2016 Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS First Test Review

[@bbubacz1]

Just bought a 17 Kodiak 700 EPS SE today!!!🤘🏼

[@ATVonDemand]

Thats AWESOME!! We hope you enjoy it. Keep us posted.

[@janeillivingstone801]

bbubacz1 z I'm getting the same atv as you

[@patgenier1965]

Guy Mann how do you like it 1 year on?

[@brianeastman3547]

Sweet man,I looked at 1 at the Iron Pony,it was the Kodiak 450 and the 700,both models are sweet, at a affordable price range, keep up the good work man.

[@deepstate6598]

the 2016 had a recall on the decompression spring which expired in 2021. I only found out about it in 2023 when mine went on the fritz.

[@caseysimon6357]

My wife picked up her 2021 EPS SE and I got a 2021 EPS. Solid purchases. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@htcooley04]

Holy smokes u can't beat that 700cc base model price thats a lot of bike for your money

[@ATVonDemand]

Hale Cooley so true

[@thumperbangin2000]

ya i bought one. did tires, tuner, full skids, it goes good

[@George_USMC]

Shopping for a basic ATV for my dad to run around and do work around his property, thanks for the excellent/informative review.

[@ATVonDemand]

Glad to help. The Kodiak would be a good fit.

[@atvdirt1]

Great review ATVonDemand!

[@SunNpalmtrees]

Still rockin the 2012 grizz 700!

[@ATVonDemand]

Built to last!

[@crosstiesbeagles]

This is a great quad and very affordable. I bought the base model new locally for $5400. Added a winch and 27 inch Zillas without any issues on stock wheels. plenty power and hooks up great with no need to put in a clutch kit. Coming out of a corner on hard pack or gravel you can goose it and pull air under the front wheel. I run an area that is a combination of woods with rolling to steep hills in Ky. Also run in a lot of creek bottoms and swamps with peanut butter style mud. So far have only hung up once in peanut butter with the stock tires. Would have loved to had a locker that day but don't think it would have been an issue with the Zillas.

[@ATVonDemand]

Thanks for posting your experience. We love hearing back from viewers who have purchased machines we've reviewed.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Wheelies come pretty easy on the Kodiak?!

[@crosstiesbeagles]

Mickey Woods wheelies are no problem in low gear. if you were going to pull power wheelies in high you would need to add the grizzly weights. power comes in very smooth from a start in high and pulls hard in the mid range.

[@lukeworrell8479]

Keep the reviews up

[@ATVonDemand]

Luke Worrell Will Do.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

Think I should sell my 03 Yamaha Kodiak 400 4x4 and get the 2016 model. Even though it been out a few years.

[@dash11111111]

I second that! Awesome job on the reviews!

[@ATVonDemand]

dash 11 Thanks, and thank you for taking the time to watch.

[@chrisholland2348]

ATVonDemand Great review on the new Kodiak 700, you've definitely changed my mind from the Grizzly to the Kodiak 700! In my opinion it's the best bang for the buck by far. Keep the great reviews coming and hope to see more on this model by yal. I just subscribed so not sure if you do reviews on upgrades for power etc do you by chance? i will always check your reviews out first now, thanks for saving me from spending the extra money!!!!

[@chrisholland2348]

+ATVonDemand ^ didn't put the + in font of the ATVonDemand on the comment above

[@ATVonDemand]

HI Chris, thanks for subscribing, watching, and for taking the time to leave us some positive feedback. The Kodiak definitely deserves some more attention from us. We do perform upgrades on machines from time to time and would love to do something with the Kodiak in the future.

[@joeellis2692]

I went with a Grizzly 700 eps it was 2,000 more getting bigger tires EPS center headlight + cluster and differential lock

[@lacbowker]

If the Kodiak is intended to be a workhorse, it would have been a good idea to test it with trailer, like wood splitter and logging arch. :-)

[@gregrowe1168]

+Lac Bowker I don't really like how Yamaha is marketing the Kodiak. Its still got the same 708cc engine the Grizzly has. Its also a great trail machine, might even be better in some ways as the mellower clutching makes the power a bit easier to control in a tough spot. But they only market it as a work or hunting atv. I think this is a mistake as it appears to be a great all around machine that can do it all at a price much less than the Grizzly. I've seen the base model without eps for around 6K locally, that's not a bad price for a 700 class utility 4x4 quad.

[@ATVonDemand]

+Greg Rowe Greg, you are absolutely right, although the Grizzly isnt really hard to handle, the Kodiak is a little smoother, which may help. We found it to be a great trail machine and wouldn't hesitate to buy it as a recreational machine at a great price. Its also great for someone who wants good power and an ergonomically smaller machine. Lee, we tested it at a press event where Yamaha invites us to come ride it, so we didn't have the change to tow with it. With a similar chassis and suspension as the old Grizzly 550 and 700, here's betting it tows and hauls at least as well.

