Thinking about getting a Polaris Outlaw 50 for your little trailblazer? It’s a fantastic choice, but one question always comes up first: just how fast does it really go? You want something fun, but more importantly, you need something safe that your young rider can handle.
You’ve come to the right place. We’re not just going to give you a number; we’re going to give you the complete owner’s breakdown. We promise this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this youth ATV’s performance.
In this post, we’ll cover the stock top speed, explain the critical safety features that let you control that speed, and provide a full how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go guide. We’ll also dive into common problems that can affect its speed and share our top maintenance tips to keep it running safely for years of muddy fun.
What is the Stock Top Speed of a Polaris Outlaw 50?
Let’s get straight to the point. Right out of the box, a Polaris Outlaw 50 has a top speed of approximately 10 to 15 miles per hour. However, it’s almost always delivered from the dealership restricted to a much lower speed, often just a fast walking pace.
This isn’t a performance flaw; it’s a deliberate and crucial safety feature. The Outlaw 50 is designed for riders aged six and up, and Polaris engineered it with parental control as the top priority. The 49cc four-stroke engine isn’t built for blistering speed but for smooth, predictable power that won’t overwhelm a young beginner.
The real magic isn’t the machine’s maximum potential, but your ability to dial it in perfectly for your child’s skill level. This is where the speed limiter system comes into play.
The Key to Control: Understanding the Speed Limiter System
The single most important feature regarding the Outlaw 50’s speed is the adjustable throttle limiter. This simple mechanical system gives you, the parent or guardian, complete control over how fast the machine can go. Understanding this is one of the most vital how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go tips we can offer.
How the Throttle Limiter Screw Works
On the throttle housing (the assembly on the right handlebar where your child’s thumb pushes the lever), there is a small screw. This isn’t just a random piece of hardware; it’s the speed governor.
When you turn the screw in, it physically blocks the throttle lever, preventing it from being pushed all the way. This limits the amount of fuel and air entering the engine, which in turn limits the ATV’s speed. When you turn the screw out, it allows the throttle lever more room to travel, increasing the potential top speed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting the Top Speed
Adjusting the speed is a simple process that takes less than a minute. Here’s how you do it safely. This is a core “how to” for any Outlaw 50 owner.
- Safety First: Make sure the ATV’s engine is turned off and the key is removed. Ensure the machine is in park on level ground.
- Locate the Limiter: Find the small screw on the front side of the throttle housing. It’s usually a Phillips head screw or a small Allen screw, sometimes covered by a plastic or rubber cap.
- Make the Adjustment:
- To decrease the top speed, use the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench to turn the screw clockwise (in).
- To increase the top speed, turn the screw counter-clockwise (out).
- Test and Repeat: Start with the screw turned almost all the way in for the lowest speed. Have your child ride in a safe, open area under your direct supervision. If they demonstrate complete control—easy steering, effective braking, and good judgment—you can then turn the screw out a quarter-turn at a time to gradually increase the speed as their skills progress.
This adjustability is one of the main benefits of how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go; the speed grows with your child’s ability.
How Fast Does a Polaris Outlaw 50 Go When Unrestricted?
So, what happens if you back that limiter screw all the way out? When fully unrestricted, you can expect the Polaris Outlaw 50 to top out right around that 15 mph mark. Some might get a little more on a slight downhill with a light rider, but this is the realistic maximum.
It’s important to remember that several real-world factors will influence the actual speed you see on the trail.
Factors That Influence Actual Top Speed
- Rider Weight: A 50-pound rider will get closer to the top speed than a 90-pound rider. The small 49cc engine is very sensitive to the load it has to carry.
- Terrain: The ATV will be much faster on flat, hard-packed dirt than it will be climbing a hill, riding through sand, or churning through mud.
- Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires create significant drag and will scrub off speed. Check the pressure before every ride using a low-pressure ATV tire gauge. The recommended pressure is usually printed on the tire’s sidewall.
- General Maintenance: A clean machine is a happy machine. A clogged air filter or old engine oil can easily rob the engine of power and reduce its top speed.
Common Problems That Can Affect Your Outlaw 50’s Speed
If you notice your Outlaw 50 seems sluggish or isn’t reaching the speed it used to (even with the limiter adjusted), it’s time to do some basic troubleshooting. These are common problems with how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go that most owners can tackle themselves.
