Yamaha Bruin 350 Specs, Price & Review 2024
If you’re looking for a dependable, mid-sized ATV that can handle both work and play, the Yamaha Bruin 350 should be on your shortlist. This venerable 350cc quad has been a favorite of recreational riders and farmers for over 20 years thanks to its proven durability, smooth power delivery, and comfortable ergonomics.
In this in-depth Yamaha Bruin 350 review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this classic ATV:
- Overview of the Bruin 350’s capabilities
- Detailed specs and key features
- How it compares to rival ATVs
- Pricing and value
- Performance and handling
- Comfort and ergonomics
- Reliability and owner reviews
- Top alternatives to consider
- FAQs and common problems
After reading this comprehensive guide, you’ll know if the Bruin 350 is the right ATV for your needs. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Yamaha Bruin 350 Overview
The Yamaha Bruin 350 is part of Yamaha’s Bruin lineup of utility ATVs. First introduced in 1998, this venerable quad is equally at home on the trails or tackling jobs around a farm or homestead.
Some of the Bruin 350’s highlights and capabilities include:
- Category: Utility ATV
- Engine: 346cc air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder
- Transmission: 5-speed manual + reverse
- Drive System: Selectable 2WD or 4WD
- Suspension: Double A-arm with 5-way preload adjustment
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc front, sealed drum rear
- Towing Capacity: 1,100 pounds
This straightforward design makes the Bruin 350 an excellent choice for beginner or intermediate ATV riders. It provides smooth, confidence-inspiring performance perfect for recreational trail riding or light-duty work.
The Bruin 350 is manageable for smaller adult riders thanks to its compact size and low 33.7” seat height. It strikes a great balance between power and precision handling. Generous front and rear cargo racks let you haul gear for weekend adventures or tackle jobs around your property.
Keep reading our Yamaha Bruin 350 review for full details on this versatile classic quad.
Yamaha Bruin 350 Specs and Features
Let’s take a closer look at the key specs and features on the 2023 Yamaha Bruin 350:
Yamaha Bruin 350 Specs
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 346cc air-cooled OHV 4-stroke single cylinder |
| Engine Power | 26 HP @ 6,500 RPM |
| Bore x Stroke | 83mm x 64.5mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel System | Mikuni BSR36 carburetor |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Starting | Electric start |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual + reverse |
| Drive Train | On-Command 2WD/4WD |
| Front Suspension | Double A-arm, 5-way preload adjustment, 7.1″ travel |
| Rear Suspension | Double A-arm, 5-way preload adjustment, 8.1″ travel |
| Front Brakes | Dual hydraulic disc |
| Rear Brakes | Sealed mechanical drum |
| Front Tires | 25 x 8-12″ |
| Rear Tires | 25 x 10-12″ |
| Wheelbase | 48.8″ |
| Seat Height | 33.7″ |
| Ground Clearance | 4.3” |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gallons |
| Curb Weight | 600 lbs |
| Rack Capacity | 66 lbs front, 133 lbs rear |
| Towing Capacity | 1,100 lbs |
| Instrumentation | Speedometer, odometer, hours, neutral and high beam lights |
Engine Performance
At the heart of the Bruin 350 is an air-cooled 346cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine. This provides smooth, tractable power delivery ideal for newer riders. There’s enough grunt for recreational trail riding while maintaining excellent fuel economy.
Engine highlights include:
- 346cc displacement
- 83mm bore x 64.5mm stroke
- 9.2:1 compression ratio
- BSR36 Mikuni carburetor
- Electric push-button starting
This time-tested 346cc motor produces peak horsepower of 26 HP at 6,500 RPM. While not designed for high speed power, there’s ample torque for crawling over obstacles or tackling inclines. The quad can reach top speeds of 45-50 MPH on flat ground.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Yamaha pairs the 346cc engine with a 5-speed manual transmission offering plenty of versatility for the trails or utility use. Keeping things simple, there’s no automatic gearbox option.
A handy reverse gear makes maneuvering easy, while the sealed O-ring chain final drive is virtually maintenance-free.
selectable On-Command 2WD/4WD lets you switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive on the fly using a dash-mounted switch. Engage 4WD for maximum traction in loose terrain, deep mud or snow.
Chassis and Handling
A key highlight of the Bruin 350 is its plush long-travel suspension, which soaks up bumps and ruts with ease. It provides a smooth, comfortable ride across rough terrain.
Suspension specs include:
- Front: Double A-arm with 5-way preload adjustment, 7.1″ travel
- Rear: Double A-arm with 5-way preload adjustment, 8.1″ travel
Stopping power comes from hydraulic disc brakes up front and sealed drum brakes in the rear. Strong braking performance boosts control and confidence.
With 9.6″ of ground clearance and a 48.8” wheelbase, the Bruin 350 can traverse rocky trails and uneven terrain. It provides great maneuverability thanks to its compact size and light handling.
Additional Features
Some other useful features on the 2023 Yamaha Bruin 350 include:
- Speedometer & instruments: Digital instrument cluster displays speed, hours, and basic trip info.
