Yamaha is right...there is a demand for mid size ATVs and especially BULLETPROOF ATVs like back in the old days. There is so much focus and coverage of the big bore high HP class of ATVs that people who have no desire for them get forgotten. There is a large group of people who have no desire whatsoever for 1000cc ATVs with 100HP. The 4 to 700cc class is making a comeback as people grow tired of snapping axles and tearing up gearboxes in quads with so much power they can destroy their own drivetrain. After awhile a ATV you can hit the trails with over and over again without breaking anything becomes more desirable. Back in the old days breaking and fixing things was actually pretty rare and that was after beating the crap out of them day after day. A 500cc used to be jaw dropping powerful and conquered all the same things we conquer today with a good rider. I think the fascination with big HP is wearing off and a large group of riders are going back to mid size quads that can take a beating day after day without self destructing. Polaris has sure sold the hell out of those 570s although they are no example of bulletproof reliability ( I have a right to say that...I own one).

I remember watching this review back when I bought my 2018 Kodiak brand new and all these years later hard abuse it’s been great no major issues.

I bought a Kodiak 700 base and didn’t really mind not having diff lock. Until I needed it. I bought 501 Parts “Grabber” kit. Swapping to electric soon but the cable diff lock does good for now. Diff lock is an ABSOLUTE MUST for anyone serious about riding. Also, I think the bigger/ more aggressive the tire, the more you’re GOING to want diff lock because it’s only going to make you want to try harder trails and creek crossings. And when the going gets tough..the tough get going, with DIFF LOCK!

I bought the 2018 Kodiak 450 last year. I am somewhat of a beginner and really like this machine. It has plenty of power and feels very comfortable riding up and down trails. I just got back from a ride where I road about 30 miles. I had so much fun did not want to stop. I really enjoy this machine. I know it will last for many years.

The 2021 Kodiak EPS SE has diff lock, aluminum wheels and a Warn winch. A beautiful package on this Kodiak that was redesigned in 2018. Thanks for the video! It is very well done!

Hands down best atv reviews. Good job guys.

You guys have the best atv reviews on the internet!

Guys. I just bought one with eps. I’ve had many quads over the years mostly older back in day, but this is a great machine. Assuming you don’t need major horse power. She does pretty good , pulls trailer well for yard work and plenty o& torque. It’s real strength is it size. , bigger than the old 450 and perfect to blast through tight trails here in New England. I’m getting up there in age an$ didn’t want those monster size quads. Oh she is a great looking machine. Great job Yamaha.

I bought a new one in 2005 before EPS was available, but it did come with front diff lock. I had it for 5 years and never had any problems other than leaking coolant that was due to poor assemby at the dealership not with the radiator itself. I never really had much need for the diff lock, but I guess it was nice to know I had it. At the same time I purchased a Suzuki Vinson 500 that did not have a front diff lock, and it was never a problem.

I still have a 2000 and it’s been through Hell and held up very good but finally has to go to the shop and when it gets back it will have a big brother, the 700 kodiak setting beside it !!!

Easily one of the very best true mid sized sport/utility quads ever produced. Highly reliable, not super heavy, great trail riding quads as well as good for a work quad. I really liked the years that they were still carbed and had a back up recoil, but in this day and age we never see that anymore anyhow. I bet the FI gives it a nice responsive feel off the bottom. My old Rancher 420 button shift I sold for a KQ750 yrs. ago "felt" very powerful on low end with the non cvt and FI combination..quick response...I like both makes of these true mid sized machines...Simplicity going to the Yamaha,,and the third headlight is a great add on...I will never plow snow on at atv without it ever again.

My 2021 Kodiak 450 with EPS and Diff Lock Rocks great job Yamaha! there is only 1 change I would make that is to add a bridge bar on top of the handlebars to help mount and dismount for older riders.

You’re very welcome. Just my honest opinion on a great machine.

Wow I love this machine it looks amazing and performs great for a beginner like me sounds a perfect match also I like the design a really well balanced atv 👍😀

Superbly directed video at a great location,.. top marks, ATVod

this quad is so pretty!

It's nice even today 5 years later after this review was made the smaller CC quads are coming back. grew up on an 03 Yamaha Kodiak. Small nimble and plenty of power for the 13 year old me at the time. Never been fascinated by the 750cc or 1000cc monsters. I respect their place in the ATV world. they have their desired users. But these aren't everyday machines. 35-45mph is enough. Some Just need a small nimble bulletproof single stroker to get work done with just enough balls to scratch that recreational itch. Glad they are sticking around.

Nice little package ! I like the 700 Kodiak a bit better , differential lock is key . And a bunch more power .

Man! I got to get won of them for Christmas. + A dirt bike will come in handy for the winter if it begins.

Pick up my 18 kodiak 700 eps Saturday.. Can't wait!