RIDING YOUR ATV. Yamaha KODIAK 700 YFM70KPXH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KPSH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KPAH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KPHH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KDXH

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UB1661E0.book Page 1 Thursday, May 12, 2016 2:47 PM

EBU21142

RIDING YOUR ATV

7-1


EBU34290

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR ATV

This ATV is mainly for utility use, but may also be used for recreation. This section, Riding your ATV, provides general ATV riding instructions for recreational riding. The skills and techniques described in this section, however, are appropriate for all types of riding. Riding your ATV requires special skills acquired through practice over a period of time. Take the time to learn the basic techniques well before attempting more difficult maneuvers.

Riding your new ATV can be a very enjoyable activity, providing you with hours of pleasure. But it is essential to familiarize yourself with the operation of the ATV to achieve the skill necessary to enjoy riding safely. Before you begin to ride, be sure you have read this Owner’s Manual completely and understand the operation of the controls. Pay particular attention to the safety

information on pages 2-1–2-6. Also read all warn-

ing and notice labels on your ATV.

7-2

RIDE WITH CARE AND GOOD JUDGMENT

Get training if you are inexperienced.

EWB01382

WARNING



Do not operate this ATV or allow anyone else to operate it without proper instruction. The risk of an accident is greatly increased if the operator does not know how to operate the

ATV properly in different situations and on different types of terrain.



Do not operate this ATV at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions, as this increases your chances of losing control of the

ATV and an accident. Always go at a speed that is proper for the terrain, visibility and operating conditions, and your experience.

Beginning and inexperienced operators should regularly practice the skills and the operating techniques described in this Owner’s Manual.

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Riding your ATV requires skills acquired through practice over a period of time.

Do not attempt to operate at maximum performance until you are totally familiar with the ATV’s handling and performance characteristics. Take


7

the time to learn the basic techniques well before attempting more difficult maneuvers. Become familiar with this ATV at slow speeds first, even if you are an experienced operator.

Not recommended for children under 16 years of age.

EWB01391

WARNING

A child under 16 should never operate an ATV with engine size greater than 90 cc. Use by children of ATVs that are not recommended for their age can lead to severe injury or death of the child.

This ATV is designed to carry the operator and cargo only – passengers prohibited.

The long seat is to allow the operator to shift position as needed during operation. It is not for carrying passengers.

WARNING! Never carry a passenger. Carrying a passenger on this ATV greatly reduces your ability to balance and control this ATV. You could have an accident, resulting in severe injury or death to you and/or your passenger.

[EWB01402]

7-3


7-4

Apparel

Always wear the following to reduce risk of injury in an accident:



Approved motorcycle helmet that fits properly



Eye protection (goggles, helmet face shield, or protective eyewear)



Over-the-ankle boots, gloves, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and long pants

An approved helmet and other personal protective equipment can reduce the severity of injuries in an accident.

WARNING! Operating without an approved motorcycle helmet increases your chances of a severe head injury or death in the event of an accident.

[EWB01412]

Wear eye protection when operating your ATV to reduce the risk of a serious accident or injury. Eye protection, such as a face shield or goggles, may reduce the risk of foreign material getting in your eyes and help prevent loss of vision.

WARNING!

Operating without eye protection can result in an accident and increases your chances of a severe injury in the event of an accident.

[EWB02612]

7


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1. Protective clothing

2. Goggles

3. Gloves

4. Boots

5. Helmet

Do not operate after or while consuming alcohol or drugs.

The operator’s performance capability is reduced by the influence of alcohol or drugs. Consuming alcohol or drugs could seriously affect your judgment, cause you to react more slowly, and affect your balance and perception.

WARNING! Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while driving this ATV. You increase your chance of an accident.

[EWB01422]

7-5

Pre-operation checks

Always inspect your ATV each time you use it to make sure the ATV is in safe operating condition.

Perform the pre-operation checks listed on page

5-1. Always follow the inspection and mainte-

nance procedures and schedules described in the

Owner’s Manual.

