So, you’re eyeing the Can-Am Outlander 700, or maybe you’ve already got one parked in the garage. You know it’s a workhorse, a trail master, and a ton of fun. But let’s be honest, a big question is probably burning in your mind: just how fast does this thing really go?
You’ve probably heard numbers thrown around, but the truth is, the number on the box isn’t always the number you get on the trail. Agreeing on that simple fact is the first step to truly understanding your machine. In this guide, we promise to cut through the fluff and give you the real-world scoop on the can am outlander 700 top speed.
We’ll break down the factory specs, uncover all the hidden factors that can slow you down (or speed you up), and provide a complete can am outlander 700 top speed guide with actionable tips. You’ll learn how to safely maximize your ATV’s performance and keep it running at its peak for years to come.
What is the Official Can-Am Outlander 700 Top Speed?
Let’s get the main question out of the way first. Straight from the factory, under ideal conditions, you can expect the Can-Am Outlander 700 to reach a top speed of around 60-65 MPH (96-105 KPH).
This is thanks to its potent Rotax 650cc single-cylinder engine, which pumps out a healthy 50 horsepower. For a mid-size utility ATV, that’s a very respectable number that puts it at the top of its class.
However, that “ideal conditions” part is key. That means a lightweight rider, on a perfectly flat, paved surface, with no wind, at sea level. As any experienced rider knows, the trail is rarely that forgiving.
Key Factors That Impact Your Outlander 700’s Real-World Top Speed
The number you see on your speedometer is a result of a constant battle between engine power and resistance. Understanding what creates that resistance is the first step in maximizing your machine’s potential. Here’s what really affects your speed out on the trail.
Rider Weight and Cargo Load
This one’s simple physics. The more weight the engine has to move, the harder it has to work. A 150-pound rider will likely achieve a higher top speed than a 250-pound rider.
The same goes for cargo. Loading up your racks with heavy gear, coolers, or tools for a day of work will absolutely impact your acceleration and shave a few miles per hour off the top end. Think of it as the difference between sprinting with an empty backpack versus a full one.
Terrain and Surface Conditions
Where you ride matters—a lot. The 65 MPH figure is achievable on hard-packed dirt or asphalt. Take it into thick mud, soft sand, or a rocky trail, and that number will drop significantly.
These soft or uneven surfaces create immense rolling resistance, forcing your tires to work much harder to find grip and propel the ATV forward. It’s a classic case of power vs. friction.
Tire Choice and Air Pressure
Your tires are your only connection to the ground, and they play a massive role in performance. Stock tires are designed as a good all-around compromise, but specialized tires can drastically change your can am outlander 700 top speed.
- Aggressive Mud Tires: These have deep, heavy lugs that are fantastic for finding traction in the slop but create a lot of rolling resistance and vibration on hard surfaces, which will lower your top speed.
- Oversized Tires: Going up in tire size can, in theory, increase top speed by changing the final drive ratio. However, the added weight and rotational mass often negate this effect, requiring a clutch kit to compensate.
- Tire Pressure: Running low pressure for rock crawling or mud riding creates a larger contact patch and more friction, slowing you down. Airing up to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI for hard-pack trails will reduce rolling resistance.
Wind and Aerodynamics
ATVs are about as aerodynamic as a brick. A strong headwind can easily scrub 5-10 MPH off your top speed. Adding accessories like a tall windshield or large cargo boxes further increases this aerodynamic drag, giving the wind more to push against.
Altitude and Air Density
If you ride in the mountains, you’ve probably felt this. As you go up in altitude, the air becomes less dense. This means there are fewer oxygen molecules for your engine to burn with fuel, which results in a loss of power.
A general rule of thumb is that a naturally aspirated engine loses about 3% of its horsepower for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. That power loss directly translates to a lower top speed.
How to Safely Maximize Your Can-Am Outlander 700 Top Speed
So, you want to get the most out of your machine? It’s not always about bolting on expensive parts. Following these can am outlander 700 top speed tips and best practices will ensure you’re getting every bit of performance the engineers intended.
Perform Regular Maintenance (The Foundation)
A healthy machine is a fast machine. Neglecting basic maintenance is the quickest way to lose power. This is the core of any good can am outlander 700 top speed care guide.
- Clean Your Air Filter: A clogged air filter chokes your engine, robbing it of the air it needs to make power. Check and clean it after every dusty ride.
- Change The Oil: Fresh oil properly lubricates internal engine components, reducing friction and heat. Follow the service intervals in your owner’s manual.
- Inspect the CVT Belt: The drive belt is crucial. A worn, glazed, or stretched belt will slip, causing poor acceleration and a lower top speed. Check it for cracks, glazing, and proper deflection.
