KISS,that info is in the test report on the grizz in this website.If you scroll down it has an image of a Kodiak and it says under the pic that Yamaha told them that the diff lock will become available on the kodiak next.Just look in the article [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]
2000 Kodiak
1998 Wolverine
1988 big Bear

 

My 2 cents.
I rode with a friend of mine.He has a 2000 Honda 400 Foreman ES.
I have a 1998 350 Big Bear (constant 4x4).I don't know if he was in 4x4 or not.

We both pinned our throttles for about 2 mins on pavement,side by side.
His digital speedo read 51 MPH as max speed we achieved,but neither of us was ahead of each other by more than half a bike length during the entire 2 mins.

True story.
Draw your own conclusions.

 

Kodiak1 are you referring to Yamahas website? You say "this website" Im not sure what you mean.

 

Kiss,the website is www.atvconnection.com.I always come into the forum that way and I guess assumed everyone else did.When the site loads there is a report on the new grizzly right at the top.Go into the report and inside the article is mention on the Kodiak getting the locker along with a picture of a kodiak.They make it sound as "when" not "if".
2000 kodiak
1998 wolverine
1988 big bear

 

Thanks kodiac1, That helps a lot because I dont enter through the main site. I made a shortcut directly to the forum and skip the home page. I will check it out though and thanks again.

 

Hey Kiss,I was just curious if you found that website??

 

Yes I did. Thanks again for that info. I will not build up my Kodiak now. I will wait 1 or 2 years atleast and get the new Kodiak with the locker. Thanks again for the tip.

 

Hey guys I wouldn't be holding my breath for the Kodiak having a differential lock like the Grizz. I just read the article mentioned ... not trying to start anything, but it doesn't say anything about it getting a diff lock. It says in the article, "The only upgrade we were disappointed in not seeing was the differential lock. It was not added to any other Yamaha 4x4s. However, the Big Bear 400 4x4 received the "On Command" push-button 4WD/2WD feature." I just thought you should know ... just in case that 500 big bore kit started looking too unattractive. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img] They only say they are "Pretty sure" the Kodiak will be next to receive the lock ... that isn't from Yamaha. Go for the big bore. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I guess I will have to take my chances with the locking front end. Besides, I have over a year and a half left on the warranty and modifying the motor would void that part of it.

 

If i were you, i would definetly get the 2002 big bear. I have a 2001 big bear 4x4, and i love it. It is one of the most realiable quads you can buy. Plus, it is the best value on the market. The BB has plenty of power, and has an adequate speed(around 52). I got my 2001 bear for only $4300 brand new! I wish i had waited an extra year for the 2x4 and 4x4 switch though