Ever pull up to a trailhead, heart pounding with excitement, only to see that dreaded sign: “Maximum Vehicle Width: 50 Inches”? We’ve all been there. It’s a gut-punch to realize your rig is just too wide for some of the best, most pristine trails out there.
At FatBoysOffroad, we promise to get you past those gates and deep into the backcountry. The key is having the right machine, and this complete can am 50 inch side by side guide is your ticket to unlocking those restricted-width adventures.
In this deep dive, we’ll break down everything you need to know. We’ll cover which models fit the bill, essential pre-ride checks, how to tackle common problems, and pro tips for setting up your rig for peak trail performance. Let’s get you ready to ride.
What Makes a Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Your Trail Access Pass?
Before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s understand why that 50-inch number is so critical. It’s not just an arbitrary measurement; it’s the key that unlocks a whole new world of off-roading.
Understanding the 50-Inch Rule
Many of the most scenic and challenging trail systems in the country, especially those managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), were originally designed for ATVs. To preserve the trail and manage access, they established a maximum width of 50 inches.
This means that wider, “sport” or “performance” side by sides (like the Maverick X3, which can be 64 or 72 inches wide) are simply not allowed. A dedicated can am 50 inch side by side is purpose-built to comply with these regulations, giving you legal access without compromise.
Key Benefits of a Narrow-Stance UTV
Beyond simple trail access, there are some serious advantages to piloting a narrower machine. Here are some of the core benefits of can am 50 inch side by side models:
- Unmatched Agility: A 50-inch rig can navigate tight, tree-lined trails and sharp switchbacks with an ease that wider machines can only dream of. You can pick your line with surgical precision.
- Lighter Weight: Generally, narrower machines are lighter. This translates to better handling, less stress on components, and an easier time if you ever need to perform a trail recovery.
- Less Trail Impact: A narrower track width and lower weight contribute to a more eco-friendly can am 50 inch side by side experience. This aligns with “Tread Lightly!” principles, helping to preserve the trails we all love for future generations.
- Simpler Transport: A 50-inch UTV can often fit in the bed of a full-size pickup truck or on a smaller, more manageable trailer, making getting to the trailhead easier and more fuel-efficient.
Meet the Maverick Trail: Your Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Options
When you’re looking for a new can am 50 inch side by side, your search will lead you directly to one specific family of machines: the Maverick Trail. These are Can-Am’s purpose-built answers to the 50-inch question.
The Maverick Trail 700
This is the entry-point into the 50-inch world. It’s powered by a reliable 52-horsepower Rotax ACE 700 engine. While not a powerhouse, it has more than enough grunt for technical trail riding and exploration.
It’s a fantastic choice for riders who prioritize agility and reliability over raw, top-end speed. It’s nimble, capable, and gets you on the trail without breaking the bank.
The Maverick Trail 1000 DPS
If you want more power, the Maverick Trail 1000 DPS is the upgrade. It boasts a 75-horsepower Rotax 1000 V-Twin engine, offering significantly more torque for climbing hills and powering out of corners.
The “DPS” stands for Dynamic Power Steering, which is a must-have feature. It reduces steering effort at low speeds (great for rock crawling) and provides confident feedback at higher speeds. This model is the perfect blend of 50-inch agility and satisfying power.
Your Essential Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Guide for Pre-Ride Checks
A great day on the trail starts in the garage. A thorough pre-ride inspection is one of the most important can am 50 inch side by side best practices you can adopt. It prevents breakdowns and ensures your safety. We use a modified version of the motorcycle “T-CLOCS” checklist.
The UTV Pre-Ride Walk-Around
Before every single ride, take five minutes to do a full walk-around. This is a simple but effective habit.
- Tires & Wheels: Check for obvious damage, punctures, or embedded objects. Look at the lug nuts to ensure none are loose. Grab each tire and try to wiggle it to check for worn wheel bearings or ball joints.
- Controls & Cables: Test the throttle for smooth operation. Check the brake pedal feel—it should be firm, not spongy. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock, feeling for any binding.
- Lights & Electrics: Turn the key on and test your headlights (high and low beams), brake lights, and any accessory lights. A dead battery is a terrible way to start a ride.
- Oil & Fluids: This is critical. We’ll dive deeper into this next.
- Chassis & Suspension: Glance over the A-arms, trailing arms, and shocks. Look for any bent tubes, leaking shock seals, or cracked welds. Check your CV boots for rips, which can let dirt in and destroy the joint.
- Stands & Safety Gear: Make sure your parking brake holds firmly. Check that your seatbelts are in good condition and latch securely.
Fluid Levels: Your Machine’s Lifeblood
Always check your fluids on a level surface. Your owner’s manual is your best friend here, but the key ones are:
- Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again to get an accurate reading. The oil should be between the ‘add’ and ‘full’ marks and look clean, not milky (which indicates water) or gritty.
- Coolant: Visually inspect the coolant overflow reservoir. The level should be between the minimum and maximum lines. Never open a hot radiator cap.
- Brake Fluid: Check the level in the brake fluid reservoir. If it’s low, it could indicate a leak or worn brake pads. Use the specified fluid type, typically a DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems with Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Models (And How to Fix Them)
Even the most reliable machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with can am 50 inch side by side models can help you diagnose issues on the trail and prevent them with good maintenance.