- Check Spark Plugs: A fouled or worn spark plug creates a weak spark, leading to incomplete combustion and lost power.
Optimize Your Tire Setup
Before you go for a speed run, make sure your tires are on your side. Use a quality tire pressure gauge and inflate your tires to the recommended PSI for high-speed riding on hard surfaces. This minimizes rolling resistance and ensures stability.
Reduce Unnecessary Weight
This is the easiest “free” modification you can make. If you’re just going for a spirited trail ride, leave the heavy chainsaw, packed cooler, and extra 50 pounds of recovery gear at the camp or in the truck. Less weight means faster acceleration and a higher top speed.
Consider Performance Modifications (With Caution)
For the serious enthusiast, the aftermarket offers ways to unlock more power. Proceed with caution, as these can affect reliability and may void your warranty.
- Clutch Kit: This is often the best bang-for-your-buck mod. A clutch kit doesn’t add horsepower, but it recalibrates your CVT to keep the engine in its “sweet spot” for longer, improving acceleration and helping to turn larger tires more efficiently.
- ECU Tune: An ECU flash can remap your fuel and ignition timing to optimize performance, often removing factory-imposed speed limiters and increasing horsepower.
- Exhaust System: A less restrictive aftermarket exhaust can help the engine breathe better, potentially adding a few horsepower, though it will be significantly louder.
Common Problems With Can Am Outlander 700 Top Speed
If your Outlander suddenly feels sluggish and can’t reach the speeds it used to, one of these common culprits is likely to blame. Here’s how to troubleshoot.
A Worn or Glazed CVT Belt
The Symptom: The engine revs high, but you’re not accelerating as quickly as you should. You might even smell burning rubber after a hard run. This is a classic sign of belt slippage.
The Fix: Pop off the CVT cover and inspect the belt. If it looks shiny (glazed), has cracks, or has flat spots, it’s time for a replacement. We recommend a quality aftermarket belt like a Gates G-Force for durability.
Clogged Air Filter or Fuel System
The Symptom: The ATV sputters, hesitates under acceleration, or just feels “flat” and down on power across the entire RPM range.
The Fix: Start with the easiest thing: check and clean or replace your air filter. If that doesn’t solve it, try running a bottle of high-quality fuel injector cleaner through a tank of gas to clear out any minor deposits.
Brake Drag
The Symptom: The machine feels like you’re riding with the parking brake partially on. After a ride, you might notice one of the brake rotors is significantly hotter than the others.
The Fix: This is often caused by a stuck brake caliper piston or slide pins. You’ll need to safely lift the ATV, check if the wheels spin freely, and service the sticking brake caliper. This is a critical safety issue, so if you’re not comfortable, take it to a pro.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding Practices
Speed is fun, but being a responsible rider is essential. Part of enjoying the outdoors is preserving it for others. Achieving a sustainable and eco-friendly can am outlander 700 top speed experience is about riding smart.
Maintaining your machine is the first step. A well-tuned engine burns fuel more efficiently, creating fewer emissions. Regularly checking for and fixing fluid leaks prevents oil and coolant from contaminating the trail.
Furthermore, respect the terrain. Only open up the throttle in areas where it is safe and legal to do so. Stick to designated trails to prevent erosion and habitat damage. Following principles from organizations like Tread Lightly! ensures our riding areas stay open for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Outlander 700 Top Speed
Does the Outlander 500 have the same top speed as the 700?
No. While they share the same 650cc single-cylinder engine block, the Outlander 500 is tuned to produce 40 horsepower, while the 700 is tuned for 50 horsepower. This 10 HP difference means the 700 will have a higher top speed.
Will bigger tires increase my top speed?
It’s complicated. In theory, a taller tire covers more ground per revolution, which can increase speed. However, bigger tires are also heavier, which strains the drivetrain and requires more power to turn. Without a corresponding clutch kit to adjust the gearing, you will almost always lose top speed and acceleration by adding bigger tires.
Is it safe for the engine to ride at its top speed for a long time?
While the Rotax engine is robust, running any engine at its absolute maximum RPM for extended periods is not ideal. It generates significant heat and stress on internal components. Hitting the top speed for short bursts is perfectly fine, but it’s not designed to be held there for miles on end.
The Outlander 700 is a fantastic all-around machine. Understanding its capabilities, from its impressive top speed to its trail-taming torque, is part of being a smart owner. The real benefits of knowing your can am outlander 700 top speed come from understanding how to maintain that performance through proper care.
Keep up with your maintenance, choose your accessories wisely, and always prioritize safety. Now you have the knowledge to keep your Outlander running strong and fast for every adventure ahead. Ride safe, and we’ll see you on the trail!
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