Overview
What stands out here is the Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS’s balance of power and practicality for those who need a workhorse that can handle a variety of tasks. It’s a utility ATV built primarily for trail riding, farm work, or any situation where reliable performance on rough terrain matters. With a 686cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine and a fuel-injected system, it offers enough grunt for moderate hauling or navigating challenging trails without guzzling fuel. Its design leans toward durability and ease of use, making it a good fit for weekend trail riders, property owners, or small farm operators who want a machine they can depend on day after day.
This ATV features a CVT transmission with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive mode, giving you the flexibility to switch between efficient two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive for tougher terrain. The independent double wishbone suspension with 7.1 inches of front travel and 9.1 inches in the rear provides a comfortable ride over uneven ground, whether you’re hauling through mud or climbing over rocks. Braking is handled by dual hydraulic disc brakes in front and sealed oil bath multi-disc brakes at the rear, offering reliable stopping power. Its dimensions and ground clearance of 10.8 inches suggest it’s built to handle dense brush and rocky paths without getting hung up.
What makes the Kodiak 700 EPS notable in its segment is its blend of solid mechanical features and practical design elements. It’s not a machine aimed at high-speed racing or extreme trail riding but instead caters to users who prioritize durability, ease of control, and the ability to get work done. This model is a practical choice for those who need a dependable utility ATV that knows its way around a trail or a work site. It’s a machine that combines everyday usability with enough performance to get the job done, making it a compelling pick for anyone who needs a trusted partner in rough terrain.
Performance & Powertrain
With a 686cc single-cylinder engine, this machine produces enough power to handle a variety of tasks, from hauling supplies to tackling moderate trail inclines. The liquid cooling system helps keep engine temperatures in check during extended use, which is especially useful when working in warmer weather or on long rides. Fuel injected systems ensure more consistent throttle responses and better fuel efficiency compared to carbureted models, making it easier to keep running without constantly adjusting for engine performance.
The engine’s torque delivery feels smooth and predictable, providing enough low-end grunt for pulling or climbing without feeling sluggish. This size of engine sits comfortably in the mid-range for utility ATVs, offering a good balance of power and fuel economy without the excessive size of larger, more aggressive machines. It’s suited for both work tasks and trail riding, where reliable, steady power is more important than outright speed.
The transmission uses a continuously variable (CVT) system, which removes gear shifts from the driving experience. Instead, the belt-driven setup adjusts smoothly to match throttle input, providing a smooth acceleration curve. The ability to switch between 4X2 and 4X4 drive modes gives you flexibility for different terrain conditions, whether you’re on a flat worksite or navigating muddy, uneven trails. This drivetrain setup focuses on ease of use and control, especially when tackling challenging terrain or heavy loads.
Suspension & Handling
If you’re planning to tackle uneven trails, you’ll want to know that the Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS uses independent double wishbone suspension on both ends. The front offers 7.1 inches of travel, which helps absorb bumps and small obstacles, making it easier to ride over rocky or root-laden trails without jarring your arms. The rear has 9.1 inches of travel, providing a bit more cushion for larger impacts, especially when carrying a load or traversing rough terrain.
The suspension setup is suited for mixed riding conditions. On hard-packed dirt or gravel, you’ll notice that the travel limits can be a bit more than necessary, giving you extra control and comfort. When hitting rougher trails or working terrain with loose soil, those travel numbers help keep the tires in contact with the ground, improving stability and reducing rider fatigue. This makes the Kodiak 700 a reliable companion whether you’re out for a day of trail riding or doing chores around the property.
The braking system includes dual hydraulic disc brakes at the front, which deliver strong stopping power and consistent performance. The sealed oil bath multi-disc brake at the rear is designed for durability and resistance to dust and mud, common in off-road environments. These brakes work together to give you confident control whether you’re descending steep hills or making quick stops on tricky terrain.
The tires on this model are Maxxis AT25s, with 8-inch widths up front and 10-inch rears, both fitted with durable MU19 and MU20 compounds. These tires grip well on loose dirt and gravel, while also handling harder surfaces without feeling sluggish. the suspension, brakes, and tires combine to make the Kodiak 700 a practical choice for work or trail riding, providing a comfortable ride with dependable control across various terrains.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to haul this ATV in a standard truck bed or need stability on uneven terrain, you’ll want to know the size and rider fit of the Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS. It measures 81.5 inches long, making it possible to fit in most pickup trucks with the tailgate down or in larger storage spaces. With a width of 46.5 inches, it’s wide enough to provide good balance on rough trails without feeling too bulky for tight turns or wooded lanes. The overall height is 48.8 inches, which should give most riders a comfortable view of the trail without feeling overly tall or awkward to mount.
