What to Know About the Yamaha Blaster: Review and Specs

The Yamaha Blaster is one of the best two-stroke engines that the ATV world has witnessed. As a two-stroke quad, the Yamaha Blaster does a remarkable job as a trail and racing off-road vehicle, thanks to its 200-cc, reed valve engine, where the quad gets its power. Also, with its six-speed, manual transmission, the quad is known for its entry-level design, apart from its sporty features and decent power.

Even though the Blaster remained in the ATV arena for only a few years, this four-wheeler received a positive reception from quad enthusiasts because of its robust engine design. Additionally, this all-terrain quad performs impressively on any terrain. Whether you are clearing out dunes, muddy and wooded trails, or even areas with shallow water, this machine can get you across without a hitch.  

First released in 1988, the Yamaha Blaster grabbed everyone’s attention by storm simply because it works well for both first-learners and experienced riders. Apart from this, the all-terrain vehicle was cost-effective and could be upgraded easily. All of these features also contributed to the quad’s overall success.

However, like most of its two-stroke counterparts, the Blaster saw its end in 2006 after the EPA limited off-road vehicles to closed areas throughout the country. In response to this restriction, some owners started reselling their ATVs, which others are too happy to purchase because of the Blaster’s design and quality.

Moreover, the prevalence of Yamaha Blaster, coupled with the engine’s easy-to-rebuild nature, gave people the option to upgrade their quads. As a result, most of the Blasters seen today have mods in them. Not that it’s an issue, however, especially to those who own this quad or wanted to own one today. If this aftereffect is indicative of something, it’s that the Yamaha Blaster can cope up with the ever-changing needs of ATV enthusiasts, which contributes to its enduring legacy.

What Are the Different Models of the Yamaha Blaster?

Since 1988, Yamaha consistently manufactured Blasters up until 2006. No changes had been made to the overall design and features of the Yamaha Blaster during its entire production run. However, hydraulic brakes replaced the mechanical variant in 2003, which made the braking system more reliable and effective. Below is a list of the years of the Yamaha Blaster, along with their corresponding model numbers.

How Much Is a Yamaha Blaster?

Generally, like most quads, the value of the vehicle depends on its condition and the type of mods or upgrades received.  According to www.nadaguides.com, the price of a 1994 Yamaha Blaster would range from $350 to $2,250. On the other hand, a pretty used-up 1989 to 1991 Blaster could fetch at around $320 and $350, respectively. Meanwhile, a mint with low hours could range from $1,295 to $1,890 for the ’89 and ‘90 Blaster and $1,380 to $1,980 for the ’91.

Refer to the list below for detailed information on the list cost, as well as the low and average retail values of the following models of the Yamaha Blaster. The retail prices mentioned are based on www.nadaguides.com.

There are instances in which resellers may price their Yamaha Blaster at a higher rate as compared to the table below. The reason behind such an appraisal is that the quad has received upgrades and mods.

These aftermarket components may range from new plastics to a high-performing top end. For that reason, you’ll be wise to know if the quad you’re buying—whether it’s a Blaster or not—has received mods sometime in the past. That information can come in handy, especially if you decide to complement those upgrades with additional mods of your own.

Specifications and Other Features of the Yamaha Blaster

Engine

The Yamaha Blaster is powered by a two-stroke, single-cylinder, reed valve engine with an air cooling system. With a displacement of 195 cubic centimetres (11.9 cubic inches), the engine has a bore of 66 mm (2.6 inches) and a stroke of 57 mm (2.25 inches), which is delivered by a 26-mm VM26SS Mikuni carburettor. The Blaster has a compression ratio of 6.6:1.

Fuel

This quad uses premium unleaded gasoline with a PON grade of 90 and up or a RON grade of 95 or more. This type of fuel can prolong the lifecycle of the spark plug and be beneficial to the Blaster’s engine. The Yamaha Blaster has a fuel capacity of 2.38 US gal (9 litres) and a reserve tank of 0.53 US gal (2 litres).

Moreover, according to the 2011 Yamaha Blaster manual, in case the engine pings or knocks, it is permissible to use a different type of fuel. For that matter, leaded premium gasoline would be an ideal substitute.

Drivetrain/Transmission

With a 4×2 driveline, the Yamaha Blaster has a constant mesh, six-speed, manual transmission with multiple discs, wet-type clutch. Unlike most of its two-stroke counterparts, however, the Blaster does not have a reverse gear.

The quad uses a primary drive chain which transfers power to the rear wheel. Below are the different gear ratios of a 1997 Yamaha Blaster. In addition, the primary and secondary reduction ratios of the Blaster are 71/22:3.227 and 40/13:3.077, respectively. The following are the gear ratios of the Yamaha Blaster.

