Here's one that's been around for a while. We bought one brand spanking new when they first came out in 2001 and had a stiffie for a week. The other of the big four followed suite in the short years after. In fact, now that the others are out, this is probably the slower of the bunch. But let there be know doubt, this is a hell of a four wheeler.
Since they have been out so long, there is plenty to consider about them. Lets also remember that the 700cc version is out now. There are a few major pain in the ass things about these four wheelers. First is that major poor design starter clutch. I mean..c'mon Yamaha. You know they suck, build one that's worthy of this fantastic machine. Fear not, the aftermarket has built good ones but changing the starter clutch can be a PITA and they are fairly expensive so if you are looking for one used, be sure you pay attention to it. When they go bad, the starter sits-and-spins without engaging the actual engine to turn it over.
Next, the transmissions in these things (especially 2001) are known to be weak in the 2nd gear range. We found out first hand in using one of these engines on the MegaBuggy. Also in 2001, the gearing was very different than the years that followed. There was a pretty good separation in gear ratio between first and second gears. They changed the ratios from 2002 on up. A lot of guys will put the 2002 and up gear sets in the 2001 models but beware that this is an expensive mod.
Other than those two major cons, a raptor 660 is a stout machine. Excellent balance and a real joy to ride. Pretty comfortable and it has reverse too! You can usually pick up a decent machine for under $2k. Just gotta look for them.
Pros: Usually affordable and an all-round good machine.
Cons: Tranny problems and starter clutch problems all over. Had Yamaha made an effort to fix these issues earlier, we would have rated higher.
BuggyMasters Overall Rating: 6 out of 10
06-30-2010, 04:08 PM
BuggyMasters Review: Yamaha Raptor 660
yamaha starter
