Stuck in the mud trying to decide between two of the most legendary 850-class ATVs on the planet? You’re not alone. The debate between the Can-Am Outlander 850 and the Polaris Sportsman 850 is a classic battle of titans, and picking a winner often comes down to the finest details.
Here at FatBoysOffroad, we’ve spent countless hours behind the bars of both machines, pushing them through muck, over rocks, and across fast-paced fire roads. We promise to give you a no-nonsense, real-world breakdown that goes beyond the spec sheet.
This ultimate can am outlander 850 vs polaris sportsman 850 guide will walk you through engine performance, suspension feel, rider comfort, long-term reliability, and maintenance tips to help you park the perfect rig in your garage.
Engine & Powertrain: V-Twin Grunt vs. Parallel-Twin Power
The heart of any ATV is its engine, and this is where you’ll find the first major difference between these two beasts. They both displace 850cc, but they deliver their power in completely different ways.
Can-Am Outlander 850: The V-Twin Beast
Can-Am hangs its hat on the legendary Rotax V-Twin engine. This 78-horsepower motor is all about aggressive, instant-on torque. When you stab the throttle, you feel an immediate, satisfying punch that wants to lift the front wheels.
This low-end grunt is fantastic for technical rock crawling or powering out of deep mud holes. It also produces a signature V-Twin rumble that many riders absolutely love. The power delivery is raw, exciting, and feels incredibly responsive.
Polaris Sportsman 850: The Smooth Operator
Polaris takes a different approach with its ProStar parallel-twin engine, also rated at 78 horsepower. Instead of raw aggression, the Sportsman focuses on smooth, linear power delivery. It feels incredibly refined and predictable from idle all the way to the top of the RPM range.
This smoothness makes it a fantastic all-day trail machine, reducing rider fatigue. While it may not have that instant “snap” of the V-twin, it builds power quickly and is by no means slow. It’s a confident and capable motor that gets the job done without rattling your fillings.
Can Am Outlander 850 vs Polaris Sportsman 850: Suspension and Handling
Power is useless if you can’t put it to the ground. Suspension and handling are critical, especially when the trail gets rough. Here, the two brands showcase their distinct engineering philosophies.
Suspension Design and Feel
The Can-Am Outlander uses a traditional setup with dual A-arms up front and a Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension. This design is excellent at keeping the tires planted and minimizing scrub (sideways tire movement) as the suspension cycles. It feels sporty and connected to the trail.
The Polaris Sportsman also features a dual A-arm front suspension but pairs it with a rolled Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). This setup is renowned for its ability to soak up bumps and provide a plush, comfortable ride. It feels more like a luxury SUV of the ATV world, prioritizing comfort over razor-sharp handling.
Ground Clearance and Trail Manners
Both machines offer impressive ground clearance, typically in the 11-12 inch range, allowing them to clear most trail obstacles with ease. However, their on-trail behavior differs.
The Outlander’s stiffer, sport-tuned suspension gives it an edge in aggressive, high-speed cornering. It feels planted and predictable. The trade-off is that you’ll feel more of the small, chattery bumps.
The Sportsman, with its softer suspension, glides over those same bumps. It’s the king of comfort on long, rough rides. The trade-off here is a bit more body roll in fast corners, which can feel less confidence-inspiring to aggressive riders.
Rider Comfort & Ergonomics: Your Throne for the Trail
If you’re planning on spending hours in the saddle, ergonomics and comfort are just as important as horsepower. Both ATVs are designed for all-day adventures, but they cater to slightly different preferences.
Seating and Controls
The Polaris Sportsman is famous for its narrow midsection and plush seat. This makes it incredibly comfortable to sit on and easy to grip with your knees, giving you a great sense of control. The overall riding position is relaxed and neutral.
The Can-Am Outlander has a slightly wider feel between the knees due to the V-twin engine. The seat is firm and supportive, which many riders prefer for aggressive riding. The ergonomics feel a bit more commanding and performance-oriented.
Storage and Practical Features
When it comes to storage, Polaris has long been a leader. The Sportsman 850 typically offers a combination of front and rear racks with integrated storage boxes, giving you plenty of secure, weatherproof space for your gear.
