Yamaha’s streamlined, purpose-built, and price-point focused 2016 utility ATV lineup.
As recently as 2014, Yamaha’s utility ATV lineup offered four different engine displacements at 350, 450, 550, and 700cc, along with the various versions of each. For 2016, Yamaha has streamlined their utility ATV lineup to meet the needs of changing customer demands. They feel that today’s ATV customer is less interested in purchasing a certain displacement engine size and more focused on getting the most ATV for their money.
With the Grizzly 700 continuing to dominate as the number one selling big-bore 4×4 ATV on the market, and customers seemingly concerned more with price-point offerings than displacement, Yamaha came up with a 2016 4×4 ATV lineup that improved upon the number one selling Grizzly while bringing back the Kodiak name in as all-new model.
After updating the Grizzly 700 with more power, a two-inch wider stance, and revised suspension in 2014, Yamaha has once again given their flagship model a healthy dose of updates for 2016. To start, the engine received more power, optimized for recreational sporty riding. It received new, 26-inch Maxxis tires; revised suspension settings; new, more aggressive styling; revised racks; a new, plusher seat; plus many more changes.
While the Grizzly is more focused on recreational riders, the new Kodiak is focused on the work segment. While Yamaha says it, “…redefines the mid-size utility ATV Category,” it’s a big-bore in Yamaha’s lineup using the same 708cc engine as the Grizzly 700, with clutching calibrated for smoother, less abrupt, bottom-end delivery making it less demanding to ride. What makes the Kodiak seem mid-sized is its almost two-inch narrower stance of 46.5 inches, narrower handlebars, and lower seat height.
To meet the various price-point demands of different customers, Yamaha managed to offer the base model Kodiak 700 for $6,999. This places it right in the middle of the 4×4 value segment, currently dominated by the Polaris Sportsman 570 and Can-Am Outlander L 570. The Kodiak is available in several different versions with different features, varying in price between $6,999 and $8,899 for the power steering-equipped, limited edition model.
Read on and learn all that Yamaha has to say about its new 2016 4×4 ATV lineup.
Yamaha Introduces 2016 Grizzly EPS 4×4 ATV
KENNESAW, Ga. – June 4, 2015 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announces the all-new 2016 Grizzly EPS 4×4 ATV boasting superior handling, comfort and performance purpose-built for exploring, hunting and recreational riding. The 2016 Yamaha Grizzly is assembled in the USA at Yamaha’s factory in Newnan, Georgia.
From front to back, top to bottom, the 2016 Grizzly 4×4 is designed to be the most comfortable, off-road capable and durable big bore ATV for riding enthusiasts who enjoy recreational trails and technical terrain.
From front to back, top to bottom, the 2016 Grizzly 4×4 is designed to be the most comfortable, off-road capable and durable big bore ATV for riding enthusiasts who enjoy recreational trails and technical terrain. Aggressive new styling and a new chassis incorporate redesigned front and rear fenders, an all-new handlebar mounted work light, new 26-inch tires, twin-piston four-wheel disc brakes, new suspension, and Yamaha’s proven core drivetrain technologies.
The 2016 Grizzly 700 incorporates aggressive new styling and a new chassis incorporate redesigned front and rear fenders, an all-new handlebar mounted work light, new 26-inch tires, twin-piston four-wheel disc brakes, new suspension, and Yamaha’s proven core drivetrain technologies.
“The 2016 Grizzly has great new styling, handles like a recreational machine with extreme off-road capability and durability, and features the most torque and power of any Yamaha 4×4 ATV ever,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha’s Recreational Vehicle (RV) group vice president. “Yamaha is setting a new standard of performance and durability for recreational riders with this tough, comfortable and off-road capable new Grizzly.”
MORE POWER AND TORQUE
The 2016 Grizzly delivers optimized engine character for recreational riding featuring Yamaha’s new DOHC, 708cc engine with six percent more power and nine percent more torque than the previous model Grizzly 700, which currently is the *best selling big bore utility ATV in America. The Mikuni® fuel injection with 44mm bore and throttle position sensor makes for easy electric starting and flawless fuel delivery in nearly any condition.
BEST BIG BORE HANDLING, PERFORMANCE AND OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY
The 2016 Yamaha Grizzly’s handling, performance and off-road capability provide the rider with the confidence and comfort that are especially important on long, rough trails and during aggressive recreational riding.
Yamaha’s new DOHC, 708cc engine features six percent more power and nine percent more torque.
The 2016 Grizzly is the only big bore ATV with a twin piston, four-wheel disc brake system providing strong, consistent and natural feeling stopping power. All-new exclusively designed 26-inch Maxxis tires provide the best combination of ground clearance, traction, durability, comfort and steering precision. New class-leading independent adjustable suspension features 7.6 inches of travel in the front and 9.1 inches of travel in the back. Overall ground clearance is 11.3 inches, and full coverage skid plates increase the vehicle’s overall durability and off-road capability.
