Yamaha Grizzly 700 Top Speed: Tips for Achieving Max
If you’re considering buying a Yamaha Grizzly 700 ATV, one of the key specs you’ll want to know is the top speed. The Grizzly 700 is Yamaha’s popular mid-sized utility quad that delivers smooth power and handling over rough terrain. But how fast can you actually go on this ATV?
In this in-depth article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Yamaha Grizzly 700 top speed and performance capabilities. You’ll learn about the engine, transmission, gearing, and how to get max speed out of your Grizzly. We’ll also provide tips to improve acceleration, the technical specifications, and how it compares to other sport and utility ATVs.
Let’s start by taking a closer look at this versatile ATV.
Table of Contents
Overview Of The Yamaha Grizzly 700 Utility ATV
The Yamaha Grizzly 700 was first introduced in 2006 and has been one of the company’s best-selling quads. This mid-sized utility ATV is a great choice for activities like farming, hunting, fishing, and general trail recreation.
Some of the key features and capabilities of the Grizzly 700 include:
- 686cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine provides smooth and ample low-end power
- On-Command 2WD and 4WD allows switching between 2WD, limited-slip 4WD and fully locked 4WD
- Large carrying capacity with front and rear racks rated for 110 pounds each
- Excellent handling from its dual A-arm independent front suspension
- High ground clearance (10.8 inches) to navigate rocky, uneven terrain
One of the things that makes the Grizzly 700 so popular is its combination of utility function with solid recreational performance. It has the cargo hauling abilities of a utility quad, while also providing excellent acceleration and handling for recreational trail and dune riding.
Now let’s look at the engine and drivetrain to understand what gives this ATV its performance capabilities.
Yamaha Grizzly 700 Engine And Transmission
Powering the Grizzly 700 is a 686cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine featuring four valves and a SOHC design. Here are some key specs:
- Displacement: 686cc
- Bore x stroke: 102mm x 84mm
- Compression ratio: 10.0:1
- Lubrication system: Wet sump
- Maximum torque: 46 lb-ft @ 5,500 RPM
- Maximum horsepower: 50 HP
This provides abundant low-end power along with strong mid-range punch. The power delivery is very linear, which contributes to the Grizzly’s smooth ride. The engine has plenty of torque for towing heavy loads up hills or through mud and snow.
The transmission is an Ultramatic V-belt transmission with high/low range, reverse, park, and all-wheel engine-braking.
Now let’s get into what you really want to know: how fast can the Grizzly 700 actually go? The top speed of the Yamaha Grizzly 700 is reported to be between 64-70 MPH.
What is the Top Speed of the Stock Yamaha Grizzly 700?
When stock from the factory without any modifications, the Yamaha Grizzly 700 is limited to a top speed of around 64-70 MPH.
This speed is restricted by the factory rev limiter that cuts ignition spark at a certain RPM as well as the gear ratios used. The transmission’s 5th gear is tall but optimized more for efficiency and smooth power delivery rather than outright top speed.
64-70 MPH is still a respectable clip for a mid-sized utility ATV. It provides a good balance of usable power while keeping high-speed stability manageable. Most owners find this adequate for trail riding and recreational use.
However, with some simple aftermarket modifications, you can unlock the Grizzly 700’s full performance potential and increase the top speed.
How To Increase The Yamaha Grizzly 700 Top Speed?
Here are some popular methods to override the factory speed limiter and get more speed out of your Grizzly 700:
- Install an aftermarket CDI box: This electronic ignition module disables the rev limiter allowing the engine to rev higher. It’s one of the easiest ways to increase top speed. Expect gains of 10+ mph.
- Change Sprockets: Installing a lower numerical rear sprocket like a 43 or 44T will alter the final gear ratio for a higher top speed. You can also increase front sprocket size.
- Add a Performance Exhaust: An aftermarket slip-on muffler eliminates exhaust restrictions allowing the engine to breathe better at high RPM.
- Air Intake Mods: Adding an open air intake filter kit improves airflow resulting in more mid- to top-end power.
- Fuel Optimizers: Aftermarket fuel controllers fine tune the air-fuel ratio allowing the engine to run more efficiently at higher speeds.
By combining several of these modifications, experienced owners report pushing their Grizzly 700 to top speeds of 75 mph (120 km/h) or more. Of course, stability and braking ability become more of a concern at those extreme speeds.
Yamaha Grizzly 700 Technical Specs And Dimensions
Understanding the physical size and capabilities of the Grizzly 700 is helpful when considering whether it’s a good fit for your riding style and storage space. Here are the key specs:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 686cc, 4-stroke, single cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC 4-valve |
| Transmission | Yamaha Ultramatic V-belt with all wheel engine braking; H, L, N, R, P |
| Power | 50 HP |
| Torque | 46 lb-ft @ 5,500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 64-70 mph stock; 75 mph modified |
| Tires | 25 in. AT front/rear |
| Suspension Travel | 5.7 in. front; 7.1 in. rear |
| Ground Clearance | 10.8 in. |
| Seat Height | 35.6 in. |
| Brakes | Dual hydraulic disc front, sealed wet rear |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.76 gallons |
| Curb Weight | 600 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 1,322 lbs |
| Bore x Stroke | 102mm x 84mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 |
| Lubrication System | Wet sump |
| Fuel System | Mikuni BSR36 carburetor |
This compact yet capable mid-sized ATV provides the right balance of strength, maneuverability, and cargo space for recreational riders.
Tips for Achieving Max Speed and Acceleration on your Grizzly 700
While the stock Grizzly 700 is no slouch, you can optimize its engine and transmission for even better acceleration and higher top speed using these tips:
- Always run premium gasoline for maximum power. Lower octane fuel can cause knocking.
- Use Yamalube performance ATV oil for reduced friction and protection during aggressive riding.
