2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 Preview

Yamaha has given its flagship ATV – the Grizzly 700 FI EPS, some updates for 2014 to improve comfort, durability and fuel economy.

The 2014 Grizzly 700 gets a wider tread width – 60mm wider overall – and new longer suspension stroke on both the front and rear shocks. According to Yamaha, this delivers a more comfortable low speed ride while maintaining the Grizzly’s overall handling characteristics. As well, new EPS settings are designed to improve the balance between providing light steering and reducing negative feedback all while still maintaining optimum positive feedback.

VIEW: Read our review of the 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 SE Tactical Black

2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700

The Grizzly 700’s power comes from a 686cc engine with a new four-valve head and a 10.0:1 compression ratio (up from 9.1:2). The Grizzly also features Mikuni fuel injection with a 44mm bore and throttle position sensor which makes for smooth throttle response and easy starts even in cold weather and at high altitudes.

This full-featured big bore boasts Yamaha’s exclusive three-position On-Command 4WD system that gives the rider control between 2WD, limited-slip 4WD and a fully locked differential 4WD – all with the push of a button. It has a fully automatic Ultramatic transmission with dual-range (Hi/Lo) drive and reverse. This CVT system, which Yamaha boasts is the most durable of its kind, features an automatic centrifugal clutch that maintains constant belt tension for reduced belt wear and a sprag clutch for natural feeling engine braking.

The Grizzly is a touch wider for 2014 and features a longer suspension stroke at all four corners.

Also new on this year’s Grizzly are redesigned wheels with the inner lip rolled in to provide more durability to complement the machine’s nearly 11 inches of ground clearance. Yamaha says the Grizzly’s new Maxxis tires provide an excellent balance of maximum grip, comfort, precise steering and durability.

The Grizzly 700 features a digital instrument panel with a multifunction LCD display showing speedometer, odometer, dual trip meter, hour meter, 4WD status, transmission position, clock and fuel gauge.

VIEW: Read our preview of the 2014 Yamaha Viking 700

Redesigned wheels offer more durability for 2014.

Lending to the Grizzly 700’s rugged reputation are steel cargo racks able to haul more than 285 pounds combined (99 front and 187 rear) and a center-mounted, heavy-duty trailer hitch capable of towing more than 1,300 pounds.

Every 2014 Grizzly 700 FI is being manufactured exclusively in the U.S.A. at Yamaha’s factory in Newnan, Ga., for worldwide distribution.

2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 Action Left

The 2014 Grizzly 700 FI comes in both EPS and non-EPS versions. Color options include Steel Blue, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree AP HD camo. EPS models start at $9,499 and non-EPS models start at $8,899.