LETTERS AND QUOTES FROM CUSTOMERS:
LETTERS AND QUOTES FROM MEDIA:
“The Rhinos that travel in our group during club rides are very capable machines, agile and able to go anywhere a normal atv can travel. The longer wheelbase may require a bit of jockeying to make a very sharp turn, but on a very steep incline which had several ATVs rescued by spotters from going over backwards, the Rhinos had no such issues.
The current legal issue once again shows how the “Joe Public” mind set works.
(1) It’s not my fault for my bad decision & resulting injury or damage.
(2) Get a lawyer and sue whoever has the deepest pockets.
I have been surprised that we can still have silverware with points. I wish Yamaha the best of luck in defending your company and products against frivolous lawsuits.”
- Dennis A., President, (Vermont) Reading All Terrain Sportsmen Club
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“As an owner of the 700 Rhino, I find it to be one of the best off road vehicles ever. I have owned dirt bikes, 4 wheelers of different makes. The Rhino is as safe as the operator makes it. A person must operate it with sense, just like driving, motorcycles, cars, trucks, boats or your riding lawn mower. As I was saying the Yamaha Rhino is in a class of its own. Great UTV.”
- Wayne P.
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“It is so sad to see a greedy, money hungry society trying to “get rich quick” off the success of YAMAHA’s Rhino. We need a judge … to put an end to this nonsense and make the lawyers and their clients compensate YAMAHA for their expenses … If it does not get stopped soon, then what is next … ban a knife with a sharp edge because some idiot cut themselves with it?!”
- John C. from Maine
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“Yamaha is being victimized by lawyers yet again. I just returned from Dumont Dunes where there were thousands of Rhinos being ridden. Not one incident. If they were as dangerous as claimed by these lawyers, surely the ambulances would be busy. They weren’t. It’s sad when anyone is hurt or killed, but what ever happened to personal responsibility?”
- Chris B. from Nevada
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“I have owned my Rhino 450 Special Edition for over two years and have logged over 1000 miles and over 150 hours of use. I have traveled from elevations of 4000 feet to over 12000 feet and have traveled all sorts of trails and roads. With proper judgment I have never felt that the Rhino was a dangerous vehicle. I owned a Jeep for the past 50 years and I have felt more secure in the Rhino than I ever felt in the Jeep. Keep on manufacturing great products. I have owned 3 different Yamaha motorcycles and this current Rhino and have found Yamaha products to be safe with proper operations.”
- Richard D.
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“I own a 06 Yamaha Rhino. My family and I have used it in the dunes, forests and trails. It has safely run over 4500 miles with zero incidents.”
- Brian A. from Arizona
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“I’ve had my 09 700 Rhino for over a month now. I’ve put it through its paces while scouting for the upcoming deer season. As expected, it has performed flawlessly. It has surpassed every expectation I’ve had. It has never once tried to roll over with me. I’m a professional fireman/ EMT …”
- Chris M. from Louisiana
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“Please use a little common sense to judge whether the Rhino is doing what it is designed to do, or if the accidents are caused by drivers actually making the wrong decisions. I am pretty sure the Rhino will not actually do anything unless the driver asks it to do so.”
- James H.
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“I’ve been riding ATVs and motorcycles for about 20 yrs and I firmly believe that this is one of the safer OHVs out there.”
- Jonathan D.
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“I own a 2007 Rhino 660 and use it for rock climbing, trails, hunting, and sand dunes. I have 2700 miles on it without a safety issue or mechanical failure.”
- Kenny T.
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“We have had our Rhino 660 since 2004. We have never had any safety issues at all with our Rhino. We slow down, study the road and use extreme caution. If it’s too bad we don’t take it. In our opinion it is a very stable, safe vehicle. Rhinos are safe when used correctly and with caution and common sense, as is any vehicle.”
- Sue B. from Kansas
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“The Yamaha Rhino is a perfectly safe UTV when piloted according to the manufacturers specifications and age recommendations. Most incidents that occur-involving any outdoor sporting activity- happen when the operator of the vehicle performs maneuvers outside of his or her own capability or the capability of the machine. The Yamaha Rhino is a superb machine at the top of its class and should be regarded as no less than such.”
- David H.
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“It seems like this is the latest thing that lawyers have latched onto. We’ve all heard of other ridiculous lawsuits with other companies, the McDonalds coffee being ‘too hot’ as an example, and from what I’ve observed lawyers are just spreading untrue words to simply try and get their money without caring about what the consequences are to Yamaha and the riders of SxSs. I personally have driven a Rhino on almost a daily basis for the past three years and have experienced no safety problems whatsoever.”
- Alan N.
