Hey-
I posted this same question in the Yamaha forum, but that forum seems like more of a place to go if you need help getting something fixed so I posted here hoping for some feedback on the 05 Grizz.

I'm looking at a used 2005 Grizzly 660 with 440 miles. I've been doing some research and there seems to be a few reliability issues with the '05, like breaking axles, won't start when cold and boiling gas(!). Those were the most repeated problems. Does anyone have good or bad experiences? At $5400 would it be a good deal? It also has a winch and is the color I want, but it's not worth anything if leaves me stranded. Thanks for your help

 

Weak axles were only a problem on the 2003 Grizzly. Yamaha tried saving some weight with ligher axles. It didn't work out well for them. They realized their error and fixed it. Obvisouly, you still can't run monster meats on it and expect them to last without also upgrading to aftermarket axles. Try keeping the wheel/tire combo on the light side and you'll be fine with the 2005.

I have a 2005 Grizz with 1200 miles on it. I really haven't had any issues with it yet. I had a sticky carburetor float needle on it awhile back but that's probably because I let it sit awhile last winter and the gas got old. After replacing the needle, no problems. It starts evertime.

I have only run into boiling gas issues twice on mine. On really hot days, the gas will boil if you let the quad stay stationary while idling for a long time. The quad will bog a little at this point but once you get moving and the cooler air starts circulating around the engine again, you're fine. I wouldn't worry about it leaving you stranded. I still have the original belt in mine as well.

I have a 2006 Honda Rubicon as well and my Grizzly starts much easier in the cold weather. My girlfriend and I regularly take them to the mountains in Kentucky for long distance off-road trips. Other than flat tires, we haven't had any issues with either one leaving us stranded.

 

Thanks for the info. I hemmed and hawed for too long and when I called the guy back it was sold. At least I'll know for the next time!