Shop Motorcycle Gear,
Parts and Apparel.

2011 Yamaha Grizzly 450 EPS First Ride Photo Gallery

Yamaha's newest Grizzly ATV is a seriously capable machine that impressed us.

Yamaha introduces power steering to the 2011 Grizzly 450 and brings a new level of advancement to the mid-size utility ATV market.

The physical size of the machine is unintimidating, the motor capable yet forgiving, suspension plush, EPS is well-calibrated and thorough and engine braking unobtrusive.

Handling is light on the trail, which makes for
a low-impact ride and added confidence.

The new lighter chassis and EPS make getting through tough situations more manageable. This trials course we discovered was difficult enough that it drew specators.

Engine braking is a mechanical system, operated by a one-way sprag clutch. This freewheeling bearing only kicks in when the tire speed exceeds the engine speed.

The rear brake is now sealed inside the rear differential housing.

Protection is important since the Grizzly seems to challenge the
worst. We like the CV joint boot guard (left),

Fully independent
suspension does a good job of keeping things comfortable.

Lots of slow-speed riding with hard braking led to some play in the rear lever.

Yamaha has packed the Grizzly 450 EPS with features and amenities that will make it a popular ride with the midsize utility ATV market.

We
were happy with the ergonomics after only a
few minutes to get acquainted.

The extra braking power can be most felt through the left hand lever. Modulating the brake, initiating slides and tiptoeing around a precipice are all easily done with the pull of a single finger.

Yamaha chose Washington’s claustrophobic trails of the Capitol State Forest to demonstrate why the new 450 EPS is worth every penny.

Yamaha also has a good deal of storage with an underseat bucket and a waterproof box on the right fender panel

Features like a waterproof storage compartment, a clean digital display and tool-free airbox access make the Grizzly easy to enjoy.

The Steel Blue option comes with aluminum wheels and was our favorite ($7799).

Underseat storage is large, but not waterproof.

The motor is a 421cc powerplant which provides enough steam to move around quickly.

Yamaha offers the 2011 Grizzly 450 EPS in three options, standard is hunter green ($7499).

Shifting the Grizzly is simple. A hand lever on the left side down by the rider’s knee offers high, low, neutral, reverse and park.

The digital instrument panel is easy to use with multiple functions.

Hand controls allow the rider to keep a firm grip on the machine while managing most features.

The Yamaha Outdoors accessory catalog is stocked with items like gun racks, winches, plows, rack extensions, fender flares and more.

The four-gallon fuel tank offers a reserve setting in addition to the fuel gauge located in plain view next to the filler cap.

Realtree AP Camo is a must for the hunters ($7849).

The suspension is fairly soft and the Maxxis tires flex, leading to some body roll.