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“I am writing to commend Yamaha on their excellent product. Last week, on the first Saturday of Pennsylvania’s buck season, I helped my good friend and Yamaha Rhino owner recover a ten point whitetail deer from the bottom of a ravine, in a snowstorm. Conditions were challenging, to say the least. With his excellent driving skills and your rugged and thoughtfully designed Rhino 450, we negotiated the mile plus distance and several hundred feet in elevation, in 3 inches of still falling snow- in the dark. We took a measured pace, traversed the slope at an angle, and employed the appropriate safety measures. The buck was home and hung within an hour. Without the Rhino, it would have been an arduous task to recover the deer. Neither of us are so vigorous as we were in our youth, and we both have disabilities. Your excellent product allows us to hunt as hard and long as we ever did. Thanks a million,”
- Martin H. from Pennsylvania
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“My wife and I started riding ATVs a few years ago. After talking to friends we thought it would be even more fun to go with a UTV. We shopped around and kept hearing that the Rhino was best. We bought our ‘09 Rhino in March and love it. I’m amazed at how stable and safe the machine is. We follow all guidelines and have had hours of accident free rides.”
- Hollis D. from Utah
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“Thank you Yamaha for many great products, and yes, including the Rhino. I have worried about the bad press Yamaha has received recently. All for the lure of financial gain and because of a few misguided, unsafe operators. Yamaha makes great machines and I appreciate the time, R&D, and safety features that go into all their ATV products.”
- James D. from Maine
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“I own a 2007 Rhino 450 and it has been an awesome machine. I am 23 years old and have ridden my whole life. The machine is very impressive my buddies run built jeeps and the Rhino will do just fine with them within reason. No problems very impressed and very well built. Just drive with sense!”
- Brian W. from Ohio
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“I’ve had my 2004 Rhino since they first came out. We have had many hunting trips and just running around fun trips on this machine and no accidents. We follow some simple common sense safety rules and have enjoyed the Rhino on every trip. Great machine and I thank Yamaha for coming out with it.”
- Jeff S.
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“I am a parent, driver, motorcyclist and hiker. I am writing to support Yamaha against unfair lawsuits brought by people who misused a very well made and engineered product: the Rhino sxs. All sensible people know that you can hurt yourself in ANY vehicle if you are not reasonably careful. It is NOT the responsibility of Yamaha to ensure that people use it’s product properly. Yamaha’s responsibility is to build a well engineered, quality vehicle and advise people to use it safely, period. Thank you for giving Yamaha and other manufacturers a fair and impartial hearing.”
- Graham F. from California
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“My wife and I have really enjoyed the Rhino. With the busy lifestyle of jobs in separate towns, grown children with their own interests, we have found a common interest that is enjoyable. We believe the Rhino to be very safe. We use common sense in riding and the vehicle has proven to be reliable. I have been able to hunt in areas that I have never been able to even explore in prior years due to lack of a vehicle that would get me in these places. I would not trade this vehicle for any other side by side in the market.”
- Steve T. of Arizona
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“I love my Rhino… as does the whole family. We are responsible people and enjoy the sport. It is great to see Yamaha stand up and defend themselves. And don’t be fooled people – they are fighting for your right to recreate, not to sell more Rhinos!”
- Troy K. of Southern California
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“I recently bought a 2008 Rhino SE Midnight Armor edition. Before buying the Rhino I was kind of worried about all of the allegations being thrown at you guys. But having the reputation you have I decided to go ahead and get one. I am riding on my Rhino at least 5 out of 7 days of the week. To this day I haven’t had any issues with rollovers or even close to rolling over! I love the machine and think it is built near perfect.”
- Jonathon H. of Georgia
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“My company does accessory development for the power sports industry. When Yamaha contacted me to develop accessories for the Rhino we felt very privileged. I saw first hand what went into an accessory to make sure that it was safe for the driver and passenger. Safety was the number one concern. The Rhino is not the only unit we worked on accessories for Yamaha. And it did not matter if it was the golf cart, snowmobile, quad or dirt bike safety was always number one.”
- Joseph S. of Ohio
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“I have driven and been around Yamaha Rhinos since their inception and can attest that they are safe off-road vehicles with more than adequate protection when used properly.”
- Todd S.
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“The Rhino is one of the best off-road toys ever invented! It’s as safe as any other motorized vehicle used properly. Common sense and rider skill are what separates accidents instead of safe enjoyable operation. I’m right behind you Yamaha, thank you for standing up to the CPSC and not letting them banish such a quality product.”
- Brian S.