The wheelbase of 49.2 inches affects how the ATV handles on different surfaces, offering a stable ride that can handle rougher ground without excessive sway. Ground clearance is 10.8 inches, helping it clear rocks and roots without scraping underneath, making it suitable for moderate off-road use. The dry weight of the Kodiak 700 EPS is not specified here, but it’s generally considered manageable for loading into a truck or trailer, often around 600 pounds, which is typical for a utility ATV of this size. The seat height is designed to accommodate a wide range of riders, generally around 34 inches, making it accessible for shorter riders while still providing enough room for taller users to sit comfortably and reach the ground when stopped.
With a fuel capacity of 4.8 gallons, this ATV offers decent range for longer trail rides or work tasks without frequent stops. Its dimensions and ergonomic features focus on making it a manageable, stable platform that balances comfort with practicality. Whether you’re navigating narrow trails, loading gear, or just looking for a machine that fits well in your garage or truck, these size considerations help ensure it suits your specific needs and riding style.
Notable Features
Anyone running chores on rugged terrain or working around the property will appreciate the upgrades found on this model over base-trim competitors. One key difference is the inclusion of electronic power steering (EPS), which helps reduce rider fatigue during long hours of work or extended trail rides. This feature offers a more comfortable experience when navigating uneven ground, especially if you’re handling heavier loads or riding for hours on end.
Another notable feature is the addition of a fuel-injected engine, providing more consistent throttle response and easier starting in various weather conditions. Unlike simpler carbureted systems, fuel injection ensures the engine runs smoothly in cold mornings or high-altitude environments, making it more dependable for daily use. This feature is often reserved for higher trims or newer models, making it a significant step up for owners who prioritize reliability and low-maintenance operation.
Convenience gets a boost with the integration of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which offers smooth, automatic shifting without the need for manual clutch work. Combined with the selectable four-wheel drive system, this setup allows for easy adjustment between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, helping you adapt quickly to changing trail conditions or work demands. The design makes it easier to control on tricky terrain, whether you’re hauling supplies or navigating muddy, rocky, or steep slopes.
While some features are common at this price point, these upgrades enhance the overall ownership experience by combining ease of use, improved performance, and better control. Their presence shows Yamaha’s focus on making routine tasks and trail adventures less physically taxing and more predictable, especially for owners who put their machines through regular use in demanding environments.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to tackle serious work or demanding trail rides, you’ll want to know that the 2020 Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS has an MSRP of $8,799. That puts it in the middle of the utility ATV segment, targeting riders who need a machine for both work and recreation without breaking the bank. For this price, Yamaha offers a package that balances power, durability, and user-friendly features, making it a reasonable choice for those who want a reliable machine without paying top-tier prices.
The Kodiak 700 EPS sits just above entry-level models that often lack power steering or electronic aids, and below more premium trims with additional features or larger engines. It’s positioned as Yamaha’s main workhorse in the lineup, with the EPS (electronic power steering) as a key upgrade that enhances comfort and control on long rides or tough terrain. Moving up from this, Yamaha offers higher-spec models equipped with more advanced features or larger engines, which come with a higher price tag. Conversely, stepping down to less expensive models typically means sacrificing some of the features that make the Kodiak 700 EPS suited for demanding tasks.
At its price point, the Kodiak 700 EPS offers good value for a machine that combines Yamaha’s reputation for durability with practical features like power steering and selectable four-wheel drive. It’s fairly positioned within its segment, providing enough features and performance to justify the cost for owners who need a dependable utility ATV for daily work or weekend adventures. While it might seem a bit steep compared to basic models, the added comfort and control make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who plans to use it regularly and needs that extra edge of ease and reliability.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS’s reputation for durability and ease of use, making it a practical choice for daily work and weekend chores. With its 686cc engine, it handles moderate terrain and tough tasks without demanding excessive fuel or maintenance, making it suitable for property owners, ranchers, or outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable performance without the fuss.
This machine’s most defining feature is its electric power steering, which significantly reduces rider fatigue, especially during long hours of work or extended trail rides. It makes the Kodiak 700 easier to control on uneven land and when hauling gear or towing loads. If a smooth, manageable ride is a priority for your daily activities, this feature can make a real difference.
However, if your needs include serious trail riding over rough or technical terrain, or if you require a machine with more aggressive off-road capabilities, you might want to consider models with more specialized suspension or higher ground clearance. The Kodiak 700 excels in stability and user-friendliness, but it isn’t built to conquer extreme conditions or aggressive riding styles.
This is a machine for owners who want a reliable, simple utility ATV that performs well in daily work and general outdoor use. If your tasks involve hauling, light trail riding, or farm chores, the Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS is a dependable tool. For anything more aggressive or specialized, look at machines designed for that purpose and save the Kodiak for daily reliability and easy handling.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2020 Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility ATV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire25x8-12
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Plow kitBlade, mount and push tube. Needs the four wheel drive on this machineShop on Amazon
- Tires25x8-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit686ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading rampsRated for machine weightShop on Amazon
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