The Yamaha Kodiak 450 ATV has been updated for 2021 with diff lock as standard on all electric power steering (EPS) models and includes a safer, utility focused rear braking system throughout the range.
“This machine is nimble, easy to handle and now offers greater off-road traction, stability and safety,” Yamaha ATV manager William Kay said.
The addition of a diff lock to the Kodiak will enable the operator to lock in power to all four wheels for better off road traction.
“This is especially advantageous in wet and muddy conditions,” Mr Kay added. “The locking differential forces all wheels to spin at the same speed, regardless of traction, helping the ATV to maintain drive momentum.”
All Kodiak models will be specified with Ultramatic transmission that maintains tension on the drive belt to provide a consistent throttle response.
“The constantly variable transmission (CVT) provides the correct gear ratio as the ATV speeds up and also acts to provide engine breaking when the ATV is going downhill,” Mr Kay said. “The rider is also able to automatically switch between 2WD, 4WD and diff lock settings with the push of a button.”
Yamaha has also announced the release of a new Kodiak 700 EPS that will be available before the end of 2020. The 700 and the 450 Kodiak models will both benefit from a wet braking system.
“Our multi-disc wet rear brake is designed for farm work,” Mr Kay added. “The sealed, oil-cooled brake cannot be inhibited by dirt and debris that can get stuck in conventional disc brakes. This makes the ATV better suited to year round farm use, more predictable in braking and will reduce the need for costly brake repairs.”
The range-topping Grizzly 700 ATV is being relaunched in a range of new colours and will be supplied with alloy wheels as standard for the first time. Yamaha has committed to fitting Warn VRX 25 winches as standard on all Kodiak and Grizzly models. The 15m winch has a 1,134kg pulling capacity and a rocker switch mounted to the handlebar.
“Modern winches are used by farmers on such a regular basis, for jobs like pulling cut trees, fencing, or recovering vehicles,” Mr Kay said. “It’s a vital piece of equipment for farmers and should therefore not come at an additional cost.”
Yamaha has kept the unique compact design of its ATVs in the new models to offer farmers machines that are easier to manoeuvre in, and through, tight spaces.
“We understand farmers need a stable ATV, but we don’t believe this should come at the cost of versatility,” Mr Kay added. “It’s important that an ATV can go anywhere, and our streamlined design enables riders to pass through tight gates and operate in small spaces.”
For more information visit: www.yamaha-motor.eu.
