Will A Can Am Outlander Fit In A Truck Bed

You’ve got your Can-Am Outlander prepped, the gear is packed, and the trail is calling your name. There’s just one nagging question standing between you and a weekend of mud-slinging fun: you’re staring at your ATV and then at your truck, asking, will a Can Am Outlander fit in a truck bed?

It’s a puzzle every new ATV owner tries to solve. You see people do it all the time, but you also hear the horror stories of broken rear windows, bent tailgates, and sketchy loading ramp failures.

We’re here to cut through the guesswork. This isn’t just a simple yes or no answer. This is your complete, step-by-step guide from the experts at FatBoysOffroad. We promise to give you the measurements, the safe loading techniques, and the pro tips you need to do this right.

In this guide, we’ll break down the exact dimensions you need to check, match popular Outlander models with common truck bed sizes, and walk you through a bulletproof loading process. Let’s get you loaded up and on the road safely.

The Critical First Step: Why “It Depends” Is the Only Honest Answer

Asking if an Outlander fits in a truck bed is like asking if a tire fits on a wheel—you need more information! The answer depends entirely on two key factors: your specific Outlander model and your specific truck bed size.

A nimble, single-seat Outlander 450 has a completely different footprint than a beastly, two-up Outlander MAX 1000. Likewise, a Ford F-150 with a short 5.5-foot bed presents a different challenge than a Silverado with a full 8-foot long bed.

This is where our comprehensive will a can am outlander fit in a truck bed guide begins: with the tape measure. Getting this right is the foundation for a safe and successful haul.

Know Your Numbers: Measuring Your Rig and Your Ride

Before you even think about buying ramps, you need to grab a tape measure and get some hard numbers. Guessing is the fastest way to cause expensive damage to your truck or your ATV.

Can-Am Outlander Dimensions: The Key Specs

Can-Am offers a wide range of Outlander models, and their sizes vary. While you should always check the official specs for your exact year and model, here are some general dimensions for popular Outlanders to get you started:

Can-Am Outlander 450/570 (Single Rider): Approximately 86 inches long x 48 inches wide.
Can-Am Outlander 850/1000 (Single Rider): Approximately 86 inches long x 48 inches wide.
Can-Am Outlander MAX (2-Up Models): Approximately 94 inches long x 48 inches wide.

The two most important numbers here are the overall length and the overall width. The width is especially crucial because it has to clear your truck’s wheel wells.

How to Accurately Measure Your Truck Bed

Now, let’s head over to your truck. Don’t rely on the manufacturer’s listed “bed size,” as that number can be misleading. Get these three measurements yourself:

Length with Tailgate UP: Measure from the inside of the bulkhead (the part against the cab) to the inside of your closed tailgate.
Length with Tailgate DOWN: Measure from the bulkhead to the very end of your open tailgate. This is your total available surface length.
Width Between the Wheel Wells: This is the most critical measurement. Measure the narrowest point between the two humps in your truck bed. Most Outlanders are around 48 inches wide, so if your measurement is less than 49-50 inches, it’s a no-go.

Keep these numbers handy. They are your ticket to knowing for sure.

The Match-Up: Will a Can-Am Outlander Fit in a Truck Bed?

With your measurements in hand, let’s look at some common scenarios. This is where we directly answer the question of how to will a can am outlander fit in a truck bed based on truck size.

Full-Size Trucks (F-150, Ram 1500, Silverado, Tundra)

These trucks generally have the width and payload capacity to handle an Outlander, but the bed length is key.

Short Beds (5.5′ – 5.8′): A standard single-seat Outlander (approx. 86 inches, or 7’2″) will not fit with the tailgate closed. You will have to transport it with the tailgate down, with the rear tires resting securely on the tailgate itself.
Standard Beds (6.5′): This is often the sweet spot. A single-seat Outlander will fit snugly, and you might be able to close the tailgate, or it may rest lightly against the tires. It’s a perfect fit with the tailgate down.
Long Beds (8′): This is the easiest option. A single-seat Outlander will fit with plenty of room to spare, allowing you to close the tailgate completely. Most Outlander MAX models will also fit in an 8-foot bed with the tailgate closed.

Mid-Size Trucks (Tacoma, Ranger, Colorado, Frontier)

This is where things get tight. The primary concern with mid-size trucks is often the width between the wheel wells and the lower payload capacity.

Most mid-size trucks have just enough width (around 50 inches) to squeeze a standard Outlander in. However, virtually all standard and MAX models will be too long to fit with the tailgate up. You will be hauling with the tailgate down 100% of the time.

Pro Tip: With a mid-size truck, pay close attention to your payload sticker inside the driver’s door. An Outlander (700-900 lbs), plus you, your passengers, and gear can quickly approach the limit.

The Safe Loading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Knowing it fits is only half the battle. Getting it in there safely is what separates a good day from a trip to the emergency room. Follow these will a can am outlander fit in a truck bed best practices every single time.

