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Unlike
many other mid-size utility ATVs the Grizzly
450 offers some great features including
a full featured digital display, which
only lacks a fuel gauge as it remains
a bubble gauge on the gas tank |
A
huge benefit on the Grizzly 450 is the
On-Command 4wd, 2wd, Diff-Lock switch
located within thumb reach & the Diff-lock
makes a big difference when trying to
climb over difficult obstacles with ease |
Most manufacturers equip their utility quads
with 24” tires, but the Yamaha Grizzly
450 EPS features the first in its class, 25”
full size tires. The 2-ply tires worked well
and would be more than suitable for working
applications, hunting or casual trail riding,
but for more aggressive riding, we did seem
to see a little body roll, but overall they
worked good and their light weight added to
the lighter feel of the ATV.
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The
Grizzly 450 features 25" Maxxis tires,
which provide great traction & increased
ground clearance. The standard Grizzly
comes with Steel wheels while the Steel
Blue model features aluminum wheels |
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The Grizzly
450 features a new front suspension
geometry & 6.3" of wheel travel
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We felt for our riding style that maybe we should
add a little more air to the tires to stiffen
them up a bit and decided to make use of the very
convenient, 12-volt electrical outlet on the quad.
We hooked up our air compressor unit and added
air to the tires right there on the trail without
much effort at all and were on our way again in
no time.
The electronic power steering on the Grizzly
450 EPS was very quick and responsive, making
the quad feel nimble and easy to maneuver. The
EPS system also helps to reduce rider fatigue,
which was very noticeable for us as we rode
a total of 31 miles over a several hour period
on our test ride and we did not feel tired at
all. The ergonomics of the Grizzly 450 EPS were
good as well and were quite comfortable, even
after spending all day out on the trails.
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The
Capitol State Forest trails offer a great
range of riding environments, but of the
trails have littered with large rocks
& exposed roots, which allowed the
EPS feature on the Grizzly to shine as
it soaked up the impacts with little to
no feedback to the handlebars for a confidence
inspiring ride with less rider fatigue |