Getting a young rider their first ATV is a huge moment. You see the excitement in their eyes, and you’re already picturing the awesome trail rides and family memories you’re about to make. But with that excitement comes a big responsibility: choosing a machine that’s safe, reliable, and built for learning.
You’ve probably agreed that a youth ATV needs to be more than just a toy. In this complete guide, we promise to give you the expert insights and confidence you need to properly care for your quad. We’re here to help you turn wrenching time into quality time and ensure every ride on the brp can-am ds 90 is as safe as it is fun.
We’ll walk you through everything from the essential pre-ride safety checks and basic maintenance you can do at home, to troubleshooting common issues and instilling best practices in your young rider. Let’s get started.
What Makes the BRP Can-Am DS 90 a Top Choice for Young Riders?
Before we grab the wrenches, let’s talk about why the DS 90 is such a popular starting point. Can-Am didn’t just shrink an adult ATV; they designed the DS 90 from the ground up with young, developing riders in mind. It strikes a perfect balance between user-friendly features and genuine off-road capability.
This machine is all about building confidence. It provides a stable, predictable platform for kids to learn the fundamentals of throttle control, braking, and steering without being intimidating.
Built-In Safety Features You’ll Appreciate
As a parent or guardian, safety is job number one. Can-Am baked several key features into the DS 90 that give you peace of mind and control over the learning curve.
- Throttle Limiter: This is your best friend. A simple screw adjustment on the throttle housing lets you limit how far the thumb throttle can be pushed, effectively controlling the ATV’s top speed. You can start slow and gradually increase the power as your rider’s skills improve.
- Automatic CVT Transmission: No clutch, no shifting. The Continuously Variable Transmission means the rider can focus entirely on the trail, steering, and throttle/brake control without the complexity of changing gears.
- Full Floorboards: Unlike models with just footpegs, the DS 90 features integrated full floorboards. These provide excellent protection, keeping a child’s feet away from the ground and the rear wheels.
- Electric Start & Kick-Start Backup: The push-button electric start makes getting going easy, but the kick-start backup is a lifesaver if the battery ever runs low on the trail.
Performance Sized for Fun, Not Fear
The heart of the DS 90 is its reliable, air-cooled 89.5cc four-stroke engine. It provides smooth, predictable power that’s peppy enough to be exciting but not so aggressive that it becomes overwhelming for a new rider.
The long-travel suspension is also surprisingly capable for a youth quad, designed to soak up bumps and ruts on the trail. This translates to a more comfortable and controlled ride, which helps prevent fatigue and keeps your young rider focused.
Your Essential Pre-Ride Inspection: A BRP Can-Am DS 90 Care Guide
Here’s one of the most important brp can-am ds 90 tips we can give you: perform a pre-ride inspection before every single ride. It takes five minutes, teaches your child responsibility, and is the single best way to catch a small issue before it becomes a big problem on the trail.
We use a method similar to the motorcycle world’s “T-CLOCS” checklist. It’s an easy way to remember what to check.
- Tires & Wheels: Check the tire pressure with a low-pressure gauge (they typically run 3-5 PSI). Look for any cuts or embedded objects. Grab each wheel and check for wobbly bearings.
- Controls & Levers: Squeeze the brake levers. Do they feel firm? Make sure the throttle lever moves smoothly and snaps back into place when released. Check all cables for kinks or fraying.
- Lights & Electrics: Turn the key on. Does the neutral light illuminate? Test the headlight. Make sure the engine kill switch works correctly.
- Oil & Fuel: Check the engine oil level using the dipstick (make sure the ATV is on level ground). Make sure you have plenty of fresh fuel in the tank for your planned ride.
- Chassis & Chain: Look over the frame for any cracks. Check the chain for proper tension—it should have about 1 inch of slack. Look for any loose nuts or bolts, especially on the suspension, axle, and handlebars.
How to Handle Basic Maintenance on Your BRP Can-Am DS 90
Doing your own basic maintenance is one of the best benefits of the brp can-am ds 90; it’s simple enough for any DIYer. These tasks will save you money and give you an intimate understanding of the machine’s condition.
Engine Oil Change
Clean oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Plan to change it after the initial break-in period and then every 10-15 hours of riding, or at least once a season.
Tools Needed: Socket wrench, new 10W-40 ATV oil, drain pan, funnel, and rags.
Start the engine and let it warm up for a few minutes. This helps the oil drain completely. Place your drain pan under the engine, remove the drain bolt, and let the old oil drain out. Once it’s done, clean and replace the drain bolt (don’t overtighten!), and refill with the correct amount of new oil as specified in your owner’s manual. Always double-check the level with the dipstick.
