Yamaha KODIAK 400 Owner's Manual page 90

Select a large, flat area off-road to become fa-
miliar with your ATV. Make sure that this area
is free of obstacles and other riders. You
should practice control of the throttle, brakes,
and turning techniques in this area before try-
ing more difficult terrain. Always avoid riding
on paved surfaces: the ATV is designed for
off-road use only, and handling maneuvers
are more difficult to perform on pavement.
Shift to the parking position "P" and follow the
instruction on page 6-1 to start the engine.
Once it has warmed up you are ready to begin
riding your ATV. Remember that the engine
and exhaust pipe will be hot when riding and
afterwards; do not allow skin or clothing to
come in contact with these components.
With the engine idling, return the starter
(choke) to the closed position, and shift the
drive select lever into the forward position. Ap-
ply the throttle slowly and smoothly. The cen-
trifugal clutch will engage and you will start to
accelerate. If the throttle is applied too abrupt-
ly, the front wheels may lift off the ground re-
sulting in a loss of directional control. Avoid
higher speeds until you are thoroughly famil-
iar with the operation of your ATV.
When slowing down or stopping, release the
throttle and apply the brakes smoothly and
evenly. Improper use of the brakes can cause
the tires to lose traction, reducing control and
increasing the possibility of an accident.
7-21