Our ATV ESCAPE Yamaha Viking Test Machine 

Price- $12,999-$13,599

Price As Tested- $12,999

Mileage- 3

We at ATV ESCAPE recently asked Yamaha for a side-by-side to help with the chores around our Homestead headquarters, since managing land is an ongoing challenge. Some of the chores include working fence lines, cutting trees and brush, moving said wood and brush, towing trailers, and hauling ourselves to the locations that need attention. Yamaha obliged us by sending a Viking EPS that fits the bill for this kind of work.

Glancing at the Viking conjures up images of hauling stuff, pushing cattle around, or carrying hunting gear to a remote blind somewhere. In other words, looking at it leaves little doubt it is designed for work, which is exactly what we need. It comes with a 700-class engine that is rated to tow 1500lbs, haul 600lbs in its tilting cargo bed, carry three full-size adults comfortably, and go anywhere with its OnCommand 4WD system with diff-lock. The Viking is also supposed to be able some recreation riding, and I have wanted to take something like the Viking out on the trail to see if a utility/rec can really do the rec part well. We will see how it works and how it plays during our time with the Viking.

After picking up the Viking, I noticed a handful of things that jumped out at me, which I am curious to experience for myself. The first is the 3 individual seats with the middle seat set back for more shoulder room in the cab. The second is the noise level in the cab after driving it just a little around the property. Finally, I appreciate that all the Vikings come with a roof and grill guard already strapped on. So stay tuned to see how the Viking stacks up.