You’ve just brought home a brand new Can-Am DS 70 for your young rider, and after the initial excitement, a practical question pops into your head: “Just how fast does this thing actually go?” It’s a question every parent and new owner asks, balancing the thrill of the ride with the absolute necessity of safety.
We get it. You want your kid to have a blast, but you need to be in control. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide at FatBoysOffroad. We promise to give you the straight scoop on the real-world can am ds 70 top speed, how it’s governed, and what you can do to manage it.
In this article, we’ll break down the stock speed limits, show you exactly how to adjust the built-in safety features, walk through essential maintenance to keep it running perfectly, and even touch on a few responsible mods for when your rider’s skills grow. Let’s get your young rider on the trail safely.
What is the Stock Can-Am DS 70 Top Speed?
First things first, let’s set clear expectations. The Can-Am DS 70 is a youth ATV designed for riders aged six and up. Its primary purpose is to be a safe, reliable, and confidence-inspiring machine for beginners. Speed is not its main selling point—control is.
Out of the box, the Can-Am DS 70 has a factory-limited top speed of approximately 15 mph (24 km/h). More importantly, it features a built-in, two-stage speed limiter that parents can set. The lower setting restricts the ATV to around 10 mph (16 km/h), which is perfect for brand-new riders just getting the feel for the throttle and steering.
This limitation isn’t a flaw; it’s a critical safety feature. It’s managed by a simple throttle limiter screw, which physically prevents the throttle lever from being pushed all the way. This gives you, the parent or guardian, complete control over the power your young rider can access.
Understanding and Adjusting the Built-In Speed Limiter
One of the best features of the DS 70 is how easy it is to manage the power output. You don’t need to be a seasoned mechanic to do it. This section of our can am ds 70 top speed guide will walk you through the process.
How the Throttle Limiter Works
On the throttle housing on the right handlebar, you’ll find a small screw. This is the throttle limiter. When you turn the screw in (clockwise), it extends into the housing and physically blocks the throttle lever from moving its full distance. This reduces how much fuel and air the engine gets, thus limiting the speed.
When you turn the screw out (counter-clockwise), it retracts, allowing the throttle lever more room to travel. This gives the rider access to more power and a higher top speed, up to the factory maximum of 15 mph.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting the Speed
Adjusting the speed is a simple process that only takes a minute. Here are the tools you’ll need and the steps to follow:
- Gather Your Tools: You’ll typically need a small flathead screwdriver and a 10mm wrench.
- Locate the Limiter: Find the throttle assembly on the right handlebar. You will see a screw with a lock nut right below the throttle lever.
- Loosen the Lock Nut: Use your 10mm wrench to slightly loosen the nut that holds the limiter screw in place. You don’t need to remove it completely, just back it off a turn or two.
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Make the Adjustment:
- To decrease speed, use the screwdriver to turn the screw clockwise (in). The further in it goes, the slower the ATV will be.
- To increase speed, turn the screw counter-clockwise (out).
- Test and Tighten: Have the rider test the throttle response (with the engine off) to feel the difference. Once you’re happy with the setting, hold the screw in place with the screwdriver and tighten the 10mm lock nut to secure your setting. Do not overtighten it.
A Word of Caution: Safety First
Always match the ATV’s speed to your child’s skill level, experience, and the terrain they are riding on. Start at the slowest setting and only increase the speed gradually as they demonstrate consistent control, good judgment, and proper use of the brakes.
How to Can-Am DS 70 Top Speed: Maintenance Best Practices
Before you even think about performance mods, achieving the best possible can am ds 70 top speed starts with excellent maintenance. A well-cared-for machine will run smoother, last longer, and perform up to its full potential. This is one of the most important can am ds 70 top speed best practices.
Clean Air Filter for a Happy Engine
An engine needs to breathe. A dirty, clogged air filter restricts airflow, choking the engine and robbing it of power. Check the foam air filter regularly, especially after dusty rides. Clean it with a dedicated air filter cleaner and re-oil it with filter oil. A clean filter is one of the easiest ways to ensure consistent performance.
Proper Tire Pressure is Key
This is a simple but often overlooked step. Underinflated tires create a larger contact patch with the ground, increasing rolling resistance and drag. This forces the small engine to work harder, reducing its top speed. Check the tire pressure before every ride using a low-pressure tire gauge. The recommended pressure is usually printed on the tire’s sidewall.
Chain and Sprocket Care
A loose, dry, or dirty chain is incredibly inefficient at transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Check the chain tension regularly—it should have about an inch of slack. Keep it clean with a chain cleaner and a soft brush, and then lubricate it with a quality chain lube. This simple part of your can am ds 70 top speed care guide makes a huge difference.
