvements enjoy your riding
Lol...for me it was a no brainer. Considering all aspects the RMAX wins hands down! Hands down!!!
I want American made! I really thought that, but...... I am looking to get a sxs and atv and Yamaha is really what i want; maybe Honda atv; I like Honda also; Polaris just dont get it; I hate plastic racks and too many recalls
Great review! Thank you!!
Very good comparison!
Great review and I love yamaha too. But purchased my first Polaris for Christmas, 2021 General XP 1000 4, Limited Edition Factory Build. I really wanted a large 4 seater with a dump bed but the performance of a Rzr. Not worried about the length as much here in Arizona and my toyhauler has a 16 foot garage. We will see how it holds up and performs for the next few years. Excited Yamaha joined the category and looking forward to Can Am and Kawasaki response.
You'll love it. I will always be a Polaris fan. For me the length wouldn't work, but for a guy like you that can get past that, the dump bed is great and the longer wheelbase will probably result in a smoother ride too.
Outstanding video. Thank you very much!
I really enjoyed this well thought out comparisons on the General XP 4 and the RMax4. I love the durability of the Yamaha, the shorter length for the technical trails and the fit and finish, but I live In a nicer but older home and the RMax4 is too tall for my Garage Door. Alas, I will have to choose another model that will fit into my garage door opening. I wish the cage wasn’t so tall. I’ve been looking at the General, Rzr and RMax4
great input, I'm currently shopping for a rmax4 1000!
Solid information sir... I've been in the market for a side by side for the last few months... It's been difficult to locate different machines at dealerships due to chip shortage/covid production delays... If I was forced to get a CVT machine, the Yamaha Rmax definitely would be it... Although I just drove a yxz1000R (non SS) and my decision just got much harder... The CVT machines are just so mind numbing compared to the analog feeling one gets having actual gears... Unfortunately as much as I'd like having a clutch, I need something the GF can operate without burning up the clutch, so I'm looking into the YXZ1000R SS SE... Haven't driven a Talon or Pioneer yet, but those also looks interesting... It'll mainly be a fun trail blazing toy for us down here in Florida, so storage capacity isn't a biggie, but can at times be nice to have... The yxz1000R's storage "rack" can hold up to 300lbs, which should carry all my guns, ammo, and steel plates for days I use it for range duty if I buy an aftermarket rack... It's just not as convenient as having an actual rear bed area...
Great video Yamaha all the way
Awesome comparison, however I have to disagree with your comment on the active descent control. My Polaris sportsman 850 has the ADC with 2 wheel and 4 wheel engine braking and works amazing! Anyway I have been a Polaris guy forever and love them but probably leaning towards the RMAX.
Buying now. Just rode both for three days in WV. Yamaha wins. Thanks for the video
I asked myself the same question. I am going with the Yamaha!
How does maintenance compare, like the ease of changing the fluid & sheave maintenance?
Yamaha for the clutch design, overall build quality and resale value.
Yamaha just is better quality & longevity! I mean the give a 10 year belt/clutch warranty ! That says alot
1st time I have bothered to comment on a you tube video , but I had to say great job !!
I actually didn't know that the Rmax didn't have the turf mode. That seals it for me for the General. I use it 90% of the time like the reviewer. Also, the Polaris did address the weaknesses in the turf mode with a redesign in 2018 I think it was. If you're considering the General, look it up to make sure.
Excellent video. These two machines are very very similar and I test drove both. This is only my opinion and what I found out. YAMAHA Rmax (Likes) Power, 8 more HP, 10-year belt warranty, engine redline only 8500 RPM, easier to shift, pre-cut toggle switch spots, I Rank Yamaha one notch better for dependability, (Dislikes) No turf mode, Verry little center council room, I could not fit my cellphone and wallet in it, No outside door handle, if you put any type of window in it how do you open it? can't remove doors without losing your speakers, for farm use picking rock, again that won't pertain to anyone else, When you pull the ebrake but not hard enough and step on the gas it will still drive and wear out your ebrake. This happens to me when I let my Dad drive my things. Less radio reception, 5 oil plugs to change oil, 20 min, and 4 Qt. Not a fan of the shoulder pad. POLARIS GENERAL (Likes) The clutch and differentials for 2021 on the XP only was updated with a heavier duty drive system than the standard General, Easy door removal for 2 weeks out of the year for rock picking and stereo still works, 5 min oil change 2.5 Qt, Way more aftermarket acc, Very good stereo reception, 52oz bubba keg will fit inside the center council with the cover closed and huge storage under the shift council to add $25 soft carry bag, Turf mode differential will not tear up your lawn, Shoulder pad built into the door, (Dislikes) Not as smooth to shift, engine redline 9400 RPM These engines seem to over-rev a lot when not driving hard, Less dependable, My opinion only my Last Polaris Ranger lasted me 9 years and the only problem I ever had was a torn cv boot but I also Raced Motocross for Many years with Yamaha and they were bulletproof 4 strokes, ++++ I bought the General it checked my boxes better and I love it. Both machines are awesome. it was a tuff decision, The dealer is 10 miles from my house compared to 40 and I know the guys that work there.
Console, not council. ;)
All of the things you listed for the Polaris were just minor things and all of the things listed in favor of the Yamaha were major things so how is it a tough decision at all?
Wish I would have mentioned that the General 4 has a dump bed and the RMAX 4 bed does not. Won't matter for some, will for others. Nevertheless, a worthy distinction.
The rmax 4 is a totally different machine than the general in overall dimensions.