[@theslechta847]

+ATVonDemand how does the Kodiak stack up against the 2014 Grizzly in chassis performance? I know that there were revisions done to the 2014 to reduce body roll during hard corners and was curious in the Kodiak behaves in the same way when ridden hard?

[@ATVonDemand]

+The Tboner Sorry it took us so long to respond. We all felt that the Grizzly 550 and original 700 chassis needed a reduction in body roll, although it was very manageable and predictable. The Grizzly has definitely been improved with its wider track and new suspension. Based on our brief encounter, we would have to say that although the Kodiak has the same width and wheelbase, it's handling has been improved compared to the old 550/700 as stability goes. The Kodiak has a 1.7" lower seat height. which gets your weight down when sitting and lets you hang farther off the machine in corners. It has the newer Maxxis tires found on the last generation , 2014-2015 Grizzly 700 which seemed to roll less.. Yamaha also updated the shock settings on the Kodiak which may have played a role as well. Thanks for watching.

[@abdullazieai2441]

hey atv on demand i do not now if this is your latest video but could you make a video about raptor 90 yamaha plz

[@ATVonDemand]

+abdulla zieai We would definitely like to review the Raptor 90. Look for something on it around spring time.

[@Palomino488]

So, with the differences in the clutch weights compared to the Grizzly, how much effort is required to wheelie the Kodiak if the rider should choose to do so? Will it still wheelie with aggressive throttle inputs from the rider, like the Grizzly? Great review of the Kodiak 700!

[@ATVonDemand]

+Palomino488 Sure, its possible to bring up the front wheels on the Kodiak, but it will take more effortl and throttle to get it done. Keep in mind, if you like the lower price point of the Kodiak but want the harder hitting feeling of the Grizzly, you could simply have your dealer switch out the clutch weights to those used in the Grizzly.

[@Palomino488]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@ATVonDemand]

+Palomino488 Any time.

[@Palomino488]

+ATVonDemand So, the suspension between the Kodiak SE and the Grizzly SE are both designed to be comfortable, does one machine excel in suspension softness and seat comfort over the other? I usually spend a lot of hours at a time trail riding and like the most comfort I can get out of a machine. I currently own a Honda Rancher AT 4x4 EPS and like it very well, but the new Yamaha's have caught my eye. Trying to decide between the new Honda Rubicon DCT EPS, the Yamaha Kodiak 700 SE and the Yamaha Grizzly 700 SE.

[@ATVonDemand]

+Palomino488 This is tough. We haven't ridden the Honda yet so we cant comment on that model. As the Yamaha's go, We would give the Grizzly an edge in comfort as bumps go. Its taller tires roll more smoothly over rocks and roots. It's seat is a little thicker and plusher. When you frame out on rocks there is no suspension to absorb shock. The Grizzly has more ground clearance and frames out less. On the flip-side, The Kodiak's more compact ergonomics with its lower seat height and handlebars, allow you to move around more easily on the Kodiak while expanding less energy. The narrower track of the Kodiak's chassis make line selection easier in some circumstances. If you want to ride aggressively, the clutching of the Kodiak will have you working harder to pull the front end up. If you want the smoothest most manageable power possible, the Kodiak gets the nod. Of course, you could buy a Grizzly and add the Kodiak's handlebars and seat, providing the Grizzly advantages with the more compact cockpit of the Kodiak. Two good options make it tough. We hope this helps.

[@jeffreygibbons4704]

Awesome bike. Both the Grizzly and Kodiak are great. However I would like a front diff locker that the Grizzly has but the Kodiak doesn't. Kind of a big deal when your stuck in some nasty mud with no one around. As far a power both bikes seem to have plenty, just the Grizzly has better off the line power because of the lighter weights on the clutches. Grizzly has just a tad higher ground clearance too with 1 inch bigger tires. Not really much of a difference but I'm still sold on Grizzly.

[@airrixx3668]

Getting one this month!

[@goo6648]

AirRixX are they tall bec I want one but I'm short

[@airrixx3668]

Not really, I'm 5'7" and it's perfect!

[@goo6648]

AirRixX ok thx

[@goo6648]

AirRixX how many inch tall are they

[@joe96787]

I got this and for the most part I love it but when going slow over some rocks etc it stalls . So far I haven't got the 20 hours on it yet so I'm hopping this will go away ? It also makes noises and bogs down when hard braking . any help ?

[@ATVonDemand]

+Joegernaut We honestly never experienced this issue at the press ride. We will reach our to Yamaha and see what they have to say about it and get back with you.

[@joe96787]

thanks !

