Staring at an ATV spec sheet can feel like trying to read a foreign language. You see a wall of numbers—cc’s, inches of travel, towing capacities—and it’s tough to know what any of it really means for you out on the trail or around the property.
You’re not alone. Many riders gloss over the details, but understanding them is the key to unlocking your machine’s full potential, performing the right maintenance, and making sure you bought the right ATV for your needs.
We promise this guide will translate those numbers into plain English. We’ll break down the essential can am outlander 700 specs, showing you how each one impacts your ride, your work, and your weekend wrenching. You’ll learn what to look for, what to maintain, and how to get the most out of your rig.
The Heart of the Beast: Decoding the Rotax Engine Specs
The engine is where the fun starts. Can-Am uses their legendary Rotax engines, but the numbers on the page tell a deeper story about power delivery and reliability. This is more than just a list of figures; it’s a blueprint for performance.
Engine Type & Displacement: What 650cc Really Means
The Outlander 700 is powered by a 650cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled Rotax ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) engine. Let’s break that down.
- 650cc Displacement: This is the volume inside the cylinder. A larger number generally means more potential for power. For the 700, this 650cc block is tuned for a perfect balance of trail-friendly torque and usable horsepower.
- Single-Cylinder: This design is known for delivering strong low-end torque. That’s the grunt you feel when you take off from a stop or climb a steep, rocky hill. It’s simple, reliable, and easier for a DIYer to service.
- Liquid-Cooled: A radiator and coolant system keep the engine at an optimal temperature. This is crucial for preventing overheating during slow, technical crawls or when working hard on a hot day.
Horsepower & Torque: The Push vs. The Pull
Can-Am rates the Outlander 700 at 50 horsepower and 41 lb-ft of torque. These two numbers describe how the power feels.
Think of horsepower as what determines your top speed on a long fire road. It’s the engine’s ability to do work quickly. 50 HP is plenty for spirited trail riding and keeping up with the pack.
Torque, on the other hand, is the rotational force—the “pull.” It’s what gets you moving, hauls a heavy trailer, or churns through thick mud without bogging down. The 41 lb-ft of torque is the real hero for utility work and technical off-roading.
Fuel System & Cooling: Keeping Your Engine Healthy
The spec sheet lists an Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system. This is a massive upgrade over old-school carburetors. EFI automatically adjusts the air-fuel mixture for changes in altitude and temperature, giving you crisp throttle response and reliable starting every time.
A key part of your pre-ride check should be the coolant level in the reservoir. Keeping it topped off with a quality 50/50 premix coolant is one of the best can am outlander 700 specs tips for engine longevity.
Frame, Suspension, and Handling: The Can Am Outlander 700 Specs That Matter on the Trail
Power is useless if you can’t control it. The chassis and suspension specs determine how the Outlander 700 handles bumps, corners, and rough terrain. This is where comfort and capability meet.
Chassis & Suspension Travel: Soaking Up the Bumps
The Outlander 700 is built on the new G3L chassis, which is a significant update. The key specs here are the suspension components and their travel distance.
- Front Suspension: Double A-arm with 9.75 inches of travel.
- Rear Suspension: Double A-arm with 10.25 inches of travel.
Suspension “travel” is the total distance the wheel can move up and down. More travel means the suspension can absorb bigger bumps, rocks, and ruts before the impact is transferred to you, the rider. Nearly 10 inches of travel is excellent for this class, providing a plush ride over choppy ground.
Brakes and Tires: Your Connection to the Ground
Stopping power is just as important as engine power. The Outlander 700 uses dual 214mm disc brakes with hydraulic twin-piston calipers up front and a single disc in the rear. This setup provides strong, predictable braking in wet or dry conditions.
It rolls on 25-inch tires. Understanding your stock tire size is crucial when it’s time for a replacement. While you can often go up an inch or two in size for more ground clearance, be aware that this can affect gearing and handling.
Drivetrain (2WD/4WD): Putting the Power Down
The drivetrain spec is listed as a Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential. In 2WD, power only goes to the rear wheels for lighter steering and sliding around corners. Flip the switch to 4WD, and power is sent to all four wheels for maximum traction.
The Visco-Lok system is Can-Am’s secret sauce. When it senses one front wheel spinning faster than the other (like when it’s stuck in mud), it automatically transfers power to the wheel with more grip. It’s a simple, effective system that works without you having to do a thing.
Dimensions & Capacities: Knowing Your Machine’s Limits
This section of the spec sheet is all about the physical size and capability of your ATV. Understanding these numbers helps you plan your rides, know what you can haul, and determine if it will even fit in your garage or on your trailer.
Ground Clearance & Wheelbase: Stability vs. Agility
The Outlander 700 boasts an impressive 12 inches of ground clearance. This is the distance from the lowest point of the frame to the ground. More clearance means you can ride over larger rocks, logs, and obstacles without getting hung up.
The 53-inch wheelbase (distance between the front and rear axles) provides a stable platform. A longer wheelbase is great for high-speed stability and climbing steep hills, while a shorter wheelbase would be quicker in tight, twisty trails. The Outlander strikes a great balance here.
Towing & Rack Capacity: The Workhorse Factor
Here’s where the “utility” part of this Sport-Utility ATV shines. The towing capacity is a whopping 1,830 lbs. That’s more than enough to pull a small utility trailer loaded with firewood, gear, or gravel for a weekend project.
The steel racks are also rated for serious work: 120 lbs on the front and 240 lbs on the rear. One of the major benefits of can am outlander 700 specs like these is the sheer versatility they provide, turning your trail machine into a valuable tool.
