2009 Rhino 450 Auto 4×4 is Tough and Capable Side-by-Side Vehicle
Yamaha Builds Powerful Value Into 450 Model; Available Starting June 2008
CYPRESS, Calif. – June 6, 2008 – Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., maker of the toughest, most off-road capable ATV and Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles, continues building the versatile Rhino 450 Auto 4×4 for 2009. This value-packed model is a great option for work or play starting at approximately $2,000 less (MSRP) than its big brother, the Rhino 700 FI.
The Rhino 450 4×4 is powered by a 421cc SOHC four-stroke engine – reliable with more than enough low-rev torque, fat midrange and serious top-end muscle to traverse even the nastiest of terrain. The powerplant also provides plenty of torque-filled punch down low as part of an extremely user-friendly powerband well-suited to any activity, be it work or recreation related. The Rhino 450 breathes life from a 33mm Mikuni BSR carburetor and high-output DC-CDI ignition offering great throttle response and excellent fuel efficiency – a highly desirable feature with today’s soaring gas prices. Engine noise is kept to a minimum with a durable stainless steel exhaust.
Getting the Rhino 450 started is as easy as turning an ignition key, and it also boasts Yamaha’s exclusive and ultra-tough Ultramatic® automatic transmission system with dual-range Hi/Low drive and reverse maintaining belt tension for reduced wear (eliminating “freewheeling”) and giving instant throttle response for industry-exclusive all-wheel downhill engine braking. The three-position On-Command® In/Out 4WD feature lets drivers switch between 2WD, limited-slip 4WD and fully locked differential 4WD with the simple push of a button showing why the Rhino is top-notch in the SxS utility category. With 11.0 inches of ground clearance and a fully adjustable and independent front and rear dual A-arm suspension, this Rhino offers more than 7.3 inches of travel.
An automotive-style brake pedal and hydraulic disc brakes provide unmatched stopping power. The parking brake is engaged by a lever located on the center console.
Creature comforts include a 12-volt accessory outlet, which is great to plug in a GPS, spotlight or even a cell phone charger. The Rhino 450 4×4 also offers padded bucket seats for off-road comfort. A digital meter on the dash board includes an hour meter function (operating only while the engine is running for accurate servicing), speedometer, odometer, dual trip meter, clock, fuel gauge and gear position display. A 7.9 gallon fuel tank allows for a full day’s ride. Grab handles and cup holders round out these great features, and rotomolded doors keep mud, water and trail debris off passengers. A tools-free air filter, located under the center console, easily snaps into place.
The cargo bed is capable of carrying 400 pounds of gear, and a standard two-inch receiver allows anyone to use the same pick-up truck hitch to haul and tow game or other toys. Tilt levers on both sides of the bed give added convenience for unloading.
The 2009 Rhino 450, arriving at dealerships starting in June, comes in Hunter Green and Red (MSRP $8,499) and Realtree™ AP HD® Camouflage (MSRP $9,049).
About Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS), a leader in the motorsports market, offers the toughest, most capable and versatile ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles. The company’s ever-expanding line of products also include motorcycles, outboard motors, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, boats, outdoor power equipment, race kart engines, accessories, apparel and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of more than 4,000 dealers in the United States.
Headquartered in Cypress, Calif., since its incorporation in 1977, Yamaha also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information on Yamaha, visit www.yamaha-motor.com.
SxS Vehicles are recommended for use only by drivers age 16 years and older.
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