Let’s be honest. Staring at the massive lineup of can am side by side models can feel like trying to choose just one tool from a master mechanic’s toolbox. You see the aggressive Maverick X3, the burly Defender, and the versatile Commander, and they all look incredible. But which one is truly built for your garage, your trails, and your needs?
It’s a fantastic problem to have, but it can lead to some serious analysis paralysis. You don’t want to end up with a high-strung race machine when you really need a workhorse for the farm, or vice-versa.
I promise this guide will cut through the noise. We’re going to break down the entire Can-Am family tree, piece by piece. We’ll look at what each model is designed for, who it’s for, and what you need to know before you ever sign the paperwork.
In this complete can am side by side models guide, we’ll dive deep into the Maverick, Defender, and Commander lineups. We’ll also cover common problems to watch for, share a practical care guide, and give you the pro tips you need to make a smart choice and keep your machine running strong for years to come.
What Sets Can-Am Apart? The BRP Difference
Before we get into specific models, it’s worth asking: why Can-Am? BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) has built a reputation on pushing the performance envelope. They aren’t afraid to be bold, and that shows in their engineering.
The heart of many of these machines is a powerful and reliable Rotax engine. These powerplants are legendary for their performance, whether it’s a high-revving turbocharged triple in a Maverick or a torque-heavy V-Twin in a Defender.
You’ll also hear a lot about their advanced drivetrain tech, like the Smart-Lok front differential. This isn’t just a simple “4WD” switch; it’s a fully lockable on-the-fly system with multiple modes that gives you incredible traction when you need it most. These are some of the core benefits of can am side by side models—they pack serious, trail-proven technology.
The Can-Am Side by Side Models Guide: Finding Your Perfect Ride
Can-Am neatly organizes its lineup into three main categories: Sport-Performance, Utility, and Recreational-Utility. Understanding which category fits your lifestyle is the first and most important step. Let’s break them down.
The Maverick Family: For the Pure Adrenaline Junkie
If your idea of a good time involves high speeds, big air, and pushing the limits in the dunes or desert, the Maverick family is calling your name. These are the thoroughbreds of the Can-Am stable.
The flagship is the Maverick X3. With its industry-leading suspension travel, turbocharged Rotax ACE engines, and low-slung, aggressive stance, it’s a purpose-built performance machine. It’s not designed for hauling firewood; it’s designed for hauling… well, you know.
Within the Maverick lineup, you’ll find narrower-stance models like the Maverick Sport and Maverick Trail. These are perfect for riders who frequent tighter, wooded trail systems (often 50″ or 60″ restricted) but still want that sporty, responsive feel. This is a key part of how to can am side by side models are categorized for different terrains.
- Best For: Dune riders, desert racers, high-speed trail runners, and anyone who prioritizes performance above all else.
- Think Twice If: You need to do any real work, have a tight budget for maintenance, or ride exclusively on slow, technical trails.
The Defender Family: The Ultimate Workhorse
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Defender. This machine is all about getting the job done. It’s built tough, with a focus on torque, towing capacity, and payload.
The Defender lineup is powered by Rotax HD (Heavy-Duty) engines, tuned for low-end grunt rather than high-RPM horsepower. This makes them perfect for pulling trailers, hauling gear, and navigating challenging terrain at a steady pace. Their cargo boxes are some of the most versatile in the industry, with tons of configuration options.
You can find everything from the base Defender to the Defender PRO with its massive 6-foot bed, and even a Defender 6×6 for ultimate traction and hauling capability. These machines are mainstays on farms, ranches, and job sites for a reason.
- Best For: Farmers, ranchers, hunters, property owners, and anyone who needs a reliable tool that can also hit the trails.
- Think Twice If: Your primary goal is high-speed fun. It’s capable on the trail, but it’s not a Maverick.
The Commander Family: The Do-It-All Hybrid
What if you need to haul mulch for the garden on Saturday morning but want to rip through the woods on Saturday afternoon? That’s where the Commander comes in. It’s the original “Rec-Utility” machine, blending sporty performance with real-world functionality.
The Commander offers more suspension travel and a more powerful engine than a Defender, giving it a lively, fun-to-drive feel. However, it still features a fully functional dumping cargo bed, making it incredibly versatile.
It’s the perfect compromise for the rider who truly does a little bit of everything. It can work, it can play, and it’s comfortable doing both. It’s a fantastic choice for trail explorers who also need a helping hand around their property.
- Best For: Trail riders who also need utility, families looking for a versatile machine, and anyone who wants one UTV that can do it all.
- Think Twice If: You need extreme work capability (go Defender) or ultimate, race-ready performance (go Maverick).