- Keep the air filter clean and properly oiled for best airflow to the engine.
- Set the front and rear suspension sag to your specific weight and riding style. Proper sag improves handling.
- Install more aggressive tread tires like Maxxis Carnivores to improve traction and cornering grip.
- Keep cargo weight to a minimum and evenly distributed on racks for optimal stability.
- Allow sufficient warm up time before aggressive riding to avoid engine stress when cold.
- Consider a clutch kit to tailor engagement and reduce clutch slippage during rapid acceleration.
- Add engine ice coolant mod to help reduce temperatures when riding in sand dunes or over long distances.
Applying these tips along with the speed-increasing modifications covered earlier will allow you fully exploit your Grizzly 700’s performance potential.
How Does the Yamaha Grizzly 700 Top Speed Compare to Other ATVs?
To give you a sense of how fast the Grizzly 700 truly is, let’s compare it to some other popular ATV models:
- Vs. Polaris Sportsman 570: The Polaris 570 is slower with a top speed around 60 mph stock. The Grizzly’s extra 86cc gives it an acceleration and power advantage.
- Vs. Honda Rancher 420: No contest here. The much smaller 420cc Honda engine results in a top speed of only 45-50 mph. The Grizzly 700 is significantly quicker.
- Vs. Yamaha Grizzly 450: Again the Grizzly 700’s larger engine produces around 15 more horsepower allowing it to reach speeds 15 mph faster than the smaller Grizzly 450.
- Vs. Polaris RZR 900: The RZR 900 sport UTV is faster, capable of 80+ mph speeds due to its higher horsepower twin cylinder engine and optimized drivetrain. But the RZR gives up utility capabilities.
- Vs. Yamaha YFZ450R Sport ATV: Yamaha’s pure sport ATV dominates with 113 hp and a top speed of 75+ mph bone stock. But the Grizzly offers greater stability and cargo capacity.
So while the Grizzly 700 is not as fast as dedicated high-performance sport quads, it provides a lot more utility while still offering solid speed for a mid-sized ATV. With modifications it can close the gap with speed oriented models.
Pros and Cons of the Yamaha Grizzly 700
Pros
- Powerful mid-size 686cc engine
- Smooth and linear power delivery
- Excellent towing and hill climbing ability
- Comfortable ride quality with plush suspension
- Highly versatile for work and recreation
- Great balance of speed, handling and stability
Cons
- On the heavier side for a mid-sized ATV
- No major updates since 2006 model release
- Not quite as fast as high-output sport ATVs
- No EPS electronic power steering option
- Low 1st gear can crawl too slowly for some riders
Yamaha Grizzly 700 Prices and Values by Year
| Year | Original MSRP | Average Used Value |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | $6,999 | $3,800 |
| 2007 | $7,099 | $4,100 |
| 2008 | $7,299 | $4,300 |
| 2009 | $7,499 | $4,600 |
| 2010 | $7,599 | $5,100 |
| 2011 | $7,699 | $5,400 |
| 2012 | $7,799 | $5,600 |
| 2013 | $8,030 | $6,100 |
| 2014 | $8,100 | $6,500 |
| 2015 | $8,300 | $7,000 |
| 2016 | $8,600 | $7,500 |
| 2017 | $8,999 | $8,000 |
| 2018 | $9,299 | $8,500 |
| 2019 | $9,499 | $9,000 |
| 2020 | $9,799 | $9,500 |
Common Questions about Yamaha Grizzly 700 Top Speed
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about maximizing the speed and acceleration of the Grizzly 700:
How fast can a completely stock Grizzly 700 go?
The restricted top speed from the factory is 65 mph. Some owners report hitting 67 mph on a long straightaway.
What is the fastest a modified Grizzly 700 has gone?
With a full exhaust system, fuel controller, CDI, and gearing changes, some owners claim reaching top speeds of 75-78 mph on their built Grizzlys. But this is at the extreme end and stability may suffer.
Will just a CDI box increase top speed significantly?
Yes, a high-quality aftermarket CDI alone can increase the top speed by 8-12 mph by removing the rev limiter. Additional mods build on those gains.
What tire size should I run for max speed?
Larger diameter tires like a 26″ or 27″ can improve top speed but acceleration and handling may suffer from the taller height. Stick to the stock 25″ size for the best combination of speed, ride quality, and control.
Is the Grizzly fast enough for sand dunes and desert riding?
While not as fast as a sport quad, when modified the Grizzly 700 has enough power to hold its own for dune running and has great stability in open desert environments.
We’ve now covered all the key factors that determine the Yamaha Grizzly 700 top speed. Let’s wrap up with a summary.
Conclusion
When reviewing the Yamaha Grizzly 700 top speed and performance, it’s clear this ATV hits a nice balance between speed and utility function.
In stock form, you can expect a restricted top speed around 65 mph. This keeps the ride stable and controlled while still providing strong acceleration and power.
With simple mods like a CDI box, sprocket change and exhaust system, you can unlock the Grizzly 700’s full potential and reach up to 75 mph. Of course, you need to be careful when approaching these extreme speeds.
While the Grizzly 700 may not beat pure sport ATVs, its versatility, cargo capacity, and available power make it one of the best all-around choices on the market. It’s a hunter’s or farmer’s workhorse during the week that transforms into a fast, nimble dune and trail machine on the weekends.
So if you want an ATV that can still haul cargo and tackle tough terrain, while also providing some thrilling speed when desired, the Yamaha Grizzly 700 is an excellent option to consider. Just don’t expect it to outrun high-strung racing quads!
Hopefully this detailed guide has provided everything you need to know about maximizing the top speed and performance of the Yamaha Grizzly 700 ATV. Ride safe and have fun exploring the capabilities of this outstanding utility quad.
