Yamaha YFM 350 Grizzly (2007-2014): The Workhorse That Refuses to Quit

Introduction

The Yamaha YFM 350 Grizzly isn’t just an ATV—it’s a statement of rugged dependability. Produced from 2007 to 2014, this generation carved its niche as a go-anywhere companion for hunters, farmers, and weekend adventurers. With its 348cc engine, push-button 4WD system, and no-nonsense design, the Grizzly 350 became synonymous with "get it done" reliability. After spending days testing this machine through muddy trails, rocky inclines, and even shallow creek crossings, it’s clear why it’s still a favorite in used ATV markets. Let’s dive into what makes this Grizzly roar (or, more accurately, purr with quiet confidence).

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Design & Build: Built Like a Tank, Handles Like a Goat

Dimensions & Ergonomics

At 1,984 mm (78.1 inches) long and 257 kg (568 lbs) wet weight, the Grizzly 350 feels substantial but never unwieldy. The seat height—828 mm (32.6 inches)—is accessible for riders of all sizes, and the narrow 1,085 mm (42.7 inches) width lets it squeeze through tight forest trails. Yamaha offered it in utilitarian color schemes like Realtree AP Camo and Hunter Green, which still look surprisingly fresh today if maintained.

The steel racks—front rated for 40 kg (88 lbs) and rear for 80 kg (176 lbs)—are a highlight. Whether hauling deer carcasses or feed bags, they’re rock-solid. The dual 30W Krypton headlights cut through pre-dawn fog better than many modern LED setups I’ve tested.

Suspension & Ground Clearance

Independent double-wishbone front suspension with 160 mm (6.3 inches) of travel and a swingarm rear with 180 mm (7.1 inches) soak up bumps admirably. Combined with 246 mm (9.7 inches) of ground clearance, it scrambles over fallen logs and rock gardens without scraping its underbelly. The suspension isn’t plush—you’ll feel sharper impacts—but it’s predictable, which matters more when you’re miles from civilization.

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Engine & Performance: Slow and Steady Wins the Trail

Power Delivery

The air/oil-cooled 348cc SOHC single-cylinder engine delivers 22 PS (16 kW)—enough for work, not for adrenaline junkies. The Mikuni 33mm carburetor provides crisp throttle response, though it demands patience in cold starts. Once warmed up, the engine settles into a steady, vibration-free hum.

On paved roads, it tops out around 75 km/h (47 mph), but the sweet spot is 40-50 km/h (25-31 mph) off-road. The Ultramatic® transmission—a V-belt CVT with high/low ranges and engine braking—is butter-smooth. Climbing steep hills? Drop into low range, and the Grizzly chugs upward like a metronome.

4WD System

Yamaha’s On-Command push-button 4WD is legendary. Switch from 2WD to locked 4WD mid-trail, and the difference is immediate. In 4WD mode, the front wheels bite into sloppy terrain with authority. The shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance—a godsend for riders who despise greasy chores.

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On the Trail: Where the Grizzly Shines

Handling & Comfort

The Grizzly isn’t a sport ATV, but it’s surprisingly nimble. The 25x8-12 front and 25x10-12 tires (run at 0.22-0.28 bar / 3.2-4.1 psi) float over sand and snow without sinking. Steering is light in 2WD, firms up in 4WD, and never feels vague. After six hours of trail riding, my backside appreciated the well-padded seat—a rare luxury in utility quads.

Workhorse Credentials

I loaded the rear rack with 70 kg (154 lbs) of sandbags to simulate a hunting haul. The suspension sagged but remained composed, and the engine didn’t protest. Towing a 450 kg (992 lbs) trailer? The Grizzly managed it in low range, though hills required momentum.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

Honda FourTrax Rancher 420

The Rancher’s 420cc engine offers more power, but its Selectable 2WD/4WD system lacks the Grizzly’s seamless engagement. Honda’s build quality matches Yamaha’s, but the Rancher feels bulkier in tight woods.

Suzuki KingQuad 400

Suzuki’s 400cc fuel-injected engine starts easier in cold weather, and its independent rear suspension is plusher. However, the KingQuad’s chain drive demands more maintenance, and its cockpit feels more cramped.

Can-Am Outlander 330

Can-Am’s 330cc Rotax engine is peppier, and the Outlander’s styling is flashier. But the Grizzly outclasses it in reliability—older Outlanders are prone to belt issues, while Yamaha’s Ultramatic is bulletproof.

Verdict: The Grizzly 350 wins for owners prioritizing simplicity and longevity over brute power.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your Grizzly Healthy

Key Service Intervals

• Oil Changes: Every 100 hours or 1,600 km (1,000 miles). Use 10W-40 (2.3L with filter).
• Valve Adjustments: Check every 200 hours. Intake: 0.06-0.10 mm (0.0024-0.0039 in), exhaust: 0.16-0.20 mm (0.0063-0.0079 in).
• Carb Cleaning: Annually if stored with ethanol fuel. Consider a carb rebuild kit from MOTOPARTS.store.
• Shaft Drive: Replace final drive oil every 500 hours (500 mL of GL-5 80W-90).

Common Upgrades

• Winches: The stock electrical system handles a 2,500-lb winch effortlessly.
• Tires: Swap to 26-inch Maxxis Bighorns for deeper mud.
• Storage: Add a MOTOPARTS.store aluminum cargo box to the rear rack.

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Legacy & Owner Recommendations

The 2007-2014 Grizzly 350 isn’t flashy, but it’s the ATV equivalent of a cast-iron skillet—durable, versatile, and hard to kill. Its carbureted engine avoids the complexity of fuel injection, and the shaft drive means no chain adjustments. For 2024 riders, it’s a smart choice if you value:
- Low ownership costs (parts are plentiful and affordable)
- Trail-ready capability without modifications
- A community of loyal owners who swear by its longevity

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Final Thoughts

Yamaha nailed the formula with this Grizzly generation. It’s not the fastest, strongest, or most modern ATV, but it’s the one you’d trust when the weather turns or the trail disappears. After my test ride, I found myself browsing MOTOPARTS.store for skid plates and heated grips—because this is a machine that begs to be used, year after year.

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Specifications sheet

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