Testing Can-Am’s latest ATVs and SSVs

The event site presented a rigorous testing ground; a mix of muddy, rut-filled tracks, stony paths, expansive farmland, steep hills, dense forests, and even a specially designed assault course with challenging sand pits and sharply undulating terrain.

Weather conditions were optimal, with bright sunshine and temperatures hovering around 12ºC.

Across the four-hour test drive, Farmers Guide had the chance to thoroughly evaluate several Can-Am models, including the utility focused Outlander Pro HD5, HD7, the powerful, performance-focused Outlander 1000R, and the versatile Traxter, in both wheeled and tracked configurations.

Generational upgrades

Improvements from the previous generation of ATVs are expansive and include significant enhancements in engine power and torque.

For example, the Outlander 1000R now boasts 101hp from its 999cc Rotax engine, an increase from the previous generation’s 91hp.

The new power unit offers increased performance through a higher compression ratio of 11.8:1 compared to 10.6:1 in earlier models, increasing efficiency and power per cc.

A redesigned CVT system complements the engine upgrades, featuring a new pDrive primary clutch that claims to deliver smoother and faster gear shifts with significantly reduced noise and vibration.

This system has been paired with a revised CVT ratio that enhances low-end torque, which Can-Am claims is an essential upgrade for heavy-duty agricultural tasks.

Additionally, the new drivetrain features spiral bevel gears which are claimed to reduce overall noise and improve reliability.

The suspension systems have undergone substantial revisions. Both front and rear suspensions now use an arched A-arm design, significantly increasing suspension travel, and increasing ground clearance to 30.5cm.

The introduction of a new dynamic power steering (DPS) calibration improves turning radius and stability at higher speeds.

Regarding ergonomics and design, the newly designed seat and footboards help to improve rider comfort, particularly during extended use.

Can-Am was keen to highlight the advanced computer simulations used to improve heat management through optimisation of airflow and carefully placed heat shielding.

Maintenance accessibility has also been improved, with toolless access to critical components.

Advanced technology is available, should you want it, such as with the new optional 10.25in touchscreen display that’s available on premium models, offering intuitive interfaces, detailed vehicle diagnostics, and built in navigation capabilities.

Key features

One of the event highlights was the innovative LinQ accessory system, which allowed swift and low effort swapping of attachments and accessories without tools.

This system was clearly practical, allowing swapping of attachments in conditions farmers will often face: darkness, wet weather, or when heavy gloves are necessary.

Simply put, the LinQ system ensures accessories like storage boxes, gun cases, or fuel caddies can be secured and/or swapped in seconds.

One standout feature observed was the front-mounted implements, such as brushes, snowploughs, and mowers.

BRP’s business development manager for the utility market, Aymeric Collot, shared firsthand experiences from his own vineyard, highlighting how quickly and effectively he was able to clear barns and storage areas.

He emphasised how essential these front-mounted attachments were in daily vineyard management and property maintenance, reinforcing the practical utility farmers and estate managers would undoubtedly appreciate.

In relation to the implements, the ease with which they could be swapped and attached using the vehicle’s integrated winch was readily observable.

This approach demonstrated notable efficiency, significantly reducing the time and effort required for changing implements, improving flexibility and responsiveness of farm operations.

Can-Am also highlighted the safety features that are present in its vehicles.

Each ATV and SSV tested featured a robust ABS, which, during testing, offered reliable stopping power even under abrupt braking conditions on loose or muddy terrain.

The vehicles also incorporated individual, digitally coded keys that are unique to each vehicle, significantly enhancing theft prevention – a feature increasingly valuable to rural operators concerned about security.

One particularly impressive feature that was tested involved Can-Am’s Intelligent Engine Braking (IEB) system.

When navigating steep descents, the adjustable system would kick-in automatically, allowing for precise speed management without relying heavily on the vehicle’s brakes.

Adjustments to braking strength were intuitive, utilising a small rocker switch on the handlebars easily accessible by the thumb.

Adjustments to braking strength could be made on the fly – an ideal feature for safely managing heavy loads down slippery or uneven slopes commonly found on farms.

Testing also highlighted the versatility and user-friendliness of the traction control systems.

Shifting between 2wd and 4wd modes was seamless, doable while moving, and provided immediate adaptability to changing terrain conditions.

Whether encountering deep mud, loose gravel, or steep climbs, the vehicles effortlessly transitioned every time, offering consistent traction and confidence-inspiring stability.

Comfort and ergonomics were evidently high on Can-Am’s priority list; after approximately four hours of non-stop rigorous testing, including continuous riding and operating across challenging terrain, rider fatigue was minimal – a testament to the vehicles’ carefully designed ergonomics and ease-of-use.

The seating was supportive yet comfortable, controls intuitive, and the ride quality impressively smooth even on rough, uneven ground.

Ergonomic considerations such as a well-positioned, and newly improved gear lever (H, L, P, N, R) made shifting straightforward and quick, further reducing operator fatigue.

The heat management system, crucial on powerful vehicles like the Outlander 1000R, performed exceptionally well.

Even during prolonged operation, there was no perceived heat discomfort and certainly no risk of burns to the insides of legs from hot engine components, highlighting another subtle yet essential detail that greatly enhances user experience and safety.

Ease of maintenance was prominently discussed.

Major serviceable components, such as the air filter, engine, and CVT gearbox were readily accessible via either single-piece side panels or by simply lifting the dashboard.

This streamlined approach significantly simplifies routine maintenance tasks, reducing downtime and enhancing the practicality of these vehicles in demanding, busy agricultural operations.

Traxter SSV

The versatility of the Traxter SSV series was on full display. Featuring easily removable side panels on the cargo bed, the Traxter allows farmers to convert quickly to a flatbed configuration, providing versatile load-carrying options.

With a towing capacity of up to 1,134kg, the Traxter could handle some tasks typically reserved for small tractors.

The tracked version of the Traxter was also trialled and offered exceptional traction in all conditions tested.

Whilst primarily marketed towards regions with heavy snow and ice, it would offer advantages in challenging terrains also regularly found in the UK, such as very muddy fields and slopes.

Additionally, Can-Am emphasised its thoughtful approach to designing comfortable, intuitive interiors in the SSVs.

Adjustable seating and steering wheels, USB sockets, and other optional extras in Traxter models ensure operators of all sizes can comfortably control and manoeuvre vehicles over extended periods.

Features like reinforced seat covers also cater specifically to the tough, demanding farm environment.

In a conversation with BRPs senior advisor for consumer experience, Olaf Veltman, he highlighted that Can-Am’s utility vehicles are becoming increasingly attractive due to their combination of functionality and competitive pricing.

He went on to point out that these vehicles can offer substantial capabilities at a fraction of the cost of even a low-end tractor, making them an appealing, cost-effective choice for farms requiring versatile and reliable machinery without the significant investment associated with traditional farming equipment.

Lasting impressions

The strongest overall impression that remains from the testing was the sheer ease and accessibility of the vehicles.

The Outlander and Traxter models delivered a genuinely intuitive “twist-and-go” feel, making operation straightforward, even for those who might be less experienced.

Additionally, regardless of the task at hand, each vehicle tested felt that it consistently had ample power reserves available.

Can-Am’s latest range of ATVs and SSVs represent a compelling option for agricultural users looking for productivity, safety, and comfort.

Through innovation like the LinQ accessory system, adaptable traction control, intelligent engine braking, impressive ergonomics, easy maintenance access, and robust practical features, these vehicles are more than capable.

The practical feedback from first-hand testing has clearly underlined Can-Am’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the agricultural community.

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