So, you’ve got a Can-Am DS 90, or you’re thinking about getting one for a young rider. You see the excitement in their eyes, but one big question is probably bouncing around in your head: “Just how fast does this thing actually go?” It’s the classic mix of thrill and parental concern. You want them to have fun, but safety is always job number one.
You’ve come to the right place. We get it. Here at FatBoysOffroad, we’ve seen countless families start their off-road journey with these awesome little machines. We promise this guide will give you the straight scoop on the can am 90 top speed, and more importantly, how you can control it.
We’ll break down the stock speed, show you exactly how to use the built-in safety features, cover what affects performance, and even touch on some simple mods for when your rider is ready. Let’s get you and your young rider on the trail with confidence.
What is the Stock Can-Am 90 Top Speed?
Let’s cut right to the chase. Straight from the factory, a Can-Am DS 90 or DS 90 X is electronically limited to a top speed of approximately 15 mph (24 km/h).
Why so “slow”? Safety. Can-Am designs these youth ATVs for riders aged 10 and up, and their primary goal is to provide a safe platform for learning the fundamentals of riding. A 15 mph limit is quick enough to be fun but manageable enough for a beginner to handle without getting into too much trouble.
With the factory restrictors removed by a dealer or a knowledgeable mechanic, the Can-Am 90’s top speed can climb to around 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h) on a flat surface. This is a significant jump and should only be considered once a rider has demonstrated excellent control and maturity.
The Built-In Speed Limiter: Your Most Important Tool
The single most important feature for managing the can am 90 top speed is the throttle limiter screw. This simple mechanical device is your best friend for tailoring the ATV’s performance to your child’s exact skill level. It’s a core part of any good can am 90 top speed guide.
Think of it as an adjustable “gas pedal stop.” It physically prevents the thumb throttle from being pushed all the way, thereby limiting how much power the engine can produce.
How to Adjust the Throttle Limiter
You don’t need to be a master mechanic for this. All you need is a basic screwdriver or a small wrench, depending on your model year.
- Locate the Limiter: Look at the thumb throttle assembly on the right handlebar. You’ll see a small screw, often with a lock nut, on the housing. This is your target.
- Turn It In (Clockwise): To reduce the top speed, tighten the screw by turning it clockwise. This shortens the distance the throttle lever can travel, giving the rider less power. You can dial it down to a walking pace if needed.
- Turn It Out (Counter-Clockwise): To increase the top speed, loosen the screw by turning it counter-clockwise. This allows for more throttle travel. If you have a lock nut, be sure to loosen it first, make your adjustment, and then re-tighten it.
Pro Tip: Start with the screw turned almost all the way in. Let your young rider get comfortable at a very slow speed. As they master braking, turning, and throttle control, you can back the screw out a quarter-turn at a time, gradually increasing the available power. This progressive approach is one of the most crucial can am 90 top speed best practices.
Factors That Influence Your Can-Am 90 Top Speed
Ever wonder why the ATV feels a bit sluggish one day and zippy the next? The “on-paper” top speed isn’t the whole story. Several real-world factors can have a big impact on performance.
Rider Weight
This is simple physics. A lighter rider will allow the ATV to reach its top speed more easily than a heavier rider. The small 89.5cc engine has to work harder to move more mass.
Terrain and Surface Conditions
Where you ride matters. A Can-Am 90 will hit its peak speed on hard-packed dirt or pavement. Riding through thick mud, soft sand, or tall grass creates significant drag, which will scrub off speed and make the engine work overtime.
Tire Pressure and Condition
Often overlooked, tire pressure is key. Under-inflated tires create a larger contact patch and more rolling resistance, which kills speed. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended PSI and check it regularly with a reliable low-pressure tire gauge. Worn-out, bald tires also reduce traction and can affect performance.
Regular Maintenance
A happy engine is a fast engine. Following a basic can am 90 top speed care guide is essential. A clogged air filter starves the engine of air, a dirty carburetor delivers fuel poorly, and a loose or unlubricated chain wastes power. Simple, consistent maintenance is the easiest way to ensure the machine performs as it should.
How to Safely Increase the Can-Am 90 Top Speed
There will come a time when your rider has the skills to handle more power. When you’re both ready, there are ways to unlock the DS 90’s full potential. Remember, any modification should be matched with an increase in rider skill and appropriate safety gear.
Derestriction: The First Step
As mentioned, the factory installs several restrictors to keep the speed down. Removing them is the first and most effective way to gain speed.