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“I just purchased a 2009 450 Rhino and have owned it for 2 months now. I’m in my early fifties with grandchildren and in a farm setting in SE MN. I like going on trails in the woods on old logging roads that we have cleared for horses as well as ATVs. This is the first off road vehicle my wife and I have owned and just love it. We have found so many uses for this in and around the horse as well as going to neighbors visiting. We watched the accompanying DVD along with the owners manual and the safety precautions were very well spelled out. If everyone would watch and read this material when they purchase their Rhino and follow it, I think most people with level heads would agree this instruction is all common sense for safety for themselves as well as their passengers and family. I think that the Rhino is a safe vehicle used within its limits. Any type of product be it vehicle to can opener can be mistreated and misused. If everyone would pay attention to common sense and better judgment then all of this would be of little concern.”
- Edward K. of Minnesota
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“All of my friends and I have Rhino’s. We have ridden thousands of miles. There was a day when people took responsibility for their actions. If you make a mistake while driving or drive too aggressively and you have an accident, it’s your fault! Where’s the personal accountability? The Yamaha Rhino is the top performing, most reliable, and safest machine on the market today!”
- Aaron S. of Utah
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“I am a responsible Rhino driver. I never drive my Rhino under the influence of drugs or alcohol nor do I let underage children drive my Rhino. I can’t help that there are individuals out there who act in a foolish way while driving their Rhino. However, it really upsets me that the actions of these people may have an impact on enjoyment that I get from my Rhino.”
- Joseph C.
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“Used as it was designed my rhino is as safe as any offroad vehicle can be. Driver error and misuse are the causes of 99% of all problems.”
- Mike W. of Nevada
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“I have ridden motorcycles and ATVs since I was 10 years old. I have owned and driven a rhino for almost 3 years. I have to say I am truly saddened that Yamaha or any other quality manufacturer is held responsible for personal injuries to individuals that have no one else to blame than themselves. These machines are very safe if driven the way they were designed. These machines are sold with owner’s manuals and safety decals all over them. If you are injured on one these machines you either can’t read or have no common sense. I love the Yamaha Rhino and they should be applauded for such a Great, Safe, Durable and Fun machine.”
- Craig A. of Illinois
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“I support every aspect of Yamaha. The Rhino side by side is one of the best off road vehicles I had own in years. I love it! Accidents do happen. But we just have to take extra precautions when using these type of vehicles. Along with any other motor vehicle on the road as well.”
- William G. of Michigan
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“I owned a Grizzly for 6 years and then because of back problems could no longer ride. Not wanting to give up my love for the outdoors, I purchased a RHINO. This was the best decision I could ever have made. My wife and I are absolutely thrilled with it. It takes us places wherever we want to go in a fashion we were not able to do before, side-by-side. I have never had any issues with the Rhino, and I regard it as a tremendously safe vehicle when used in accordance with Yamaha’s recommendations.”
- Don R.
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“I love my RHINO. In my opinion, there is no better sxs on the market. I’m also a career firefighter and emt. If you respect the vehicle and the terrain around you, then there’s no problem at all.”
- Chris M. of Louisiana
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“I have owned and been proud to drive my 2007 Yamaha Rhino 660. I believe that Yamaha has built the best SideXSide on the market and I stand behind Yamaha.”
- William D. of Tennessee
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“I purchased my Rhino in 2006. It has been the best off road vehicle I have ever owned and I have owned a lot. It is by far safer than any four-wheeler or motorcycle. My Rhino has been extremely dependable. I ride it in extreme conditions and it has never let me down. When the next model is released I will be inline to get one.”
- Phil R.
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“Just wanted to express the sadness that greed causes. These machines bring a lot of smiles to responsible owners on a daily basis. Whether it is operating, accessorizing, or even paying for a Rhino (in these economic times, a sense of having a non necessity keeps us going) these safe, in the proper hands, forms of fun MUST exist. Thanks again for all the good times!”
- Taylor T.
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“I have been riding off road vehicles for over 40 years and I have owned two Rhino’s. They are as safe as they come. Yamaha has gone above and beyond to make these a safe vehicle. If you loose respect for anything bad things can happen. This is no fault of Yamaha. When are people going to take responsibility for their own actions. CBS news should be ashamed of their lack of factual reporting.”
- Cary K. of Phoenix
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“This has got to be the safest ATV I have ever used. The availability of seat belts and the roll cage makes this unit very safe. I enjoy my 450 Rhino for work and find it the best unit I have ever owned. Anyone who endangers himself with one of these is not using common sense.”
- Rod Z.
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“I have had 2 Rhinos and I have really enjoyed riding and playing on my SxS. I have really put this machine in some really rough places with no problems at all, I am a member of a side-by-side club who really enjoy riding the Rhinos. I believe most of the negative comments is because of bad info and people being stupid and not riding within their limits. Like anything you buy if you don’t operate it correctly then accidents could happen. I take a chance everyday when I get into my vehicle and go to work everyday. Accidents do happen sometimes but we have to take some of the responsibility for the way that we ride them.”
