August 31, 2006 In a first for the ATV market, Yamaha has introduced an electric power steering system on its new Grizzly 700 EPS. The Grizzly’s power steering system varies with both vehicle speed and engine speed (RPM), so that the rider benefits from more assistance when needed at low speeds and tight corners and less when on the move. Powering the Grizzly 700 EPS is the proven fuel injected, four-stroke forward-inclined single cylinder and liquid-cooled engine now with a ceramic composite coated, all-aluminium cylinder and a swept volume of 686cc, a reverse-facing air intake, electronic fuel injection, straight intake tracts and four valves per cylinder. The Grizzly comes in several variants including a duck hunting version complete with rifle carrier and a box to keep the ducks in (pictured). Another great photo gallery with this story.
It also features a high-efficiency radiator mounted high in the chassis to protect against mud and debris.
To assist with braking, the engine features Yamaha’s Engine Brake Control, which helps to slow the ATV when descending steep downhills. Like the Grizzly 660 4x4, the Grizzly 700 4x4 EPS transfers power from its engine to the wheels through Yamaha’s Ultramatic V-Belt transmission featuring high and low range, reverse, plus parking brake.
By pressing a button on the handlebar, the rider can also select two or four wheel drive operation. In four wheel drive mode, the Grizzly 700 can use the differential lock to deliver the torque equally to all wheels for maximum traction. The straight layout design of the drive shafts reduces vibration and minimises torque fluctuations in the drive line.
The rear braking system and gear case have been redesigned in conjunction with the new independent rear suspension. Smaller and more compact, the gear case is extremely rugged and efficient. The dual front and rear hydraulic discs provide maximum stopping power for the new Grizzly
A sturdy double-cradle frame is crafted from tubular steel while double wishbone suspension features front and rear. The independent suspension system features five-way adjustable pre-load and offers generous wheel travel. The setup offers smooth action, high stability and excellent rider comfort.
The combination of the new chassis and suspension provides the Grizzly 700 EPS with a massive amount of ground clearance. Plus the riding position sits 25mm higher than that of the Grizzly 660 4x4, enhancing the rider’s ability to scan the horizon. The new vertically positioned automotive-style instrument panel suits the riding position with new features to ensure that the rider has all the key information.
Engine
New, Raptor-based four-valve combustion chamber design produces a potent combination of low-rev torque, right-now throttle response and high horsepower.
Compact engine design features a 35-degree cylinder angle for ground clearance and lower seat height for quick steering and manoeuvrability.
Fuel injection provides a perfect fuel/air mixture regardless of temperature or altitude, and makes cold starts a breeze.
Gear-driven crankshaft balancer shaft and new-design rubber-damper engine mounts reduce vibration.
Ceramic-composite cylinder liners provide outstanding durability and heat dissipation; forged piston is light and strong and rides a carburised, chrome-moly connecting rod.
Two-lobe overhead cam and a pair of needle-roller rocker arms reduce friction by 50 percent for increased fuel efficiency and torque.
Mikuni fuel injection with 44mm bore and throttle position sensor means easy cold starts and flawless fuel delivery in nearly any conditions.
Push button electric starting with seven-disk torque-limiting damper assembly to protect the starter motor.
Straight driveshaft layout eliminates U-joints for reduced friction, vibration and maintenance.
Stainless steel exhaust system features aluminium heat shields and a screen-type spark arrestor for great power with minimum noise output.
High-capacity aluminium radiator with fan-assist delivers maximum cooling efficiency and is positioned high in the frame for optimal protection.
Automatic cam chain tensioner reduces engine maintenance and helps extend engine life.
Five-position shift lever with H, L, N, R and P gates for positive Ultramatic transmission operation.
Override button allows engine to make maximum RPM in full Diff Lock mode.
Electronic servo-activated 2WD/4WD/Diff Lock via the On-Command system.
Sealed drive case keeps out water and debris to help prevent belt from slipping. Chassis/Suspension
All-new chassis provides fantastic comfort along with outstanding handling and manoeuvrability.
New, lay-down style front suspension A-arms provide outstanding ground clearance.
Five-way preload adjustable shocks provide a controlled, comfortable ride whatever the load or trail conditions.
Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes serve up consistent, long-lasting braking power under all sorts of nasty conditions.
Electronic power steering varies assist according to speed and RPM for increased comfort and incredible manoeuvrability—even in 4WD.
20 litre fuel tank is located under the seat for excellent mass centralisation and handling; there’s a 4.8 litre waterproof storage compartment under there too.
300mm of ground clearance and full-length composite skid plate deliver maximum underbelly protection while enhancing off road ability.
New 25x8-12 front and 25x10-12 rear tyres provide responsive steering and handling and excellent comfort.
Rugged injection-moulded front bumper and CV joint guards protect against rock and debris damage.
Additional Features
New-design LCD instrument display contains fuel injection and electronic power steering information as well as bar-type fuel gauge, odometer, tripmeter, clock and Diff Lock indicator.
An analogue speedometer shows your velocity at a glance.
Rugged steel cargo racks with special, extra-durable wrinkle paint finish can pack a total of 130kg combined (45 front, 85 rear).
Centre-mounted, heavy-duty trailer hitch comes standard and can tow 550kg.
Large, specially designed seat is extra plush and widely contoured for all-day rider comfort.
Dual 30-watt multi-reflector Halogen bulb headlights with high/low beams light up the night.