Essential Loading Gear

Do not attempt this without the right equipment. “Making it work” is not an option.

High-Quality Arched Ramps: Get a pair of aluminum ramps rated for at least 1,500 lbs. Arched ramps are crucial to prevent your ATV from “bottoming out” on the tailgate as it transitions into the bed.
Ramp Safety Straps: Your ramps must come with safety straps. These connect the ramps to your truck’s hitch or frame, preventing them from kicking out from under the ATV—the #1 cause of loading accidents.
Heavy-Duty Ratchet Straps: You need a minimum of four 1.5-inch or 2-inch wide ratchet straps with a high working load limit to secure the ATV.
A Spotter: Never load alone. A second set of eyes is invaluable for guiding you and reacting in an emergency.
Your Helmet and Gloves: Things can go wrong fast. Protect yourself.

The Loading Checklist

Follow these steps in order. No shortcuts.

Find Level Ground: Never load on a hill or uneven surface. An incline dramatically increases the risk of a tip-over.
Secure The Ramps: Place the ramps on the tailgate, spaced for your Outlander’s tires. CRUCIALLY, run the safety straps from each ramp to a solid point on your truck. Pull them tight!
Engage 4WD Low: Put your Outlander in 4-Low. This gives you maximum torque and control, preventing you from needing too much throttle.
Line Up Straight: Get a straight shot up the ramps. Have your spotter confirm you are centered.
Load with a Steady Throttle: Gently and steadily apply the throttle. The goal is to crawl up the ramps in one smooth, continuous motion. Never gun it and never stop halfway up.
Center the Weight: Drive the Outlander all the way in until the front tires lightly touch the bulkhead of the truck bed. This centers the machine’s weight over or slightly in front of your truck’s rear axle.
Secure the Machine: Turn off the ATV, put it in Park, and engage the parking brake before you even think about dismounting.

Common Problems With Will a Can Am Outlander Fit in a Truck Bed

We’ve seen it all. Here are the most common mistakes people make—and how you can avoid them. Don’t let a simple oversight ruin your trip.

Ignoring Your Truck’s Payload Capacity

This is a huge one. Your truck’s payload is the total weight it can safely carry, including passengers, fuel, cargo, and your ATV. A Can-Am Outlander can weigh between 700 and 950 pounds. Add two adults and some gear, and you could be overloading a half-ton truck, especially a mid-size one. Check the sticker on your driver-side door jamb and do the math.

Using Short, Straight, or Unsecured Ramps

This is the single most dangerous mistake. Short, straight planks of wood or cheap, unrated ramps are an accident waiting to happen. If the ramps aren’t secured with straps, the force of the rear tires hitting them can kick them right out from under you.

Forgetting About Your Rear Window

The classic blunder. When loading, it’s easy to misjudge and have the front rack or bumper of your Outlander smash right through your truck’s rear window. Always load slowly and have your spotter watch the clearance.

Over-Stressing Your Tailgate Cables

If you’re hauling with the rear tires on the tailgate, those two little support cables are holding hundreds of pounds. For occasional trips, they’re usually fine. If you do this often, invest in a set of tailgate support bars that brace the tailgate against the trailer hitch to take the load off the cables.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hauling Your Outlander

Can I close my tailgate with an Outlander in the truck bed?

For most truck and ATV combinations, the answer is no. Unless you have a single-seat Outlander and an 8-foot long bed, you should plan on driving with the tailgate down. Always ensure the ATV’s rear tires are fully and securely on the bed or tailgate surface.

Do I really need to worry about payload capacity?

Yes, absolutely. Exceeding your payload capacity puts immense stress on your truck’s suspension, brakes, and frame. It makes the vehicle handle poorly and can lead to catastrophic failure. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a critical safety limit.

Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable will a can am outlander fit in a truck bed considerations?

That’s a great question. While hauling an ATV isn’t inherently eco-friendly, you can adopt sustainable practices. This includes buying high-quality, durable gear like ramps and straps that won’t need frequent replacement, reducing waste. It also falls under a proper will a can am outlander fit in a truck bed care guide: ensure your ATV is well-maintained to prevent fluid leaks (oil, coolant) in your truck bed and, ultimately, on the trail.

Is it just better to use a trailer?

A trailer is often the safer and easier option, especially for larger MAX models, long-distance trips, or if you have a mid-size truck. A trailer puts less strain on your truck’s suspension and frees up your bed for gear. However, for quick, local trips, using the truck bed is incredibly convenient if done correctly.

The bottom line is to measure twice, load once, and always put safety first. Knowing your equipment’s limits is the mark of a smart rider. By following this guide, you’ve got the knowledge to make the right call for your specific setup.

Now that you know how to do it right, get loaded up, drive safe, and go find some adventure. We’ll see you on the trail!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.