WARNING! Failure to inspect the ATV before riding it or failure to maintain it properly increases the possibility of an accident and equipment damage.

[EWB01433]

Speed limiter

For riders less experienced with this model, the throttle lever housing is equipped with a speed limiter. The speed limiter keeps the throttle from

UB1661E0.book Page 6 Thursday, May 12, 2016 2:47 PM fully opening, even when the throttle lever is pushed to the maximum. Turning in the adjusting screw limits the maximum engine power available and decreases the maximum speed of the ATV.

Turning in the adjusting screw decreases top speed, and turning it out increases top speed.

(See page 4-17.)

1. Adjusting screw

1

Loading and accessories

EWB01463

WARNING

Improper loading or towing can increase the risk of loss of control, an overturn, or other accident. To reduce the risk of an accident:



Do not exceed the maximum loading limits for the vehicle (see “MAXIMUM LOADING

LIMIT” in this section or vehicle labeling).



Keep weight on racks centered side to side, and as low as possible. Be sure cargo is secured – a loose load could change handling unexpectedly.



Make sure the load does not interfere with your control or ability to see where you are going.



Tie down cargo in the trailer securely. Make sure cargo in the trailer cannot move around.

A shifting load can cause an accident.



Reduce speed and allow more room to stop.

A heavier vehicle takes longer to stop.



Avoid hills and rough terrain. Choose terrain carefully. Use extreme caution when towing or carrying a load on inclines.



Turn gradually and go slowly.

Take extra precautions when driving with a load or trailer. Follow these instructions and always use common sense and good judgment when carrying cargo or towing a trailer.

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7-6


7

MAXIMUM LOADING LIMIT

ATV loading limit (total weight of cargo, rider, accessories, and tongue):

240.0 kg (530 lb)

Front carrier:

50.0 kg (110 lb)

Rear carrier:

90.0 kg (198 lb)

Storage compartment:

4.0 kg (9 lb)

Trailer hitch:

Pulling load (total weight of trailer and cargo):

5880 N (600 kgf, 1322 lbf)

Tongue weight (vertical weight on trailer hitch point):

147 N (15 kgf, 33 lbf)

Drive more slowly than you would without a load.

The more weight you carry, the slower you should go. Although conditions vary, it is good practice to drive slowly (shift into first gear or low drive if available on this model) whenever you are carrying heavier loads or when towing a trailer.

During operation

Always keep your feet on the footboards during operation; otherwise, they may contact the rear wheels.

WARNING! Removing even one hand or foot can reduce your ability to control the ATV or could cause you to lose your balance and fall off of the ATV. If you remove a foot from a footboard, your foot or leg may come into contact with the rear wheels, which could injure you or cause an accident.

[EWB01472]

7-7

Avoid wheelies and jumping.

WARNING! Attempting wheelies, jumps, and other stunts increases the chance of an accident, including


an overturn. Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or jumps. Don’t try to show off.

[EWB01482]

Modifications and accessories

Never modify this ATV through improper installation or use of accessories or other modification. All parts and accessories added to this ATV should be genuine Yamaha or equivalent components designed for use on this ATV and should be installed and used according to instructions. If you have questions, consult an authorized ATV dealer.

WARNING! Operating this ATV with improper modifications may cause changes in handling which in some situations could lead to an accident.

[EWB01492]

7-8

Exhaust system

EWB01502

WARNING



Dry grass or brush or other combustible material accumulated around the engine area could catch fire. Do not operate, idle, or park the ATV in dry grass or other dry ground cover. Keep the engine area free of dry grass, brush, or other combustible material.



Someone touching the exhaust system during or after operation could be burned. Do not touch the hot exhaust system. Do not park the ATV in a place where others might be likely to touch it.

The muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after the engine has stopped. To reduce the risk of fire during operation or after leaving the ATV, do not let brush, grass and other materials collect under the vehicle, near the muffler or exhaust pipe, or next to other hot parts. Check under the vehicle after operating in areas where combustible materials may have collected. Do not idle or park the vehicle in long dry grass or other dry ground cover.

