User manual YAMAHA KODIAK 4X4-1999

[. . . ] 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. [. . . ] You may lose control of the ATV or overturn. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Attempting wheelies, jumps, and other stunts. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Increases the chance of an accident, including an overturn. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or jumps. Don't try to show off. 7-13 Modifications WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating this ATV with improper modifications. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Improper installation of accessories or modification of this vehicle may cause changes in handling which in some situations could lead to an accident. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Never modify this ATV through improper installation or use of accessories. All parts and accessories added to this vehicle should be genuine Yamaha or equivalent components designed for use on this ATV and should be installed and used according to instructions. If you have questions, consult an authorized ATV dealer. 7-14 Exhaust system The exhaust system on the ATV is very hot during and following operation. To prevent burns, avoid touching the exhaust system. Park the ATV in a place where pedestrians or children are not likely to touch it. Do not touch the hot exhaust system. Do not park the ATV in a place where others might be likely to touch it. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Hot exhaust system. Do not ride in areas posted "no trespassing". Do not ride on private property without getting permission. WARNING POTENTIAL HAZARD Operating in areas where you might not be seen by other off-road vehicles. 7-20 Select a large, flat area off-road to become familiar with your ATV. Make sure that this area is free of obstacles and other riders. You should practice control of the throttle, brakes, shifting procedures, and turning techniques in this area before trying more difficult terrain. Always avoid riding on paved surfaces: the ATV is designed for off-road use only, and handling maneuvers are more difficult to perform on pavement. Shift to the parking position "P" and follow the instruction on page 6-1 to start the engine. Once it has warmed up you are ready to begin riding your ATV. Remember that the engine and exhaust pipe will be hot when riding and afterwards; do not allow skin or clothing to come in contact with these components. With the engine idling, shift the drive select lever to the low position "L" or the high position "H". The centrifugal clutch will engage and you will start to accelerate. If the throttle is applied too abruptly, the front wheels may lift off the ground resulting in a loss of directional control. Avoid higher speeds until you are thoroughly familiar with the operation of your ATV. [. . . ] 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. Apply the brakes several times at slow speeds to let friction dry out the linings. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 9-2 EBU00530 B. STORAGE Long term storage (60 days or more) of your machine will require some preventive procedures to guard against deterioration. [. . . ]