So, you’re eyeing a Can-Am Maverick X3, but you’ve hit the first major fork in the road: the 64-inch versus the 72-inch model. It’s a choice that stumps even seasoned riders. You see the ultra-wide 72-inch beasts tearing up the dunes on social media and wonder if the narrower machine is somehow “lesser.”
We’re here to promise you it’s not. In fact, for a huge number of riders, the can am maverick x3 64 is the smarter, more capable, and more thrilling choice for the trails they actually ride.
In this complete guide from the crew at FatBoysOffroad, we’re going to break it all down. We’ll dive into what that “64” really means, compare it head-to-head with its wider sibling, cover the common problems you need to watch for, and give you a rock-solid care guide to keep your machine ready for action.
What Does the “64” Actually Mean on a Maverick X3?
Let’s get the most basic question out of the way first. When we talk about a can am maverick x3 64, we are referring to its track width.
The “64” signifies that the machine measures 64 inches wide from the outside of one front tire to the outside of the other. This is the defining characteristic of models like the Maverick X3 DS Turbo.
This single measurement is the most critical factor influencing the vehicle’s handling, stability, and, most importantly, where you can physically take it. It’s narrower than the 72-inch “widebody” models like the X3 X RS, which are built for wide-open desert and dune blasting.
The Big Debate: Can Am Maverick X3 64 vs. 72 – Which is Right for You?
Choosing between the 64-inch and 72-inch platform is all about being honest about your primary riding environment. One is not universally “better” than the other; they are specialized tools for different jobs. This is the most important part of our can am maverick x3 64 guide.
The Case for the 64-inch: The Trail Specialist
The 64-inch Maverick X3 is a scalpel designed for tight, technical terrain. If your weekends are spent weaving through dense forests or navigating rocky trails, this is your machine.
- Agility is King: Its narrower stance allows it to fit through tight gaps and between trees where a 72-inch model would get stuck or sustain damage.
- Razor-Sharp Handling: On a winding trail, the 64 feels incredibly responsive and nimble. It changes direction with an immediacy that the wider car can’t match.
- Easier Transport: Many toy haulers and trailers are built with the 64-inch width in mind, making loading and transport simpler and less stressful.
- Cost-Effective: Generally, the 64-inch models come with a lower initial price tag, leaving more room in your budget for essential upgrades like safety gear and winches.
The Case for the 72-inch: The High-Speed King
The 72-inch X3 is an entirely different animal. It’s built for one thing: devouring rough terrain at incredible speeds with unshakable confidence.
- Unmatched Stability: That extra width provides a massive stability advantage in high-speed corners and off-camber situations. It feels planted and secure.
- Whoop Dominance: If you ride in the desert or on sandy trails with deep, rolling whoops, the 72-inch model’s wider A-arms and superior suspension travel will glide over them with ease.
- Aggressive Cornering: The wide stance allows for aggressive, four-wheel drifts and slides that are harder and riskier to execute in the narrower machine.
Making the Call: A Quick Decision Guide
Still on the fence? Ask yourself this one question: “Where will I be riding 80% of the time?”
- If the answer is wooded trails, tight fire roads, or technical rock gardens, get the can am maverick x3 64.
- If the answer is open desert, sand dunes, or wide-open gravel roads, the 72-inch model is likely your best bet.
Common Problems with Can Am Maverick X3 64 Models (And How to Fix Them)
No machine is perfect, and the X3 platform has a few well-documented quirks. Knowing the common problems with can am maverick x3 64 models ahead of time can save you a world of headache on the trail.
Front Differential Pinion Seal Leaks
One of the most frequent issues is a leaky pinion seal on the front differential. You’ll spot this as a small drip or wetness where the front driveshaft enters the diff.
The Fix: This is a common wear item. While you can just replace it with an OEM seal, the community strongly recommends upgrading to a heavy-duty aftermarket seal, like the one from Sandcraft RCR. It’s a moderately involved DIY job that requires removing the front driveshaft, but it’s a permanent fix.
Premature Drive Belt Wear
The Rotax turbo engine produces immense power and heat, which can be tough on the CVT drive belt. Blowing a belt on the trail is a massive inconvenience.
The Fix & Prevention:
- Proper Break-In: Always break in a new belt properly. This involves varying your speed for the first 20-30 miles without full-throttle acceleration.
- Keep Clutches Clean: After a dusty or muddy ride, use compressed air to blow out your clutch housing. Debris can cause the clutches to stick and burn the belt.
- Carry a Spare: Always carry a spare OEM Can-Am belt and the simple BRP belt-changing tool. Learning how to change a belt on the trail takes 15 minutes and will save your ride day.
Suspension Bushing and Ball Joint Wear
The X3’s suspension takes a beating. The stock bushings in the A-arms and the factory ball joints are known weak points that can develop slop over time, leading to vague steering or clunking noises.