7

7


To prevent burns, avoid touching the exhaust system. Park the ATV in a place where pedestrians or children are not likely to touch it.

BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU RIDE

This ATV is designed for use on unpaved surfaces only.

WARNING! Paved surfaces may seriously affect handling and control of the ATV, and may cause the ATV to go out of control. Always avoid paved surfaces, including sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and streets.

[EWB01512]

7-9

While riding on unpaved public streets or roads may be legal in your area, such operation can increase the risk of collision with other vehicles.

Watch carefully for other vehicles. Make sure you

UB1661E0.book Page 10 Thursday, May 12, 2016 2:47 PM know your country’s laws and regulations before you ride on unpaved public streets or roads. Do not ride on any paved public street, road or motorway.

WARNING! Never operate this ATV on any paved street, paved road or motorway. You can collide with another vehicle.

[EWB01522]

ful when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Always be alert to changing terrain conditions when operating the ATV.

[EWB01532]

Know the terrain where you ride. Ride cautiously in unfamiliar areas. Stay alert for holes, rocks, or roots in the terrain, and other hidden hazards which may cause the ATV to upset.

WARNING!

The ATV could go out of control if you do not have enough time to react to hidden rocks, bumps, or holes. Go slowly and be extra care-

7-10

Do not operate on rough, slippery, or loose terrain until you have learned and practiced the skills necessary to control the ATV on such terrain. Always be especially cautious on these kinds of terrain.

WARNING! Failure to use extra care when operating on excessively rough, slippery, or loose

7


terrain could cause loss of traction or ATV control, which could result in an accident, including an overturn.

[EWB01542]

7

When riding in an area where you might not easily be seen, such as desert terrain, mount a caution flag on the ATV. DO NOT use the flag pole bracket as a trailer hitch.

WARNING! You could collide with another vehicle if operating in areas where you cannot easily be seen. Mount a caution flag on the ATV to make you more visible.

Watch carefully for other vehicles.

[EWB01552]

Do not ride in areas posted “no trespassing”.

Do not ride on private property without getting permission.

7-11


Select a large, flat, unpaved area to become familiar with your ATV. Make sure that this area is free of obstacles and other riders. You should practice control of the throttle, brakes, shifting procedures, and turning techniques in this area before trying more difficult terrain.

Shift to the park position and follow the instruction

on page 6-1 to start the engine. Once it has

warmed up you are ready to begin riding your

ATV. With the engine idling, shift the drive select lever into the low-range position or the high-range position. Apply the throttle slowly and smoothly.

The centrifugal clutch will engage and you will start to accelerate. If the throttle is applied too abruptly, the front wheels may lift off the ground, resulting in a loss of directional control. Avoid higher speeds until you are thoroughly familiar with the operation of your ATV.

When slowing down or stopping, release the throttle and apply the brakes smoothly and evenly.

Improper use of the brakes can cause the tires to lose traction, reducing control and increasing the possibility of an accident.

ECB00252

NOTICE

Do not shift from low-range to high-range or vice versa without coming to a complete stop.

Damage to the engine or drive train may occur.

TURNING YOUR ATV

EWB01772

WARNING

Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this Owner’s Manual. Practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. Do not turn at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions. ATV could go out of control, causing a collision or overturn.

To achieve maximum traction on unpaved surfaces, the two rear wheels turn together at the same speed. Therefore, unless the wheel on the inside of the turn is allowed to slip or lose some traction, the ATV will resist turning. A special turning technique must be used to allow the ATV to make turns quickly and easily. It is essential that this skill be learned first at low speed.

7

7-12


7

As you approach a curve, slow down and begin to turn the handlebars in the desired direction. As you do so, put your weight on the footboard to the outside of the turn (opposite your desired direction) and lean your upper body into the turn. Use the throttle to maintain an even speed through the turn. This maneuver will let the wheel on the inside of the turn slip slightly, allowing the ATV to make the turn properly.

may continue to go straight. If the ATV doesn’t turn, come to a stop and then practice the procedure again. If the riding surface is slippery or loose, it may help to position more of your weight over the front wheels by moving forward on the seat.