- Hitch: Standard trailer hitch allows towing up to 1,100 pounds.
- Battery: Sealed maintenance-free battery for fuss-free starting.
- Rack capacity: Generous 66 pound front rack and 133 pound rear rack.
- Tires: 25” Maxxis tires designed for traction and durability.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Bruin 350 provides a comfortable, confidence-inspiring ride for operators of all sizes thanks to its well designed ergonomics.
With a seat height of 33.7”, most adult riders can easily get their feet on the ground. The compact layout makes the Bruin very manageable for shorter operators.
Bodywork is narrow through the midsection for an easy reach to the ground. The plush, flat seat provides secure seating and minimizes fatigue on long rides. An integrated stout grab bar is ideal for riding companions.
Large floorboards with serrated steel footpegs ensure proper footing in all conditions. The brake and shift levers are ideally positioned for all-day comfort.
Key dimensions include:
- Seat height: 33.7 inches
- Wheelbase: 48.8 inches
- Ground clearance: 4.3 inches
- Fuel tank capacity: 3.7 gallons
Yamaha Bruin 350 Prices, Trims, and Values
The Yamaha Bruin 350 is offered in a few different variations:
Base Model
The standard Yamaha Bruin 350 comes with essential features like:
- 346cc engine
- 5-speed transmission + reverse
- Selectable 2WD/4WD
- Double A-arm suspension
- Hydraulic disc front brakes
- Generous cargo racks
MSRP: $5,599
Special Edition Models
Yamaha also offers value-packed Special Edition models which add upgrades like:
- Aluminum wheels
- 4,000-pound winch
- Front bumper
- Special paint and graphics
These special packages cost roughly $700 more than the base MSRP.
Used Yamaha Bruin 350 Pricing
Given the Yamaha’s renowned reliability, purchasing a used Bruin 350 can be a great way to save money. Expect to pay:
- For a 5-10 year old unit: $3,500 – $4,500
- For a 10-15 year old unit: $2,800 – $3,500
These prices will vary depending on overall condition, mileage, and whether any upgrades have been added. Be sure to thoroughly inspect any used ATV before purchasing.
Cost of Ownership
A major advantage of the Yamaha Bruin 350 is its reasonable cost of ownership. It has proven to be a very durable and low-maintenance ATV over two decades on the market.
Common maintenance costs include:
- Oil changes: $30-50 for parts and oil
- Tires: $400-600 installed every 3-5 years
- Brake pads: $100-150 installed every 2-3 years
- Spark plug: $10-20 installed yearly
Parts availability and repairs costs are very reasonable thanks to the Bruin’s simple, time-tested design. All said, expect to budget $200-400 per year for routine maintenance costs.
Yamaha Bruin 350 Performance and Handling
The Bruin 350 isn’t the fastest or most powerful ATV in its class. But it hits a great sweet spot between adept handling and usable power. Here’s a closer look at its capabilities:
Engine Performance
The 346cc air-cooled engine provides pleasant low-end torque. It feels lively and responsive, especially at slower speeds and technical terrain. There’s enough mid-range punch for riding on gravel roads or fields.
High-RPM power tapers off as you approach the 50 MPH top speed. This friendly power delivery makes the Bruin 350 very manageable for less experienced riders. More aggressive riders may desire a bit more engine grunt.
Fuel economy is excellent, averaging 35-40 MPG in normal use. The 3.7 gallon tank provides ample range.
Handling and Suspension
Where the Bruin 350 really shines is its composed handling across all sorts of conditions. The plush long travel suspension soaks up ruts and bumps with ease. It provides a supple, planted feel at speed or when cornering aggressively.
Slow speed maneuverability is excellent thanks to the quad’s relatively light weight and compact dimensions. It handles tight trails, dense woods, or farming tasks with ease. The tight turning radius helps make short work of jobs.
On open dirt roads and faster trails, the Bruin 350 feels planted and secure at higher speeds. The suspension keeps the chassis composed, while the brakes provide strong bite for control.
Towing and Hauling
Don’t let the Bruin 350’s mid-size engine fool you – this quad can still tackle impressive loads. It’s rated to tow up to 1,100 pounds, which covers small trailers, farm implements, or deer.
The dual racks provide 199 pounds of total carrying capacity. You can load up coolers, camping gear, tools, and other cargo with room to spare. Just note that heavy loads impact handling and performance.
In summary, the Bruin 350 offers extremely well-rounded capabilities ideal for average recreational and utility needs. It’s not built for extreme speed or massive loads, but has ample strength for most jobs and trails.
Reliability and Owner Reviews
One area where the Yamaha Bruin 350 earns top marks is long-term reliability. These ATVs have proven themselves durable workhorses, many still going strong after 15-20 years and thousands of miles.
Owners praise how easy the Bruin 350 is to maintain yourself thanks to the basic air-cooled engine and straightforward service access. Common problem areas are very limited on properly maintained machines.
