Choosing a utility ATV means balancing work capability against trail comfort, and the 2020 Yamaha Kodiak 700 hits that exact intersection. Unlike sport quads built purely for speed or massive utility tanks that feel clumsy on tight singletracks, this machine focuses on practical capability, mechanical reliability, and everyday utility. If you're looking at a used model or evaluating its place in the market today, understanding what makes this quad tick helps you decide if it fits your property, hunting lease, or trail routine.
Underneath its rugged bodywork sits a 686cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine rather than the parallel-twin motor cited in hurried overviews. This proven power plant delivers strong, linear torque down low where you need it most. It's paired with Yamaha's famous Ultramatic V-belt transmission, which maintains constant belt tension to eliminate slipping and premature wear. When you combine that transmission with the On-Command four-wheel drive system, you get predictable power delivery whether you're creeping over wet boulders or pulling a heavy trailer out of thick mud.
Core Specifications and Mechanical Breakdown
Performance stats matter when you're comparing utility quads. The 2020 Kodiak 700 balances physical dimensions with pulling power, making it nimble enough for tight woods while staying stable on steep side hills.
- Engine Displacement: 686cc, 4-stroke, SOHC, liquid-cooled single.
- Fuel System: Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI), 41mm throttle body.
- Transmission: Ultramatic L/H/N/R/P with centrifugal clutch and engine braking.
- Drivetrain: On-Command 3-way locking 2WD, 4WD, and full diff-lock 4WD.
- Suspension (Front): Independent double wishbone with 7.1 inches of travel.
- Suspension (Rear): Independent double wishbone with 9.1 inches of travel.
- Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches.
- Fuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons.
- Rack Capacity: 99 pounds front, 187 pounds rear.
- Towing Capacity: 1,322 pounds.
These numbers highlight why the machine appeals to landowners and outdoor workers. The towing capacity surpasses many light utility vehicles, and the 10.8 inches of ground clearance clears most stumps and ruts without bottoming out. For official factory documentation on maintenance schedules and safety guidelines, check out the Yamaha Motorsports Owner's Manuals.
Handling and Trail Performance
Out on the trail, the Kodiak 700 prioritizes rider comfort and predictable steering. Yamaha equips non-EPS (Electronic Power Steering) and EPS trims, but the power steering version is worth every penny if you spend hours navigating rocky washes or deep ruts. The EPS system actively reduces handlebar feedback when your front tires slam into hidden roots, while also lightening low-speed steering effort to zero.
The independent double wishbone suspension absorbs harsh impacts effectively. While it's tuned softer than sport-oriented models like the Yamaha Raptor, it prevents the machine from feeling bouncy when unladen. When you load the front and rear steel cargo racks with gear, feed bags, or chainsaws, the suspension settles smoothly without sacrificing ground clearance.
Working Capability on the Farm or Job Site
Utility quads earn their keep by hauling supplies and towing equipment. The steel cargo racks feature multiple tie-down loops and textured surfaces that keep plastic crates and toolboxes from sliding around. Because the front rack handles up to 99 pounds and the rear handles 187 pounds, you can stack heavy feed buckets or fencing supplies without worrying about structural bend.
The 2-inch receiver hitch at the back accepts standard automotive drawbars. Towing up to 1,322 pounds means you can easily pull a loaded utility trailer, a small log arch, or a sprayer tank across uneven pastures. The centrifugal clutch keeps constant tension on the drive belt, which prevents jerky engagements when you start moving from a dead stop with a heavy trailer behind you.
Maintenance Realities and Common Issues
Every machine has quirks that owners discover after a few seasons of hard use. Knowing what to watch for helps you inspect a used unit or keep your current machine running smoothly.
- CVT Maintenance: While the Ultramatic system is remarkably durable, water can enter the belt housing if you submerge the machine past the vent line height. Check your belt case gasket and drain plug after deep water crossings.
- Battery Location: The battery sits under the front hood area. If you ride in muddy conditions, clean out the compartment regularly to prevent corrosion on the terminals.
- A-Arm Bushings: Factory rubber bushings can wear out after heavy towing and high-mileage trail riding. Listen for squeaks or clunks in the suspension joints, and consider upgrading to aftermarket polyurethane bushings if you notice play.
For general powersports safety standards and off-road riding ethics, visit the ATV Safety Institute to brush up on proper riding techniques and recovery methods.
Pricing and Market Value
When it debuted in 2020, the base Kodiak 700 started around $7,299, while EPS and Special Edition trims climbed toward $8,999 and higher depending on dealer fees and accessories. Today, the secondary market values these machines based on condition, mileage, and whether they spent their lives on a working ranch or a recreational trail. A well-maintained 2020 model with moderate hours generally commands strong resale value because buyers trust the reliability of Yamaha's 686cc motor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2020 Yamaha Kodiak 700 have power steering?
Power steering depends on the specific trim level you buy. Base models do not include Electronic Power Steering, while EPS and Special Edition models feature speed-sensitive power steering to reduce arm fatigue on long rides.
What is the top speed of a 2020 Yamaha Kodiak 700?
Top speed reaches approximately 55 to 60 miles per hour depending on terrain, tire pressure, and rider weight. However, this machine is geared for low-end torque and utility pulling rather than high-speed desert racing.
How does the Kodiak 700 differ from the Yamaha Grizzly 700?
While both share the same 686cc engine, the Grizzly targets sport-recreational riders with a slightly more aggressive suspension setup, taller tires, and more playful handling. The Kodiak focuses on utility work, featuring a slightly more compact chassis, steel racks instead of composite racks, and a tamer power delivery map.
Can I plow snow with this ATV?
Yes, the heavy-duty frame, low-range transmission gearing, and selectable four-wheel drive with differential lock make the Kodiak 700 an excellent platform for pushing a snow plow blade during winter months.