Once you have learned this technique, you should be able to perform it at higher speeds or in tighter curves.

Improper riding procedures such as abrupt throttle changes, excessive braking, incorrect body movements, or too much speed for the sharpness of the turn may cause the ATV to tip. If the ATV begins to tip over to the outside while negotiating a turn, lean more to the inside. It may also be necessary to gradually let off on the throttle and steer to the outside of the turn to avoid tipping over.

Remember: Avoid higher speeds until you are thoroughly familiar with the operation of your ATV.

1. Lean towards inside of turn.

2. Support your weight on the outer footboard.

This procedure should be practiced at slow speed many times in a large unpaved area with no obstacles. If an incorrect technique is used, your ATV

7-13

CLIMBING UPHILL

EWB01672

WARNING

Climbing hills improperly can cause overturns or loss of control. Use proper riding techniques described in this Owner’s Manual.




Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities. The ATV can overturn more easily on extremely steep hills than on level surfaces or small hills.



Always check the terrain carefully before you start up any hill. Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.



Shift your weight forward.



Never open the throttle suddenly. The ATV could flip over backwards.



Never go over the top of any hill at high speed. An obstacle, a sharp drop, or another vehicle or person could be on the other side of the hill.



Never attempt to turn the ATV around on any hill until you have mastered the turning technique as described in the Owner’s Manual on level ground. Be very careful when turning on any hill.



Avoid crossing the side of a steep hill if possible. When crossing the side of a hill, shift your weight to the uphill side of the ATV.

7-14

7


7

Do not attempt to climb hills until you have mastered basic maneuvers on flat ground. Always check the terrain carefully before attempting any hill. In all cases avoid inclines with slippery or loose surfaces, or obstacles that might cause you to lose control.

To climb a hill, you need traction, momentum, and steady throttle. For more traction and control for climbing steeper and/or rougher slopes, select

“4WD” or 4WD-LOCK (“DIFF. LOCK”)

(YFM70KPSH). Travel fast enough to maintain momentum, but not so fast that you cannot react to changes in the terrain as you climb.

It is important when climbing a hill to make sure that your weight is transferred forward on the ATV.

This can be accomplished by leaning forward and, on steeper inclines, standing on the footboards and leaning forward over the handlebars. Whenever possible, ride straight up hills.

Slow down when you reach the crest of the hill if you cannot see clearly what is on the other side – there could be another person, an obstacle, or a sharp drop-off. Use common sense and remember that some hills are too steep for you to climb or descend.

7-15

If you are climbing a hill and you find that you have not properly judged your ability to make it to the top, you should turn the ATV around while you still have forward motion (provided you have the room to do so) and go down the hill.

If your ATV has stalled or stopped and you believe you can continue up the hill, restart carefully to make sure you do not lift the front wheels which could cause you to lose control. If you are unable to continue up the hill, dismount the ATV on the uphill side. Physically turn the ATV around and then descend the hill.

If you start to roll backwards, DO NOT apply either brake abruptly. If you are in “2WD”, apply only the front brake. When fully stopped, apply the rear brake as well, and then shift to the park position. If you are in “4WD”, because all wheels are interconnected by the drive train, applying either brake will brake all wheels, therefore, avoid sudden application of either the front or rear brake as the wheels on the uphill side could come off the ground. The ATV could easily tip over backwards.

Apply both the front and rear brakes gradually.

When fully stopped, lock shift to the park position and dismount the ATV immediately on the uphill side. Dismount on uphill side or to a side if pointed

UB1661E0.book Page 16 Thursday, May 12, 2016 2:47 PM straight uphill. Turn the ATV around and remount, following the procedure described in the Owner’s

Manual.

WARNING! Stalling, rolling backwards or improperly dismounting while climbing a hill could result in ATV overturning. If you cannot control the ATV, dismount immediately on the uphill side.

