Grizzly
Now in its third year of production, the Grizzly first made
its mark in the competitive utility/exploring ATV marketplace in 1998 with the largest
displacement engine in an ATV. Featuring the Yamaha exclusive Ultramatic automatic
transmission, exceptional towing and cargo rack capacity, and push-button, On-command
four-wheel drive the Grizzly has become the flagship ATV in Yamaha’s line-up.
The Grizzly has been extensively improved over the past two
years in an attempt to incorporate customer requests. The major themes addressed were a
lighter handling feeling with greater performance and 
durability in extremely muddy
terrain. Not only were the customer suggestions achieved but a by-product of the
production changes greatly reduced the overall weight, shedding an astonishing 40 pounds
off the original model.
Whether mending items around the farm, hunting, or exploring, the Grizzly customer demands the most from his ATV. The essential features that mark the Grizzly’s reputation as the ultimate workhorse include front disc brakes, sealed hydraulic rear brakes, and a superior engine braking system. Additionally, On-command four-wheel drive, a brutish 600cc powerplant, overhanging fenders, inner splash guards, wide metal floorboards, the largest cargo rack and towing capacity in its class and long-travel front and rear suspension make the Grizzly a class-leader.
Yamaha’s Ultramatic 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 Grizzly’s engine
braking prevents the ATV from free-wheeling when riding down a slope or when hauling heavy loads. The Grizzly’s transmission breather system has an under-seat vent designed to prevent water, dirt, and other debris from entering, thereby extending belt life and minimizing belt slippage common in competitor’s automatic transmissions.
The high and low range gearing options allow riders to maximize performance in a variety of riding and terrain conditions with the simple shift of a hand-operated lever. Its versatility gives the Grizzly and its rider the best of both worlds: in high-range, it boasts the best performance in its class; in low-range, it has the most pulling power of any ATV currently available on the market. Reverse is engaged by depressing the foot brake and moving the hand-operated transmission selector to the reverse location.
Powering the transmission is an air-cooled, four-valve, SOHC, 595cc engine that offers the most demanding riders the largest displacement and most powerful engine in any utility ATV. The powerful 600cc engine features an electric starter and a recoil (pull) starter, equipped with an auto-decompression cam for an easier pull. An engine courterbalancer is used for minimized vibration and smooth operation. The new intake system is located high within the frame for less leakage and is fed by a constant-velocity, 40mm big bore carburetor that fuels the Grizzly’s torquey powerplant. For maximum efficiency, a wet-sump lubrication system is used with two oil pump rotors independently directing oil to the fan-equipped oil cooler and engine crankcase.
Yamaha is proud of the clean looks and rugged bodywork on the Grizzly. Aluminum wheels provide superior strength and less unsprung weight while stylish body panels enhance the overall appearance without compromising durability.
New for 2000, the Grizzly is also available in a Realtree X-tra™ Brown pattern with a camouflage seat and tank graphic for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $6,549, only $50.00 more than the standard Grizzly.
The 2000 Grizzly 600 4x4, available in Hunter Green, Beige, and Red, will arrive in Yamaha dealerships in July 1999. The Grizzly retail price remains unchanged at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $6,499.
Timberwolf 4x4
The Timberwolf 4x4 --Yamaha’s value-oriented ATV--
combines the light-weight features of the original Timberwolf and the superior traction of
four-wheel drive. The 2000 model boasts a 229cc air-cooled four-stroke engine with 24mm
Mikuni carburetor, automatic clutch, and five-speed transmission with electric start. An
auxiliary recoil starter provides an extra level of security when far from camp.
The Timberwolf’s front end utilizes a MacPherson Strut system for a smooth ride and precise, light steering. Its rear suspension has a long travel swing arm to help absorb bumps and ruts. Other features include a reverse gear, shaft drive, and a fully sealed rear brake.
The 2000 Timberwolf 4x4 comes in Hunter Green and is available at Yamaha dealers nationwide in July 1999. The Timberwolf is the least expensive 4x4 ATV in the market today and sells for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $4,299.
Bear Tracker
Manufactured in the USA, the BearTracker became the first
ATV to roll off the assembly line in Yamaha's state-of-the-art facility in Newnan,
Georgia. Developed, tested, and manufactured by and for American ATV riders, the
BearTracker’s durability, rider comfort, performance, and exceptional retail price
place it in a position to be one of the best selling Yamaha utility ATVs.
Durability is synonymous with Yamaha ATVs and the BearTracker is no exception. A heavy-duty frame, beefy rear axle, rugged ribbed body design and a smooth undercarriage were designed to ensure maximum reliability for years of riding. To maintain a showroom appearance despite riding in inclement weather or demanding conditions, the BearTracker receives a two-step powder coating process - the best in the industry - that results in virtually flawless finish while providing increased protection against nature’s harshest elements.
Powering the BearTracker is a 229cc air-cooled four-stroke SOHC engine, five-speed automatic clutch with reverse that offers plenty of power in the woods, mountains, or for chores around the farm. Front and rear racks with extra tubes for added support allow the rider to pack up to 165 pounds of payload while a standard towing hitch offers the customer the added benefit of towing abilities.
For work and play, the BearTracker offers the features the 2WD utility ATV buyer demands. The BearTracker's roomy ergonomics and plush suspension compliments a long adventure or a hard day of work. A chassis that measures 77.2"x40.4"x42.6" (LxWxH), plush front and rear suspension with 4.9" of front wheel travel and 5.3" of rear wheel travel, and light steering offer excellent handling in various conditions and environments.
The new BearTracker is available in Green, Beige, and Red and will arrive in dealerships nationwide by May 1999 for a manufacturers’ suggested retail price of $3,499.
Wolverine
The Wolverine combines the best features of a sport model
and a utility model to create an adventurous vehicle with the ability to tackle the
biggest chores. For the explorer, the
Wolverine features light weight handling and exceptional comfort due to its long-travel suspension, while those using it for work will appreciate the great 4WD traction and load capacity.
The Wolverine features a compact 348cc air-cooled, four-stroke engine with high-RPM power and reliability and a new recoil starter for 2000. Supplying the engine with its fuel mixture is a 34mm Mikuni CV carburetor. An oil cooler is installed at the front of the engine to maintain low temperatures for its five-speed, with reverse, transmission. With its 3.4-gallon fuel tank and comfortable seat, the Wolverine is prepared to ride for the longest of hauls.
The Wolverine’s clutch is an inner push type located on the left side of the machine that uses only one shift link for less weight and size as well as a better shift feel. The front and rear driving mechanism is designed to decrease the overall size and weight and allow for longer wheel travel. The Wolverine features a front double wishbone and rear single shock/swingarm suspension, allowing for over seven inches of travel, with dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake.
The 2000 Wolverine is available in Hunter Green or Blue and is available at Yamaha dealers nationwide in July 1999 for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $5,599.