So, you’ve got a young rider in the family, and they’re ripping around on a Polaris Outlaw 50. You’ve seen the smile on their face, but a question is nagging you: just how fast is that little machine supposed to go? It’s a common question we get here at FatBoysOffroad, and the answer is more nuanced than a simple number.
We promise this guide will give you the full picture. We’re not just going to tell you the number on the box; we’re going to break down why it’s set that way, what you can do to ensure it runs its best, and how to troubleshoot when it feels sluggish.
In this complete polaris outlaw 50 top speed guide, you’ll learn about the factory speed limits, the built-in safety features that control them, essential maintenance tips to maintain performance safely, and how to diagnose common problems that might be slowing your little quad down.
What is the Factory-Set Polaris Outlaw 50 Top Speed?
Let’s get straight to the point. A brand new, stock Polaris Outlaw 50 is designed for young, beginner riders. For this reason, its top speed is electronically and mechanically limited right from the factory.
You can expect the polaris outlaw 50 top speed to be restricted to approximately 10 to 15 MPH. This speed is intentional and non-negotiable from a safety standpoint.
Polaris engineers these youth ATVs for riders aged six and up, and their primary goal is to provide a safe, controllable introduction to the world of off-roading. The limited speed ensures the rider can learn fundamental skills—like steering, braking, and throttle control—without being overwhelmed or put in a dangerous situation.
Understanding the Outlaw 50’s Speed Limiter System
The Outlaw 50 doesn’t just have one speed control; it has a couple of key systems working together. Knowing how they function is crucial for any owner. This is the core of how the machine’s speed is managed.
The Adjustable Throttle Limiter Screw
The most important and accessible speed control is the throttle limiter screw. You’ll typically find this on the throttle housing on the right handlebar. It’s a simple yet brilliant safety feature.
This screw physically prevents the throttle lever from being pushed all the way. By turning the screw in, you decrease the distance the lever can travel, which in turn reduces the maximum speed. As your young rider gains confidence and skill, you can slowly back the screw out, allowing for more throttle and a gradual increase in speed up to the ATV’s maximum restricted limit.
- Fully screwed in: Lowest speed, perfect for absolute beginners (often a walking pace).
- Fully backed out: Allows the ATV to reach its ~15 MPH limited top speed.
The Exhaust Restrictor Plate
Deep inside the exhaust system, there’s another limiter: an exhaust restrictor. This is a small plate or washer with a small hole that’s placed where the exhaust header pipe connects to the engine cylinder.
This plate restricts the flow of exhaust gases out of the engine. By limiting how fast the engine can “breathe out,” it effectively limits how much power it can produce, thus capping the top speed. This is a more permanent factory restriction intended to keep the machine in its designated youth ATV class.
How to Safely Maximize Your Polaris Outlaw 50 Top Speed Through Maintenance
Before you even think about modifications, the most important thing you can do is ensure the ATV can actually reach its intended, factory-set top speed. Poor maintenance is the number one reason these little quads feel sluggish. Here are some polaris outlaw 50 top speed tips focused on proper care.
1. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
This is the easiest and most overlooked factor. Underinflated tires create a huge amount of rolling resistance, forcing the little 50cc engine to work much harder.
Check the sidewall of the tires for the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). It’s usually very low, around 2-4 PSI. Use a low-pressure tire gauge to check them before every ride. Properly inflated tires mean less work for the engine and a smoother, faster ride.
2. Clean and Lube the Chain
A dry, dirty, or overly tight chain is like riding with the brakes on. It robs the engine of precious power before it ever reaches the wheels.
- Check Tension: Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct amount of slack (usually about an inch of up-and-down movement).
- Clean It: Use a dedicated chain cleaner and a soft brush to remove all the old gunk and dirt.
- Lube It: Apply a quality chain lube specifically for off-road use while you slowly rotate the rear wheels to ensure even coverage.
3. Service the Air Filter
Your ATV’s engine needs to breathe. A clogged air filter suffocates the engine, preventing it from getting the air it needs to make power. This is one of the most common common problems with polaris outlaw 50 top speed.
Carefully remove the air filter, wash it with foam filter cleaner and warm water, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with foam filter oil. Don’t over-oil it—just enough to give it a tacky feel. A clean filter can make a world of difference.
4. Use Fresh, Quality Fuel
Gasoline goes bad, especially ethanol-blended fuel. Old gas can clog up the tiny jets in the carburetor and cause poor performance. Always use fresh, 87-octane fuel from a busy gas station. If you store the ATV for more than a month, use a fuel stabilizer.