Air Filter Cleaning
An off-road engine breathes a lot of dust. A clean air filter is critical for performance and engine longevity. Check it after every few rides, especially in dusty conditions.
The foam filter is easily accessible. Carefully remove it, wash it with a dedicated foam air filter cleaner and water, and let it dry completely. Once dry, apply a light, even coat of foam filter oil, working it into the foam. Reinstall it, ensuring a perfect seal.
Chain Care: Cleaning, Adjusting, and Lubing
A neglected chain will wear out quickly and can even be dangerous if it fails. Check the tension before each ride as part of your inspection.
To adjust, loosen the rear axle carrier bolts, and use the adjuster bolts to slide the axle back until you have the correct slack. Make sure the wheel is straight before tightening everything back to spec. After adjusting, use a quality chain cleaner and a brush to scrub off grime, then apply a dedicated chain lube.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with the BRP Can-Am DS 90
Even the most reliable machines can have hiccups. Here’s a quick guide to diagnosing some of the most common problems with the brp can-am ds 90.
“My DS 90 Won’t Start!”
This is the most common call for help. Before you panic, run through this simple checklist:
- Is the red kill switch on the handlebar in the ‘RUN’ position?
- Is the fuel petcock turned to ‘ON’?
- Is the transmission in Neutral (the ‘N’ light should be on)? The DS 90 has a neutral safety switch.
- Is the key turned on? (Yes, it happens!)
- If it’s cold, have you applied the choke?
- If all else fails, check the battery terminals for a tight, clean connection.
“It’s Bogging Down or Losing Power.”
A sudden loss of power or a bogging sensation under throttle usually points to a breathing or fuel issue. The first and easiest thing to check is a dirty or clogged air filter. The second most common culprit is old or water-contaminated fuel. If those don’t solve it, the next step is to check the spark plug for fouling.
“The Brakes Feel Weak or Spongy.”
The DS 90 uses mechanical drum brakes. Unlike hydraulic systems, they are operated by cables. If the brakes feel weak, the most likely cause is that the cables have stretched slightly. You can easily adjust them using the threaded adjusters near the brake levers or down at the brake drum itself to remove the slack.
BRP Can-Am DS 90 Best Practices for Safety and Longevity
Owning this ATV is about more than just maintenance; it’s about building good habits. This is a core part of any good brp can-am ds 90 guide.
Setting Up for Your Rider
Take the time to properly set the throttle limiter screw for your child’s current skill level. It’s better to start too slow than too fast. Also, ensure they can comfortably reach the handlebars and operate the brake levers and throttle without stretching or straining.
The Importance of Proper Riding Gear
This is non-negotiable. Proper gear is the difference between a minor tumble and a serious injury. The minimum gear for every ride should include:
- A DOT-approved helmet that fits snugly.
- Goggles to protect their eyes.
- Over-the-ankle boots for support and protection.
- Durable riding gloves.
- Long-sleeve shirt and long pants.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding Habits
Part of being a good rider is being a good steward of the land. Teach your child these eco-friendly brp can-am ds 90 habits from day one.
Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect wildlife habitats. When performing maintenance like an oil change, always capture used fluids in a drain pan and take them to an auto parts store or local facility for proper recycling. This is a key part of sustainable brp can-am ds 90 ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions About the BRP Can-Am DS 90
What age is the Can-Am DS 90 for?
Can-Am recommends the DS 90 for riders aged 10 and up. However, it’s crucial to assess your child’s individual size, strength, and maturity level. Always check your local state and trail regulations, as age requirements can vary.
Does the DS 90 have a reverse gear?
No, the standard BRP Can-Am DS 90 and the sportier DS 90 X model do not come equipped with a reverse gear. This is a common design choice in youth ATVs to simplify operation for new riders.
How fast does a Can-Am DS 90 go?
Unrestricted, the DS 90 has a top speed of approximately 30 mph. However, using the built-in throttle limiter, the top speed can be governed down to as low as 10-15 mph for beginners.
What kind of fuel should I use in the DS 90?
The DS 90’s four-stroke engine is designed to run on standard unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using fuel with high ethanol content if possible, and use a fuel stabilizer if the ATV will be stored for more than a month.
The BRP Can-Am DS 90 is an incredible machine for introducing a young person to the world of off-roading. Your commitment to regular inspections and basic maintenance is the key to ensuring it remains a safe and reliable source of family fun for years to come.
By following this guide, you’re not just taking care of an ATV; you’re investing in your child’s safety and building their mechanical confidence. Now get that checklist ready, gear up, and go make some dusty memories together. Happy trails!
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