Yamaha BIG BEAR PROFESSIONAL 400 YFM400FPT Owner's Manual page 210

When slowing down or stopping, release the throt-
tle and apply the brakes smoothly and evenly. As
you slow down, shift to a lower gear. Be sure that
the engine has sufficiently slowed before engaging
a lower gear. Improper use of the brakes or shift-
ing can cause the tires to lose traction, reducing
control and increasing the possibility of an acci-
dent.
WARNING
_
Make sure the engine has sufficiently slowed
before shifting to a lower gear. Engaging a low-
er gear when the engine speed is too high
could cause the wheels to stop rotating.
_
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