So, you’re eyeing a Can-Am Maverick 800, or maybe you just parked one in your garage. You’ve likely seen the spec sheet—a long list of numbers, acronyms, and measurements. It’s easy to feel like you need an engineering degree to figure out what it all means for your ride on the trail.
You’re not alone. Many riders see terms like “TTA suspension” or “Visco-Lok QE” and just nod along. But what if you could understand exactly how those specs translate to real-world performance, reliability, and fun?
We promise this guide will cut through the technical jargon. We’re breaking down the complete can am maverick 800 specs into plain English. You’ll learn what’s under the plastic, how it all works together, and what to watch out for as an owner.
In this deep dive, we’ll cover the powerhouse Rotax engine, the trail-taming suspension, critical dimensions for off-roading, and even some common problems tied directly to these specs. Let’s get you dialed in.
The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Drivetrain Specs
The engine and drivetrain are what give your Maverick its personality. Understanding these components is the first step in this essential can am maverick 800 specs guide. This isn’t just about power; it’s about how that power is delivered reliably to the ground.
Engine Type & Displacement
At its core, the Maverick 800 is powered by a 799.9cc Rotax V-twin engine. Let’s unpack that.
- Rotax: This is a highly respected engine manufacturer (owned by BRP, Can-Am’s parent company) known for building potent and durable powerplants for everything from side-by-sides to snowmobiles.
- V-twin: This means the engine has two cylinders arranged in a “V” shape. This design is famous for producing excellent low-end torque, which is that grunt you feel when you accelerate from a stop or climb a steep hill.
- 799.9cc: This is the engine’s displacement, or size. For a sport UTV of its era, 800cc provides a fantastic balance of thrilling power without being overwhelming for newer riders.
Horsepower & Torque
The Maverick 800R engine puts out approximately 75 horsepower. While newer 1000cc+ machines boast higher numbers, 75 HP is more than enough to put a massive smile on your face. It delivers quick acceleration on open trails and plenty of muscle for crawling over rocks.
Torque is where this V-twin truly shines. It provides instant throttle response, making the machine feel lively and capable, especially in tight, technical terrain where you’re constantly on and off the gas.
Fuel System & Cooling
This machine uses an advanced Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system with a 54mm throttle body. The key benefit here is reliability. EFI automatically adjusts the air-fuel mixture for changes in altitude and temperature, ensuring your Maverick starts easily and runs smoothly whether you’re at sea level or in the mountains.
To keep things from getting too hot, it relies on a liquid-cooling system. A radiator and fan work to dissipate heat, which is absolutely critical for preventing engine damage during slow, technical climbs or on hot days. Always keep an eye on your coolant level and ensure your radiator is clean from mud and debris.
Transmission & Drive System
The Maverick 800 uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Instead of traditional gears, it uses a belt and two variable-diameter pulleys. This provides seamless acceleration with no shifting required—just press the gas and go.
Power is sent to the wheels through a selectable 2WD/4WD system featuring Can-Am’s Visco-Lok QE (Quick Engagement) auto-locking front differential. In 4WD, if one front wheel starts to slip, the Visco-Lok system progressively sends more power to the wheel with traction. It’s a simple and effective system for most trail situations.
Suspension & Handling: Built for the Trail
Horsepower is useless if you can’t control it. The Maverick’s suspension specs are designed to soak up bumps and keep the tires planted on the ground. Following these can am maverick 800 specs best practices for maintenance will keep your ride smooth and predictable.
Front Suspension Breakdown
Up front, you’ll find a double A-arm suspension setup. This is a proven design that allows each wheel to move up and down independently, providing stability and control. It’s paired with FOX 2.0 Podium X piggyback shocks.
The most important number here is the 12 inches of suspension travel. This is the total distance the wheel can move vertically. More travel means the suspension can absorb bigger hits—like rocks and ruts—without bottoming out or transferring the impact to you.
Rear Suspension (TTA)
The rear features Can-Am’s signature Torsional Trailing A-arm (TTA) independent rear suspension. It’s a mouthful, but the design is clever. It’s engineered to minimize wheel scrub (side-to-side movement) as the suspension compresses, which helps maintain straight-line stability in rough sections.
Just like the front, the rear also boasts 12 inches of travel with FOX 2.0 Podium X shocks, creating a balanced and capable ride that inspires confidence over challenging terrain.
Brakes, Tires, and Wheels
To bring all that momentum to a halt, the Maverick 800 is equipped with dual 214mm ventilated disc brakes with hydraulic twin-piston calipers up front, and a single 214mm disc in the rear. This setup provides strong, consistent stopping power.
From the factory, it typically rolled on 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires mounted on 12-inch cast-aluminum wheels. These are fantastic all-around tires known for their durability and traction across a variety of surfaces.
Can Am Maverick 800 Specs: Dimensions, Weight, and Capacities
Knowing the physical size and capabilities of your machine is crucial for navigating trails and using it for work. Here’s how to interpret the key can am maverick 800 specs related to its footprint.
