Can Am Ds 70 Top Speed Without Limiter

You’ve seen it happen. Your young rider, once timid on their Can-Am DS 70, is now riding with confidence, zipping around the yard or trail with a huge grin. But then, they hit that invisible wall—the revs flatten out, and the little quad just won’t go any faster. You’ve hit the factory speed limiter, and now you’re wondering what’s next. It’s a common milestone for every parent of a growing off-road enthusiast.

You’re in the right place. Here at FatBoysOffroad, we’re all about empowering owners with the right knowledge, but we always put safety first. This comprehensive guide promises to walk you through everything you need to know about the can am ds 70 top speed without limiter, focusing on the mechanicals, the safety implications, and the responsible way to manage your youth ATV’s performance.

We’ll break down why that limiter exists, show you exactly how to adjust it when the time is right, and cover the essential maintenance and safety checks that must follow. Let’s get your rider ready for the next level, the right way.

Understanding the DS 70 Speed Limiter: Why It’s There in the First Place

Before you grab a single tool, it’s crucial to understand that the speed limiter on the Can-Am DS 70 isn’t just an arbitrary part. It’s a purpose-built safety system designed by engineers to protect new and inexperienced riders.

Think of it as a set of training wheels. It allows a child to learn the fundamentals—throttling, braking, and turning—at a manageable pace. This controlled environment builds a strong foundation of skill and confidence without overwhelming them.

The Two Main Types of Limiters on a DS 70

Can-Am typically uses a dual-system approach to keep the DS 70’s speed in check, ensuring a very safe starting point for the youngest riders.

The Throttle Limiter Screw: This is the most common and easiest to adjust. It’s a simple screw, usually located on the throttle housing on the handlebars, that physically prevents the throttle lever from being pushed all the way. By limiting throttle travel, it limits engine RPM and, consequently, speed.
The CDI Jumper/Connector: The second stage of restriction is often electronic. A jumper wire or an unplugged connector on the CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) box tells the engine’s “brain” to limit its maximum RPM. Even with the throttle wide open, this electronic governor prevents the engine from reaching its full potential.

Knowing about both systems is key. Simply adjusting the throttle screw might not give you the full performance increase if the CDI jumper is still in its restricted mode. This is one of the most important can am ds 70 top speed without limiter tips we can offer.

The Complete Can Am DS 70 Top Speed Without Limiter Guide

Alright, you’ve assessed your rider’s skill, and you’ve decided they are ready for a bit more power. Let’s walk through the process. This section is your core how to can am ds 70 top speed without limiter manual. Remember to work in a well-lit area and keep the ATV stable.

Step 1: Pre-Modification Safety and Rider Assessment

This is the most important step. Do not skip this. Before you change anything, ask yourself these questions:

Does the rider consistently wear all their gear (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, long sleeves)?
Can they demonstrate controlled braking and bring the ATV to a complete, straight stop?
Do they understand how to lean into turns properly?
Are they asking for more speed, or are you pushing them? The desire should come from their growing confidence.

If you hesitate on any of these, it’s not time yet. More speed amplifies any bad habits or weaknesses in their riding ability.

Step 2: Adjusting the Throttle Limiter Screw

This is your first and most gradual adjustment. You don’t have to remove it completely all at once.

Locate the Housing: Find the throttle lever assembly on the right handlebar. You’ll see a small screw, often with a locknut, on the bottom or front of the housing.
Loosen the Locknut: Using a small wrench (typically 8mm or 10mm), hold the screw in place with a Phillips or flathead screwdriver and loosen the locknut.
Back Out the Screw: Turn the limiter screw counter-clockwise. A few turns will make a noticeable difference. You can back it out a little at a time over several rides to gradually increase the speed.
Test and Tighten: Have the rider test the throttle travel with the engine off. Once you’re happy with the new range of motion, hold the screw in place and re-tighten the locknut.

Step 3: Addressing the CDI Jumper Restriction

If you’ve fully backed out the throttle screw and the quad still feels held back, it’s time to check the CDI. Always disconnect the battery’s negative terminal before working on electronics.

The CDI box is usually a small black box located under the seat or front plastics. On many DS 70 models, there is a specific wire (often green) that acts as a jumper. It may be plugged into a separate, empty connector to keep it safe. To de-restrict it, you simply unplug this jumper wire from its “parked” position. On other models, you might need to snip a specific looped wire. Consult your owner’s manual or a reliable Can-Am forum to confirm the exact wire for your model year before cutting anything.