NEW STYLING, CHASSIS AND MAXIMUM COMFORT
The all-new Grizzly’s unique, durable and functional design features aggressive new head-on styling that complements its best-in-class performance.
At the center of the Grizzly’s new styling is a redesigned front grill, carry bar, and front and rear fenders, plus an all-new handlebar-mounted halogen work light. New standard LED headlights and taillights provide the best possible illumination, efficiency and service life. A newly designed large and plush seat provides maximum comfort in the saddle.
Increased storage options are integrated into the new chassis. Up front a new large storage container is set into the center tank, while a watertight compartment is planted firmly into the right fender. Out back a new large and easy to access rear storage box is tucked below the rear LED light.
The SE Carbon Metallic Grizzly boasts all of the great features of the standard model plus painted plastics, special graphics, machined aluminum wheels and a 2-inch receiver hitch rated to haul 1,322 pounds.
The new storage options were made possible in part due to a redesigned and relocated 4.76-gallon fuel tank, which is moved rearward under the seat. A new fuel pump is incorporated to provide the best reliability with low maintenance.
Atop the updated fenders are newly designed front and rear racks with increased load capacity at 110 pounds in front and 198 pounds in back.
Additional rider comforts and conveniences include a new digital LCD meter with fuel gauge, speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock, 4WD/Diff-Lock status, transmission gear indicator and EPS warning light; and a standard 12V DC outlet provides power for accessories and personal items on the trail.
YAMAHA’S BEST-IN-CLASS CORE TECHNOLOGIES
The new Grizzly incorporates proven Yamaha technologies including the On-Command® four-wheel drive system that puts the rider in control of the 2WD, 4WD or 4WD full diff-lock setting. A simple push-button system on the handlebar allows the rider to toggle between two or four-wheel drive depending on terrain and trail conditions.
Yamaha’s Ultramatic® fully automatic transmission has been proven to be the industry’s most durable CVT system while also providing the most natural-feeling engine braking. A strong and easy-to-use gate style shifter allows riders to select between high, low, reverse and neutral.
Yamaha pioneered Electric Power Steering (EPS) on an ATV with the original Grizzly 700 EPS and continues to provide the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the trail, providing maximum comfort and confidence.
The Crimson Metallic painted Limited Edition (LE) model also features painted plastics, special graphics and new machined aluminum wheels, plus a removable fairing with windscreen, heated grips, thumb warmer and heated seat
ALL-NEW SPECIAL EDITION AND LIMITED EDITION MODELS
The 2016 Grizzly line includes new Special Edition (SE) and Limited Edition (LE) models.
The SE Carbon Metallic Grizzly boasts all of the great features of the standard model plus painted plastics, special graphics, machined aluminum wheels and a 2-inch receiver hitch rated to haul 1,322 pounds.
The Crimson Metallic painted Limited Edition (LE) model also features painted plastics, special graphics and new machined aluminum wheels, plus a removable fairing with windscreen, heated grips, thumb warmer and heated seat.
MODEL MIX AND MSRPs
The all-new Yamaha Grizzly comes in Yamaha Blue, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra® camo. MSRP starts at $8,899 for non-EPS and $9,699 for EPS models. The SE model’s MSRP is $10,299 and the LE’s MSRP is $10,899.
Yamaha Announces Hard Working 2016 Kodiak 700 4×4 Utility ATV
KENNESAW, Ga. – June 4, 2015 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announces the all-new 2016 Kodiak 700 line of 4×4 utility ATVs including the Kodiak 700 (MSRP $6,999), Kodiak 700 EPS (MSRP $8,199) and Special Edition (SE) Kodiak 700 EPS (MSRP $8,899) all boasting class-leading performance and value for the hard-working utility ATV customer.
Realtree Xtra® camo.
Assembled at Yamaha’s U.S. factory in Newnan, Georgia, the all-new Kodiak 700 ATVs are built for work with a comfortable and compact feeling new chassis. New styling, smooth power and increased torque create the foundation for a range of features that all combine to make the Kodiak 700 ATVs the most powerful in their pricing categories, while maintaining Yamaha’s legendary durability and off-road performance.
“Yamaha is redefining the mid-sized utility ATV category with the all-new Kodiak 700 models,” said Mike Martinez, vice present of Yamaha’s Recreational Vehicle (RV) group. “The Kodiak 700s have the power and performance of a big bore ATV packed into a compact chassis, with a price range more closely compared to 450- or 550-cc class machines. These are a working man’s ATVs with power, comfort, durability and value.”
