In Depth: Yamaha 2016 Kodiak 700 4x4 Utility ATV

June 2015 Powersport News

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announced the all-new 2016 Kodiak 700 line of 4x4 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.

Assembled at Yamaha’s U.S. factory in Newnan, GA, 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 550cc class machines. These are a working man’s ATVs with power, comfort, durability and value.”

2016 Kodiak 700 4x4 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 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. 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 lbs. in front and 198 lbs. 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.

2016 Kodiak 700 EPS 4x4 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 lbs.

The all-new Kodiak 700 and Kodiak 700 EPS models come in Yamaha Blue, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra camo.

2016 Special Edition (SE) Kodiak 700 EPS 4x4 ATV

The all-new 2016 Special Edition (SE) Kodiak 700 EPS 4x4 ATV comprises all of the great features in the standard EPS model Kodiak, plus Yamaha’s legendary On-Command four-wheel drive system. The OnCommand 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.

Follow Yamaha at www.Facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors, www.Twitter.com/YamahaOutdoors, and www.Instagram.com/YamahaOutdoors. 

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