Fuel Capacity & Dry Weight: Planning Your Rides
The fuel tank holds 5.1 gallons. Combined with the efficient Rotax ACE engine, this gives you excellent range for a long day on the trails without constantly worrying about your next fuel stop.
The dry weight is listed at 825.9 lbs. “Dry weight” is the weight of the ATV without any fluids (gas, oil, coolant). Keep this number in mind when choosing a trailer or considering how you might recover the machine if it gets stuck.
Translating Specs to Maintenance: A Practical Care Guide
A spec sheet isn’t just for buyers; it’s a roadmap for owners. Following a proper can am outlander 700 specs care guide will dramatically extend the life of your machine and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Engine Oil & Coolant Checks: The Lifeblood of Your ATV
Your owner’s manual will specify the exact type, but most Rotax ACE engines call for a 5W-40 synthetic oil. Check the oil level before every ride using the dipstick. Don’t just check the level; look at the color. Fresh oil is amber, while milky or dark, gritty oil signals a problem.
Similarly, glance at the coolant overflow bottle. The fluid should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” lines. If it’s low, top it off. This is one of the simplest can am outlander 700 specs best practices to follow.
Suspension and Drivetrain Care
After a muddy or dusty ride, take a pressure washer (on a low setting) or hose and clean out the A-arms and suspension components. Caked-on mud can hide damage and accelerate wear on bushings and bearings.
Check your front and rear differential fluid levels periodically. These are often neglected but are critical for the longevity of your 4WD system. You’ll need an 8mm Allen socket for most drain and fill plugs.
Tire Pressure and Brake Fluid: Simple Checks, Big Impact
The recommended tire pressure is on a sticker on the ATV and in the manual. Running the correct pressure ensures proper handling and tire wear. Use a low-pressure tire gauge for accurate readings.
Check the brake fluid reservoir on the handlebars. The fluid should be clear or slightly amber. If it’s dark and murky, it’s time for a brake fluid flush. This is a job a careful DIYer can do with a brake bleeding kit.
Common Problems & What the Specs Can Tell You
Sometimes, things go wrong. But understanding the specs can help you diagnose issues before they become major headaches. This is where you can learn how to can am outlander 700 specs can be used for troubleshooting.
Overheating Issues
If your temperature light comes on, the first culprit is often the cooling system. Is the coolant level low? Is the radiator caked with mud, preventing airflow? The liquid-cooling spec tells you exactly where to start looking.
Handling Quirks
If the ATV feels unstable or pulls to one side, circle back to the chassis specs. Are your tire pressures even on both sides? Uneven pressure is the #1 cause of poor handling. Next, check for play in the A-arm bushings or wheel bearings.
Power Loss
A sudden loss of power can be scary. The EFI spec points you to the fuel system. Is the fuel filter clogged? Could you have gotten bad gas? A clean air filter is also critical for the engine to breathe and make full power.
Sustainable Riding: Eco-Friendly Tips for the Outlander 700 Owner
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love. Understanding your machine is the first step toward more sustainable can am outlander 700 specs practices.
Proper Maintenance for Better Efficiency
A well-maintained engine is an efficient engine. Using the correct oil, keeping your air filter clean, and ensuring your tires are properly inflated all contribute to better fuel economy and lower emissions. This is an easy way to practice eco-friendly can am outlander 700 specs care.
Choosing Eco-Friendly Fluids and Parts
When possible, look for biodegradable chain lubes, cleaners, and even some hydraulic fluids. When you change your oil, always take the used oil to a designated recycling center. Never dump it on the ground or in the trash.
Tread Lightly: How Specs Help Protect the Trail
Knowing your ground clearance helps you pick better lines to avoid tearing up the terrain. Understanding how the Visco-Lok 4WD system works allows you to apply power smoothly, preventing wheel spin that causes trail erosion. Ride smart, and leave the trail better than you found it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Outlander 700 Specs
What is the top speed of the Can-Am Outlander 700?
While Can-Am doesn’t officially publish a top speed, most owners report the Outlander 700 can reach speeds of around 60-65 mph in ideal conditions. Its real strength, however, is in its low-end and mid-range acceleration, not top-end speed.
How does the Outlander 700 compare to the 500?
The Outlander 700 and 500 share the same 650cc engine block and chassis. The main difference is in the engine tuning. The 700 is tuned for 50 horsepower, while the 500 is tuned for 40 horsepower, creating a lower price point and a slightly tamer machine for new riders or lighter-duty work.
Is the Outlander 700 good for a beginner?
Yes, it can be. While 50 horsepower is substantial, the power delivery is smooth and predictable thanks to the EFI and CVT transmission. The stable chassis and comfortable ride make it confidence-inspiring. However, as with any ATV, we always recommend starting slow and riding within your limits.
What kind of oil does a Can-Am Outlander 700 take?
The recommended oil is a 5W-40 synthetic 4-stroke engine oil specifically designed for powersports. XPS, Can-Am’s house brand, is a great choice, but other high-quality brands meeting the same specification will work perfectly. Always check your owner’s manual to be certain.
Understanding the can am outlander 700 specs is about more than just reciting numbers. It’s about knowing your machine inside and out. It’s the difference between being a passenger and being a confident, capable rider and owner.
Use this guide to get familiar with your Outlander. Check your fluids, know your capacities, and understand what every component does. The more you know, the more fun you’ll have and the more reliable your rig will be.
Now get out there, get dirty, and ride smart!
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