Clutch Belt Wear and Tear
The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) belt is a wearable item. Aggressive riding, heavy loads, or improper break-in can shorten its life. A sign of a worn belt is a slipping feeling on acceleration or a burning rubber smell.
Pro Tip: Always carry a spare belt and the simple Can-Am belt change tool. Practice changing it once in your garage so you’re not learning how to do it in the mud. Using low gear in technical, slow-speed sections will dramatically extend your belt’s life.
Electrical Gremlins and Connections
Off-roading involves a lot of vibration, water, and mud. Over time, this can lead to loose or corroded electrical connections. If your machine is acting up, a great first step is to check the battery terminals for a tight, clean connection.
We also recommend applying a dab of dielectric grease to major electrical connectors during your regular service. This helps keep water and corrosion out, preventing future headaches.
Suspension Bushing Wear
The bushings in your A-arms take a beating. Worn bushings will cause a clunking noise over bumps and create slop in the suspension and steering. You can check them by safely jacking up the front or rear of the machine and trying to move the wheels in and out.
Replacing bushings is a straightforward DIY job with a basic set of tools and a good press or bushing driver kit. Upgrading to aftermarket bushings from brands like SuperATV or All Balls Racing can provide longer life than stock.
Off-Road Setup: Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Tips for Peak Performance
Getting the most out of your machine involves more than just turning the key. Here are a few can am 50 inch side by side tips to dial in your rig for the trail.
Suspension Tuning for Trail Comfort
Your Maverick Trail comes with preload-adjustable shocks. Preload affects your ride height and how stiff the initial suspension travel feels. Increasing preload (compressing the spring) will raise the ride height but can make the ride harsher over small bumps.
Use a spanner wrench to make adjustments. A good starting point is the factory setting. If you add a lot of weight (heavy cargo, a passenger), you may want to add a little preload to compensate. The key is to make small adjustments and test the feel.
Choosing the Right Tires
The stock tires are a decent all-around choice, but an aftermarket set can transform your machine’s capability. For rocky, technical terrain, a tougher 6-ply or 8-ply tire like the Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 or ITP Blackwater Evolution is a fantastic upgrade. They offer better puncture resistance and superior grip.
Remember, adding significantly larger tires can affect clutching and may require a clutch kit to regain lost performance. For a 50-inch machine, sticking close to the stock tire size is often the best approach to maintain agility.
The Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Care Guide for Longevity
A little care goes a long way. This simple can am 50 inch side by side care guide will help keep your machine running strong for years to come.
Post-Ride Cleaning Best Practices
Don’t let mud sit on your machine. It can hold moisture against metal parts, promoting rust, and can dry and cake up on moving parts like suspension and axles.
Use a pressure washer carefully, avoiding direct spray on electrical connectors, bearings, and seals. A good foam cannon and a quality soap like Simple Green can help lift dirt without high pressure. After washing, it’s a great time to lubricate your suspension pivot points.
Embracing a Sustainable Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side Experience
Part of long-term ownership is preserving the places we ride. Being an advocate for a sustainable can am 50 inch side by side culture is crucial. This means staying on designated trails, packing out everything you pack in, and avoiding sensitive areas.
Proper maintenance also plays a role. A well-maintained machine is less likely to leak fluids on the trail, which is a key part of being an eco-friendly can am 50 inch side by side rider.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am 50-Inch Side by Side
Can I make a wider Can-Am model 50 inches?
No, not practically. Models like the Maverick X3 or Commander are designed with a wider chassis, longer A-arms, and longer axles. Converting one would be a massive, custom fabrication project and is not recommended. It’s far better to buy a purpose-built 50-inch model like the Maverick Trail.
What is the true width of a Can-Am Maverick Trail?
The factory-stated width is 50 inches. However, it’s important to note that tire pressure and aftermarket wheels/tires can slightly alter this. Always measure your machine’s widest point (usually the bulge of the tires) if you’re cutting it close for a specific trail system.
Are 50-inch side by sides less stable?
A narrower vehicle will inherently have a higher center of gravity and be less stable in high-speed cornering than a 64-inch or 72-inch machine. However, for the type of technical trail riding they are designed for, they are perfectly stable and safe when operated responsibly. They are not designed for desert racing or high-speed dune riding.
What are the must-have accessories for a 50-inch Can-Am?
We highly recommend a good roof for sun/rain protection, a winch for recovery situations, and a half-windshield to deflect wind without obstructing your view. Skid plates are also a wise investment to protect the undercarriage from rocks.
Your Adventure Awaits
The can am 50 inch side by side isn’t just a machine; it’s a key. It unlocks trails, views, and adventures that are simply off-limits to the wider UTVs. By understanding your Maverick Trail, performing diligent maintenance, and setting it up for your riding style, you’re not just buying a vehicle—you’re investing in countless incredible days on the trail.
So get out there, explore those narrow paths, and respect the terrain. The best trails are waiting for you. Stay safe and happy riding!
- 2006 Honda Accord Serpentine Belt Diagram – Your Ultimate DIY - December 18, 2025
- 2008 Honda Accord 3.5 Serpentine Belt Diagram – Your Ultimate DIY - December 18, 2025
- 2005 Honda Accord Fuse Box Location – Your Complete Guide To - December 18, 2025