- Throttle Limiter: Simply backing the screw all the way out is the easiest step.
- Exhaust Restrictor: Many youth ATVs have a small washer or plate inside the exhaust header pipe where it meets the engine. Removing this allows the engine to breathe out more freely, increasing power.
- CDI Jumper: Some models have a jumper wire on the CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) box that sets the rev limit. Unplugging or cutting this (check your specific model’s instructions!) can raise the RPMs the engine can achieve.
Common Aftermarket Upgrades
If you want to go beyond simple derestriction, the aftermarket offers plenty of options. This is a common path for those asking how to can am 90 top speed can be improved.
- Performance Exhaust: A full aftermarket exhaust system is lighter and flows much better than the stock unit, providing a noticeable boost in power and a throatier sound.
- High-Flow Air Filter: Swapping the stock paper filter for a performance foam or fabric filter (like a K&N or Twin Air) allows the engine to breathe in more easily. You’ll likely need to re-jet the carburetor to match the increased airflow.
- Carburetor Re-jetting: When you add more air with an filter or exhaust, you need to add more fuel. This involves changing the small brass “jets” inside the carburetor. Jet kits are available, but this requires a bit more mechanical skill to get right.
Common Problems With Can-Am 90 Top Speed (and How to Fix Them)
Is your DS 90 feeling slower than it should? Before you start buying expensive parts, check these common culprits. These are some of the most frequent common problems with can am 90 top speed that we see in the shop.
Bogging or Sputtering
If the ATV hesitates or bogs down when you give it throttle, the carburetor is the first place to look. Old fuel can gum up the tiny passages inside. A thorough cleaning with carb cleaner spray and compressed air will often solve the problem.
Lack of Power
A gradual loss of power is often due to a dirty air filter. Pull it out and inspect it. If it’s caked in dirt, clean it (if it’s a foam filter) or replace it. This is the cheapest and easiest performance boost you can give your ATV.
Engine Won’t Rev Out
If the engine seems to hit a “wall” and won’t reach high RPMs, check the spark plug. A fouled or worn plug can cause a weak spark. They’re inexpensive and easy to replace with a spark plug socket. Also, ensure your parking brake isn’t slightly engaged, as some models have a rev limiter tied to the brake lever.
Best Practices for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding
Part of being a good rider is respecting the environment. The benefits of can am 90 top speed control extend to being a responsible trail user. A well-maintained machine is not only faster but also more efficient.
A clean air filter and properly tuned carburetor ensure the engine burns fuel completely, reducing emissions. This is the core of sustainable can am 90 top speed management. Using the correct grade of fuel and high-quality oils also helps the engine run cleaner for longer.
Beyond the machine itself, practice “Tread Lightly!” principles. Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion, avoid sensitive areas like wetlands, and pack out everything you pack in. This ensures the trails we love stay open and beautiful for future generations of riders. This is the heart of eco-friendly can am 90 top speed enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am 90 Top Speed
Is the Can-Am DS 90 fast enough for a 10-year-old?
Absolutely. In its restricted form (15 mph), it’s the perfect speed for a 10-year-old beginner to learn on. As their skills grow, the machine’s speed can grow with them, making it a versatile and long-lasting choice.
Can I make the Can-Am 90 go 40 mph?
Getting a DS 90 to 40 mph is possible, but it requires significant and expensive modifications beyond what we’ve listed, like a big bore kit, performance clutch, and more. At that point, the small chassis and basic suspension become a major safety concern. It’s generally better to upgrade to a larger youth ATV like a 250cc model.
How do I know if the speed limiter is working?
With the engine off, slowly push the thumb throttle. Watch the screw on the housing. You should see the throttle lever physically stop against the end of the screw before it can travel its full distance. If it moves freely all the way, the limiter is fully backed out.
Does removing the speed restrictors void the warranty?
In most cases, yes. Modifying the engine or exhaust system from its factory-delivered state can give the manufacturer grounds to deny a warranty claim. It’s always best to check your warranty documentation or consult your dealer before making permanent modifications.
The Can-Am DS 90 is a fantastic gateway into the world of off-roading. Its true strength lies not just in its potential speed, but in its adjustability. By understanding and using the tools it provides, you can create a safe, fun, and educational experience for any young rider.
Start slow, prioritize skill over speed, and perform regular maintenance. Do that, and you’ll have years of incredible memories on the trails.
Ride smart, ride safe, and have a blast out there!
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