[EWB01803]

RIDING DOWNHILL

EWB01622

WARNING

Going down a hill improperly could cause overturns or loss of control. Always follow proper procedures for going down hills as described in this Owner’s Manual.

7-16



Always check the terrain carefully before you start down any hill.



Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities. The ATV can overturn more easily on extremely steep hills than on level surfaces or small hills.



Shift your weight backward and to the up side of the hill.



Never go down a hill at high speed.



Avoid going down a hill at an angle that would cause the ATV to lean sharply to one side. Go straight down the hill where possible.



Improper braking can cause the wheels on the uphill side to come off the ground or cause loss of traction. Apply brakes gradually. If in “2WD”, apply only the rear brake.

When riding your ATV downhill, shift your weight as far to the rear and uphill side of the ATV as possible. Move back on the seat and sit with your arms straight. Engine compression will do most of the braking for you. For maximum engine compression braking effect, select the low-range position and change to “4WD” before beginning to descend the hill.

7


7

Use caution while descending a hill with loose or slippery surfaces. Braking ability and traction may be adversely affected by these surfaces. Improper braking may also cause a loss of traction.

When this ATV is in “4WD”, all wheels (front and rear) are interconnected by the drive train. This means that applying either the front brake or the rear brake will brake all wheels. When descending hills, using either brake lever or the brake pedal will brake the wheels on the downhill side. Avoid sudden application of either the front or rear brake because the wheels on the uphill side could come off the ground. Apply both the front and rear brakes gradually.

Whenever possible, ride your ATV straight downhill. Avoid sharp angles which could allow the ATV to tip or roll over. Carefully choose your path and ride no faster than you will be able to react to obstacles which may appear.

7-17

CROSSING A SLOPE

EWB01633

WARNING

Improperly crossing hills or turning on hills could cause loss of control or cause the ATV to overturn.



Always follow proper procedures as described in the Owner’s Manual.



Avoid hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.



Avoid crossing the side of a steep hill.




Shift your weight to the uphill side of the ATV.



Never attempt to turn the ATV around on any hill until you have mastered the turning technique as described in the Owner’s Manual on level ground. Be very careful when turning on any hill.

Traversing a sloping surface on your ATV requires you to properly position your weight to maintain proper balance. Be sure that you have learned the basic riding skills on flat ground before attempting to cross a sloping surface. Avoid slopes with slippery surfaces or rough terrain that may upset your balance.

As you travel across a slope, lean your body in the uphill direction. It may be necessary to correct the steering when riding on loose surfaces by pointing the front wheels slightly uphill. When riding on slopes, be sure not to make sharp turns either up or down hill.

If your ATV does begin to tip over, gradually steer in the downhill direction if there are no obstacles in your path. As you regain proper balance, gradually steer again in the direction you wish to travel.

7-18

CROSSING THROUGH SHALLOW WATER

EWB01642

WARNING

Operating this vehicle through deep or fastflowing water can lead to loss of control or an overturn. To reduce your risk of drowning or other injuries, use care when crossing through water. Never operate this ATV water deeper than the depth specified in your Owner’s Manual, as tires may float, increasing the risk of an overturn.

7


The ATV can be used to cross slow moving, shallow water of up to a maximum of 35 cm (14 in) in depth. Before entering the water, choose your path carefully. Enter where there is no sharp drop off, and avoid rocks or other obstacles which may be slippery or upset the ATV. Drive slowly and carefully.

braking ability.

WARNING! Wet brakes may have reduced stopping ability, which could cause loss of control.

[EWB02622]

7

Test your brakes after leaving the water. If necessary, apply them several times to let friction dry out the linings. Do not continue to ride your ATV without verifying that you have regained proper

After riding your ATV in water, be sure to drain the trapped water by removing the check hose at the bottom of the air filter case. Also, remove the drain plugs from the storage compartment and the Vbelt case to drain any water that may have accumulated.

NOTICE:

Undrained water can cause damage or improper operation.