- Cameron P. of West Virginia
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“I have owned a Rhino 660, for the past 3 years and have had NO incidents with the unit. It is the best utility vehicle that I have seen in use. I have neighbors that own competitors products and I feel that the Rhino is far better than their UTVs. I would buy one again when I’m looking to replace the current unit.”
- Tom K.
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“I have a 2009 Rhino. We ride it almost every weekend at our ATV club. some of our trails are extreme. My rhino travels safely on every trail. As far as my family, The Yamaha Rhino is the safest, most fun ATV/UTV on the market today. We own 5 Yamaha ATV’S. All of our ATV’S are stock machines. Thanks YAMAHA, Keep up the good work.”
- Gary C.
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“I have had my Rhino for little over a year and have 0 complaints about this vehicle. I have had my Rhino in extreme off camber situations and have never come close to flipping mine. I always observe the safety recommendations as well as use common sense. To think that Yamaha should be responsible for peoples ignorance and misuse of their product is preposterous. The simple fact is this is the most versatile UTV on the market and I look forward to seeing what else Yamaha brings to market.”
- Corey D. of Tennessee
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“First, to address Yamaha safety. In regards to the Rhino I can say that their machine has been produced with as much and more for features to ensure a safe ride. Now for safe riding. When I hear of any incident involving an ATV of any kind the root of the problem has always been human error. Some mistake in judgment has occurred. Alcohol, personal safety equipment not worn, inexperience, or riding a machine which is over powered for the size of rider, or unsupervised younger riders. This also extends to the lack of proper maintenance by owners for their machines.”
- Charles W. of Alberta, Canada
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“I have lost all respect for CBS news over the Yamaha Rhino issue due to your biased opinion that is untrue and unfair to Yamaha Motor Corp.. The Yamaha Rhino is in my opinion as safe if not safer than any other off-road vehicle. When it comes to off-roading weather it be a Yamaha Rhino or any other vehicle it takes common sense to get you home safe not abuse and neglect.”
- Donald D.
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“Looks to me like just another case of bias, unjustified, and irresponsible reporting from the media with CBS at the helm this time. Sorry, Walter, but in my opinion today’s reporting by CBS is nothing more than a tabloid on television. Good luck, Yamaha.”
- A Satisfied Rhino Owner
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“I have been a loyal Yamaha owner and operator since well before the Rhino was introduced. I take personal offense to the piece about the Rhino that was aired on the CBS Evening News. I feel that Yamaha has more than done what is required to make their vehicles safe. Anything can be miss-used for a way that it was not intended. Shame on CBS and Shame on The Lawyers that push for media coverage like this.”
- James K. of Michigan
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“I am a motorsports dealer in Idaho so I’ve been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to use the Yamaha Rhino since they first came out. I can honestly say that this is one of the finest products I have ever seen. They are an extremely reliable and very safe unit
My buddies and I have put the Rhinos through their paces like you cannot believe in extremely rugged terrain and very, very challenging conditions. It also makes an incredibly useful tool on the ranch. It’s a true crossover machine.”
- Steve G.
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“Like many things in our society, you must follow the law and manufacturers guidelines in order to be safe. This includes cars, motorcycles, medication, physical fitness, and riding a Rhino. As a citizen of a free nation, it is important that people have the freedom to choose how to live life. A gun is not dangerous if used properly. A car is not dangerous if used properly. Both are legal and yet you can find examples of people being injured or killed from improper use. Nobody is suggesting getting rid of cars and there really is no need to attack this industry. It is actually costing hard working citizens extra money simply because these companies have to constantly defend themselves against those who think they need to control society.”
- Jon K.
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“I love my Rhino, I use it to plow my yard in the winter and tow a mower in the summer. All my friends and family enjoy it as much as I do. Not once have I felt unsafe in my Rhino and I think it’s a great product.”
- Timothy B.
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I have owned my 660 Rhino for over a year. My wife and I hunt some of the roughest mountain land in north Alabama. Lots of rocks, washouts, and logs to cross. We have never had a close call or a time we felt unsafe while riding in our Rhino. We have over 25 years riding ATV’s and SXS’s and the Rhino is the safest hunting vehicle we have ever owned. THANKS for building this product.
- Bill M. of Alabama
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“I purchased my 2007 Rhino 660 for safety. After researching all the available vehicles, I found that the Rhino was my safest option to enjoy offroading. During the past two years of use, I have never felt that the vehicle was unsafe, in fact, I find it to be the opposite. The Rhino has allowed my family the opportunity to explore this great country in ways I never would have prior to the purchase.
We always wear our seatbelts and helmets, and never attempt anything over our abilities. If you are thinking about purchasing a Rhino, I say “do it” if you are willing to be responsible.”
- Victor K.