2016 KODIAK 700 4×4 ATV
The all-new Kodiak 700 features a new DOHC, 708cc engine with optimized engine character, delivering smooth power and strong torque for all-day comfort and ease of use. Along with the new engine, Yamaha incorporated the Mikuni® fuel injection system with 44mm bore and throttle position sensor supporting easy cold starts and flawless fuel delivery in nearly any condition.
The all-new Kodiak 700 features a new DOHC, 708cc engine with optimized engine character, delivering smooth power and strong torque for all-day comfort and ease of use.
The Kodiak 700 features Yamaha’s proven Ultramatic® fully automatic transmission with high, low, reverse and neutral, providing the industry’s most durable CVT transmission and the most natural-feeling engine braking throughout the rpm range.
A strong and convenient gate-style shifting lever lets the rider easily select the drive setting, while a mechanical rider-engaged 2WD/4WD system with handlebar-mounted setting selection lever puts the rider in control of when to put 4-wheel traction to the ground in rough off-road terrain and hard working situations.
The new Kodiak 700 incorporates independent suspension with 7.1 inches of travel in the front and 9.1 inches of travel in the back.
The new Kodiak 700 incorporates independent suspension with 7.1 inches of travel in the front and 9.1 inches of travel in the back. Twenty five-inch wheels and Yamaha-exclusive Maxxis tires provide a high level of durability, traction, comfort and steering precision.
Hydraulic disc brakes up front and a new durable sealed wet brake in back provide strong and reliable stopping power. Nearly 11 inches of ground clearance and a 49.2-inch wheelbase provide the best combination of comfort and terrainability in working situations, and front to back skid plates increase overall off-road capability.
The 2016 Kodiak 700 also incorporates new large and durable front and rear racks with increased load capacity –110 pounds in front and 198 pounds in back — as well as a newly designed center storage compartment allowing riders to carry more personal items safely and securely.
The Kodiak 700’s new chassis and styling integrates a newly designed 4.76-gallon fuel tank for all day working, plus a standard 12V DC outlet for powering accessories and personal items.
The 2016 Kodiak 700 EPS model combines all of the great features of the non-EPS version with increased functionality and performance at an $8,199 MSRP.
2016 KODIAK 700 EPS 4×4 ATV
The 2016 Kodiak 700 EPS model combines all of the great features of the non-EPS version with increased functionality and performance at an $8,199 MSRP.
Additional features on the Kodiak 700 EPS start with Yamaha’s Electric Power Steering (EPS) that provides the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the trail, providing maximum comfort and confidence, especially on long days and during hard working situations.
A key feature in the new EPS model styling is the all-new center handlebar-mounted halogen work light that provides additional illumination while following the rider’s movements. Set directly behind the handlebar light, a new digital LCD meter displays fuel gauge, speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock, 4WD/Diff-Lock status, transmission gear indicator and EPS warning light.
Out back, the EPS model features a 2-inch receiver hitch rated to haul 1,322 pounds.
The all-new Kodiak 700 and Kodiak 700 EPS models come in Yamaha Blue, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra® camo.
The all-new 2016 Special Edition (SE) Kodiak 700 EPS 4×4 ATV comprises all of the great features in the standard EPS model Kodiak, plus Yamaha’s legendary On-Command® four-wheel drive system. The On-Command system puts the rider in control of 2WD, 4WD or 4WD full differential lock with push-button control
2016 SPECIAL EDITION (SE) KODIAK 700 EPS 4×4 ATV
The all-new 2016 Special Edition (SE) Kodiak 700 EPS 4×4 ATV comprises all of the great features in the standard EPS model Kodiak, plus Yamaha’s legendary On-Command® four-wheel drive system. The On-Command system puts the rider in control of 2WD, 4WD or 4WD full differential lock with push-button control conveniently located on the handlebar.
The SE Kodiak 700 EPS also gets all-new 25-inch cast aluminum wheels, painted Carbon Metallic plastics, and special graphics for $8,899 MSRP.
Conclusion
As fans of the Grizzly 700, we like the more aggressive direction Yamaha is going with the machine from its enhanced style to its promise of improved overall performance. We strongly suspect that it will be a winner. As fans of getting more for less, the Kodiak 700, especially the base model, is intriguing. While Yamaha is clearly marketing it toward the work crowd, its phenomenal price-point is sure to attract recreational customers as well.
Still, we can’t help but feel that not offering a true mid-size or compact 4×4 with a smaller displacement and even lower price is leaving a hole at the bottom of Yamaha’s 4×4 lineup. This type of unit would be more attractive to older riders, wives, or those who simply like feeling like they can outmuscle their machine.
Time will tell if Yamaha’s one-size-fits-all engine size will catch on with dealers and consumers as a whole, but those looking for the most ATV for the money, or the most refined recreational 4×4 on the market, should be pretty happy.
For more information, visit www.yamahamotorsports.com