Thinking about pulling the trigger on a Can-Am Outlander 850, or maybe you just want to know your current beast inside and out? You know that specs are more than just numbers on a page—they’re the DNA of your machine, dictating its power, handling, and limits on the trail.
We get it. Sifting through brochures and websites can feel like decoding a foreign language. That’s why we’re here to translate.
We promise to give you the real-world breakdown of the can am outlander 850 specs, explaining what they actually mean for you in the mud, over the rocks, and in your garage. We’ll dive deep into the heart of the Rotax V-Twin engine, break down the suspension numbers that matter, and even cover common problems tied to these specs. This is your complete can am outlander 850 specs guide.
The Heart of the Beast: Rotax 850 V-Twin Engine Specs
The engine is where the magic starts. Can-Am’s Rotax engines are legendary for a reason, and the 854cc V-Twin in the Outlander 850 is a powerhouse. But let’s look past the marketing and get into the nitty-gritty.
Power and Torque: What 78 HP Really Feels Like
The spec sheet says 78 horsepower. On paper, that’s a solid number. In the real world, it’s the character of that power that matters. Being a V-Twin, the 850 delivers impressive low-end and mid-range torque.
This means you get instant grunt right off the line. It’s perfect for clawing your way out of deep mud holes or powering up a steep, rocky incline without needing to be at screaming high RPMs. The power delivery is smooth yet authoritative, making it a blast on fast-paced fire roads and a workhorse for technical trails.
Remember, horsepower is how fast you hit the wall; torque is how far you take the wall with you. This machine has plenty of both.
Fuel System & Cooling: Keeping the Beast Fed and Cool
The Outlander 850 uses a sophisticated Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system with a 54mm throttle body and two Siemens VDO injectors. What does this mean for you? Reliable starting in any weather, crisp throttle response, and automatic adjustment for altitude. No more messing with carburetor jets.
The cooling system is just as critical. The 850 features a large, front-mounted radiator. While effective, its position makes it a magnet for mud. A key part of your can am outlander 850 specs care guide is regular radiator cleaning. After a muddy ride, use a garden hose (never a high-pressure washer, which can bend the delicate fins) to clean it out thoroughly to prevent overheating.
Drivetrain and Transmission: Putting Power to the Ground
Having 78 horsepower is useless if you can’t get it to the dirt effectively. The drivetrain specs are where the Outlander 850’s versatility truly shines. Understanding how it works is key to maximizing its performance.
Understanding the CVT Transmission
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is an automatic, belt-driven system. It provides seamless acceleration with High, Low, Park, Neutral, and Reverse gears. The key takeaway here is the importance of using the right gear.
- High Gear: Use for flat, fast-paced riding. Cruising in High gear at low speeds can glaze the belt and cause premature wear.
- Low Gear: This is your workhorse gear. Use it for slow technical riding, climbing hills, towing, or navigating deep mud. It keeps the engine in its powerband and the belt cool.
Pro-Tip: A common mistake is using High gear for everything. Learning the proper use of Low gear is one of the most important can am outlander 850 specs best practices to ensure a long life for your drive belt.
The Visco-Lok QE 4×4 System Explained
Can-Am’s Visco-Lok QE (Quicker Engaging) front differential is an automatic locking system. In 4×4 mode, it sends power to both front wheels when it detects one is slipping. It’s a simple, effective system that requires no input from the rider.
It works well for general trail riding, but for extreme rock crawling or mudding, some riders find it engages a fraction of a second too slowly. This has led many serious off-roaders to upgrade to aftermarket manual lockers like the Halo Locker or Visco-4Lok for instant, full engagement.
A Deep Dive into the Can-Am Outlander 850 Specs for Chassis & Suspension
The engine gets you going, but the chassis and suspension are what keep you comfortable and in control. The Outlander is known for its plush ride, and these specs are the reason why.
Frame & Dimensions: The Backbone of Your Ride
The Outlander 850 is built on Can-Am’s G2 (Generation 2) frame. This Surrounding Spar Technology (SST) frame is strong and provides a stable platform. The wheelbase is typically around 51 inches, which strikes a great balance between high-speed stability and agility in tight corners.
Knowing the overall length (approx. 86 in), width (48 in), and height (49.5 in) is crucial for transport. Always measure your truck bed or trailer to ensure a proper fit before you buy.
Suspension Travel and Ground Clearance: Why It Matters
Here’s where the benefits of can am outlander 850 specs really come into play for rider comfort. The front features Arched Double A-Arm suspension with 9.2 inches of travel, while the rear has a Torsional Trailing Arm Independent (TTI) setup with 9.9 inches of travel.