Fresh Spark Plug and Clean Fuel
A spark plug is a small part with a big job. A fouled or old plug will produce a weak spark, leading to incomplete combustion and poor performance. Replace the spark plug as recommended in your owner’s manual. Also, always use fresh, clean fuel. Gas that has been sitting for months can go bad and clog up the tiny passages in the carburetor.
Common Problems Affecting Can-Am DS 70 Top Speed
Is your DS 70 suddenly feeling sluggish? If you’re experiencing a drop in performance, it’s likely due to a handful of common issues. Here are some of the most frequent common problems with can am ds 70 top speed and how to troubleshoot them.
Bogging or Sputtering Engine
If the engine hesitates or sputters when you give it throttle, the problem is usually fuel-related. The most common culprit is a clogged pilot jet in the carburetor. This happens when old fuel turns to varnish. Cleaning the carburetor or, at a minimum, the pilot jet, will often solve this issue. A dirty air filter can also cause bogging.
Brakes Dragging
A brake that doesn’t fully disengage will constantly drag on the wheel, acting like an anchor. To check for this, safely elevate the rear of the ATV and try to spin the wheels by hand. They should spin freely with minimal resistance. If they don’t, you may need to adjust the brake cable or inspect the brake drum for issues.
Clutch Not Engaging Properly
The DS 70 uses an automatic centrifugal clutch. Over time, the clutch pads can wear down. When this happens, the clutch may slip and fail to transfer all of the engine’s power to the transmission. If you hear the engine revving high but the ATV isn’t accelerating as it should, the clutch may need inspection or replacement.
Responsible Performance Mods: A Guide for Growing Riders
Once your rider has mastered the stock machine and you feel they’re ready for a little more performance, there are a few simple mods you can consider. These can am ds 70 top speed tips are about improving throttle response and efficiency, not turning it into a race machine.
Upgrading the Exhaust
An aftermarket slip-on exhaust can help the engine breathe better on the way out, just like a clean air filter helps it breathe on the way in. This can provide a small but noticeable increase in power and throttle response. Be mindful of noise levels, as some aftermarket exhausts are significantly louder than stock.
Re-jetting the Carburetor
If you change the exhaust or air filter, you’ve changed the air-to-fuel ratio. To get the most out of your new parts and ensure the engine runs correctly, you’ll likely need to re-jet the carburetor. This involves swapping out the small brass jets inside for slightly larger ones to allow more fuel to match the increased airflow. Kits are available for this specific purpose.
What About Removing the Governor Completely?
Some forums discuss removing the internal governor gears or completely bypassing the throttle limiter. We strongly advise against this for 99% of riders. These systems are there for safety. Removing them can allow the engine to over-rev, potentially causing damage, and puts a level of speed in the hands of a young rider that the chassis and brakes were not designed to handle. Stick to the adjustable throttle screw for safe, manageable fun.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding Practices
Part of being a great off-roader is respecting the environment we love to ride in. Adopting some sustainable can am ds 70 top speed habits not only helps protect the trails but also keeps your machine in top shape.
Proper maintenance is inherently eco-friendly. Fixing oil leaks, using the correct fluids, and ensuring a clean burn with a well-tuned engine reduces pollution. When cleaning your ATV and its chain, consider using biodegradable cleaners and lubricants.
Most importantly, teach your young rider the importance of staying on designated trails. This prevents erosion and protects wildlife habitats, ensuring these riding areas remain open and beautiful for generations to come. An eco-friendly can am ds 70 top speed approach is all about responsible ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am DS 70 Top Speed
Is the Can-Am DS 70 a 2-stroke or 4-stroke?
The Can-Am DS 70 features a reliable and easy-to-maintain 69cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine. This means you don’t have to worry about pre-mixing oil and gas.
What age is the Can-Am DS 70 for?
Can-Am recommends the DS 70 for riders aged 6 and older. It is crucial that all riding is done with active adult supervision.
Can I remove the speed limiter completely?
While it is physically possible to bypass the throttle limiter screw, we strongly advise against it for young and inexperienced riders. The adjustable screw provides the safest way to manage the ATV’s speed and should be used to match the machine’s performance to the rider’s ability.
How much faster will an aftermarket exhaust make the DS 70?
An exhaust upgrade will not double the top speed. You can expect a modest increase of a few miles per hour, but the main benefit is improved throttle response and a more aggressive sound. The greatest benefits of can am ds 70 top speed mods are often in how the power is delivered, not just the final number.
The Can-Am DS 70 is a fantastic gateway into the world of off-roading. Its top speed is designed to be safe, manageable, and, most importantly, adjustable to your rider’s growing skills. By focusing on proper maintenance and making gradual, responsible adjustments, you can ensure your young rider has a safe and thrilling experience.
The goal isn’t just about speed; it’s about building a lifetime of safe, fun memories on the trail. Gear up, ride smart, and enjoy the adventure!
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