Can Am Enclosed Side By Side – Your Ultimate Guide To All-Weather

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the trail in your Can-Am. But we’ve all been there—a perfect day of riding cut short by a sudden downpour, a biting wind that chills you to the bone, or a dust storm that leaves you tasting grit for days.

What if you could make weather an afterthought? What if you could ride in comfort, no matter what the forecast says? That’s the promise of a can am enclosed side by side. We’re here to show you exactly how to transform your open-air rig into a four-season trail-conquering machine.

In this complete guide, we’ll break down the incredible benefits of enclosing your UTV, explore the different types of cab systems you can get, walk you through essential installation tips, and cover the common problems you might face and how to solve them. Let’s get you ready to ride anytime, anywhere.

The Unbeatable Benefits of a Can Am Enclosed Side by Side

Before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s talk about the “why.” Upgrading to a full cab system is one of the most significant improvements you can make to your machine. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about extending your riding season and enhancing your overall experience.

This is a core reason so many riders explore the benefits of can am enclosed side by side setups. You’re essentially weather-proofing your investment and your fun.

Four-Season Riding: This is the biggest win. A full enclosure, especially when paired with a heater, turns your Can-Am into a year-round adventure vehicle. Plow snow in the winter and hit muddy trails in the spring without freezing.
Protection from the Elements: Say goodbye to being soaked by rain, pelted by sleet, or baked by the sun. An enclosure keeps you dry, warm, and shaded, making long rides far more enjoyable.
Dust and Debris Shield: On dry, dusty trails, an open cab means eating dirt all day. A sealed cab keeps the interior clean and your lungs clear. It also protects you from flying rocks, branches, and other debris.
Noise Reduction: While not soundproof, a good hard cab system significantly reduces engine and wind noise, making it easier to have a conversation with your passenger or just enjoy a quieter ride.
Enhanced Safety: A sturdy enclosure provides an extra layer of protection from intruding branches and in the unfortunate event of a rollover. Hard-coated polycarbonate or glass windshields offer serious impact resistance.

Choosing Your Armor: Types of Can-Am Enclosure Systems

Not all enclosures are created equal. Your choice will depend on your budget, your riding style, and the climate you’re in. The market offers everything from lightweight, flexible options to fortress-like hard cabs.

Soft Cab Enclosures (The Versatile Option)

Soft cabs are typically made from marine-grade polyester fabric with clear vinyl windows. They are a popular entry point into the world of enclosed UTVs.

Pros:

Affordability: They are significantly less expensive than hard cab systems.
Versatility: Doors can often be rolled up and secured, or removed entirely for an open-air feel on nice days.
Easy Installation: Most soft cabs attach with a combination of Velcro, straps, and snaps, making for a straightforward DIY job.

Cons:

Durability: Vinyl windows can scratch easily, and the fabric is susceptible to tears from sharp branches.
Less Protection: They offer minimal security and less insulation against extreme cold or heat.
Weather Sealing: It’s tougher to get a perfect seal, so some dust and water may still find its way in.

Hard Cab Enclosures (The Fortress Option)

For the serious all-weather rider, a hard cab is the ultimate upgrade. These systems use materials like polycarbonate, glass, and steel or aluminum framing for maximum protection.

Pros:

Maximum Durability: Hard-coated polycarbonate or automotive glass is scratch-resistant and provides superior impact protection.
Excellent Sealing: Full-frame doors with automotive-style gaskets provide a tight seal against dust, water, and wind.
Climate Control Ready: A hard cab is the best platform for adding a heater and defrost system, or even air conditioning.
Security: Lockable doors give you peace of mind when leaving your machine unattended on the trail or at a campsite.

Cons:

Cost: This is a premium investment, often costing several thousand dollars.
Weight: A full hard cab system can add over 150 lbs to your machine, which may slightly affect handling and suspension.
Complex Installation: While still DIY-friendly for a careful mechanic, installation is more involved and time-consuming.

Modular vs. Full Kits

Remember, you don’t have to go all-in at once. Many riders build their enclosure piece by piece.

A modular approach lets you start with a roof and a windshield. Later, you can add doors and a rear panel. This spreads out the cost and lets you customize your setup. A full kit ensures all components are designed to work together perfectly, often providing a better overall seal.

How to Can Am Enclosed Side by Side: A DIY Installation Guide

Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. Installing a cab enclosure is a rewarding project, but patience and preparation are key. This is a general can am enclosed side by side guide; always refer to the specific instructions from your kit’s manufacturer.

Pre-Installation Checklist: Tools and Prep

Before you unbox anything, get your workspace and tools in order. A little prep saves a lot of headaches.

Essential Tools: A good socket and wrench set (metric and standard), a set of Torx bits (Can-Ams love these), a rubber mallet, and a cordless drill with various bits.
A Helping Hand: Doors, windshields, and roofs are bulky. An extra person makes lifting and aligning parts much safer and easier.
Read the Manual. Twice. We can’t stress this enough. Read the instructions from start to finish to understand the sequence and identify all the parts.
Clean Your Machine: Work on a clean UTV. It’s easier to see mounting points and prevents dirt from getting trapped in seals.

