Choosing your next mid-size ATV can feel like navigating a minefield of specs, brand loyalty, and marketing hype. You’re looking for a machine that can work hard on the property all week and still tear up the trails on the weekend. You need reliability, capability, and solid value for your hard-earned cash.
We get it. Here at FatBoysOffroad, we’ve wrenched on, ridden, and pushed both of these machines to their limits. This is your no-nonsense, grease-under-the-fingernails guide to the polaris sportsman 570 vs can am outlander 700 debate. We promise to cut through the noise and give you the real-world breakdown you need to make the right choice.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the engine and powertrain, suspension and handling, rider comfort, real-world work capabilities, and the long-term maintenance realities of each ATV. By the end, you’ll have a crystal-clear picture of which quad belongs in your garage.
Engine and Powertrain Breakdown: The Heart of the Beast
The engine is more than just horsepower numbers; it’s about how that power is delivered. It’s the difference between a machine that lugs effortlessly up a rocky incline and one that needs to be screaming at high RPMs to get the job done.
Polaris Sportsman 570: The Proven ProStar
The Sportsman 570 is powered by the legendary 567cc ProStar engine. It’s a single-cylinder, fuel-injected mill that Polaris has been refining for years. It puts out a respectable 44 horsepower.
What we love about this engine is its predictability. The power delivery is smooth and linear, making it incredibly user-friendly for less experienced riders or for technical, slow-speed work. It’s a true workhorse that just keeps going.
Can-Am Outlander 700: The New Rotax Powerhouse
Can-Am shook things up with their new Rotax 650cc single-cylinder engine in the Outlander 500/700 platform. For the Outlander 700, this engine is tuned to produce a class-leading 50 horsepower and 41 lb-ft of torque. That’s a significant jump over the 570.
On the trail, this translates to snappier acceleration and more grunt on the top end. The Rotax feels a bit more eager to rev, which can be a ton of fun. A key design choice here is the rear-facing cylinder head, which Can-Am claims helps dissipate heat away from the rider—a nice touch on long, hot days.
Suspension, Handling, and Trail Manners: Who Owns the Bumps?
Power is useless if you can’t control it. Suspension and handling are where you feel the machine’s personality, and these two ATVs have very different approaches to soaking up the trail.
Sportsman 570: Comfort and Stability
Polaris hangs its hat on rider comfort. The Sportsman uses MacPherson struts up front with 8.2 inches of travel and a dual A-arm Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) with 9.5 inches of travel. This setup is famously plush.
It excels at soaking up small chatter and rocks, providing a smooth, Cadillac-like ride at moderate speeds. The downside? It can feel a bit soft and exhibit more body roll when you’re pushing it hard into corners. It’s built for comfort over aggressive performance.
Outlander 700: A Sportier, Firmer Ride
The Outlander 700 boasts arched dual A-arms on all four corners. This gives it more ground clearance and a sturdier feel. You get 9.75 inches of travel in the front and 10.25 inches in the rear. It’s a more modern and capable setup on paper.
The ride is noticeably firmer than the Sportsman. This provides excellent feedback and stability at higher speeds and feels more planted in corners. However, it can feel a bit harsher over slow, rocky terrain. It’s a trade-off: sportiness for a bit of plushness.
Polaris Sportsman 570 vs Can-Am Outlander 700: Ergonomics and Rider Comfort
This is a crucial part of any polaris sportsman 570 vs can am outlander 700 guide. You’ll be spending hours on this machine, so how it fits you matters. From seat comfort to control layout, the small details make a big difference.
Seat and Riding Position
The Sportsman 570 features a narrower mid-section, which many riders find more comfortable for their knees, especially on long rides. The seat is soft and well-padded, reinforcing its comfort-first design philosophy.
The Outlander 700 has a wider stance and a slightly wider feel between the knees. The seat is firmer, which some riders prefer for better support during active riding. The overall riding position feels a bit more commanding and aggressive.
Controls and Storage
Both machines have well-laid-out controls with digital displays, 4WD engagement on the fly, and good handlebar ergonomics. It really comes down to personal preference.
Where they differ is storage. The Polaris has its classic front storage box integrated into the front rack, which is super convenient. The Can-Am offers a variety of LinQ accessory mounting points, providing incredible modularity, but the standard storage is a bit less impressive without adding accessories.
Workhorse Capabilities: Towing, Hauling, and Getting the Job Done
Let’s talk utility. An ATV is a tool, and its ability to haul gear, pull a trailer, and handle chores is a primary reason for purchase. Here’s how they stack up when it’s time to work.
