The Grizzly has been extensively improved over the past two years in an attempt to incorporate customer requests. The major themes addressed were a lighter handling feeling with greater performance and durability in extremely muddy terrain. A by-product of the production changes greatly reduced the overall weight, shedding 40 pounds off the original model.

Essential features that mark the Grizzly’s reputation as a workhorse, include front disc brakes, sealed hydraulic rear brakes, and an engine braking system. Additionally, On-command four-wheel drive, a brutish 600cc powerplant, overhanging fenders, inner splash guards, wide metal floorboards, the largest cargo rack and towing capacity in its class and long-travel front and rear suspension, make the Grizzly a class-leader.

Yamaha’s Ultramatic is the world’s first ATV transmission utilizing both a centrifugal clutch and a sprag (one-way) clutch behind the primary pulley, providing both superior engine braking and durability over other systems that utilize the drive belt only as a clutch.

The Grizzly’s engine braking prevents the ATV from free-wheeling when riding down a slope or when hauling heavy loads. The Grizzly’s transmission breather system has an under-seat vent designed to prevent water, dirt, and other debris from entering, thereby extending belt life and minimizing belt slippage common in competitor’s automatic transmissions.

The high and low range gearing options allow riders to maximize performance in a variety of riding and terrain conditions with the simple shift of a hand-operated lever. Reverse is engaged by depressing the foot brake and moving the hand- operated transmission selector to the reverse location. Powering the transmission is an air-cooled, four-valve, SOHC, 595cc engine that offers the largest displacement and most powerful engine in any utility ATV. The powerful 600cc engine features an electric starter and a recoil (pull) starter, equipped with an auto-decompression cam for an easier pull.

An engine courterbalancer is used for minimized vibration and smooth operation. The new intake system is located high within the frame for less leakage and is fed by a constant-velocity, 40mm big bore carburetor that fuels the Grizzly’s torquey powerplant. For maximum efficiency, a wet-sump lubrication system is used with two oil pump rotors independently directing oil to the fan-equipped oil cooler and engine crankcase.

New for 2000, the Grizzly is also available in a Realtree X-tra™ Brown pattern with a camouflage seat and tank graphic for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $6,549, only $50.00 more than the standard Grizzly. The 2000 Grizzly 600 4x4 is available in Hunter Green, Beige, and Red, and the retail price remains unchanged at $6,499.