A legendary utility comes back Even in the less glamorous environment of the workplace, some models display the qualities of outstanding reliability and performance to elevate them above the crop and mark them forever as classics. The 400cc Big Bear is one such classic, and even with the advent of the fantastic Grizzly 400, we still couldn’t (ahem) bear to take this air-/oil cooled, 5-speed, semi-automatic shifting legend off the books. In fact, we’ve more than retained it; we’ve given it some very functional and exciting updates, starting with independent rear suspension for plush rider comfort and superb trail holding. Next, we gave it a NEW, sealed wet brake out back to provide long-lasting, outstanding stopping power even in the worst... Read More
A legendary utility comes back
Even in the less glamorous environment of the workplace, some models display the qualities of outstanding reliability and performance to elevate them above the crop and mark them forever as classics.
The 400cc Big Bear is one such classic, and even with the advent of the fantastic Grizzly 400, we still couldn’t (ahem) bear to take this air-/oil cooled, 5-speed, semi-automatic shifting legend off the books.
In fact, we’ve more than retained it; we’ve given it some very functional and exciting updates, starting with independent rear suspension for plush rider comfort and superb trail holding.
Next, we gave it a NEW, sealed wet brake out back to provide long-lasting, outstanding stopping power even in the worst conditions.
And to enable you to access full thrust from your 4WD capability, we’ve fitted Yamaha’s patented On-Command® push-button switching with diff lock. You’ll also find we’ve given it the full Grizzly bodywork treatment of wide, protective mudguards and full floorboards. Minimise
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Pros:
good alround performer for people who dont want to go fast will climb any thing with bajacross tyres and ss112 wheels, totally changes the overall look (sporty)
Cons:
original tyres kept going down (ching shen)o5 model pipe rusts out early made my own s/steel(nice note)
Overall:
after those few mods i also made my own snorkel out of s/steel turn air box inlet out to right cut end off fitted 38mm s/steel 90 degree then into 50mm tube run up under gaurd out next to hour meter behind rack just under handle bars to clear when turning gained 350mm above original inlet rains alot in north west tasmania just to be on safe side took me about 6 hrs to change no real plan to go off now all my mates want one for there bikes
Pros:
Bullet proof. A no frills workhorse that will do everything you ask of it and more.
The Big Bear 400 just loves hills and working hard. Class leading torque and engine braking make the steepest of inclines and decents just a 'walk in the park' and most of that in 2nd gear. Put it in 1st and you could tow a caravan up Mt Everest, fill it full of frozen Sherpas and cruise down the other side.
Great suspension and ergos make it a pleasure to ride.
Servicing is simple with a minimal amount of tools needed and easy access to drains, fillers and filters.
Tried the recoil starter just to see how difficult it would be if required and was pleasantly surprised on the ease at which it started.
I wanted to see how easy it was to slip the clutch. Got on a steep hill in 3rd with the clutch locked up at low revs and opened the throttle. It wouldn't slip. once it's locked...it's locked! This machine is awesome.
Cons:
On the downside...If you work one of these hard in steep terrain, she's a bit thirsty. Expect to go through 8 or 9 litres per 100km when worked really hard. You'll halve that cruising on the flat stuff, but factor it in to your running costs.
Another small gripe is a little too much feedback through the steering on very rocky terrain. Simple is good because less things attatched, mean less things to break, but a factory fitted damper would be nice. On normal terrain it's not an issue.
Gearshifting is smooth and positive but sometimes a little difficult to get out of reverse especialy when everthings cold.
And like all those factory fitted tool kits, once you've taken it out of it's little moulded spot, good luck getting it back in. Thankfully I doubt it will ever be needed. Oh yeh.. and how much is a C wrench? About 30 bucks coz Yamaha won't give you one!
Overall:
Overall this is as tough as they come but the Big Bear 400 still feels refined, and comfortable. Know your limitations. you could easily get over confident with this machine and kill yourself.
If you want CVT, electric power steering plus electronic engine breaking, fool injection, a jesus box programed by NASA and all the associated reliability issues and repair costs, then buy something else. If you want a machine that represents great value for money and will probably out last you (and you're kids) then there's only one choice.
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