[ECB00842]

Wash the ATV in fresh water if it has been operated in salt water or muddy conditions.

7-19


1

1

1. Air filter case check hose

1. Storage compartment drain plug

1

1. V-belt case drain plug

7-20

RIDING OVER ROUGH TERRAIN

EWB01652

WARNING

Riding improperly over obstacles could cause loss of control or a collision. Before operating in a new area, check for obstacles. Never attempt to ride over large obstacles, such as large rocks or fallen trees. When you go over obstacles, always follow proper procedures as described in the Owner’s Manual.

Riding over rough terrain should be done with caution. Look out for obstacles which could cause damage to the ATV or could lead to an upset or

7


7

accident. Be sure to keep your feet firmly mounted on the footboards at all times. Avoid jumping the

ATV as loss of control and damage to the ATV may result.

SLIDING AND SKIDDING

EWB01663

WARNING

Skidding or sliding improperly may cause you to lose control of this ATV. You may also regain traction unexpectedly, which may cause the

ATV to overturn.



Learn to safely control skidding or sliding by practicing at low speeds and on level, smooth terrain.



On extremely slippery surfaces, such as ice, go slowly and be very cautious in order to reduce the chance of skidding or sliding out of control.

Care should be used when riding on loose or slippery surfaces since the ATV may slide. If unexpected and uncorrected, sliding could lead to an accident.

To reduce the tendency for the front wheels to slide in loose or slippery conditions, positioning your weight over the front wheels will sometimes help.

If the rear wheels of your ATV start to slide sideways, control can usually be regained (if there is room to do so) by steering in the direction of the slide. Applying the brakes or accelerating is not recommended until you have corrected the slide.

7-21


With practice, over a period of time, skill at controlled sliding can be developed. The terrain should be chosen carefully before attempting such maneuvers, since both stability and control are reduced. Bear in mind that sliding maneuvers should always be avoided on extremely slippery surfaces such as ice, since all control may be lost.

WHAT TO DO IF...

This section is designed to be a reference guide only. Be sure to read each section on riding techniques completely.

7-22

WHAT TO DO...



If your ATV doesn’t turn when you want it to:

Bring the ATV to a stop and practice the turning maneuvers again. Be sure you are putting your weight on the footboard to the outside of the turn. Position your weight over the front wheels

for better control. (See page 7-12.)



If your ATV begins to tip while turning:

Lean more into the turn to regain balance. If necessary, gradually let off the throttle and/or

steer to the outside of the turn. (See page 7-12.)



If your ATV starts to slide sideways:

Steer in the direction of the slide if you have the room. Applying the brakes or accelerating is not recommended until you have corrected the

slide. (See page 7-21.)



If your ATV can’t make it up a hill you are trying to climb:

Turn the ATV around if you still have forward speed. If not, stop, dismount on the uphill side of the ATV and physically turn the ATV around.

If the ATV starts to slip backwards, DO NOT

USE THE REAR BRAKE IF THE ATV IS IN

“2WD” – the ATV may tip over on top of you.

Dismount the ATV on the uphill side. (See page

7-13.)

7


7



If your ATV is traversing a sloping surface:

Be sure to ride with your weight positioned towards the uphill side of the ATV to maintain proper balance. If the ATV starts to tip, steer down the hill (if there are no obstacles in your way) to regain balance. If you discover that the

ATV is going to tip over, dismount on the uphill

side. (See page 7-17.)



If your ATV encounters shallow water:

Ride slowly and carefully through slow moving water, watching for obstacles. Be sure to let water drain from the ATV and CHECK YOUR

BRAKES FOR PROPER OPERATION when you come out of the water. Do not continue to ride your ATV until you have regained adequate

braking ability. (See page 7-18.)

7-23

RIDING YOUR ATV. Yamaha KODIAK 700 YFM70KPXH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KPSH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KPAH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KPHH, KODIAK 700 YFM70KDXH

RIDING YOUR ATV

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RIDING YOUR ATV

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