Step-by-Step Installation Basics

While every kit is different, most follow a similar assembly sequence. Here’s a typical workflow.

Start with the Top: The roof is often the foundation of the enclosure. Loosely install it according to the instructions. Don’t tighten the bolts all the way yet.
Install the Windshield: Carefully mount the front windshield to the roll cage. Pay close attention to the placement of gaskets and seals. Again, leave the hardware snug but not fully torqued.
Mount the Rear Panel: Fit the rear window or panel. This piece is crucial for preventing the “dust swirl” effect that sucks dirt into the cab from behind.
Hang and Align the Doors: This is the most critical step for a good seal. Mount the doors to the hinges. Close them gently to check alignment with the body and the door striker. Adjust the hinges and striker plate until the door closes smoothly and latches securely without slamming.
Final Tightening and Seal Check: Once all components are in place and aligned, go back and tighten all the hardware to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Check all weatherstripping and gaskets to ensure there are no major gaps.

Pro Tips for a Rattle-Free Fit

One of the biggest complaints is a noisy cab. A few extra steps during installation can make a world of difference.

Use blue Loctite on bolts that are prone to vibrating loose. If you notice a metal-on-metal contact point that isn’t supposed to be there, a small piece of high-density foam tape can work wonders to silence a squeak.

Common Problems with Can Am Enclosed Side by Side and How to Fix Them

Even the best kits can have a few quirks. Knowing how to troubleshoot these common issues will keep you happy with your investment. Addressing these common problems with can am enclosed side by side setups is part of ownership.

Annoying Rattles and Squeaks

The trail will shake everything loose eventually. If a new rattle appears, do a quick “nut and bolt” check. The most common culprits are door hinges, latch mechanisms, and roof mounting points. A little bit of silicone spray on latch mechanisms can also quiet them down.

Fogging and Condensation

A sealed cab in cold or wet weather is a recipe for fog. Your breath alone contains enough moisture to fog up the windows.

Solutions:

Apply an anti-fog treatment (like Rain-X Anti-Fog) to the inside of your windows.
If you have tip-out or sliding windows, crack them slightly to allow for airflow.
The ultimate solution is installing a 12V heater with a defrost function that blows warm air directly onto the windshield.

Scratched Polycarbonate or Vinyl Windows

This is a major concern, especially for soft cabs. Proper care is preventive maintenance.

NEVER use a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe a dirty window. You’ll just grind the dirt in and create scratches. Always rinse with plenty of water first, then use a soft microfiber cloth and a cleaner specifically designed for polycarbonate or vinyl. Minor scratches can often be buffed out with a dedicated plastic polish kit.

The Can Am Enclosed Side by Side Care Guide: Best Practices for Longevity

Your cab enclosure is a significant investment, so protect it. Following this simple can am enclosed side by side care guide will keep it looking and functioning great for years.

Cleaning Your Enclosure the Right Way

For hard cabs with polycarbonate windows, use a mild soap and water solution with a microfiber towel. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners like Windex, as they can damage the material over time.

For soft cabs, gently rinse with a hose (never a high-pressure washer) to remove loose dirt. Use a cleaner approved for marine-grade fabrics and vinyl, and scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush. Allow it to air dry completely.

Regular Inspections

Make inspecting your cab part of your pre-ride check. Look for loose bolts, torn seals, or damage to windows. Catching a small issue early prevents it from becoming a major problem on the trail. These are some of the easiest can am enclosed side by side best practices to follow.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Care

Thinking about a sustainable can am enclosed side by side lifestyle is easier than you think. Opt for biodegradable, phosphate-free soaps for cleaning. When a tear happens in a soft cab, look for a patch kit before replacing the whole door. A small, durable repair is more eco-friendly and saves you money.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Enclosed Side by Sides

Can I add a heater or AC to my enclosed Can-Am?

Absolutely! This is one of the main reasons riders opt for a hard cab. Numerous aftermarket heater kits tap into your engine’s coolant lines to provide powerful heat. AC systems are more complex and expensive but are available for those who ride in extreme heat.

How much weight does a full cab enclosure add?

It varies significantly. A full soft cab might only add 30-50 pounds. A robust hard cab system with glass windows and steel doors can easily add 200-250 pounds or more. You may want to consider adjusting your shock preload to compensate for the extra weight.

Will an enclosure make my machine street legal?

Not by itself. An enclosure is often a component of a street legal kit, especially a laminated safety glass windshield with a wiper. However, you’ll still need to meet all your local requirements, which typically include turn signals, a horn, mirrors, and a license plate bracket.

Will an enclosure make my machine louder inside?

It changes the sound profile. A quality hard cab will block a lot of wind and external engine noise. However, it can sometimes amplify internal driveline or clutch noises that were previously lost in the wind. Most riders find the trade-off for a quiet, conversation-friendly cab to be well worth it.

Enclosing your Can-Am is a game-changer. It transforms your machine from a fair-weather toy into a true all-season workhorse and adventure rig. By choosing the right system for your needs and taking the time to install and maintain it properly, you’ll unlock a new level of comfort and capability.

Now get out there and conquer any trail, in any weather. Ride safe, ride smart, and ride comfortable!

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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.