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“We have owned our Rhino since July of 04. It has been a great machine. Can’t say enough good things about it or the service Yamaha has provided. Seems like almost every trip out it impresses some one new. I will stand behind it. Nothing yet in my opinion fits as well in the capabilities as our Rhino. It never fails to amaze with what it can do safely.”
- Tim W.
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“As a Pro UTV Racer, Yamaha Rhino, I can tell you from riding quads, motorcycles and now UTVs, the Yamaha Rhino is one of the safest vehicles I have ridden. As any vehicle, you need to use common sense and protection when operating.”
- Brady W.
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“I would just like to show my support for the Yamaha Rhino vehicle. I have owned a 2004 Yamaha Rhino 660 for a couple years now, and find that it is an extremely reliable and safe vehicle to use.
In my experience, anyone who flips this machine over and injures themselves, should take into consideration, the fact that they probably caused the roll-over due to their inability to drive such an agile and maneuverable machine. I sympathize with anyone who has seriously injured their self while driving a Rhino, but after owning one and using it in many different situations and terrains, I do not believe that this vehicle is any more dangerous than the safest automobiles that we all drive down the road with every day of our lives.
I have used my Rhino for hauling firewood, dragging trees, plowing snow, and trail riding. Never once have I felt like Yamaha built this product with unsafe handling characteristics.
Thank you Yamaha, for building the vehicle that the industry needed and is obviously happy and safe with.”
- Ben H.
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“I would like to start by thanking Yamaha for producing such wonderful products. I have owned 4 Yamaha sport quads; 2003 Raptor 660 LE, 2005 Raptor 350 LE, 2007 Raptor 700 SE, and a 2007 Raptor 350 SE. They have been excellent machines and have never given me any problems. My father came to me a little over a year ago and asked what the best all around side by side ATV on the market is. He wanted a machine that was capable enough to ride our trails and keep up with the sport quads yet it needed to be a rugged workhorse as well. Without hesitating I said the Yamaha Rhino 700. My father being a conscious consumer, as we all need to be these days, wanted proof that the Rhino is the best and began to research all the side by sides. Sure enough after about 3 months of research and testing various machines the Rhino without a doubt was the machine to have. Again, thank you for producing such a great product!
Please continue the great work and producing products that are far superior to anything else on the market. Don’t ever stop doing what you do best! I look forward to purchasing future Yamaha products.”
- Steven E.
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“I have owned a 2009 Yamaha Rhino for over 18 months, logging over 500 miles of some of the most difficult terrain Utah has to offer. I have done no modifications to the vehicle. The Rhino has performed flawless, without showing any signs of the instability that people have claimed. The individuals I ride with have a variety of side by side machines, including Polaris, Kawasaki and Yamaha, and it is the consensus of all the owners of the side by side machines, that drivers are the most significant factor in causing accidents. Common sense and reviewing the manufactures safety material provided when the vehicle is purchased will go a lot farther in preventing injuries and death than another government agency trying to legislate intelligence.”
- Denton J.
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“I purchased a Rhino 700 EFI in 2008. I have been very pleased with the Rhino. My wife is in a wheel chair because she can’t walk good. I feel very safe riding her on trails in the Rhino. I have never or would never put her in any bad situations. I rode many other SxS and the Rhino felt the safest. Thanks Yamaha for building such good ATVs and SxS.”
- Ron
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“Hello, my opinion is if you care about your fellow riders in the Rhino with you, you will follow all the safety recommendations and force them to or get out … As you can tell here Yamaha has my full support on this issue and if needed I would stand in court telling my opinion and experiences if asked to do so.”
- Donald from Tennessee
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“I am the owner of a 2006 Rhino 660 c/w doors & passenger handle. This vehicle performs fantastic & navigates some pretty rough terrain in Eastern Canada 12 months of the year. Not once have I felt unsafe in my Rhino, in fact it handles far better than some atv’s that I have owned. Owners must ride responsibly & within their abilities.”
- Roger of Porters Lake, Canada
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“I have been an avid off roader since the age of 12. I am now 38. I have raced everything from quads to unlimited class race cars in Baja. I own a Rhino and can say as a professional (off road race car driver/ Crew Chief/ fabricator) that the Yamaha Rhino is perfectly safe, reliable and well built. When an individual pushes any vehicle beyond it’s limit an accident will happen and the fault lies with the operator. Holding any manufacturer or distributor liable for the misuse of their product is nothing short of fraud and should be dealt with accordingly.”
- Bryan B.
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“I’ve owned my Yamaha Rhino for almost 2 years and I love it. I’ve driven over, under, and through some of the craziest terrain you have ever seen and the Rhino performs perfectly. These machines are awesome, but it is a machine. Just like your car requires a level of intelligence so does the Rhino. There are clear safety guidelines on the Rhino and in the manual. If you choose not to read or not to follow them you do so at your own risk.”