Common Problems with Can-Am Side by Side Models (And How to Fix Them)
No machine is perfect, and being a good owner means knowing what to watch for. Addressing these common issues proactively is a core tenet of our can am side by side models care guide. These aren’t deal-breakers, but rather things to keep on your maintenance radar.
Drive Belt Woes
Especially on the high-horsepower Maverick models, the CVT drive belt is a wear item. Aggressive driving, failing to use low range when needed, and improper belt break-in can lead to a shredded belt on the trail—which is never fun.
Pro Tip: Always carry a spare belt and the simple tools to change it (a clutch spreader bolt and a few sockets). Learn the procedure in your garage, not 20 miles from the truck. Regularly inspect your belt for glazing or fraying.
Electrical Gremlins
These machines pack a lot of technology, which means a lot of wiring. After repeated mud and water crossings, connections can sometimes get corroded, leading to frustrating, intermittent issues.
Pro Tip: When you’re doing maintenance, take a moment to unplug key connectors (like those for your sensors or lights) and apply a dab of dielectric grease. This keeps moisture out and ensures a solid connection. Also, keep your battery terminals clean and tight.
Suspension and Drivetrain Checks
The abuse these machines take means bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings will eventually wear out. You might notice sloppy steering, a clunking noise, or excessive play in your wheels.
Pro Tip: During your pre-ride check, safely jack up the front end and wiggle the top and bottom of each tire. If you feel significant play or hear clunking, it’s time to inspect your ball joints and wheel bearings. Also, stick to the service schedule for changing your front differential, transmission, and rear differential fluids.
Your Can-Am Side by Side Models Care Guide: Best Practices for Longevity
Following a few simple rules will dramatically extend the life of your machine and save you money in the long run. These are the can am side by side models best practices we preach here at FatBoysOffroad.
The Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
Never just hop on and go. Take five minutes before every ride to do a quick walk-around. It’s the single best thing you can do for reliability and safety.
- Tires & Wheels: Check air pressure and look for any cuts or damage. Grab the lug nuts to make sure they’re tight.
- Fluids: Check your engine oil and coolant levels. Look under the machine for any new drips or leaks.
- Brakes & Controls: Squeeze the brake pedal to ensure it feels firm. Check that your steering is smooth.
- Air Filter: In dusty conditions, pop the cover and check your air filter. A clogged filter kills performance and can damage your engine.
Thinking About Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Riding
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love. Embracing sustainable can am side by side models practices isn’t about sacrificing fun; it’s about ensuring these areas stay open for generations to come.
When washing your rig, use a biodegradable soap and, if possible, wash it on a grassy area away from drains that lead directly to waterways. When changing fluids, always capture the old oil and coolant in a drain pan and take it to an auto parts store or local facility for proper recycling.
Being an eco-friendly can am side by side models owner also means respecting the environment you ride in. Stick to marked trails to prevent erosion, avoid creating excessive noise near wildlife or residential areas, and pack out everything you pack in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Side by Side Models
What is the most reliable Can-Am side by side?
While reliability depends heavily on maintenance and usage, the Defender series is widely regarded as a workhorse. Its engines are tuned for longevity and torque over peak horsepower, and the entire platform is built for heavy-duty use. Naturally aspirated models generally have fewer complex parts than their turbocharged counterparts.
How often should I service my Can-Am?
Your owner’s manual is the ultimate authority. However, a great rule of thumb is to perform the initial break-in service religiously (usually around 10-25 hours). After that, a full service including fluid changes every 100 hours or at least once a year is a solid plan for the average rider.
Are Can-Am side by sides expensive to maintain?
They can be, especially the high-performance Maverick X3 models. Parts like tires, belts, and clutch components will wear faster with aggressive driving. However, if you’re willing to do basic maintenance yourself—like oil changes, air filter cleaning, and inspections—you can save a significant amount of money compared to relying solely on the dealer.
Which Can-Am model is best for a beginner?
The Commander or a Maverick Trail/Sport are excellent starting points. They offer exciting performance without being as overwhelming as a top-tier Maverick X3. Their versatility means you can grow with the machine as you figure out what kind of riding you love most. One of the best can am side by side models tips for a new rider is to start with manageable power.
Choosing the right Can-Am is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a complicated one. By honestly assessing whether you need a tool for work, a toy for pure fun, or a machine that can do a bit of both, you can quickly narrow down the field.
Use this guide to point you in the right direction, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for a test drive. Once you find the perfect fit, commit to regular maintenance and pre-ride checks. That’s the secret to countless hours of trouble-free adventure.
Now you’ve got the knowledge. Get out there, choose wisely, and hit the trails. Ride safe!
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