A chassis that matches engine performance
The fully-independent suspension uses double wishbones at all four wheels for a smooth ride, as well as a rear sway bar for greater stability in corners. The two front brake discs are backed up by the fully-enclosed, multi-disc braking system in the rear, protected to maintain effectiveness on wet or muddy terrain.

The steel wheels are wrapped with Maxxix tires (AT25X8-12 front and AT25X10-12 rear) which seem to have as much bite in the sand as in mud or rocks. I believe Yamaha made the right choice, as I suspect that they will be just as good in the snow.

The high-positioned air intake and sealed electrical connectors allow you to drive through deep swamps.

Friendly ergonomics
I really appreciated the fit and finish of the 450, not to mention the relaxed riding position, with floorboards large enough to accommodate your boots and ensure a firm footing. The transmission mode switch is user-friendly, the headlights are powerful and there is a 12-volt plug on the right-hand side of the instrument panel – everything feature you need to make riding easier and more comfortable.

Skid plates mounted just in front of the differential and CV joints as well as under the engine block protect these precious components, and a tow hitch makes it possible to pull a trailer. The high-positioned air intake and sealed electrical connectors allow you to drive through deep swamps, maximizing the Kodiak’s utility, safety and reliability in all conditions.

On the trail
Mother Nature hasn’t been very kind to outdoor enthusiasts lately. That being said, a bunch of flooded trails proved to be an ideal terrain to try out the Kodiak 450, as muddy ruts everywhere allowed me to appreciate its rideability even more. At one point, I faced a steep clay ascent with ruts up to 70 cm deep; my jaw dropped as the machine overcame this obstacle almost effortlessly using the 4-Low locked mode.

All in all, the 2009 Yamaha Kodiak 450 is a great midsize ATV that is both light and powerful. Add easy riding dynamics and you get a hard-to-match blend of attributes in a first-grade package.


Light
Responsive engine
A transmission setting for every situation



Give me a second here!




None




Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert