Market Segment:
Mid-size utility ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) targeted at recreational riders and light-duty farm/ranch work.
Competitors:
Polaris Sportsman 400/500, Honda Foreman/Rancher, Kawasaki Prairie 360/400, Suzuki King Quad 300/400, Arctic Cat 400.
Key Features Vehicle:
Automatic transmission, 4x4 capability, reliable air-cooled engine, comfortable seating position, independent front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes.
Systems Covered:
Engine, transmission, driveline (4x4 system), suspension, brakes, steering, electrical system, fuel system, cooling system, controls, chassis
Procedures Included:
Pre-operation checks, safe operation techniques, basic adjustments, fluid checks, tire pressure, chain adjustment (if applicable), filter replacement, lubrication, storage procedures, troubleshooting common issues
Technical Depth:
Covers essential owner-level maintenance, basic adjustments, and operational guidance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or complete disassembly/assembly instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, Air-cooled
Engine Displacement:
348 cc
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 64.5 mm
Carburetor:
Mikuni BSR33/1 (Single)
Starting System:
Electric Start with Auxiliary Kick Starter
Horsepower:
Approximately 20-22 HP (est. at crankshaft)
Torque:
Not specifically listed in product data, typically around 20-22 lb-ft (est.)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
3.6 US gal (13.5 L)
Transmission Type:
Automatic (Yamaha Ultramatic®)
Drive System:
Shaft Drive, 2WD/4WD (On-Demand)
Gear Selection:
H (High), L (Low), N (Neutral), R (Reverse), P (Park)
Differential Lock:
Front differential lock (selectable on demand)
Engine Braking:
Yamaha Ultramatic® system provides strong, consistent engine braking.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for ATVs in the same way as passenger vehicles. Safety is primarily addressed through operational guidelines and design features.
Active Safety Features:
On-Demand 4x4 system for improved traction, engine braking for controlled descents, hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power.
Passive Safety Features:
Handguards (basic), throttle limiter (adjustable), durable chassis construction, comfortable seating with handholds.
Operator Training Recommendation:
Owner's Manual strongly emphasizes reading and understanding all safety information, wearing appropriate protective gear (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, long sleeves/pants), and adhering to safe riding practices.
Infotainment System:
No infotainment system present. Designed for utility and off-road operation.
Driver Assistance Features:
Basic LCD display showing gear position, odometer, trip meter, fuel level, clock, and neutral/reverse indicators. No advanced driver assistance systems.
Connectivity Features:
No connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.).
Initial Service:
Refer to manual for break-in period and initial service recommendations (typically around 100 miles or 1 month).
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 1000 km (600 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Also recommended before and after long-term storage.
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Every 1000 km (600 miles) or 6 months. More frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual for specific recommendation (typically around 3000-5000 miles or as needed based on condition).
Gear Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific recommendations for front/rear differentials and transmission/final drive.
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (API SG, SAE 10W-40 or SAE 20W-50 depending on ambient temperature) or equivalent.
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.90 US qt (1.8 L) with oil filter replacement.
Coolant Type:
Not applicable (Air-cooled engine).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issues Durability:
While generally reliable, some owners have reported occasional issues with carburetor performance (requiring cleaning/adjustment), CVT belt wear over time, and potential water ingress into the airbox or CVT housing if ridden through deep water without proper precautions.
Common Issues Electrical:
Basic electrical systems are typically robust, but battery maintenance and connections are crucial.
Recommended Tools:
Standard metric wrenches and sockets, screwdrivers, torque wrench, spark plug socket, oil filter wrench, feeler gauges (for valve adjustment, if covered).
Brand History:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence in motorcycles, marine products, and powersports vehicles. Known for innovation and reliability.
Bruin Series Introduction:
The Bruin series was introduced by Yamaha as a more utility-focused, comfortable, and user-friendly ATV compared to some of its sportier or more performance-oriented models.
Bruin 350 Development:
The 350cc model, particularly the 4x4 automatic (FAV) version, was a popular choice for its blend of capability and ease of use. It succeeded and evolved from earlier Yamaha ATV designs.
Production Period:
The YFM350 Bruin series was produced from roughly 2004 to 2006, before being largely succeeded by the Wolverine and Grizzly lines, which offered more modern features and higher performance.
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured in Japan or at Yamaha's U.S. facilities.
Industry Awards:
Specific industry awards for the 2006 YFM350FAV Bruin are not widely documented as it was a mid-tier utility model. However, Yamaha ATVs in general have historically received positive reviews for reliability and performance within their respective classes.
Consumer Ratings:
Owner reviews from the period generally praise the Bruin 350 4x4 for its ease of use, comfortable ride, and dependable performance for recreational and light work tasks. Criticisms often focused on its slightly less powerful engine compared to larger displacement competitors.
Certifications:
Manufactured to meet all applicable US EPA emissions standards for off-highway vehicles.