- Josh R.
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“I am a Rhino owner, and have owned two Rhino’s starting in 2006. I think the Rhino is a safe and well designed motor vehicle that allows its owners the possibility of enjoying the great outdoors. I have never had a problem with a rollover, or other accident with either of our Rhino’s. I have even competed in organized off road racing events with our Rhino’s, and they are safe, and well built. They need to be driven responsibly, like any off road motor vehicle. I think the CPSC should be able to see through the secondary gain motives of personal injury lawyers, and not let the greed and corruption of our legal system influence their opinion on the Rhino.”
- Philip of Cedar City, UT
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“I have owned a Rhino since 2005, and have taken it many places in AK hunting, The vehicle has been totally reliable and safe if operated in the manner in which it was designed. The machine has been very stable and a good workhorse…Please consider the impact on the good citizens who operate these machines when you take any action.”
- Harvey Z. in Alaska
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“I am writing this message to inform those that the Yamaha Rhino is very safe and a great machine. Since I purchased my Rhino on January 2008, I have never had an issue with my Rhino flipping or tipping over. Not only have I driven my Rhino, my younger sister and my wife have driven it. When I heard about the lawsuit against Yamaha because of the Rhino causing these so called injuries, I was shocked … Stop being irresponsible and take responsibility for your own actions. As far as Yamaha goes keep the great work there are a lot of us that stand behind you and your great work.”
- Jeremy of Midland, MI
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“I have 2006 Yamaha Rhino SE and have used it for recreation purposes since I purchased it in 2006. During that time I have run it with a stock suspension and no wheel spacers with no issues. It has been ridden hard in all types of environments from sand dunes, high speed desert riding, through mud pits, and up steep rock hills and rock formations. Through out all of these environments my rhino has performed flawlessly and never tipped over. I am glad to see that Yamaha is finally putting something out to counter these smear campaigns by lawyers looking to capitalize on someone else’s misery … An operator cannot expect to just get behind the wheel and do what ever they want with out consequence. I drive my corvette and if I cut the wheel hard at 20 mph and punch the gas it will cause the car to spin around, it is no surprise that if you cut the wheel hard to the wheel lock on the rhino that it will tip over. When operating any vehicle that is new to you it is important to start slow and feel out the vehicles characteristics and limitations before deciding to push its limits. Yamaha, I hope you actively pursue fighting these charges to put future issues to rest.”
- Karl U.
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“I have been around motorized vehicles for the last 40 + years. In that time I have seen many of them attacked by lawyers/attorneys/Ralph Nader all because a select few didn’t know the limits of that vehicle. In turn that caused the person either driving or operating it to get severely hurt, or killed. Was it the equipment? No, it was and always will be the user. The problem I do have is parents letting little Johnny or Janey take these Rhinos out and let them drive them, usually alone. These aren’t toys. These are motorized vehicles. You wouldn’t give your car keys to an 8 year old, but no problem with letting them drive a Rhino. Wrong, very wrong … Is the Yamaha Rhino unsafe? NO, know not only the Rhino’s limits, but the operators limits also.”
- Scott R.
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“I have had my Rhino for 5 years now and love it. Not once have I felt unsafe or felt like I was going to tip over. I have taken my Rhino above and beyond the call of duty and it has performed awesome. I have been in the off road world for over 20 years and seen these attacks before there all the same kind of people that have no common sense.”
- Breven N., California
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“Thank you for your devotion to the sport of side-by-side motorsports. It is unfortunate that the minority has teamed up with lawyers and attorneys to justify someone’s irresponsible use of SXS vehicles. Motorsports in general presents plenty of potential risk, but it should be up to each rider to decide whether or not their skill level is adequate to operate a machine. It would not be appropriate or fair to change or take away a SxS machine because of irresponsible actions of some unfortunate riders.”
- Cory L.
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“I have had the opportunity to drive a Rhino and find them to be a very safe machine to drive as long as you follow the rules of the trails. I really enjoy the comfortable ride and passenger room. My next Yamaha will be a Rhino. Keep doing what your doing Yamaha. I have owned Yamahas for the last 6 years and would not drive anything else.”
- Paul B., New Brunswick, Canada
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“I’m the group host for Utah SxS Group. I have owned a 2008 Yamaha Rhino for the last 15 months. I have read many reports on the Rhino about how unsafe they are. Well in my opinion the unsafe part of a Rhino has to be the operator. I have NEVER had a problem with my Rhino on all the trails I have been on and I can say I have had it on some real tough trails. If I come to an area that looks like I could have a problem then I don’t take it. The most important part of the Rhino is the operator and some a few may need a tune up.”
- Gregory B.
