Yamaha Rhino 450

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The Yamaha Rhino 450 is the "little brother" to the Rhino 660 model.  Only thing is that it's not really "littler".  In fact, the Yamaha 450 Rhino is almost identical in every way except for the smaller engine.  Same chassis, same body, same suspension, same running gear...  it's basically the same machine except for a smaller engine with a little lower overall gearing.  The result?  The Yamaha 450 Rhino tops out at around 36mph, while a stock 660 tops out around 42mph.  

Yamaha 450 Rhino Doing Farm Duty

The "450" is actually a 421cc liquid cooled, 2 valve engine.  It is a tried and true Yamaha engine design that has been around for many years.  It is reliable, adequately powerful, and a good match for the Rhino.  For those wanting maximum power and speed, then the larger engine of the 660 might be of interest.  But, for those wanting a machine with a rock solid engine and don't mind a little less top speed, then the Yamaha 450 Rhino is definitely worth considering.

Cattle Prefer the Yamaha 450 Rhino!

A smaller engine does not mean smaller work capacity.  In fact, the towing specs are identical at 1212 lbs, and the cargo bed rating of 400 lbs is the same again.  So, there is no compromise in the ability to work.  In fact, because of the slightly lower overall gearing of the 450, some have said that it has better low end grunt and pulling power.  So, if you are looking for a good work machine and don't mind a top speed of 36mph, then don't be afraid to choose the Yamaha 450 Rhino.  

Yamaha 450 Rhino Engine

The engine comes with an integral Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that is similar in design to what you find on snowmobiles.  The transmission ratios automatically adjust based on engine speed and torque.  Yamaha calls their CVT the Ultramatic.  One refinement to the Ultramatic design that is not found on all CVT's, is that it incorporates a one way clutch that provides downhill engine braking.  Some other CVT's allow the machine to coast and freewheel down hills.  The Yamaha Ultramatic controlled engine braking can come in very handy when descending hills.  In addition, the Yamaha 450 Rhino comes with dual disc brakes up front and a disc brake mounted to the rear driveshaft that slows down both rear wheels.  A very convenient and effective 4WD system helps keep the Rhino going under extreme conditions.  Under normal conditions, the rear wheels are locked together for efficient 2WD mode.  When the going gets tough, a push of a button engages the front wheels with limited slip differential action.  When the going gets really tough, the push of another button engages full 4WD lock - with all 4 wheels locked together for maximum traction.  The Rhino is very capable in difficult off road conditions.

Under the hood you will find the front mounted radiator with electric cooling fan, and also an engine oil cooler.  Cooling system reservoir, brake master cylinder, rack & pinion steering assembly, rectifier, and various other electrical system components also reside under the hood.  Flexible, strong polypropylene plastic is used to make the hood and other colored plastic body panels.  The rear cargo bed is made out of sturdy stamped steel, with plastic side skirts and a nice rubber mat for the bed.  The Rhino is well thought out, well designed, well built, and an outstanding machine!   

Under the Hood of the Yamaha 450 Rhino

As mentioned earlier, the 450 is more than capable of working.  But, that's not all.  It is also capable of some extreme off road adventures!  In fact, because of it's lower overall gearing, some people that have driven both the 450 and 660 say that the 450 has better low speed climbing ability.  Some have also said that it spins larger tires in the mud better because of the lower overall gearing.  In any case, both models are able to climb hills and traverse extreme off road conditions that are surprising indeed!  Fuel economy seems to be close to the same between the 450 and 660 - perhaps because of the lower gearing of the smaller engine.  However, there is a savings going with the 450... depending on the dealer, you can often save you around $1500 - $2000 over the cost of the 660 model.  So, if you want to save some money and don't mind a little lower top speed, then the Yamaha 450 Rhino is a great choice to consider!

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