Common Problems With Polaris Outlaw 50 Top Speed and How to Fix Them
If you’ve done all the maintenance and the quad still feels slow, it’s time to troubleshoot. These little engines are simple, and the problem is usually one of a few common culprits.
Clogged Carburetor Jets
The pilot and main jets inside the carburetor have minuscule openings that can easily get clogged with old fuel varnish or debris. If the ATV idles poorly or bogs down when you give it gas, a clogged jet is a likely suspect.
The Fix: This is a slightly more advanced DIY job. You’ll need to carefully remove the carburetor, disassemble the float bowl, and use carb cleaner and compressed air to clean out the jets. Never poke a wire through them, as you can damage the precision-drilled holes.
Fouled Spark Plug
A spark plug that’s oily or covered in carbon can’t produce a strong, hot spark. This leads to incomplete combustion and a major loss of power.
The Fix: Using a spark plug socket, remove the spark plug. If it looks black and sooty or wet and oily, replace it. They are inexpensive and a critical part of the ignition system. Make sure you get the exact replacement model listed in your owner’s manual.
Kinked Fuel or Vent Lines
Check all the black rubber hoses running to and from the carburetor and fuel tank. Sometimes a line can get pinched or kinked during maintenance or even from a weird bump on the trail. This can restrict fuel flow and starve the engine when it needs it most.
The Fix: Gently trace each line from end to end, ensuring there are no sharp bends or kinks. Also, check the gas cap vent tube to make sure it isn’t clogged, as that can cause a vacuum in the tank that stops fuel flow.
A Sustainable Polaris Outlaw 50 Top Speed Care Guide
Thinking about long-term ownership means adopting best practices. A well-maintained machine not only performs better but also lasts longer and is more reliable. This is the essence of a sustainable polaris outlaw 50 top speed approach.
An efficient engine is also a more eco-friendly polaris outlaw 50 top speed practice. When the engine runs cleanly with the right air-fuel mixture, it burns fuel more completely, reducing emissions and waste.
Your routine should include:
- Regular Oil Changes: Follow the service interval in your manual. Clean oil is the lifeblood of the engine.
- Valve Adjustments: This is a periodic maintenance item that ensures the engine breathes correctly. It’s a bit more involved, so consult a service manual or a pro if you’re not comfortable.
- Brake Checks: Ensure the brakes aren’t dragging. A stuck brake caliper or drum can significantly slow the machine down.
The Big Question: Should You Remove the Restrictors?
We have to address the elephant in the room. Many people search for how to polaris outlaw 50 top speed increase by removing the exhaust restrictor or modifying the ATV. Here at FatBoysOffroad, our advice is firm: do not remove the factory safety restrictors for a young or beginner rider.
The benefits of polaris outlaw 50 top speed being limited are all about safety. The frame, suspension, and brakes on the Outlaw 50 are all designed and engineered for speeds of 15 MPH or less. Pushing the engine to go faster—sometimes up to 25-30 MPH with restrictors removed—creates a machine that is dangerously unbalanced. It simply cannot handle the extra speed safely.
When a child is ready for more speed, they are ready for a bigger, more capable machine like a 90cc model. Graduating to the next size class is the proper, safe, and responsible way to let them progress in the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Outlaw 50 Top Speed
How fast does a Polaris Outlaw 50 go without the restrictor?
Removing the exhaust restrictor and other limiters can potentially allow the Outlaw 50 to reach speeds of 25-30 MPH. However, we strongly advise against this as it makes the ATV unstable and unsafe for its intended rider, overwhelming the chassis and braking system.
Can I make my Polaris Outlaw 50 faster for my kid?
Yes, but only within its safe, designed limits. You can “make it faster” by ensuring it’s perfectly maintained (tire pressure, clean air filter, good chain) and by gradually adjusting the throttle limiter screw as your child’s skills improve. This allows them to access the full 10-15 MPH range safely.
What is the best way to teach a child to ride an Outlaw 50?
Start with the throttle limiter screw turned almost all the way in, limiting the speed to a brisk walk. Find a large, open, flat area free of obstacles. Teach them one skill at a time: first throttle, then braking, then turning. As they master the basics, you can slowly increase the available speed.
Why is my Outlaw 50 bogging down?
Bogging down under acceleration is most often caused by a fuel delivery problem. The most common culprit is a clogged main jet in the carburetor from old fuel. A dirty air filter or a fouled spark plug are other likely causes.
The polaris outlaw 50 top speed is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of the machine’s purpose as a safe training tool. By understanding its systems, performing regular maintenance, and prioritizing your young rider’s safety, you can ensure they have years of fun and build a solid foundation for a lifetime of off-roading. Keep up with the care, respect the limits, and watch them grow as a rider.
Ride safe, and have fun out there!
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