[@ATVonDemand]

+Joegernaut According to our contacts at Yamaha, there are no known issues with low-end hesitation with the Kodiak. They suggest that you take the machine to the dealer and have it checked over. Who knows, maybe you got some debris in your fuel. Please keep us posted.

[@joe96787]

+ATVonDemand ok will do thanks again

[@thumperbangin2000]

GhettoJoe u need a tuner..

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I'm stuck between this and the sportsman 570. Which would likely be better for long term? Also, is it too small for a 6'4, 235 lb rider?

[@ATVonDemand]

We can't make a decision for you. If you have any more specific questions we'd be happy to do our best to answer them. Te Kodiak feels a little smaller, but you could always head down to the dealer and try one on for size. With the CVT weights out of the new Grizzly, the Kodiak should be a bit faster from the upper midrange up. The 570 is pretty stout off the bottom and is pretty potent. If Utility matters most we are a little partial to steel racks like the ones on the Kodiak.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Thanks for the input. With your info on the wet brake and long lasting cvt belt, I definitely feel more confident now in purchasing this bike. Headed home soon from overseas and really looking forward to seeing how it feels sitting on it. Fortunately, I'm in close range of both dealers

[@ATVonDemand]

When you get back, try them both on and let us know which one you go with. Safe travels.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

ATVonDemand - took a while but I went with the Sportsman EPS! After sitting on the Kodiak and Grizzly, I realized the Polaris was far more roomy and comfortable . I’m 6’5 and 220 and the sporty was much more accommodating for my frame. Also, much of the negative things I’ve heard about Polaris is rider fault. Not following OEM break in and maintenance as well as turning the bike into a boat. So far the sportsman feels smooth and stout

[@millatym04]

@@ComfyDadShoes How’s the Polaris treating you?

[@dakhuff8016]

I am looking for a quad that won't break the budget probably around 8,000 is top we have lots of land will be mostly on grass and dirt. Will go mudding quite often but doesn't rain much here and will go on asphalt and gravel occasionally

[@owenconnelly8924]

Dakota Huff re: look at Honda foreman rubicon or Polaris sportsman

[@mak7799]

HELLO FROM GREECE. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE GRIZZLY FOR 2 RIDERS.

[@ATVonDemand]

Sorry it took us so darn long to respond. No, not at this time.

[@joeellis2692]

I wish I bought the base model Kodiak rather than the grizzly eps 2016. After a year I was not happy with my purchase with a grizzly at all.

[@lukegrady5357]

How so?

[@joeellis2692]

@@lukegrady5357 After figuring out 2 electric problems that took 9 months to figure out at the beginning of owning my 2016 Grizzle 708 eps. I put 6 miles on my machine by the end of summer 9 miles by the end of the year. I bent three 2 inch receiver's with a koplin 3 point hitch system and a groundhog max. So micro food plots where out of the question. By the end of my second winter the frame started rusting fast and the foot brake pedal seized up twice. The turning radius is too wide front end is still too heavy and radiator is too small. That's pretty much all the bad for me. There's some good too.

[@scooter95mph]

Does the Kodiak spin all 4 tiers or just 3?

[@coryr9938]

The SE has a front locker which will spin all 4. The others spin 3. I think they changed the locker to the EPS version also for 2017 and up though.

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA; KODIAK; MOTOR 700. CC ÓTIMO Trilhas no Mato. Todas trilhos não escolhe estradas !!!……………………………YAMAHA. KODIAK. Parabéns. YAMAHA!!!……………………………………………OK!!!……………………………………………………………………………

[@mforce8117]

How does this compare to a Outlander L 570? I know they both have 48hp just wondering how they matchup in speed and handling.

[@ATVonDemand]

+Michael Taylor With the stock clutch Kodiak springs, we would expect the Outlander to be a little faster in a drag race. Add Grizzly clutch weights to the Kodiak and it might be a different story. We expect the Yamaha to have more torque either way. Handling is a little harder to break down without riding them back to back. The Kodiak is based on the old Grizzly chassis with updated suspension and ergonomics. Without riding them back to back we think it handles as well if not a little better than the old Grizzly 550/700. We didn't find any handling issues that stood out. Hope this helps.

[@coltonk7591]

ATVonDemand im having this dilemma choosing between the 2 exact models.. I want something fun that won't want me wanting more. which one is a funner more capable atv? outlander 570 or Kodiak 700? I'd get the Kodiak with the locking dif.

[@rafaelcordova6374]

my 2016 grizzly didn't come with eps, is that a mod i can do buying the parts?

[@POHLHAMMER]

yes , I believe it can be added..

[@Galdar7777]

How do you honestly make a choice between a kodiak 700 and a Grizzly? I am looking to buy one but I dont see the difference other then price. Any advise?

