BY STEVE HICKOFF
Okay, your significant other finally caved in. That’s the good news. You’ll soon own a brand new Yamaha Viking SxS (see details at the bottom of this post). Here’s how it will help you prepare for hunting waterfowl, deer, elk, moose and whatever else this fall and coming spring in the turkey woods – but how?
FOOD PLOTS: Plant it and they will come. Managing property is a big part of whitetail hunting in this modern world. The same holds true for digging pit blinds for waterfowl. Why not do it in comfort and style with heavy-duty potential?
Tech Talk-The Viking’s utility functions combined with Yamaha’s proven durability were designed for hard work, tough chores and long days in the field or on the trail. The rear steel cargo bed was purpose-built for durability and convenience. Large enough to carry a fully loaded pallet, the assisted dump bed can pack up to 600 pounds of equipment and supplies while the standard two-inch receiver hitch is rated to pull 1,500 pounds.
BIG GAME IN BACKCOUNTRY: You can go longer and farther to hunt big game others don’t. A rough-and-tumble ride might keep them away from some of the best action in the valley or on the mountain; not to mention hauling out meat quarters when you’ve closed the deal.
Tech Talk-The Viking’s chassis also contributes to its off-road capability with nearly 12 inches of ground clearance at the lowest point, a full steel/composite smooth skid plate front to back and side-to-side, and an optimized frame with up-turned side rails allowing for smoother transitions over obstacles. The Viking features light and natural-feeling handling in both the EPS and non-EPS configurations.
HAULING DUCK AND GOOSE DECOYS: Every hardcore duck and goose hunter knows getting vast investments of gear from the basement to the marsh is a big part of doing the job. The hunter who does it best often get the most action. Heavy loads are part of the deal.
Tech Talk-The Viking’s front and rear suspension outperform the competition even with heavy loads. There simply is no more secure feeling vehicle when tackling rugged terrain – especially at full capacity.
THREE’S NOT A CROWD: The three seats offer many options for hunting groups: two buddies with a guide or three hunters together. This feature is a game changer.
Tech Talk-The Viking’s exclusive pass-through bucket seating features a unique off-set center position (set 5 degrees back) that improves comfort with maximum shoulder room for all three occupants. This is the only vehicle in its class with three-point seat belts for everyone, plus headrests all around, adjustable handhold for both passengers and a textured floorboard with dedicated foot wells. Its seating position even provides for more head room than competitive models without sacrificing critical ground clearance.
All told, the Yamaha Viking boasts the most comfortable and secure seating in its class.
WHEN CAN I GET ONE? The all-new Viking EPS and non-EPS models will be available starting this August. Standard models come in Steel Blue, Hunter Green (with sun top), Red (with sun top) and Realtree AP HD camo (with sun top). The non-EPS models start at $11,499 MSRP while the EPS models start at $12,499 MSRP.
Find more details at www.YamahaViking.com
Follow Yamaha at www.facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors and www.twitter.com/YamahaOutdoors
Yamaha outdoors tips – how the new Viking SxS will help your hunting