Here’s a sampling of Bruin 350 reviews from actual owners:
“I’ve put over 2,000 miles on my 2007 Bruin 350 and haven’t had a single issue. Starts right up every time and runs like a top.”
“This ATV just keeps going no matter how much I abuse it. I use it on my farm regularly and it takes the beating in stride.”
“Cheap and easy to work on yourself. Very reliable once you change fluids regularly and fix little issues before they get big.”
“It’s no speed demon, but a great beginner quad that should run forever if you treat it right.”
In terms of problems, the Bruin 350 is not immune to issues like any machine. Some potential problem areas to watch for include:
- CVT drive belt wear: Inspect and replace when worn. Lasts 5+ years typically.
- Brake pad wear: Replace pads periodically.
- Battery failures: The battery may die prematurely if not maintained.
- Leaky carburetor: Cleaning carbs resolves most issues.
Overall though, the Bruin 350 establishes itself as one of the most dependable and maintenance-friendly ATVs on the market. Following basic maintenance will ensure it provides years of reliable use.
Top Yamaha Bruin 350 Alternatives
The Bruin 350 is a great choice for many ATV riders. But it’s always smart to weigh alternatives before deciding. Here are a few top quads to also consider:
1. Honda FourTrax Rancher
The Honda Rancher 420 is close competition, with very similar capabilities and reliability. It offers a slightly bigger 420cc engine, but comes at a higher MSRP. Also check out the base Rancher 350 for a more apples-to-apples comparison.
2. Polaris Sportsman 450
Polaris’s popular Sportsman ATVs match up closely with the Bruin 350 as well. The mid-size Sportsman 450 H.O provides a bit more power while costing a little extra. EPS and engine braking are nice upgrades.
3. Suzuki KingQuad 400
Suzuki’s KingQuad 400 ASi has comparable power and size to the Bruin 350. It’s another good option for recreational and utility use. The fuel injection system provides excellent cold-weather starting.
4. Can-Am Outlander 400
For riders wanting more sporty trail performance, the Can-Am Outlander 400 is compelling. It has a high-revving 400cc Rotax V-twin and snappy handling. The automatic CVT transmission simplifies operation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let’s cover some common questions about the reliable Yamaha Bruin 350 ATV:
How fast does a Yamaha Bruin 350 go?
The Bruin 350 has a top speed of approximately 45-50 MPH. Actual speeds depend on terrain, load, and rider weight.
Is the Yamaha Bruin 350 fuel injected?
No, the Bruin 350 uses a carburetor. But it starts very easily thanks to the electric start system.
How much does a Yamaha Bruin 350 weigh?
Dry weight is approximately 600 pounds. Wet weight with fluids is around 650 pounds.
Is the Bruin 350 good for plowing snow?
Yes, with a plow attachment installed, the Bruin 350 has ample power to clear snow from driveways and walkways.
Does the Bruin 350 come in camo?
Yamaha has offered camouflage finishes on special edition Bruin 350 models over the years. Availability varies annually.
How much can a Yamaha Bruin 350 pull?
The rated towing capacity is 1,100 pounds. Real-world capacity depends on terrain – smaller loads are recommended in very rugged conditions.
Is there a Yamaha Bruin 350 IRS model?
No, all Bruin 350 models use a solid rear axle. Yamaha’s larger Grizzly ATVs offer IRS models.
Common Problems and Solutions
Like any ATV, it’s possible to encounter problems with the Bruin 350 over its lifetime. Here are a few common issues and how to resolve them:
Battery dying prematurely:
Clean battery posts and maintain proper fluid levels. Consider replacing battery every 4-5 years.
CVT belt slipping:
Inspect and replace worn belt. Align clutch properly after installing new belt.
Brake pads wearing down:
Check pads every 6 months or 1,000 miles. Replace as needed to prevent damage.
Engine bogging or losing power:
Clean or replace clogged air filter. Check condition of spark plug. Clean carburetor jets and bowls.
Clutch problems:
Check clutch fluid level. Replace clutch plates if excessively worn.
Leaking fluids:
Fix any leaks immediately to prevent further damage. Ensure proper fluid levels.
With routine maintenance and proper care, you can expect a Bruin 350 to provide many years and miles of dependable performance.
Conclusion – Is the Yamaha Bruin 350 Right for You?
In this comprehensive review, we’ve covered everything you need to know about the classic Yamaha Bruin 350 ATV:
- Capable mid-size ATV equally at home on trails or tackling utility jobs
- Proven 346cc engine offers smooth power delivery and excellent reliability
- Plush long-travel suspension provides all-day riding comfort
- Straightforward design focused on durability and ease-of-use
- Affordable price offers great value for recreational and farm use
The Bruin 350 has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most dependable quads thanks to its ruggedness and owner-friendly maintenance. While it’s not built for extreme performance, it provides versatile capabilities for average trail riding and weekend adventures.
For beginner or intermediate riders seeking an approachable, mid-sized ATV, the Bruin 350 is tough to beat. Its confidence-inspiring handling, long-term durability, and reasonable price make it our top pick in the value-minded utility quad category.