The Fix: When you notice play in your suspension, don’t just replace the worn parts with more OEM components. This is a perfect opportunity to upgrade. Companies like SuperATV offer heavy-duty, self-lubricating bushings and significantly stronger ball joints that will outlast the factory parts many times over.
Your Essential Can Am Maverick X3 64 Care Guide: Best Practices
A little preventative maintenance goes a long way. Following this simple can am maverick x3 64 care guide will maximize your machine’s lifespan and minimize downtime. These are the can am maverick x3 64 best practices we live by.
Before Every Ride: The 5-Minute Walkaround
Treat this like a pilot’s pre-flight check. It could save you from a major failure.
- Tires & Wheels: Check tire pressure and give each wheel a wiggle to check for loose lug nuts or bad wheel bearings.
- Fluids: Pull the dipstick to check the engine oil level. Check the coolant level in the reservoir.
- CV Boots: Visually inspect all four inner and outer CV axle boots for rips or tears. A torn boot lets grease out and dirt in, quickly destroying the axle.
- Look for Leaks: Glance under the machine for any new drips of oil, coolant, or gear fluid.
After Every Ride: The Cleanup and Inspection
What you do after the ride is just as important as what you do before.
Wash It Down: A clean machine is easier to inspect. Hosing off mud and grime allows you to spot leaks, cracks, or other damage that would otherwise be hidden.
Grease the Fittings: Get a quality grease gun and some marine-grade grease. Hit all the zerk fittings on your suspension components to push out water and dirt.
Check the Air Filter: The air filter is your engine’s only defense against dust. Pop the cover, inspect the filter, and clean or replace it as needed. A clogged filter robs power and can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
How to Can Am Maverick X3 64: Pro Tips for Trail Riding
Driving the 64-inch X3 effectively is a skill. Here are a few can am maverick x3 64 tips to help you get the most out of your machine and stay safe.
Master Your Line Choice
Unlike a 72-inch car that can often use brute force to blast over an obstacle, the 64-inch machine rewards a thoughtful driver. Look ahead on the trail. Pick a line that keeps the machine as level as possible and avoids putting the vehicle in a severe off-camber situation.
Understand Your Machine’s Limits
The 64 is incredibly capable, but it has less tipping resistance than the 72. Be cautious on aggressive sidehills until you have a good feel for the machine. Learn to use your body weight and throttle control to keep it balanced. The goal is to feel where the limit is, not find it by accident.
Simple Upgrades for a Better Ride
You don’t need to spend a fortune to improve your X3. Start with the essentials.
- Harnesses: The first and most important upgrade. Four or five-point harnesses will keep you securely planted in your seat, which is safer and gives you better car control.
- Tires: The stock tires are okay, but a set of tires designed for your local terrain (like an 8-ply all-terrain or a dedicated mud tire) will transform the vehicle’s performance.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Can Am Maverick X3 64 Practices
Being a part of the off-road community means being a steward of the trails we love. Incorporating some eco-friendly can am maverick x3 64 habits is easy and makes a huge difference.
Tread Lightly on the Trails
The number one rule is to stay on designated trails. Going off-trail can cause severe erosion and damage to delicate ecosystems, potentially leading to trail closures for everyone. Avoid unnecessary wheel spin to protect the trail surface.
Responsible Maintenance
When you change your oil or other fluids, never dump them on the ground. Collect them in a drain pan and take them to your local auto parts store or recycling center. Most accept used fluids for free. When washing your rig, try to use biodegradable cleaners to minimize your impact.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can Am Maverick X3 64
Is the Can-Am Maverick X3 64 fast?
Absolutely. It shares the same powerful Rotax ACE turbocharged engine as its wider counterparts. In a straight line or on a tight trail, its acceleration is exhilarating and more than enough to keep a massive smile on your face.
Can you make a 64-inch Maverick X3 wider?
Yes, you can. The most common method is to install a “long travel kit,” which replaces the stock A-arms, axles, and tie rods with wider components, effectively converting it to 72-inch specs. It’s a significant investment but a popular upgrade path for those who start on trails and later move to dunes or desert.
What is the best first upgrade for a Maverick X3 64?
Safety first. Without a doubt, the best first upgrade is a set of quality 4 or 5-point harnesses. They provide far superior safety compared to the stock seatbelts and increase your control over the vehicle by holding you firmly in place.
Is the 64-inch X3 good for rock crawling?
It’s very capable for rock crawling. Its nimble size allows it to navigate tight rock gardens that wider machines struggle with. The key is smooth throttle control and picking a good line. Many rock crawlers prefer the 64-inch platform for its precision.
The can am maverick x3 64 is a purpose-built weapon for the trail rider. It’s not a compromise; it’s a choice for those who value agility, precision, and the thrill of conquering tight, technical terrain. By understanding its strengths, keeping up with maintenance, and respecting its limits, you’ll have a machine that provides endless adventure.
Now get out there, check your fluids, and conquer those trails. Ride smart, and ride safe!
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