Choosing the right first ATV for your kid is a huge decision. You’re not just buying a machine; you’re buying their first taste of off-road freedom, and you want to make sure it’s safe, reliable, and a whole lot of fun.
I get it. In the shop and out on the trails, I see parents wrestling with this exact choice all the time. Two of the biggest names in the youth ATV world are locked in a tight race: the Can-Am Renegade 110 and the Polaris Outlaw 110.
In this complete can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 guide, we’re going to break down these two titans of the trail. We’ll ditch the marketing fluff and get right into the nuts and bolts of what makes each machine tick, covering everything from engine performance and suspension to the critical safety features that give parents peace of mind.
Head-to-Head Spec Sheet: Renegade 110 vs. Outlaw 110 by the Numbers
Before we dive deep, let’s lay out the tale of the tape. Specs on a screen don’t tell the whole story, but they give us a solid baseline for what we’re working with. Think of this as the pre-ride inspection.
- Engine: Both sport a 112cc, 4-stroke single-cylinder engine with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). This is a huge win for parents, as EFI means no more fiddling with carburetors, easier cold starts, and consistent performance.
- Transmission: Both use a fully automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Forward, Neutral, and Reverse. Simple and easy for young riders to learn.
- Front Suspension: This is a major difference. The Can-Am Renegade 110 boasts a dual A-arm setup with 5 inches of travel. The Polaris Outlaw 110 uses a single A-arm design with 5 inches of travel. We’ll break down what this means for handling later.
- Rear Suspension: Both feature a traditional swingarm with a monoshock, offering a respectable 6 inches of travel.
- Brakes: The Renegade uses dual drum brakes up front and a single drum in the rear. The Outlaw also uses drum brakes on all corners.
- Tires: Both come equipped with 19-inch front tires and 18-inch rear tires, a standard and capable setup for this class.
- Dimensions (L x W x H): They are very close in size, with the Renegade being slightly longer and the Outlaw a touch wider. The key takeaway is they have a similar footprint, which is great for stability.
Engine and Performance: Where the Rubber Meets the Dirt
At the heart of both machines is a modern, fuel-injected 112cc engine. The days of struggling with a choked, cold-blooded youth ATV are over. This is one of the key benefits of can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 models over older, carbureted options.
The Beauty of Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
For a DIY mechanic or a parent who just wants things to work, EFI is a game-changer. It automatically adjusts the air-fuel mixture for temperature and altitude.
This means your kid can hop on and go, whether it’s a chilly fall morning or a hot summer afternoon. It also leads to better fuel efficiency, which is a nice nod toward a more eco-friendly can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 experience on the trails.
Power Delivery and Control
Neither of these quads is a fire-breathing monster, and that’s by design. The power delivery is smooth and predictable, perfect for building a young rider’s confidence.
Both models feature an adjustable speed limiter. This is usually a screw on the throttle housing that lets you physically limit how far the throttle can be pushed. You can start your rider at a walking pace (around 10-15 mph) and gradually increase the speed as their skills improve.
Suspension and Handling: The Biggest Difference Maker
This is where the two machines really start to show their different personalities. The debate between a dual A-arm and a single A-arm front suspension is a big one, and it directly impacts how the ATV feels and reacts on the trail.
Can-Am Renegade 110: The Dual A-Arm Advantage
The Renegade’s dual A-arm front suspension is, frankly, a more advanced setup. Think of it like the suspension on a full-sized sport or utility ATV. Having two control arms (one on top, one on bottom) keeps the tire more upright and in contact with the ground as it moves through its travel.
What this means for your rider:
- Better Stability: Especially when cornering or hitting bumps mid-turn, the dual A-arm design helps reduce body roll and keeps the machine feeling planted.
- More Predictable Steering: The steering geometry remains more consistent, which translates to a more confident and less twitchy feel for the rider.
- Improved Bump Absorption: It’s generally better at soaking up rough terrain, from small roots to bigger whoops.
Polaris Outlaw 110: Simple and Effective
The Outlaw’s single A-arm front suspension is a simpler, time-tested design. It’s rugged and gets the job done effectively for most beginner and intermediate youth riders.
While not as sophisticated, it’s a cost-effective and durable system. For general trail riding on relatively smooth terrain, many young riders might not even notice the difference. However, as speeds increase or the terrain gets rougher, the limitations can start to show in the form of more feedback through the handlebars and less precise tracking.