Lubrication

The Yamaha Blaster uses Yamalube 2-cycle engine oil. The required quantity is 1.37 US quarts (1.3 litres). Meanwhile, the recommended transmission oil is Yamalube 4 (10W30) or SAE 10W30 with an API service SE, SF, SG classification type or more. The total quantity of transmission oil required is 0.74 US quarts (0.7 litres) and 0.69 US quarts (0.65 litres) when conducting periodic oil changes.  

Ignition

A kick starter is what puts the Yamaha Blaster to life. This machine uses a capacitor discharge ignition (CDI) system and a magneto generator to power up its electronic components. The Blaster uses a standard NGK BR8ES spark plug. The main switch ignition serves more as the quad’s security measure rather than a starter system.

Suspension

The Yamaha Blaster has an independent double-wishbone for its front suspension with 7.1 inches (180.3 mm) of travel. Meanwhile, this four-wheeler has a swing arm link for its rear suspension. Like the front wheels, the rear also has 7.1 inches (180.3 mm) of travel, as well as a coil spring oil damper.

Both the front and rear suspension systems come with an adjustable fork preload, which enables drivers to adjust the height of the ground clearance of the quad. Plus, with a turning radius of 6 feet, this all-terrain four-wheeler can effectively manoeuvre around tight corners.

Tyres and Brakes

As per Yamaha’s recommendations, the stock Yamaha Blaster comes with tubeless Dunlop KT851A or Cheng Shin C873N AT 21 X 7-10 for the front wheels. The rear wheels, on the other hand, should be tubeless Dunlop KT895A or Cheng Shin C874N AT 21 X 10-8 for the front wheels.

The recommended tyre air pressure is 30 kPa (0.30kgf/cm², 4.4 PSI) and 25 kPa (0.25kgf/cm², 3.6 PSI) for the front and rear tyres, respectively. The minimal air pressure for the front tyres is 27 kPa (0.27kgf/cm², 3.9 PSI), and 22 kPa (0.22kgf/cm², 3.2 PSI) for the rear. The previous models initially had mechanical brakes for the front and rear wheels. Yamaha replaced this feature with a hydraulic braking system for the 2003 models and up.

Dimensions

The overall length of the Yamaha Blaster is 68.3 inches (       5.69 ft), while the height and width are 40.9 inches (1,038.9 mm) and 40.7 inches (1,033.8 mm), r1espectively. This single-seater has a seat height of 29.1 inches (739.1 mm). The quad has a wheelbase of 43.3 inches (1,099.8 mm) and a ground clearance of 4.7 inches (119.4 mm). The dry weight of a Blaster is 324 lbs. (147 kg).

External Features

The Yamaha Blaster comes with a steel tube chassis with a 9° caster angle, as well as durable plastic body materials and a Halogen headlight. The handlebar serves as the Yamaha Blaster’s steering control system and comes complete with handgrips. An oil light indicator serves as a warning display for the rider.

The controls on the handlebar are comprised of a light switch, a throttle lever, a clutch lever, a front brake lever, a speed limiter, and a parking brake switch. Aside from footpegs, there are also floorboards for the driver, including a right-foot rear brake pedal. A front bash plate and fenders and bumpers on the front and rear of the vehicle give the Blaster its sporty and off-road appeal.

What Is the Top Speed of the Yamaha Blaster?

A bone stock Yamaha Blaster can go up to 55 miles an hour, which is pretty decent for trail enthusiasts. Though the Blaster may fall behind other performance quads, this ATV is still a thrill to ride, especially if fitted with the right kind of mods and upgrades. Despite this, the Blaster can pull off a maximum torque of 43 HP, which may take some entry-level users by surprise.  

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Yamaha Blaster?

The Yamaha Blaster is a quad that has earned a spot in the hearts of ATV enthusiasts because of its simple yet efficient design. Its 19-year production run is a testament to its success and reliability. However, the Blaster also has its shortcomings, big and small. Below are some of the pros and cons of the Yamaha Blaster.

Cost-Effectiveness

One of the Blaster’s impressive qualities is that it’s not as expensive as compared to other ATVs. Let’s face it: like most ATVs that came out along with it, Blasters are pretty outdated. Therefore, they can be prone to engine hiccups and other issues. For that matter, the prospect of having an affordable replacement is an ideal trade-off, in case things go sideways.  

Easy to Modify or Repair

If there’s one that owners like about the Yamaha Blaster, it’s that they find this all-terrain vehicle easy to install upgrades on. Likewise, they also find the quad easy to repair in case of any technical hitches. Both these qualities complement the affordability of the stock Blaster parts, which has resulted in a lot of people who want to add mods on their ATVs, let alone perform repairs.

Lightweight

A light quad simply translates to two things: speed and agility. Though the stock Blaster was not meant to conquer racetracks, a lot of off-roading enthusiasts like to ride these machines, primarily because they’re light to handle. Most owners prefer this feature instead of having a reverse gear, which seems reasonable, even for beginner’s standards.

