In addition to the all new Kodiak 400 Automatic 4x4™ and 2WD, and the all new Big Bear 400 4x4™ and 2WD, Yamaha's 2000 utility ATV line includes the 600cc Grizzly™, the Wolverine™, the Timberwolf 4x4™, and the American built BearTracker™, offering a wide diversity of ATVs.
Kodiak 400 Automatic 4x4 and 2wd
(all new for 2000)
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA has announced the release of the all-new Kodiak
400
Automatic 4x4 and the Kodiak 400 Automatic (2WD). The Kodiak 400 Automatics are positioned
to become class-leaders in the competitive mid-size sport/utility segment. Focusing on
power and durability, areas of importance to the ATV consumer, the Kodiak is built with
the highest performance standards. The new 401cc SOHC engine features the latest in ATV
technology with a compact liquid-cooled 45-degree inclined engine and Ultramatic
transmission providing unrivaled engine braking. The plush suspension and frame layout
enhance rider comfort and coupled with legendary durability, the Kodiak quickly
distinguishes itself from other mid-size ATVs.
Powering the Kodiak is a SOHC 401cc liquid-cooled
engine with counterbalancer that provides all the power necessary for exploring or
working. The high and low range gearing options allow riders to maximize performance in a
variety of riding conditions with the shift of a lever. Reverse can be engaged by
depressing the rear brake and moving the Hi-Low-Reverse lever rearward. A Mikuni BSR33
fires the powerplant to life and provides not only quick throttle response down low but
consistent power throughout the rev range. A reshaped muffler is designed specifically to
offer the
best power
characteristics while keeping engine noise at a minimum. Hydraulic front and rear disc
brakes offer plenty of stopping power while the double wishbone front and Monocross rear
suspension offer 6.3" and 7.1" of travel, respectively.
Yamaha’s exclusive Ultramatic transmission is the world’s first ATV transmission utilizing both a centrifugal clutch and a sprag (one-way) clutch behind the primary pulley, providing both superior engine braking and durability over other systems that utilize the drive belt only as a clutch. The Kodiak’s engine braking prevents the ATV from free-wheeling when riding down a slope with heavy loads or slowing for a corner.
The Kodiak 400 Automatic 4x4 features an On-Command 4WD/2WD equipped with a servo motor that allows the rider to adjust to the terrain or conditions by switching between two and four wheel drive simply by pushing a button located near the right grip.
To enhance the overall comfort and convenience of the
machine, the Kodiak comes with a wide range of
standard items. The choke lever is integrated near the left grip, a waterproof
cigarette-style DC outlet can easily power a cell phone or GPS, an easy access airbox does
not require tools for service and overfenders and innerfenders help keep the rider dry
when crossing streams. In addition, full floorboards extend from the front to rear fender,
a 4-gallon fuel tank means hours of explorability, a reshaped seat allows for easier
movement, an under seat storage box is large enough to store trail necessities, and the
trailer hitch is both center-mounted and detachable.
Customers demand years of use from their ATV and the Kodiak incorporates several features that increase the machines overall durability. The radiator is positioned high within the frame and behind the front guard preventing damage from sticks, water and other elements. The shaft drive system is maintenance-free and the transmission breather system has an under-seat vent designed to prevent dirt, water and other debris from entering, thereby extending belt life. The electrical components, similar to those found on Yamaha JetBoats, with proven waterproof capabilities, are individually designed and integrated in a fuse box located under the seat for protection.
In addition to both Kodiak models, Yamaha will release a Kodiak 4x4 Automatic Realtree Extra Brown Edition that features a camouflage seat and graphics, flat black racks, wheels, and bumpers for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $6,049. The Kodiak 4x4 Automatic, available in Hunter Green, Beige, and Red will arrive in dealerships nationwide by July 1999 for $5,999. The Kodiak 400 Automatic, available in Hunter Green, Beige, and Red will arrive in dealerships nationwide by September 1999 for $4,999.
Big Bear 400 4x4 and 2wd (all new
for 2000)
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA is proud to introduce the release of its latest
Bears -- the 2000 Big Bear 400 4x4 and Big Bear 400 2WD. The Big Bears are the newest ATVs
to roll off the Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Company (YMMC) assembly line in Newnan,
Georgia. Entering the market at a time of incredible sales growth, the Big Bears are
poised to create a roar within the growing sport/utility segment. Both Big Bears are
powerful workhorses that feature unparalleled durability, outstanding "quality
feel" and class leading performance without sacrificing the essentials customers have
come to expect from Yamaha ATVs.
The Big Bear, a mainstay in the Yamaha line-up for the past 13 years, is all new and packs even more muscle. The Big Bear 400 gained an additional 50cc of power and now has an improved power-to-weight ratio. For 2000, the Big Bear 400 4x4 and 2WD feature a 400cc air-cooled four-stroke power plant and weighs in at only 557 and 525 pounds, respectively. A semi-automatic 5-speed transmission, with a super-low stump pulling first gear and reverse, provides a smooth blend of power for ranch/farm chores, taming hills, rocks, logs, deep swamps, and trails.
ATV customers demand that their ATVs provide years of enjoyment and utility capabilities. The Big Bear 400s are equipped with strong steel racks that support a carrying capacity of 265 pounds and a center mounted towing hitch capable of pulling more than 900 pounds for hauling game from the woods, camping equipment, or items to mend the fence on the back 40.
For 2000, the Big Bear 400s continue a tradition of Yamaha
bulletproof reliability. YMMC put the Big Bears
to the ultimate
test day after day in the harsh southeast swap conditions. This rigorous testing resulted
in outstanding features designed to make this ATV outlast its competitors. Waterproof
electrical components, similar to those found on Yamaha JetBoats, a battery located under
the seat to prevent water and debris from entering, a sloped front guard to enable the ATV
to glide over obstacles, an oversized 11 valve oil cooler positioned high under the
fender, a sealed gear case for increased water protection and beefy A-arm protectors
provide excellent protection against nature’s worst elements.
Several features grace the Big Bear 400s providing a
quality feel for the customer. Oversized front and rear fenders offer excellent water
protection. A front disc brake and redesigned sealed hydraulic rear drum provide plenty of
stopping power. The 25" inch tires coupled with 9.6" of ground clearance enable
the rider to get over stumps and logs. Nearly six inches of front and rear suspension
travel smooth the trails and a 33mm carburetor provides greater throttle response
throughout the rev range. A four-gallon fuel tank allows the rider to go deeper into the
woods to find that remote location or game. The
new choke and
reverse lever are positioned near the handlebars for ease of use and the new air filter is
now accessible via clips located on the airbox, a tool-free feature for the rider who does
maintenance on the trail.
A primary goal at Yamaha is to know the customer in the ATV hunting community. In addition to the three separate color schemes found on the Big Bear 400’s, Yamaha has developed an additional model in the Big Bear 400 4x4 line-up. For 2000, Yamaha continues its relationship with Buckmaster, one of the leading hunting organizations, and introduces an all-new Buckmaster Edition. The Buckmaster Edition features Realtree X-tra™ Brown camouflage fenders (front and rear), camouflage seat, and decals with the Buckmaster logo. The Buckmaster Edition will be available in September 1999 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $5,699. The 2000 Big Bear 400 4x4, available in Hunter Green, Beige, and Red, will be available in Yamaha dealerships nationwide in July 1999 for a manufacturers’ suggested retail price of $5,399. The 2WD version will be released in October 1999 at a retail price of $4,599.