[@thumperbangin2000]

Galdar Ironfang some size differences, kodiak is narrower, 1 inch lower seat height. basically the same machine though. i got the kodiak

[@Jimo368]

I chose the Kodak because it fits through the door of my enclosed trailer, where the Grizzly does not.

[@supercracker2198]

How is the engine noise compared to a sporstman? I own both a 420 rancher and a 400 H.O sportsman (its the wife's) I'm lookin for something to replace my rancher 420 for hunting/play. Honda doesnt hardly have any storage and is under powered imo. Been a Honda guy my whole life but not having the options other manufactures offer like something a small as 2'' inch receiver and diffloc for the almost the same price as an atv with those options is annoying. The sportman has some craaazy loud engine noise and takes time to get use to and has them stupid plastic racks plus... Taking the wife's atv for hunting is a no go. Thanks!

[@ATVonDemand]

+supercracker I have ridden both machines and without listening to them back to back its tough to say. I believe the Kodiak is a bit quieter. If not due to the decibel level of the exhaust its because the Kodiak's clutch seems to keep it running lower in the RPMs.

[@supercracker2198]

10/4 thank you for replying and the review!

[@ATVonDemand]

Our pleasure. Please spread the word and thanks for watching!

[@jacksonwood6914]

When he said low price I died

[@ATVonDemand]

Jackson Wood sorry, you can't buy a 700 for four grand. We wish you could too. comparatively this is lower-priced.

[@mrzoov3661]

I think the kodiak700 looks better than the grizzly700

[@ATVonDemand]

Well you're in luck then. If you pick one up and change the roller weights in the clutch the engine performs just as well as the one in the grizzly. It's kind of like buying an old school Grizzly at a better price.

[@mrzoov3661]

ATVonDemand that’s cool but I’m 14 and I think a kodiak/grizzly 450 is more than enough for me. Although, I might get myself a 700 in the future

[@southjerseybmxcrew]

A review on the new sportsman 450 would be awesome. I'm considering buying a new atv and debating between the sportsman 450 a sportsman 570 and a honda rancher.

[@ATVonDemand]

+southjerseybmxcrew We'll keep it in mind ad the 2017s roll out.

[@duaneregimbal8081]

I know the 2014 Grizzly is awesome, too bad they don't make a 2 up machine.

[@ATVonDemand]

+Duane Regimbal Its interesting how none of the manufactures from Japan make a 2 up

[@ilikesuzuki]

+ATVonDemand can u put a aftermarket 2 up seat? also, why is the base model cheaper than some other brand in it's class. are these atv good?

[@ATVonDemand]

The lack of front differential lock, use of mechanical 4wd engagement instead of electronic, steel wheels, 25" tires, and lack of digital instrument display all allow Yamaha to get the price down compared to the competition. What's great is that this lack high-end features doesn't keep the base model Kodiak from being a great ATV. The chassis is designed for one rider, so we would recommend against riding double.

[@brandondannys-menary3678]

The Rincon is a joke haha. Sure they're reliable, but so are kawasaki brutes, kodiak/grizzly and kimgquads lol

[@lukegrady5357]

You’re roght

[@carolinabackwoodsgunclub6089]

what is the top mph of the Kodiak 700?

[@Constantstate]

65 MPH, verified on 3 different machines... At times (tail wind ,slight downhill) it will just touch 66 MPH. This is according to the on-board meter, but my GPS confirms it to be very accurate (within 1-2 MPH). I hope that helps.

[@ATVonDemand]

Thanks for responding to this.

[@sekerozden21]

wow

[@otahu26]

They Still need to Make the Frame and seat longer. I find my Suzuki 750 doesn't "WHEELIE" when your claiming extreme obstetricals. MY Yamaha is not as Confident inspiring as my Suzuki. I think it's because The wheel base is slightly longer on my Suzuki and the engine is farther forward. The rear wheels are over the load. Unlike the Yamaha which is forward of the load when it's on the rear racks. Load on a couple salt blocks, Hay bale.. YAMAHA is very tippy.. Yamaha has almost come over backwards on me a few times. It's for sale!

[@ATVonDemand]

Interesting feedback. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@craigmoorer5927]

No diff lock? No thanks.

[@ATVonDemand]

The LE model of this machine has diff lock. They took it off the entry level model to save cost and keep the price down. It only matters if your a die-hard rock crawler of mud rider.

[@tyleralexander6368]

The se has diff lock

[@abdullazieai2441]

ok then

[@hectorhernanguevaradavid2254]

Polaris is better

[@jbrap7198]

Hector Hernan Guevara David Polaris is junk like complete junk buddy bought one from dealer ride it for a week around the farm and it blew up absolutely trash

[@jomby1231]

Hector Hernan Guevara David WOW. Everyone I know that has a Polaris is crying about the work that either they or the dealer need to do to it. No lie. They make nice snowmobiles though.