Clogged Air Filter
This is the number one culprit for poor performance. The air filter stops dust and dirt from entering the engine. When it gets clogged, it literally suffocates the engine, causing it to lose power.
The Fix: The filter is usually in a black plastic box on the side or rear of the ATV. Open it, remove the foam filter, wash it with soap and water, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with proper foam filter oil before reinstalling.
Dirty Carburetor
If the ATV has been sitting for a while with old fuel, or if dirt has gotten past the filter, the tiny jets inside the carburetor can get clogged.
Symptoms: The engine might bog down when you give it gas, idle poorly, or refuse to accelerate smoothly.
The Fix: Sometimes running a can of Sea Foam or another carb cleaner through the gas tank can help. If it’s badly clogged, the carburetor may need to be removed and professionally cleaned.
Worn Drive Chain or Belt
The Outlaw 50 uses a chain to transfer power to the rear wheels. If this chain is too loose, it can slap around and cause jerky acceleration. If it’s too tight, it puts stress on the drivetrain.
The Fix: Check the chain tension—it should have about a half-inch of play. Adjust it according to the owner’s manual. Keep it clean and lubricated with a quality chain lube.
Polaris Outlaw 50 Care Guide: Best Practices for Performance & Safety
Following a solid maintenance routine is the best way to ensure your little machine is always ready for action and, more importantly, safe to ride. This how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go care guide is all about prevention and safety.
Pre-Ride Checks are Non-Negotiable
Before every single ride, take two minutes to perform a quick inspection. A great acronym to remember is T-CLOCS:
- T – Tires & Wheels: Check pressure and look for damage.
- C – Controls: Check the throttle, brakes, and steering. Make sure they move freely.
- L – Lights & Electrics: Test the kill switch.
- O – Oil & Fluids: Check the engine oil level.
- C – Chassis & Chain: Check chain tension and look for loose nuts or bolts.
- S – Stands: Check the kickstand (if applicable).
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Maintenance Tips
Being an off-roader means respecting the trails we love. Adopting a few eco-friendly how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go habits is easy. When changing the oil, always drain it into a sealed container and take it to an auto parts store or local recycling center for proper disposal. Never dump it on the ground. When cleaning the air filter or washing the machine, use biodegradable cleaners that won’t harm the environment.
Always Gear Up!
Speed is relative. Even at 10 mph, a fall can cause serious injury. The most important safety practice is ensuring your child wears the proper gear on every ride: a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, over-the-ankle boots, gloves, and long pants/sleeves. This is not optional.
Frequently Asked Questions About How Fast a Polaris Outlaw 50 Goes
Can you make a Polaris Outlaw 50 faster?
Beyond backing out the throttle limiter screw and performing regular maintenance, there aren’t many simple ways to increase the speed. Performance modifications like exhaust or air intake kits exist but are generally not recommended. The machine’s frame, suspension, and brakes are designed for its stock 10-15 mph speed. Making it significantly faster can make it unsafe and unreliable.
What is the age range for the Polaris Outlaw 50?
Polaris recommends the Outlaw 50 for riders aged 6 and older. It is critical that there is always active adult supervision while a child is riding.
How do I know if the speed is set correctly for my child?
Start at the slowest possible setting. Watch your child ride in an open area. Can they easily control the steering? Can they use the brakes effectively and stop quickly? Do they panic? Only increase the speed in very small increments when they have shown complete mastery and confidence at the current level. This is one of the most important how fast does a polaris outlaw 50 go best practices.
Is the Polaris Outlaw 50 a 2-stroke or 4-stroke?
The Outlaw 50 has a 4-stroke engine. This is great for a youth ATV because it means you don’t have to pre-mix oil with the gasoline. It also provides smoother, more predictable power delivery, which is ideal for beginners.
The Polaris Outlaw 50 is an incredible machine for introducing young riders to the world of off-roading. Its top speed isn’t about winning races; it’s about providing a safe, controllable platform for learning. By using the throttle limiter, performing regular maintenance, and always prioritizing safety gear, you can ensure it provides years of smiles and confidence-building fun.
Now you have the complete picture. Set that speed correctly, gear up, and get out there to make some safe, muddy memories. Happy trails!
- Polaris Outlaw 110 Fuel Injector Replacement – Restore Power & Fix - November 6, 2025
- Polaris Outlaw 70 Check Engine Light Flashing – Your Complete - November 6, 2025
- Polaris Outlaw 110 Fuel Injector Installation – Your Complete DIY - November 6, 2025