Overall Size & Wheelbase
The standard Maverick 800 measures approximately 118.8 inches long, 60 inches wide, and 72.2 inches high. The 60-inch width is a key spec, as it makes the machine stable but still narrow enough for many width-restricted trails.
Its wheelbase is 84.3 inches. A longer wheelbase generally provides a smoother ride and more stability at high speeds, while a shorter one is more agile in tight turns. The Maverick 800 strikes a great balance between the two.
Ground Clearance & Dry Weight
With 12.5 inches of ground clearance, the Maverick 800 has plenty of room to clear most rocks, logs, and other trail obstacles without getting hung up on its underbelly. This is one of the most important specs for serious off-roading.
The machine has a dry weight of around 1,297 pounds. This weight contributes to its planted, stable feel. It’s heavy enough to feel secure but light enough to remain nimble and responsive.
Towing & Payload Capacities
Don’t let the “sport” label fool you; the Maverick 800 can do some work. It has a rear cargo box capacity of 200 pounds, perfect for packing coolers, tools, and gear for a long day on the trail.
It also features a 2-inch receiver and is rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds. This is a massive benefit, allowing you to pull a small utility trailer around your property with ease.
Common Problems and Maintenance Tips Based on Specs
No machine is perfect. Understanding the specs can help you anticipate potential issues. This section of our can am maverick 800 specs care guide will help you stay ahead of repairs and address some common problems with can am maverick 800 specs.
CVT Belt Health
Because it uses a CVT, the drive belt is a critical wear item. High heat from aggressive riding or improper clutch engagement can cause belts to wear out or break. Pro Tip: Avoid high-load situations (like steep climbs) in high gear. Use low gear to keep the clutches engaged properly and the belt cool. Inspect your belt regularly for glazing, cracks, or missing cogs.
Suspension Bushing Wear
With 12 inches of travel and aggressive use, the A-arm and trailing arm bushings will eventually wear out. You might notice sloppy steering or hear clunking noises from the suspension. Replacing them with quality aftermarket bushings from brands like SuperATV or All Balls Racing is a common and worthwhile upgrade.
Drivetrain and Differential Checks
The Visco-Lok front differential is generally reliable, but it requires clean fluid to function correctly. Change the front differential fluid according to the service manual. Listen for any unusual grinding or popping noises from the drivetrain, as this could indicate a problem with a U-joint or CV axle.
Benefits of Understanding Your Maverick 800’s Specs
Learning these numbers isn’t just for trivia night. The true benefits of can am maverick 800 specs knowledge come from how you apply it.
- Smarter Modifications: Knowing your stock tire size (27″) and suspension travel (12″) helps you make informed decisions when buying larger tires or a lift kit, ensuring everything fits and functions correctly.
- Better On-Trail Decisions: Understanding your machine’s width (60″) and ground clearance (12.5″) helps you choose the right line through an obstacle course, avoiding damage and getting stuck.
- Proactive Maintenance: Knowing you have a liquid-cooled, V-twin engine reminds you to prioritize checking coolant levels and using the correct oil (like XPS Synthetic Blend Oil) to keep it running strong.
A Note on Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love. Thinking about sustainable can am maverick 800 specs means maintaining your machine to minimize its environmental impact.
Properly maintaining your EFI system ensures the engine burns fuel as cleanly and efficiently as possible. When changing fluids like oil and coolant, always use a drain pan and dispose of them at an authorized recycling center. These eco-friendly can am maverick 800 specs practices, combined with staying on marked trails, ensure our riding areas remain beautiful for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Maverick 800 SpecsWhat is the top speed of a Can-Am Maverick 800?
The top speed of a stock Can-Am Maverick 800 is typically around 65-70 mph. However, this can vary based on tire size, clutch condition, terrain, and other factors. It’s plenty fast for any trail!
Is the Can-Am Maverick 800 a reliable machine?
Yes, the Maverick 800 is generally considered a reliable machine. The Rotax V-twin engine is well-regarded for its durability. Like any high-performance vehicle, reliability is directly tied to consistent maintenance. Following the service schedule for oil changes, air filter cleaning, and drivetrain fluid swaps is key.
What kind of oil does a Can-Am Maverick 800 take?
BRP recommends using their XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. Using a high-quality oil designed for powersports engines is crucial for protecting the engine, especially under the high-revving conditions of off-roading.
How does the Maverick 800 compare to the Maverick 1000?
The Maverick 1000 is the 800’s bigger brother. The primary difference is the engine—the 1000cc Rotax engine produces around 101 horsepower, offering significantly more top-end speed and acceleration. The chassis and suspension are very similar, but the 1000 often came with upgraded shocks and other features. The 800 is a fantastic, capable machine, while the 1000 is for those who crave maximum power.
Understanding the specs of your Can-Am Maverick 800 transforms you from a simple rider into a knowledgeable owner. You’re now equipped to make smarter maintenance decisions, choose better lines on the trail, and get the absolute most out of your machine.
Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time for action. Go give your machine a once-over, check those fluids, and plan your next adventure. Ride smart, stay safe, and have a blast out there!
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