The Polaris Sportsman 570 boasts a stout 1,350 lb towing capacity. Its steel racks are simple but effective, with a front capacity of 90 lbs and a rear capacity of 180 lbs. It’s a proven setup that works.
The Can-Am Outlander 700 raises the bar significantly with an impressive 1,830 lb towing capacity. That’s a huge advantage if you’re pulling heavy trailers with firewood or feed. Its composite racks are rated for 120 lbs up front and 240 lbs in the rear.
For pure, raw utility numbers, the Can-Am is the clear winner. The benefits of its stronger frame and higher towing capacity are undeniable for serious work applications.
Maintenance and Ownership: A DIY Mechanic’s Perspective
This is where the rubber meets the road for us at FatBoysOffroad. A machine that’s a nightmare to work on can sour the ownership experience fast. This is your essential polaris sportsman 570 vs can am outlander 700 care guide.
Ease of Service
The Sportsman 570 is a known quantity. Accessing the oil filter, drain plug, and air filter is straightforward. Parts are plentiful and generally affordable. The layout is traditional and familiar to any DIYer.
The new Outlander 700 platform was designed with serviceability in mind. Can-Am made a big deal about making key service points accessible without removing panels. The oil filter and dipstick are right there, and the airbox is easy to get to. This is a huge plus for those who do their own maintenance.
Common Problems and Long-Term Reliability
Here are some of the common problems with polaris sportsman 570 vs can am outlander 700 to be aware of.
- Sportsman 570: Early models had some heat issues near the rider’s right leg, but this has been largely addressed. Bushings, especially in the A-arms, are a common wear item. We recommend upgrading to a quality aftermarket set from a brand like All Balls Racing when the time comes.
- Outlander 700: As a newer platform, its long-term quirks are still being discovered. However, the Rotax engines have a solid reputation. One thing to watch is the complexity of the electronics; always ensure your battery connections are clean and tight.
Pro Tips for Sustainable Ownership
Thinking about a sustainable polaris sportsman 570 vs can am outlander 700 ownership experience? It’s about making the machine last and minimizing your impact. Proper maintenance is the most eco-friendly thing you can do.
- Grease is Your Friend: Get a good quality grease gun and use it. Regularly hitting all the zerk fittings on the suspension and driveline will dramatically extend the life of your components.
- Check Your Fluids: Before every ride, do a quick walkaround. Check your engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. A small leak caught in the garage is better than a major failure on the trail.
- Keep it Clean: Washing your ATV isn’t just for looks. It removes corrosive mud and allows you to spot potential issues like torn CV boots or loose bolts.
The Bottom Line: Price, Value, and Final Verdict
So, how do you choose?
The Polaris Sportsman 570 is the undisputed king of comfort and proven reliability. If your priority is a plush ride for long days of trail cruising or light-duty farm work, it is an absolutely fantastic choice. It represents incredible value and has a massive aftermarket support system.
The Can-Am Outlander 700 is the new-school challenger with more power, higher capability, and a sportier feel. If you need best-in-class towing and hauling, or if you prefer a more aggressive, performance-oriented ride, the Outlander is tough to beat. It feels more modern and is built for heavy-duty tasks.
Our best advice? Try to ride both. How a machine feels to you is the most important factor. What feels plush to one person might feel sloppy to another. What feels firm and sporty might just feel harsh. Find a dealer that allows test rides and see which one puts a bigger smile on your face.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sportsman 570 vs Outlander 700
Which ATV is better for a beginner?
The Polaris Sportsman 570 is often considered slightly more beginner-friendly due to its smoother, more linear power delivery and softer suspension. It’s very forgiving and easy to manage at low speeds.
Is the extra horsepower of the Can-Am Outlander 700 really noticeable?
Yes. While 6 horsepower might not sound like much, you can feel it in the acceleration and when climbing steep hills. The Outlander feels snappier and more responsive to throttle input.
What are the key maintenance differences I should know about?
The biggest difference is the newness of the Can-Am platform. While designed for easy service, some specific procedures might be less documented online compared to the Sportsman 570, which has over a decade of DIY videos and forum posts available. Both require diligent adherence to the service schedule in the owner’s manual.
Which machine is better for mud riding?
With its higher ground clearance from the factory arched A-arms and slightly more powerful engine, the Can-Am Outlander 700 has a slight edge for mudding right out of the box. However, both machines have excellent aftermarket support for mud-specific tires and snorkel kits.
Ultimately, the battle between the Sportsman 570 and the Outlander 700 is a win for riders. We have two incredible, highly capable machines competing for the top spot. Do your homework, consider your primary use, and choose the one that best fits your style. No matter which you pick, you’re getting a fantastic ATV.
Get out there, get dirty, and ride safe!
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