This generous travel soaks up bumps, rocks, and ruts, providing a smooth ride that reduces rider fatigue. The 11 inches of ground clearance allows you to clear most obstacles without high-centering your machine. The arched A-arms in the front provide even more clearance right where you need it most.
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes: Your Connection to the Trail
Your tires are the only part of the ATV that touches the ground. Understanding the stock setup and braking system is vital for both performance and safety.
Stock Tire and Wheel Setup
Most Outlander 850 models come with 26-inch ITP Terracross tires on 14-inch cast-aluminum wheels. These are a great all-around trail tire, offering a good mix of traction and durability. The bolt pattern is a standard 4/137, which is important to know if you plan on upgrading to aftermarket wheels.
Pro-Tip: Check and adjust your tire pressure before every ride. A couple of PSI can make a huge difference in handling and traction depending on the terrain. Use a quality low-pressure tire gauge for accurate readings.
Braking System: Stopping Power When You Need It
The Outlander 850 features dual 214mm ventilated disc brakes with hydraulic twin-piston calipers up front and a single 214mm disc with a twin-piston caliper in the rear. The single left-hand lever controls all-wheel braking, providing balanced and confident stopping power.
Regularly inspect your brake pads for wear and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. Spongy brakes are a sign of air in the lines, which means it’s time to bleed them.
Capacities and Dimensions: The Practical Numbers You Need to Know
These are the specs that affect how you use your ATV day-to-day, from trail rides to chores around the property. This is a crucial part of any how to can am outlander 850 specs breakdown.
Fuel, Towing, and Rack Capacities
- Fuel Capacity: 5.4 gallons (20.5 L). This gives you excellent range for long days on the trail.
- Towing Capacity: A robust 1,650 lbs (750 kg). This machine is more than capable of pulling a utility trailer full of firewood or equipment.
- Rack Capacity: The front rack can handle 100 lbs, and the rear can take 200 lbs. This is great for packing camping gear, coolers, or tools. Always secure your load properly.
Weight and Dimensions: Will it Fit?
The dry weight of the Outlander 850 is around 750-800 lbs, depending on the specific package (XT, XT-P, etc.). This is a heavy machine, which contributes to its planted, stable feel but can also make it a handful if you get it stuck. Always ride with a buddy and carry recovery gear like a winch and tow strap.
Common Problems Tied to Can-Am Outlander 850 Specs
No machine is perfect. Being aware of potential issues is part of responsible ownership. Here are a few common problems with can am outlander 850 specs that owners should watch for.
Overheating and Cooling System Watch-Outs
As mentioned, the front-mounted radiator is prone to getting clogged with mud. This is the #1 cause of overheating. If you frequently ride in deep mud, consider a radiator relocation kit. These kits move the radiator up to the front rack, keeping it high and dry.
Driveline and Differential Wear
The immense torque of the 850 engine puts a lot of stress on driveline components. Owners who ride aggressively or run large, heavy mud tires may experience faster wear on u-joints, wheel bearings, and differential components. Regular inspection and greasing of zerks are essential maintenance tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Outlander 850 Specs
What is the top speed of a Can-Am Outlander 850?
While Can-Am doesn’t officially publish a top speed, most stock Outlander 850s can reach speeds of 70-75 mph in ideal conditions. However, these machines are designed for trail performance and torque, not top-end speed runs.
How much can the Outlander 850 tow?
The Can-Am Outlander 850 has an impressive towing capacity of 1,650 pounds (750 kg). Always use Low gear when towing heavy loads to protect your CVT belt and ensure you have maximum pulling power.
Is the Can-Am Outlander 850 reliable?
Yes, the Rotax 850 platform is generally considered very reliable when properly maintained. Following the service schedule, addressing minor issues before they become major ones, and practicing good riding habits (like using Low gear appropriately) are key to a long and trouble-free ownership experience.
What are the best eco-friendly practices for maintaining my Outlander?
Adopting sustainable can am outlander 850 specs practices is great for the environment and your machine. Use biodegradable, phosphate-free cleaners to wash your ATV. Dispose of used oil, coolant, and other fluids at a designated recycling facility, not on the ground. Also, sticking to designated trails helps prevent erosion and protects wildlife habitats, making for a more eco-friendly can am outlander 850 specs experience for everyone.
Understanding the can am outlander 850 specs is about more than just reciting numbers; it’s about knowing your machine’s capabilities, its limits, and how to care for it properly. This knowledge transforms you from a simple rider into a smart, confident owner.
Now that you’re armed with this guide, you can make a more informed buying decision or get more performance and life out of the machine you already own. Get out there, ride smart, and wrench with confidence. Stay safe on the trails!
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