The 2012 Venture GT retains the touring features of previous models, including the rearview mirrors, extra DC outlets to run accessories like a heated visor or GPS, and heated grips for both riders. The driver enjoys the latest in Yamaha handwarmer technology with heating elements that concentrate warmth along the most used areas of the handlebar. There also is Yamaha’s multi-function gauge with easy to read numbers and information output.

As you would expect in a premium touring snowmobile the Venture GT offers plentiful stowage. The main option is a seven-gallon capacity rear trunk with hard cover. You could add an optional rear rack and accessory bags if you needed weekend touring capability. 

But what really sets the 2012 Yamaha Venture GT apart from the two-up cruiser crowd is the Yamaha-exclusive electric power steering. We really like this variable rate steering system on the four-cylinder Apex, find it almost unnecessary on the lighter nosed triple cylinder Vector, but appreciate it a great deal on the two-up Venture GT. Riding solo, the power steering is nice to have, but when you have a fully loaded sled with a passenger and added gear, that nice to have becomes more “must” have.

As the Vector GT shares front end similarities with the 2012 Vector, that means the Venture GT gets a modified-for-touring version of the third generation double A-front suspension, complete with Yamaha’s latest saddle-type plastic trail ski. Developed specifically to maximize the versatility of the power steering unit, the new ski design features a flatter bottom at the front with further runner setback to relieve darting. In reality, you’d probably not pick up the on-trail darting as much anyway as the power steering reduces that sensation somewhat.

Yamaha’s new front suspension is almost exactly the opposite of Arctic Cat’s ARS (Arctic Race Suspension) in style. Where the ARS looks almost insect-like and spindly, the new Yamaha wishbone design sets the A-arms more closely together. Put the two sleds side to side and you see drastic engineering philosophies at work. Yamaha engineers use high-pressure gas shocks to control the GT’s 8.5-inches of maximum travel, which is actually a half-inch less than with last season’s non-EPS front end.

We found the EPS worked exceedingly well on the Venture GT, which most likely will be run at moderate trail speeds where a light steering touch is a plus. When you trip the 41mm fuel injectors on the Genesis triple for more “go-power,” the steering effort is reduced to give you more “trail feel.” But when you need to go lock to lock in a tight section of forest at low speed, the steering is both light and positive. The EPS is a definite advantage for cruising with a passenger. Yamaha may be the first manufacturer to offer the advantages of EPS, but we can think of a couple other cruiser sleds that could use the system more.

In keeping with its plush luxury cruiser engineering, the Venture GT heads into model Year 2012 with a revised ProComfort CK 144 rear suspension that has been tuned to complement the 3rd generation front end and its new geometry. This year’s rear unit features six-spoke carrier wheels with replaceable bearings for simpler maintenance. An easy-to-adjust “clicker” gas shock on the rear arm lets you make adjustments for solo or two-up riding.