The Grizzly 700 is surprisingly nimble, despite weighing 270 kg, on bumpy and twisty trails… provided that you don’t try to keep pace with a Raptor of similar displacement. This points out a small weakness in the Grizzly, the too-soft suspensions, even in the 3rd of 5 available preload settings (I’m a 70-kilo guy). Yamaha clearly put a greater emphasis on ergonomics and ride flexibility than on a sporty ride on this machine, and it works, as the new Grizzly 700 stands as the most comfortable ATV in the industry, period.

Effective powertrain
Derived from the Raptor 700R, the 686-cc engine uses a wet-sump crankcase to simplify the lubrication system and lower production costs. The ignition and injection maps have been revised to favor low-end torque over the Raptor’s high-rev power, and it works, as the big single still delivers strong acceleration with enough juice in reserve to overcome tougher sections.

The Grizzly 700 is surprisingly nimble, despite weighing 270 kg, on bumpy and twisty trails.

Yamaha’s continuously-variable, fully-automatic Ultramatic transmission has one unique feature: a centrifugal clutch in an oil bath mounted inside the crankcase where it’s isolated from the elements, thereby making for smoother engagement and improved reliability. The drive belt always remains under tension, which ensures immediate response during takeoffs and superior belt longevity. This system also produces powerful engine braking -- a major benefit on steep descents, especially with a loaded trailer in the back.

Bottom line
The 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 FI EPS Ducks Unlimited has all the feature that fishing, hunting and outdoor enthusiasts look for in an ATV: an excellent powertrain, four-wheel disc brakes, power steering that makes life easier, exemplary ergonomics and cushy comfort. Simply put, this big bear is now friendlier than ever.

Excellent ergonomics
Outstanding comfort
Effective engine-transmission combo
Durable finish
Tight turning radius


Soft-ish suspension




None



Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert