You’ve seen them on the trail—machines that defy gravity, crawling over impossible ledges and boulder fields with uncanny precision. You’ve felt that pull, that desire to conquer the most technical terrain, but know that not just any rig can handle it. The world of rock crawling demands a specialized tool, and that’s where the can am rc side by side enters the picture.
We promise this is more than just a spec sheet review. This is your complete owner’s manual from the mechanics and riders at FatBoysOffroad. We’re diving deep into what makes these machines tick, how to set them up for peak performance, and the techniques you need to master the rocks safely.
In this guide, you’ll learn what sets the RC models apart, how to dial in your suspension and tires, essential driving techniques, common problems to watch for, and a complete care guide to protect your investment. Let’s get started.
What Makes the Can-Am RC Side by Side a Rock-Crawling Beast?
First things first, “RC” stands for Rock Crawl. This isn’t just a sticker package; it’s a purpose-built trim level, most famously on the Maverick X3 platform, designed from the ground up to dominate the most challenging, low-speed, technical terrain you can find.
Think of it as the difference between a standard pickup truck and a purpose-built rock bouncer. They might share some DNA, but their mission is entirely different. Understanding these core components is the first step in this comprehensive can am rc side by side guide.
The Brains of the Operation: Smart-Lok Front Differential
The heart of the RC’s capability is its Smart-Lok front differential. This isn’t your average 4×4 system. It offers several modes, including a fully lockable on-the-fly setting specifically for rock crawling.
When you lock that front diff, you’re forcing both front wheels to turn at the exact same speed, regardless of traction. This means if one wheel is in the air, the other one is still digging and pulling you over the obstacle. It’s the ultimate traction advantage.
Suspension That Articulates and Absorbs
Rock crawling requires massive suspension travel and ground clearance. The RC models feature high-clearance arched A-arms to help you slide over rocks instead of getting hung up.
They are paired with industry-leading FOX Podium piggyback shocks. These aren’t just for big jumps; their adjustability (like QS3 or Smart-Shox) allows you to fine-tune compression and rebound for slow, methodical crawling, ensuring your tires stay planted on the ground.
Tires and Wheels Built for Abuse
Can-Am equips the RC models with aggressive, large-diameter tires like the ITP Cryptid, designed with tough sidewalls and a tread pattern that grabs onto rock faces. These are mounted on true beadlock wheels.
Beadlocks are critical because they physically clamp the tire’s bead to the wheel. This allows you to run extremely low tire pressures for maximum grip without worrying about the tire popping off the rim—a common failure on standard wheels.
Factory-Installed Armor
An RC model comes straight from the factory with the armor you’d have to add yourself on other trims. This includes a full HMWPE (High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) skid plate, rock sliders to protect the sides of your chassis, and heavy-duty front and rear bumpers. It’s built to take hits and keep on moving.
Pre-Ride Setup: Your Can-Am RC Side by Side Guide for the Trail
Owning a capable machine is one thing; knowing how to set it up is another. The right adjustments can be the difference between conquering an obstacle and calling for a winch. Follow these can am rc side by side best practices before you even hit the dirt.
Suspension Tuning 101
Your FOX shocks are highly adjustable for a reason. For slow-speed rock crawling, you generally want a softer setting. This allows the suspension to droop and articulate, keeping all four tires in contact with the uneven ground for as long as possible.
Start by setting your shock clickers (compression adjusters) to the softest setting. Drive over a few small obstacles and see how it feels. If it feels too “wallowy” or bottoms out too easily, add a few clicks of compression until it feels controlled but still plush.
Tire Pressure is Everything
This is one of the most crucial can am rc side by side tips we can offer. Lowering your tire pressure, or “airing down,” dramatically increases the tire’s contact patch. This larger footprint molds around rocks, giving you incredible grip.
A good starting point for rock crawling is between 8-12 PSI. Thanks to your beadlock wheels, you can do this safely. Always carry a quality tire pressure gauge and a portable 12V air compressor to air back up before hitting high-speed trails or pavement on your way home.
Essential Gear Check
Never go into technical terrain unprepared. Your RC likely came with a winch, but do you know how to use it safely? Practice with it in a safe environment. Your pre-ride check should always include this gear:
- Winch & Recovery Kit: Ensure your winch works and you have a tree saver, snatch block, and heavy-duty D-ring shackles.
- Tool Kit: A basic tool kit with sockets, wrenches, and pliers for common bolt sizes on your machine.
- Tire Plug Kit: Even with tough tires, punctures happen. A plug kit can save your day.
- First-Aid Kit: For you, not the machine. Safety first, always.
Mastering the Rocks: How to Drive Your Can-Am RC Side by Side
With your machine prepped, it’s time to learn the techniques. This is how to can am rc side by side like a pro. Smoothness and patience are your best friends here; brute force is your enemy.
Throttle Control and Left-Foot Braking
Rock crawling is a game of inches. You need precise control. Learn to use your right foot for the throttle and your left foot to gently apply the brake at the same time. This technique pre-loads the drivetrain, eliminating slack and preventing the machine from lurching or rolling back unexpectedly.
