User manual YAMAHA BIG BEAR 4X4-1998

[. . . ] This manual includes important safety information. It provides information about special techniques and skills necessary to ride your ATV. It also includes basic maintenance and inspection procedures. If you have any questions regarding the operation or maintenance of your ATV, please consult a Yamaha dealer. [. . . ] Always maintain proper tire pressure as described in the Owner's Manual on page 5-11. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Failure to inspect the ATV before operating. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Increases the possibility of an accident or equipment damage. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Always inspect your ATV each time you use it to make sure the ATV is in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and schedules described in the Owner's Manual. 7-9 WARNING _ Indicates a potential hazard that could result in serious injury or death. Do not operate at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating this ATV at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Increases your chances of losing control of the ATV, which can result in an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Always go at a speed that is proper for the terrain, visibility and operating conditions, and your experience. Speed limiter For riders less experienced with this model, this model is equipped with a speed limiter in the throttle lever housing. The speed limiter keeps the throttle from fully opening, even when the throttle lever is pushed to the maximum. Screwing in the adjuster limits the maximum engine power available and decreases the maximum speed of the ATV. Turning the screw in decreases top speed and turning it out increases top speed. 1. Adjuster Loading and accessories Use extra caution when riding the ATV with additional loads, such as accessories or cargo. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Dry grass or brush or other combustible material accumulated around the engine area could catch fire. Someone touching the exhaust system during or after operation could be burned. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Do not operate, idle, or park the ATV in dry grass or other dry ground cover. Keep the engine area free of dry grass, brush, or other combustible material. Do not park the ATV in a place where others might be likely to touch it. 7-15 BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU RIDE This ATV is designed for off-road use only. Riding on paved surfaces can cause loss of control. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating this ATV on paved surfaces. WHAT CAN HAPPEN ATVs are designed for off-road use only. Paved surfaces may seriously affect handling and control of the ATV, and may cause the vehicle to go out of control. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Always avoid paved surfaces, including sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and streets. 7-16 Do not ride on any public road, street, or highway. Riding on public roads can result in collisions with other vehicles. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating this ATV on public streets, roads or highways. WHAT CAN HAPPEN You can collide with another vehicle. [. . . ] Many contain abrasives which may mar the paint or protective finish. When finished, start the engine and let it idle for several minutes. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Operation with wet brakes after washing. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Wet brakes may have reduced stopping ability, increasing the chance of an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Test the brakes after washing. [. . . ]