Benefits and Common Problems with Unlocking Your DS 70

Increasing the performance of any machine comes with a list of pros and cons. Understanding both sides is part of being a responsible owner and is one of the core can am ds 70 top speed without limiter best practices.

The Benefits of Derestriction

The primary benefit is obvious: the ATV can grow with your child. A derestricted DS 70 can tackle steeper hills, power through sandy patches, and keep up with bigger machines on family rides. This prevents your child from outgrowing the machine too quickly, saving you money in the long run.

It also teaches them more advanced throttle control. Learning to manage more power is a critical skill for their future in off-roading.

Common Problems to Watch For

More speed means more stress on every component. Here are some common problems with can am ds 70 top speed without limiter modifications:

Increased Brake Wear: Higher speeds require more forceful and frequent braking. You’ll need to inspect and potentially replace brake pads more often.
Chain and Sprocket Stretch: The drivetrain will be under more strain. Keep the chain clean, properly tensioned, and lubricated. Check for worn sprocket teeth regularly.
Higher Risk of Accidents: This is the big one. Reaction times are shorter at higher speeds. A small bump that was nothing at 10 mph can become a major event at 20 mph.
Potential for Voiding Warranty: Be aware that modifying the restriction systems may void your factory warranty. Check your warranty agreement for details.

A Responsible Owner’s Care Guide Post-Modification

Your job isn’t done once the limiter is adjusted. In fact, it’s just beginning. A faster machine requires a more diligent maintenance schedule. This is your essential can am ds 70 top speed without limiter care guide.

Enhanced Pre-Ride Checklist

Before every single ride, you now need to be even more thorough. Add these to your standard T-CLOCS (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands) check:

Brake Function: Squeeze the brake levers. Do they feel firm? Roll the quad and test that they effectively stop it.
Tire Pressure: Higher speeds make correct tire pressure even more critical for stability.
Chain Tension: Check the slack. A loose chain can de-rail under power, and a tight one puts stress on the engine.
Listen for New Noises: A faster-revving engine may reveal new vibrations or rattles. Investigate them immediately.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding Habits

With more power comes more responsibility to the environment. This is a great opportunity to teach your young rider about being a good steward of the trails.

A sustainable can am ds 70 top speed without limiter approach means checking for any fluid leaks (oil, coolant) to protect the ground. It also means teaching your rider to apply throttle smoothly to prevent tearing up trails, which contributes to erosion. An eco-friendly can am ds 70 top speed without limiter mindset is all about respecting the outdoors so everyone can enjoy it for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am DS 70 Top Speed

What is the stock top speed of a Can-Am DS 70?

With all limiters in place, the Can-Am DS 70 is factory-limited to approximately 10 mph (16 km/h). This is a very safe speed for a first-time rider.

How fast can a Can-Am DS 70 go without the limiter?

Once both the throttle screw and CDI jumper are de-restricted, a stock DS 70 can typically reach speeds of 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h) depending on rider weight and terrain conditions. This is a significant jump and requires a higher level of skill.

Will removing the speed limiter void the warranty on my DS 70?

In most cases, yes. Modifying factory-installed safety equipment like a speed limiter is often grounds for the manufacturer to deny a warranty claim, especially if the failure is related to the engine or drivetrain. Always check your specific warranty documentation.

What’s the first sign I should put the limiter back on?

The moment you see the rider becoming reckless, overconfident, or unable to control the machine, it’s time to dial the speed back. Signs include jerky steering, late braking, or an inability to hold a consistent line through a turn. Safety always comes before speed.

Your Final Check: Ready to Ride

Unlocking the full potential of a Can-Am DS 70 is a rewarding milestone for both you and your young rider. It marks a new stage in their off-road journey. But remember, your role as the parent and head mechanic is more important than ever.

The key takeaway is gradual progression. Don’t go from 10 mph to 30 mph in one afternoon. Use the throttle screw to make small, incremental adjustments. Watch, teach, and communicate constantly. By following these best practices and prioritizing safety above all else, you can ensure the fun continues for many years to come.

Now, go do those final checks. Happy and safe trails to you and your family!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.