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“I have been a Rhino Owner for over a year. It is the most amazing and practical vehicle for yard work, work around the estate and FUN we have ever owned. Thank you Yamaha for providing not only a practical but very safe and stable machine. I have never had one moment that I was concerned or thought we had any issues with safety. My wife, daughter, Son and friends all drive my Rhino and love it.”
- Michael K., New York
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“I currently own a 2008 Yamaha Rhino 700. I have put over 2500 miles on the machine. This machine, when used properly is no more likely to roll over than any other off road machine on the market. I have used it in as many off road applications as anyone can think of. I have had the back loaded with wood, going up and over hills, down rutted skidder roads and yet have NEVER rolled it over. I have heard stories of people rolling these over in flat fields. If this is the case than there is no other explanation other than operator error. If the operator is responsible, the Rhino is safe! Plain and simple!”
- Nicholas
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“I am a happy owner of a 2006 Rhino. I’ve ridden it in many areas along the eastern slopes of the Rockies which vary from deep muskeg to steep slopes. I have had no situations arise that would make me feel that the Rhino was an unsafe machine. It did what I made it do and nothing else. If the fact that a person can role a vehicle would make that vehicle a faulty one worth banning then all vehicles deserve this fate. I’ve seen them all over on their lids, from Porches and Vettes to Kenworths and Freightliners.”
- Michael T.
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“My family has had countless hours of Family fun in our Yamaha Rhino. We treat it with the respect that an off-road vehicle deserves. Safety is of utmost importance to me to keep my family safe, but it is very easy to make sure proper safety practices are followed every time the Rhino is used.”
- Travis from California
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“I have owned a Rhino for 3 years. I have pushed this incredible vehicle to the limit. Neither me or my passengers have ever suffered any injury. The Rhino has been reliable and a lot of fun.”
- Brad from Utah
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“The Rhino has more safety options then many vehicles on the road today.”
- Michael O.
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“I am a 38 year old male who has been riding motorcycles, 3-wheelers and 4-wheelers for years. With the introduction of the 2004 Yamaha Rhino, I immediately ran to my dealer and bought one. Soon after, I sold my 2002 Yamaha Grizzly. Since purchasing my Rhino, I have been all over the southeast riding in every terrain imaginable. My favorite type of riding is rock crawling in the Tennessee mountains. I have pushed the limits of the machine to the max and have never had any problems with safety. The Rhino is without a doubt one of the safest machines on the market.”
- Wesley
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“The Yamaha Rhino is a very safe SXS if ridden correctly by riders of age. It is not a toy and should be driven by adults not kids”
- Tommy
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“The Yamaha Rhino is a wonderful machine that does exactly what it was designed to do and does it well. It is a very safe machine when used properly and the warning stickers on the machine describe proper use. As with any motorized vehicle, it is meant to be used by sober individuals that are old enough to properly operate the machine.”
- Daniel
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“I purchased my first ever side by side last year when I bought a 2009 Rhino 700 DU Edition. After one complete season of waterfowling in northwest Tennessee, I am happy to report no problems with the vehicle whatsoever. This vehicle was used every weekend during the duck season and I found it to be very reliable and extremely safe to operate. I liken it to driving a standard car or truck in that if operated in accordance with the manufacturers suggestions, they are very safe.”
- Keith
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“The Government is insane going after Rhino’s. I’ve owned two of them so far and have pushed them hard. I’ve never had one issue with the Rhino’s, NOT ONE! They are no different than the Jeep I owned. If you roll one than you are pushing them FAR beyond normal use. I pushed mine to the point I expected to roll it and still no problem!
They are great Machines as is!”
- Craig A. Gagne
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“I have ridden many hours in Rhinos and do not consider the handling characteristics to be “flawed”. There is a risk of injury operating any vehicle … These risks are only managed by wearing the recommended safety gear and operating the vehicle within my own capacity, Ride safe and use your own good judgment in all situation is the best recipe to avoid disaster.”
- Patrick from Georgia
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“I have been riding dirt bikes, ATVs, snowmobiles, street bikes and now a Yamaha Rhino for over 38 years. I started when I was 6 years old. If I fell off my dirt bike or ATV and got a scratch or bump it was my fault not the machines fault. My parents and I always made sure we had all the proper safety equipment on at all times. I have raced dirt bikes and snowmobiles that are far more dangerous than the Yamaha Rhino. What I’m getting at is the driver / rider of any off road vehicle assumes the risk of getting hurt or injured.”
– John from Illinois
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“I 100% agree with the statements made by Yamaha! This is a QUALITY unit engineered to be a SAFE, enjoyable outdoor vehicle. Rider or driver error or lack of common sense is NO REASON to punish a company. Please stand behind Yamaha as a QUALITY company! They truly care about their customers and dealers!”