@@rodneytroyer2043 The 4 seaters sure. But comparable in every other way. That would be like saying you can't compare an f150 to a Silverado because one is a V6 and the other a v8. Or that you can't compare a mega cab ram to an f250 because ones cab is longer They are direct competitors. The 2 seaters are even closer. Certainly, both sport/utility class.
@@coachvonyo the closest thing in size and passenger capability would be the Pioneer 1000-5, but it isn't a sport machine. The coolest part for me about the rmax 4 is the size. It will ultimately go more places easier for exploring. Do a lot of woods trail riding here in the midwest.
@@rodneytroyer2043 yes, the convertible seating and wheelbase on the 4 is similar to the pioneer 5. But the rest of the machine lines up pretty well with the general XP.
i have only seen, not riden or driven a teryx but they seem pretty nice, we have a 2015 can-am outlander max xt 1000 2up in camo
Is it rough for kids riding in backseat of Rmax? Had a 2 sear commander with rear seat installed, was rough for kids. Hoping the Rmax is smoother
Way smoother. A little tight getting in and out for adults but doable. And once you're in it's great.
Does anyone know if tipping or rolling over is an issue for the RMAX4 with 4 passengers? Due to it being shorter and taller than the General, I was curious if this has become a common issue/concern. I ask as back in the day, we used to ride with a guy who had an older Canam Commander 4 seater that would tip just about every time we were on an incline running horizontally. It was very top heavy with 4 passengers compared to every other machine-taking the incline like a champ.
Rather scary for his kids and really a pain for all parties. It soon became an issue for someone else as he sold it as soon as he could.
Any advice here would be helpful as I would prefer not to be that guy having to pick up my rig every time I hit a rut.
It is going to be more prone to tip than some other machines. But it is 66" wide and the majority of it's mass is low. With 2 passengers I would compare it to a Polaris General 2 seater in terms of tippiness. With 4 passengers that would make it a little more prone, but not dangerous or unpredictable. The vast majority of terrain it will be fine. If you find yourself at a super tricky obstacle you can't find a good line over, you could always have the kids get out at that point just for safety. If someone is having issues with this machine due to multiple tip overs, that is going to be rider error or just riding extreme trails that are beyond it's intended purpose.
Absolutely fantastic review!!! I've owned 3 Rangers and my current 2020 General EPS that we bought new has 7200 miles on it. We are looking at an update and the RMAX has always been on my radar... TURF MODE, TURF MODE, TURF MODE....come on Yamaha!! My question that I don't think you covered is in cab heat. It sounds like you have a 4 seater RMAX and possibly a 4 seater General so it may be tough to compare. We had a 2012 Ranger that literally melted the bottom of the seat it got so hot so we are super cautious about that. Any thoughts? Seems like where the engine is in the RMAX it would give off some heat more than the General. Again, thanks for this video you touched on so many points that I feel are super important to making a educated decision in purchasing one or the other.
Next to none in the front, a little in the rear but nothing like say a Pioneer 5. Yamaha did a decent job diverting the heat.
Really well done Corey. I'm a first SxS shopper and really think the Rmax is a better fit for me. The big unknown is the importance of turf mode. I'll be doing a fair amount of pavement riding driving ( 1- 20 miles) at a time from home to the trails. Would you think lack of turf mode a concern? I don't know how hard that would be on drive line components.
Thanks for your opinion
I do wish it had turf mode, but it's not a big deal as long as you can avoid full lock type turns. General turning you'd do driving down the road isn't a problem.
My Yamaha Wolverine X4 saw about 50/50 pavement dirt. I was at over 11K miles when I sold it. I have pictures of my diffs if you look up my threads on Wolverine Forums. Mobil 1 75w90 along with Gear Butter and the gears look brand new.
I have been in the market for a new SXS I owned a Polaris I did install a Dura clutch great machine. I bought a Teryx LE it is a POS, I have looked at the Yamaha because of the Polaris catching fire at random what do you know about the fires??
I do know Polaris has had multiple fire issues over the years but I honestly don't know much about it or why it continues to happen.
How smooth is the ride of the yamaha compared to a rzr
Very similar to a rzr.
Did one feel more too heavy than the other?
Pretty similar honestly. The Rmax 4 feels a little heavier than the General 2. But I recently got to spend some time in an Rmax 2 and that was right on par weight feel wise.
Yamaha dependability over Polaris all day. In an off-road machine, I don’t need turf mode. I want true lockers and to get where I’m going. That Yamaha will be running for years longer than a Polaris
Yamaha
If you like noise, get the polaris
I hate the entry/exit on the Yamaha. Very hard for adults to get in and out. Sold my Yamaha Rmax-4 for that reason.
There is easier out there, but the short wheelbase is partly to blame. Getting in around the shoulder bolster is a minor annoyance at best for me. But I'm OK with it due to the safety it brings. The back seats are easy for kids to get in and out of, a little tougher for adults. But once you learn where to grab, pull, and slide your rear, it's really not a big deal.
Solution to the RMAX RPMs screaming: ruclips.net/video/lD9Y4v1jspk/видео.html
I’ve owned both! No comparison, Yamaha kills the Polaris!!!
Lol. Polaris is a pain in the ass to work on. WTF.
Polaris forever yamaha never !!!!!
You saying Polaris forever in the shop where as Yamaha your enjoying the ride?
@@brianhill4995 went to purchase a brand new 2021 General, plastic gaps the size a large canyon, driver door refused to open... no thanks Polaris, came home with the RMAX!!!