Picking Your Line
Always look ahead. Before approaching an obstacle, get out and walk the line if you have to. Plan where your tires will go. The goal is to place your tires on the high points of rocks to maintain clearance and avoid getting your skid plate hung up on a sharp edge.
Using Smart-Lok Effectively
Start in 4WD TRAIL mode for general trail riding. When you approach a technical section, switch to 4WD ROCK mode. This engages the front differential more aggressively for crawling.
When you’re facing a truly challenging obstacle where you risk lifting a tire, that’s when you press the button to fully lock the front differential. You’ll feel the steering get heavier—that’s normal. Once you’re clear of the obstacle, unlock it for easier steering.
Common Problems with Can-Am RC Side by Side Models (And How to Fix Them)
Even the toughest machines have their quirks, especially when pushed to their limits. Being aware of these common problems with can am rc side by side models can help you prevent them or fix them on the trail.
Overheating on Slow Climbs
During slow, high-RPM climbs, there isn’t much air moving through the radiator. This can cause coolant temperatures to spike.
- Prevention: Keep your radiator clean! After every muddy ride, hose it out thoroughly from the back side to push dirt out the front.
- Fix/Mod: Many owners install a fan override switch. This lets you manually turn the radiator fan on before you start a long, slow climb, keeping temps in check from the start.
Axle and CV Joint Wear
The extreme angles and torque of rock crawling are tough on axles and CV (Constant Velocity) joints. The rubber boots covering the CV joints are especially vulnerable to tears from sticks and rocks.
Routinely inspect your CV boots. If you see a tear, get it replaced immediately before dirt and water destroy the joint. A clicking sound when turning is a tell-tale sign that a CV joint is already failing.
Premature Belt Wear
The CVT belt is a wear item. The number one killer of belts in rock crawling is being in high gear when you should be in low gear. Always use low gear for technical crawling. It keeps the clutches engaged properly and prevents the belt from slipping and overheating.
The Essential Can-Am RC Side by Side Care Guide
Proper maintenance is non-negotiable. Your machine takes a beating on the rocks, and a little TLC goes a long way in ensuring it’s ready for the next adventure. This is your go-to can am rc side by side care guide.
Post-Ride Wash Down
Don’t let mud and grime sit. Use a pressure washer (carefully, avoiding electrical connectors and seals) to clean the undercarriage, suspension components, and wheel wells. Caked-on mud can hide problems and add unnecessary weight.
Fluid Checks and Changes
Follow the service intervals in your owner’s manual religiously. Engine oil, transmission fluid, and front/rear differential fluids are the lifeblood of your machine. Check them before every ride and change them on schedule.
Bolt and Nut Check
The vibrations and impacts of off-roading can loosen things up. After every few rides, do a thorough visual inspection. Pay special attention to suspension bolts, wheel lug nuts, and steering components. Grab a wrench and ensure everything is torqued to spec.
Sustainable Can-Am RC Side by Side Off-Roading: Best Practices
Part of the privilege of off-roading is protecting the trails for future generations. A sustainable can am rc side by side experience is about being a responsible rider. These eco-friendly practices are simple but have a huge impact.
Adhere to Tread Lightly! principles. Stay on designated trails, cross streams only at designated points, and avoid creating new bypasses around obstacles. The goal is to challenge yourself, not scar the landscape.
Before every ride, give your machine a quick check for any fluid leaks. A small drip of oil or coolant in your garage is one thing; on the trail, it can contaminate soil and water sources. Finally, live by the golden rule: pack it in, pack it out. Leave the trail cleaner than you found it.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am RC Side by Side
What does ‘RC’ stand for on a Can-Am?
RC stands for “Rock Crawl.” It signifies a specific trim level engineered with features like the Smart-Lok differential, beadlock wheels, and factory armor designed for technical, low-speed off-roading.
Can I use a Can-Am RC model for trail riding and dunes?
Absolutely! While it excels at rocks, the RC is a very versatile machine. For high-speed trail riding or dunes, you’ll want to air your tires back up to a higher pressure (e.g., 15-18 PSI) and stiffen your shock compression settings to prevent bottoming out on big hits.
What are the first mods I should consider for my RC?
The RC models are incredibly capable from the factory. The first “mods” should focus on safety and convenience. Top recommendations include 4 or 5-point safety harnesses, a reliable communication system (helmet comms or radio), a roof for sun protection, and perhaps some additional LED lighting for night rides.
How much ground clearance does the Maverick X3 X rc have?
The Can-Am Maverick X3 X rc Turbo RR models boast an impressive ground clearance, typically around 16 inches. This, combined with the high-clearance A-arms, is a major factor in its ability to clear large obstacles without getting hung up.
The world of technical off-roading is incredibly rewarding, and the Can-Am RC side by side is one of the best tools for the job. By understanding its systems, preparing it properly, using the right techniques, and performing regular maintenance, you’re setting yourself up for countless epic adventures.
Respect the machine, respect the trail, and never stop exploring. Gear up, get out there, and crawl safe. We’ll see you on the trail!
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