Dollar for dollar I don’t think there’s a better machine on the market. Designed for the new rider, entry level segment or the backup machine for the sxs or other rider it is perfect. Push button on the fly 4×4 with an impressive amount of power out of the 450
Put a smile on your face
If you are looking at the Kodiak 450, you are probably the entry level customer or someone looking to add to their existing fleet at a low price point. We love the push button 4×4 and digital dash. Steering effort is minimal but if you want less, step up to the LE and get power steering as well as the handlebar mounted headlight. You get a couple other cool features in the LE like the painted bodywork and aluminum wheels as well.
Why Kodiak?
To start out riding you need something that inspires confidence. The Kodiak 450 does just that. The mid-size chassis and proven 421cc powerplant mated with the time tested Ultramatic transmission it can’t be beat for reliability.
Since the introduction of the Kodiak 700 to our family of 4×4 utility ATVs just two years ago, we have received an extraordinarily positive reception for a value-packed vehicle that is both hard working and fun to ride… –Mike Martinez / Yamaha vice president of ATV / SxS operations
I’m a bigger guy. I worried about the ability of the Kodiak 450 to pull me around and still meet that adrenaline fix I look for every time I throw my leg over a seat. I will say, it did not disappoint. Now you aren’t going to compare it to the big bore machines that cost over twice as much but for the price point, I don’t think it can be beat.
I’ve been known for my big 1000cc long wheel base ATV’s since 2011 and the one thing I’ll say for these smaller more nimble machines is I love how predictable they are. They don’t break traction, and go where you point them
Takeaways
Happy to tell you all about the things I love about the Kodiak 450. Are there anythings I don’t like about it, or areas I think Yamaha could improve?
Pros | Cons |
Pricing | Rear Brake is weak |
Size and Comfort | Lack of 450 specific accessories |
Solid front and rear racks | |
Proven Reliability |