Can-Am’s LinQ accessory system is a major highlight for the Outlander. While the standard storage might be less than the Polaris, the LinQ system allows for quick and secure attachment of a massive range of accessories, from cargo boxes to coolers and fuel cans. This offers incredible versatility.
A DIYer’s Can Am Outlander 850 vs Polaris Sportsman 850 Care Guide
Long-term ownership is about more than just the ride; it’s about keeping your machine running strong. A sustainable ownership approach means performing regular maintenance. Here’s a look at what to expect from a DIY mechanic’s perspective.
Ease of Maintenance and Access
Both brands have made significant strides in making routine maintenance easier. Oil changes, air filter access, and fluid checks are straightforward on both models. You’ll need a good set of metric sockets, wrenches, and a reliable torque wrench.
The Can-Am’s V-twin can sometimes make accessing certain components, like spark plugs, a bit tighter. The Polaris parallel-twin layout often provides a little more working room around the engine. Always have your factory service manual handy for specs and procedures.
Common Problems with Can Am Outlander 850 vs Polaris Sportsman 850
No machine is perfect. Knowing the potential quirks can help you make an informed decision and stay ahead of problems. These are some of the common problems owners report, not guaranteed issues.
- Can-Am Outlander 850: Some earlier models had reports of running hot in slow, technical terrain. Ensuring your radiator is clean and coolant is fresh is one of the best practices to prevent this. Some owners also find the differential engagement can be clunky at times.
- Polaris Sportsman 850: Bushings in the suspension are a common wear item, especially with hard riding. Keeping them greased is key. Some models have also had reports of voltage regulator issues, so keeping an eye on your battery’s health is a good tip.
Adhering to a proper maintenance schedule is the best way to ensure a sustainable can am outlander 850 vs polaris sportsman 850 ownership experience. This includes responsible, eco-friendly disposal of used oils and coolants.
The Final Verdict: Which 850 Should You Choose?
So, after all this, how do you choose? It boils down to your primary riding style and what you value most in an ATV.
Choose the Can-Am Outlander 850 if:
- You crave aggressive, hard-hitting power and a thrilling throttle response.
- You prefer a sporty, connected-to-the-trail handling feel.
- You love the sound and feel of a V-twin engine.
- You want maximum customization through the LinQ accessory system.
Choose the Polaris Sportsman 850 if:
- You prioritize a smooth, comfortable ride over all else.
- You ride long distances and want to minimize fatigue.
- You prefer a more relaxed, predictable power delivery.
- You need ample, integrated storage right from the factory.
Ultimately, the best advice we can give is to test ride both. The benefits of one over the other often come down to personal feel. What feels perfect to one rider might not suit another. Trust your gut and choose the machine that puts the biggest smile on your face.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Outlander 850 vs Polaris Sportsman 850
Which ATV is faster, the Outlander 850 or Sportsman 850?
In a drag race, they are incredibly close. With both producing 78 horsepower, top speed is nearly identical. The Can-Am often feels “faster” due to its aggressive V-twin power delivery, but the Polaris is right there with it in a side-by-side run.
Is the Can-Am Outlander 850 more reliable than the Polaris Sportsman 850?
Both machines are built by reputable manufacturers and are very reliable when properly maintained. Reliability often has more to do with the owner’s maintenance habits and riding style than the brand itself. Following the recommended service intervals in your owner’s manual is the key to longevity for either machine.
Which model is better for mud riding?
Both are excellent mud machines. The Can-Am’s instant V-twin torque can be an advantage for spinning tires to clear tread. However, the Polaris’s plush suspension can help maintain momentum over deep, rutted-out mud holes. It often comes down to tire choice and rider skill.
What are some essential first mods for either machine?
Regardless of which you choose, a good set of aftermarket tires tailored to your local terrain is the single best upgrade. A winch is another must-have for safety and recovery. From there, skid plates for underbody protection and upgraded lighting are fantastic additions.
No matter which rig you choose, you’re getting a top-tier ATV capable of incredible things. Do your maintenance, ride safe, and get out there and explore. Happy trails from all of us at FatBoysOffroad!
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