Ideal Entry-Level Trail Quad

Every ATV enthusiast knows that the Blaster is great for riding trails, especially for beginners. There’s a low learning curve when riding these machines, so they will be easy to use, particularly for those who have driven all-terrain quads a couple of times before. Furthermore, the Blaster is a suitable stepping stone for people who want to get into racing quads. Whether you love to explore wooded trails or traverse undiscovered terrain near the property, the Yamaha Blaster will be the suitable vehicle for this task.

Cons

Top End Problems

A top end going off is not something new for quad riders, especially if we’re talking about Yamaha Blasters. These two-stroke machines were built in the late ‘80s and have not received any major upgrades even until their production ceased in the mid-2000s. As a result, most owners resort to upgrading the engine, which sometimes results in a complete overhaul.

Weak Brakes in Earlier Models

Back in 2003, three years before the end of its production run, the Yamaha Blaster received its only upgrade. Yamaha replaced the mechanical brakes with a hydraulic brake system, which is way better. Therefore, the primary complaint of people who own 1988 to 2002 Blasters is the flimsiness of the brakes.

Not Ideal for Aggressive Riders

Despite its sporty looks, the Yamaha Blaster is not the perfect quad for clearing out racetracks. Some riders who have pushed their Blasters to their limits ended up with the top end blowing off, which is not the ideal way to complete a lap. For that matter, you are better off upgrading the Blaster’s engine, airbox, suspension system, gearing, and exhaust. That’s nearly the whole nine yards if you’re keen on having a race-ready Blaster.

More Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

·         Its small size and turning radius make it manoeuvrable and ideal for tight trails.

·         It is an ideal entry-level racing quad.

·         It has an oil injection feature, which reduces the effort of pre-mixing oil and fuel.

·         The Blaster does not only have a small turning radius, but it also has a good handling capability.

·         Most of the Blaster’s parts are interchangeable with other Yamaha ATVs.

Disadvantages

·         It has no reverse gear, which can be a hassle for most riders who have been used to this feature.

·         Even with 43 horsepower, experienced and aggressive riders may still find the Blaster underpowered.

·         The engine and clutch are susceptible to wear if ridden hard.

·         It has a weak stock suspension.

Rebuilding a Yamaha Blaster

There are several ways to build up the engine of your Yamaha Blaster, especially if you want it to run almost as fast as a Yamaha Banshee. Of course, performance-wise, there’s no way a bone stock Blaster can take out a stock Banshee. Those things can clear out racetracks at 77 MPH. Nevertheless, if you’re like most adrenaline junkies, a fast Blaster is better than one that’s not at all.

Turning the Blaster into a Monster

With different Yamaha Blaster owners abound, there surely are several answers to the stuff you will need to turn your Blaster into a powerful quad. For that matter, below are a few pointers that you might want to take note of.

·         Engine

Power primarily comes from the engine, so you’ll be wise to start there. You can a get big bore kit and a ported cylinder for your top end. In this way, you can have better compression in your engine. If you want more power, however, a ported cylinder kit from CP Customs that’s head-milled and rechambered can give your Blaster an even better higher compression ratio that any rider will surely enjoy.

·         Pipes

Pipes are one of the essential aftermarket components you will need since these are proven to enhance a stock’s power. Toomey Pipe Kits are the perfect tools if you do not have any plans on modding the engine. Otherwise, CT or LRD pipe kits would a better option if you already have added modifications to your engine.

·         Gears

Every quad veteran knows what makes an ATV run fast, and that’s through the gears. For a Yamaha Blaster, getting 14-tooth and 38-tooth sprockets for the front and rear, respectively, can improve the Blaster’s performance like a charm. Yes, you can thank us later for this.

·         Tyres and Airbox

Apart from these kits, getting a different set of rear tyres also helps a lot in improving the performance of your Yamaha Blaster. For that matter, AT 21 X 10-8 rear tyres will prove beneficial to your quad. Moreover, a high-quality K&N air filter like Outerwear will make your engine perform better.

About the Manufacturer

The people at Yamaha Motors Company are whizzes behind successful Yamaha ATVs like the Yamaha Blaster. Apart from adventure quads, the company also manufactures products like off-highway vehicles, personal watercraft, outboards, snowmobiles, and golf cars. The Japanese firm, which is an affiliate of Yamaha Corporation, also focuses on the production and development of semiconductors and marine products. Established in 1955, Yamaha continuous to embody its philosophy of providing fulfilment to their customers worldwide.

Final Takeaway

Overall, the Yamaha Blaster is a remarkable quad that deserves a designation as the common folks’ ATV. The Blaster has its limitations, especially when it comes to power and speed, not to mention the mechanical brakes and weak suspension systems. Disadvantages aside, however, no ATV buff can count out that the Blaster works exceptionally well in trails, particularly in forested terrain or a muddy track. 

Apart from that, what it lacks in power and speed, the quad makes up for fun and entertainment. These two key elements are what quads like the Yamaha Blaster never fail to give to fans, young and old alike.