2011 Yamaha Motorsports Big Bear 400 4x4 IRS Owners Manual - Page 74
2011 Yamaha Motorsports Big Bear 400 4x4 IRS Manual
Page 74 highlights
RIDING DOWNHILL EWB01621 7 WARNING Going down a hill improperly could cause overturns or loss of control. Always follow proper procedures for going down hills as described in this Owner's Manual. G Always check the terrain carefully before you start down any hill. G Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities. The ATV can overturn more easily on extremely steep hills than on level surfaces or small hills. G Shift your weight backward and to the up side of the hill. G Never go down a hill at high speed. G Avoid going down a hill at an angle that would cause the ATV to lean sharply to one side. Go straight down the hill where possible. G Improper braking can cause the wheels on the uphill side to come off the ground or cause loss of traction. Apply brakes gradually. If in "2WD", apply only the rear brake. When riding your ATV downhill, shift your weight as far to the rear and uphill side of the ATV as possible. Move back on the seat and sit with your arms straight. Engine compression will do most of the braking for you. For maximum engine compression braking effect, change to "4WD" before beginning to descend the hill. Use caution while descending a hill with loose or slippery surfaces. Braking ability and traction may be adversely affected by these surfaces. Improper braking may also cause a loss of traction. When this ATV is in "4WD", all wheels (front and rear) are interconnected by the drive train. This means that applying either the front brake or the rear brake will brake all wheels. When descending hills, using either brake lever or the brake pedal will brake the wheels on the downhill side. Avoid sudden application of either the front or rear brake because the wheels on the uphill side could come off the ground. Apply both the front and rear brakes gradually. Whenever possible, ride your ATV straight downhill. Avoid sharp angles which could allow the ATV to tip or roll over. Carefully choose your path and ride no faster than you will be able to react to obstacles which may appear. 7-17