Safety First: A Parent’s Guide to Youth ATV Features
Nothing matters more than your child’s safety. Both Can-Am and Polaris have baked in some excellent features to help you manage the ride. Following these can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 best practices is non-negotiable.
Standard Safety Equipment
Both the Renegade and the Outlaw come with a safety kit right from the dealership. This typically includes:
- Safety Tether: A cord that attaches to the rider and the ATV. If the rider falls off, the cord pulls a plug, killing the engine instantly. Always use this.
- High-Visibility Flag: A tall whip flag that makes the small ATV much more visible to other riders, trucks, and UTVs on the trail.
- Adjustable Throttle Limiter: As mentioned, this lets you set the top speed. Start slow and work your way up.
- Enclosed Footwells: Full floorboards with integrated fenders protect your child’s feet from getting caught by the tires or snagged by brush.
- Neutral and Reverse Indicators: Bright, easy-to-see lights on the dash show what gear the ATV is in, preventing accidental lurches.
A pro tip from the garage: Before every single ride, do a quick check of the tether. Give it a firm tug to make sure it kills the engine. Electronics can fail, and this 5-second check is worth its weight in gold.
Common Problems and Long-Term Care Guide
Even the best machines need proper care. Luckily, both the Renegade and Outlaw are built tough. Here’s a look at what to expect and how to keep them running strong, transforming this purchase into a sustainable can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 investment for years of family fun.
Routine Maintenance Checklist
This is your basic can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 care guide. Before each ride, take two minutes to check:
- Tire Pressure: Low or uneven pressure is one of the biggest causes of poor handling.
- Oil Level: Just like a car, a 4-stroke ATV needs its oil.
- Chain Tension and Lube: A dry, loose chain will wear out sprockets quickly. Keep it clean, lubed, and adjusted to the spec in your owner’s manual.
- Brakes: Squeeze the levers. They should feel firm, not spongy.
Potential Common Problems
Generally, these are very reliable machines. However, some common problems with can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 models can pop up, usually due to the nature of off-roading.
- Dead Battery: Kids aren’t great at remembering to turn the key off. Investing in a small battery tender is one of the best can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 tips I can give.
- Clogged Air Filter: Dusty trails will choke an engine. Learn how to access, clean, and re-oil the air filter. It’s a simple job that pays huge dividends in engine life.
- Chain Adjustments: As the suspension cycles, the chain will stretch over time. Learning to adjust it is a fundamental DIY mechanic skill.
The Final Verdict: Which Youth ATV is Right for Your Family?
So, after all that, how do you choose? Here’s the FatBoysOffroad breakdown of how to can am renegade 110 vs polaris outlaw 110 for your specific needs.
Choose the Can-Am Renegade 110 if…
You have a slightly more aggressive or aspiring rider, or you frequently ride on rougher, more technical trails. The superior front suspension will provide a more stable, confidence-inspiring ride as their skills progress. The slightly sportier, aggressive styling inspired by its bigger brothers is also a big draw for many kids.
Choose the Polaris Outlaw 110 if…
Your rider is a true beginner, or your riding consists mainly of open fields, yards, and smoother trails. The single A-arm suspension is more than adequate for these conditions, and the machine is a proven, reliable, and incredibly user-friendly platform to learn on. It often comes in at a slightly lower price point, making it a fantastic value.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that fits your rider, your terrain, and your budget. You can’t go wrong with either of these top-tier youth ATVs. They are both excellent tools for getting your family outdoors and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Renegade 110 vs Polaris Outlaw 110
Are these ATVs big enough for a 10-year-old?
Yes, both the Renegade 110 and Outlaw 110 are designed for riders aged 10 and up, according to manufacturer recommendations. The most important factor is fit. Your child should be able to sit comfortably, reach the handlebars and controls easily, and place both feet flat on the footwells.
What is the top speed of the Renegade 110 and Outlaw 110?
Both models can be restricted to under 15 mph. Unrestricted, their top speed is around 29-30 mph. Always start a new rider with the speed limiter set to the lowest setting and only increase it as they demonstrate competent and safe riding skills.
Which one is easier to work on for a DIY mechanic?
Both are very similar in terms of basic maintenance. Accessing the oil drain plug, air filter, and spark plug is straightforward on both machines. The core components (engine, transmission) are nearly identical. Neither presents a significant challenge for routine upkeep.
Getting your kids on the trail is one of the most rewarding things you can do. By making an informed choice between these two fantastic machines, you’re setting them up for success and safety from day one. Now gear up, do your pre-ride checks, and go have some fun!
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