If you have a young rider ready to explore different terrains with a suitable ATV, the Yamaha Raptor 90 is worth considering. This quad is ideal for inexperienced riders aged ten and above who want to enjoy fun and safe rides. Despite being an ATV for young riders, it handles rough terrain and different riding styles.
But before you buy the Yamaha Raptor 90, you might want to know how fast it can go. Fortunately, this article discusses the Yamaha Raptor 90 top speed. You’ll also discover ways to adjust the ATV to improve its speed.
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How Fast Does a Raptor 90 Go?
A newly purchased Yamaha Raptor 90 has a top speed of 15-18 mph. This speed limit is safe for inexperienced riders exploring different terrains. This quad can reach up to 30 mph with a few adjustments. The ATV has adjustable components that allow it to attain this top speed.
The Raptor 90 has a single-cylinder 90cc engine that produces 6 HP. It’s therefore powerful enough to deliver excellent low- to mid-range performance. This ATV features an automatic CVT transmission, making it easy to operate despite the condition of the terrain.
Several factors can affect a Raptor 90 ATV’s top speed. These factors include:
- Terrain: Rough or hilly terrain, unlike a smooth, flat surface, will slow your ATV down.
- Rider’s weight: Heavier riders will cause a reduction in the ATV’s top speed, especially on hilly terrain.
- Engine condition: An engine that’s in tip-top condition allows your ATV to reach its top speed. Conversely, a poorly maintained engine slows the quad down.
- Wind: Strong wind causes resistance while riding and reduces the Raptor’s top speed.
- Tires: Old, worn, or underinflated tires affect the ATV’s performance and reduce its speed.
How To Improve the Yamaha Raptor 90 Top Speed
ATV speed is a critical factor to consider regarding the safety of young, inexperienced riders. While 15-18 mph is ideal for beginners, some riders might want to increase speed. If your quad is too slow or experiences difficulties when handling steep slopes, it’s necessary to adjust it.
The Raptor 90 has two safety features in the form of speed limiters to limit top speed at 15-18 mph. You can adjust the speed limiters to maximize your ATV’s speed. Below we discuss the two safety features and how you can adjust them.
Throttle Limiter
This safety feature prevents the ATV’s throttle from fully opening, even after pushing the throttle lever to its maximum. The manufacturer installs the throttle limiter to ensure the ATV attains a top speed of 15-18 mph.
You’ll need to loosen the adjustment screw on the throttle box to improve the Raptor’s speed.
Start by loosening the locknut that holds the adjustment screw in place. Then, turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise to loosen it. When you loosen this screw, the throttle becomes more responsive, increasing the ATV’s speed and power.
Caution: When loosening the adjustment screw, avoid turning it more than 14.5 millimeters. Doing so might make the throttle cable prone to damage.
Engine Speed Limiter Plate
The speed limiter plate limits the Yamaha Raptor 90 engine power and maximum RPMs. With this speed limiter plate, the engine reaches 4900 RPMs.
However, if you remove it, your engine can reach up to 8500 RPMs. Removing the engine speed limiter plate increases the Yamaha Raptor 90’s speed significantly. So, how should you remove this metal plate?
First, locate the metal plate in the CDI box under the seat. Then, loosen the two screws and remove the engine speed limiter plate. Ensure to remove the two screws to allow for better performance.
The Yamaha Raptor 90 top speed will range between 25 and 30 mph after removing the engine speed limiter plate and adjusting the throttle limiter.
What To Do During the Break-In Period
The break-in period of a new Yamaha Raptor 90 is in its first 15-20 hours of operation. During this time, various engine parts polish themselves to work properly. So, going easy on your ATV is essential to prevent excessive engine wear and heat. Below are tips to observe during the break-in period:
- Avoid attempting to ride your quad at its top speed.
- Avoid continuous use in the first eight hours at above half throttle.
- Avoid continuous use from 8-15 hours at above 3/4 throttle.
Typically, it’s impossible to reach the ATV’s advertised top speed during its first 15-20 hours of use.
Tips To Correct the Raptor 90 Top Speed
Have you made the necessary adjustments and broken in your ATV correctly, but it doesn’t reach its top speed? Worry not because you can correct your Raptor 90’s speed in several ways. Here are the tips to consider:
Use high-octane fuel: A higher-octane gas is more stabilized against spontaneous ignition than a lower-octane gas. Using this gas in your quad can increase performance and speed while reducing CO2 emissions. For better results, run 91 or 93 octane gas.
Replace the sprockets: Motor vehicles with chains have front and rear sprockets. If you wish to adjust the speed in your Yamaha Raptor 90, replace the front sprocket with a bigger one. Then, remove the rear sprocket and replace it with a smaller one. Doing this will allow your Raptor to reach its top speed.
Keep the tires fully inflated: Underinflated front or rear tires can cause less speed. Ensure the front and rear tires have the recommended pressure of 3.6 psi. If you’ve used your Raptor 90 for an extended period, check the condition of the tires. If they appear worn or old, replace them.
Replace the spark plug: A faulty or worn spark plug doesn’t ignite fuel properly, resulting in less speed. You can resolve this issue by replacing the malfunctioning plug with an iridium spark plug.
Replace the air filter: A clogged filter can lead to a lower speed. Remove the filter and replace it with a higher-performance option.
Upgrade the exhaust system: A professional technician can help you upgrade your Raptor 90’s exhaust system. Upgrading the exhaust improves airflow and improves engine performance. As a result, your quad can reach its top speed.
Final Thoughts
A new Raptor 90 has an advertised top speed of 15-18 mph. This speed is ideal for young riders who wish to explore rugged terrain. However, you can adjust the Yamaha Raptor 90 top speed to 30 mph.
Start by adjusting the throttle limiter and removing the engine speed limiter plate. If your ATV won’t reach its top speed, use our tips above to ensure it attains a speed of up to 30 mph. Lastly, maintain your Raptor 90 regularly to keep it in tip-top condition.
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