Yamaha 350 Big Bear Specifications

by Peter Drea

Yamaha Motor Company's Big Bear 350 is an all-terrain vehicle. It was introduced in 1987 in two colors -- red and white. The 350 -- Yamaha’s first ATV 4-by-4 model -- was produced until 1999, but with some modifications during its course of production. For instance, the 1997 model came in two-wheel drive and was available in gray or blue.

General Specifications

The Big Bear 350 can carry a maximum load of 175 pounds. The ATV is fitted with an odometer, which makes maintenance based on engine mileage possible. The vehicle has a high-to-low range, 10-speed power transmission, fitted with reverse gears, which makes off-road maneuverability easier by enhancing the vehicle's ability to decrease speed. Other general capabilities of the ATV include:

  • Torque Control Differential to the front wheels provides the necessary torque to make off-road maneuvers.
  • The vehicle has an electric start for a dependable starting of the engine, as well as regular sparks for every stroke, which enhances engine performance. 
  • It is easy to stop the vehicle as it has hydraulic brakes at the front axle and a mechanical drum brake at the rear axle.

The Engine

The 350 Big Bear has a 350 cc and four-stroke engine that is fitted with an oil cooling system. The engine's intake, power, compression and stroke phases take place in every complete crankshaft rotation. It has a single overhead cam design enabling the mounting of camshaft inside the cylinders. This makes it lighter than overhead valve-design engines. Specific engine specifications are:

  1. 21.3 cubic inches of engine displacement, which is the volume that the pistol sweeps in a single movement within the engine cylinders.
  2. 3.3 inch diameter of the engine cylinders, with pistols traveling 2.5 inches inside the engine cylinders. 
  3. A five-speed transmission system delivering the engine power to the wheels. 

Appearance and Dimensions

The Big Bear 350 has a compact frame design that reduces its weight, which enhances durability and creates efficient steering. The double-wishbone suspension, joining at the knuckle, smooths out the bumpier terrains. The vehicle's specific dimensions are:

  • Large front and rear wheels, which are 12 inches apart and separated by a 47.6-inch wheelbase.
  • Ground clearance of 7.1 inches to assist in maneuverability over rugged terrain. 

Safety specifications

The Big Bear 350 has large fenders fitted with inner splash guards that offer shielding against mud and splash. It is fitted with a handlebar-mounted parking brake to ensure the vehicle is still when not in use.

Warnings

  • Overloading or excess tire pressure can cause the ATV to lose control. 
  • Do not start the engine in gear, as the ATV can move abruptly causing an accident.
  • Only refuel after the engine has stopped running and has cooled down to avoid fire accidents.

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