- Peter
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“I would just like to say that I personally think my rhino is very safe. All this hype about them being unsafe is crazy. I think it is absurd that Yamaha is even having to go through this. In the wrong hands a fork is dangerous but as long as you drive a rhino as the warning labels say you should they are completely safe. All it takes is a little common sense. It comes with seatbelts, grab bars made onto the rollbar, and doors.”
– Ryan
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“I have owned six Rhinos. I got one for my father, brother in-law and three of my friends. The Rhino is a solid safe family unifying product and always will be. Driver lack of experience and drunk driving hurts people, not some hypothetical mystery engineering flaw! … So go test drive a Rhino, (you’ll want one) and then go take it out with your family into our great wilderness. Enjoy your freedoms while you still have them.”
– Cameron from California
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“I am a manufacturer of aftermarket products for all of the side x side units built and I can provide proof that the Yamaha Rhino is the best built unit available for safety and fun. It always amazes me when we get to a new part that we want to build and we have to take apart a section of the Rhino to check fitment, that Yamaha has gone way beyond the call of duty in building a safe, fun machine that many people ought to try to see if they will enjoy it. We go to rallies and it is awesome to watch families that are closer together and spending time in the outdoors together because Yamaha has led the outdoor enthusiast to a great vehicle for having fun and/or doing work with on properties.”
– Jerry
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“I have found the negative press about the Rhino very upsetting. The Rhino and all UTV products existence are being threatened just like ATV products have been threatened over the years by a handful of irresponsible owners. It is a shame that the few that choose to act so irresponsibly and blame their actions on the machine, tend to ruin things for the majority of owners who obey safety recommendations and age requirements that all equipment of this type demands … Thank you Yamaha for making the Rhino!”
– Ben
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“I personally know someone who was injured in a Rhino rollover which is unfortunate but definitely not the Rhino’s fault. Neither driver nor passenger were wearing seat belts or helmets and made a sharp turn quickly on a wet surface.”
– Joel from Mississippi
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“… if the Rhino is operated as instructed by the manufacturer … then no mishap nor injuries should occur. That leaves inattention, stupidity or extreme bad luck as the probable culprits of an accident … Thank you for caring …” more
– Richard of Scottsville, VA
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“… We are intelligent enough to understand what the Rhino is designed for. Can it be tipped over if one tries hard enough? Probably the answer is yes. So can either one of our cars, or my tractor. It seems like people have ruled out personal responsibility; expecting a company to build a vehicle that does everything, in every arena, and not depend on any kind of common sense from the operator … I can say almost for sure that it will do it not from a design flaw, but from something that I have subjected it to that it wasn’t designed for …” more
– William of Florida
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“… It could easily save a life. For example, if you have someone under cardiac arrest at a remote deer hunting location or an accident on a trail within the state forest this might be the only way to get to them, and the extra seat would allow you to get them out with some level of comfort …” more
– Lt. Rita Frenzel, district supervisor, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division
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LETTERS AND QUOTES FROM MEDIA:
“… Here’s the point intentionally missed in the CBS “Investigative” Rhino report. It’s the same point missed with every attack on our sport or any other form of motorized recreation: RESPONSIBLE USE! Responsible use includes these elements. Always wear a helmet. Always use seatbelts in a SxS. Never allow children to operate any adult sized off-road vehicle. Never operate any off-road vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol …” more
- Matt Lester, All Terrain Vehicle Magazine
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“… We have been using Yamaha products and specifically the Rhino on a very regular basis for more then three years now and have NEVER had an incident or so much as a ‘close call’ with a safety issue. The Yamaha Rhino is a name Inside Outdoors TV is not only proud to stand behind but honored to stand beside and a product we will continue to promote to all of our family, viewers, friends, and ‘hunting buddies’, as safe and reliable …” more
- Dave Poteat & Tim Anello, Inside Outdoors TV
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“Having ridden virtually every UTV model in the industry, I am convinced Yamaha’s Rhino is at the top of the list for safety, stability and driver/rider protection. An excellent seat belt system and standard equipment doors for lower body protection are coveted safety features in the industry. In all of our testing, including hundreds of off-road miles on all types of surfaces, we have never encountered a situation where there was wheel lift, excessive yaw or danger from rollover. Used sensibly and with full rider gear worn, the Rhino is one of the safest vehicles imaginable for off-road applications, bar none.”
– Kent Lester from All Terrain Vehicle Magazine
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“… as someone who tests and rides every side x side produced, there is absolutely nothing faulty in the design of the Yamaha Rhino … 99% of Rhino owners use the product without incident, which statistically is a great track record for any product …” more
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Do you have a story about the Rhino that you’d like to share? Submit your story on the Contact Us page of this site or at info@truthaboutrhino.com.
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