2005 Yamaha Motorsports Kodiak 400 Auto. 4x4 Owners Manual - Page 90

Select a large, flat area off-road to become familiar 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 trying 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. Apply the throttle slowly and smoothly. The centrifugal clutch will engage and you will start to accelerate. If the throttle is applied too abruptly, the front wheels may lift off the ground resulting in a loss of directional control. Avoid higher speeds until you are thoroughly familiar 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