On the suspension side, Can-Am takes things even further on the new Outlander Max LTD by adding pneumatic springs to assist the base steel springs at the rear. Riders can select one of six spring tension (And preload at the same time) levels on the handlebar. This system uses a compressor located under the seat, that can also be used to inflate the tires or an air mattress if you are at the beach.

Well, Dad will certainly have enough room to move around and find his sweet spot on that seat!

Well thought out ergonomics
The Can-Am Outlander Max 800R EFI LTD features every piece of equipment you may need for both work and play: front and rear equipment racks with storage box, heavy-duty front and rear bumpers, trailer hitch, hand guards, nice wide mud guards and deflectors, 12-volt outlet, Garmin GPS with heated stand, winch with wireless remote control, aluminium wheels, and complete digital dash. And of course, this baby counts on a 650-watt alternator, a 150-watt increase over the old version, to power this long list of accessories and electric tools.

The passenger seat, foot rests and two ergonomic handles have been raised to provide a better view of the scenery. What’s more, the Convertible Rack System (CRS) allows the passenger seat to be replaced by a storage compartment in a few seconds.

On the trail
Thanks to the most powerful engine in the industry, the Outlander Max 800R EFI LTD leaps forward at the slightest invitation, enough to make us forget about the 325 kilos of the machine when fully loaded. The big V-twin pushes hard right up to the Outlander’s top speed, near 140 km/h. Unfortunately, braking power didn’t feel up to the task when riding quickly; so a little restraint would be a wise thing, especially when riding tandem while carrying gear.

The engine and new transmission elements deliver instantaneous throttle response at the slightest request, thanks in good part to the excellent level of traction. The DPS keeps rider effort to a comfortable minimum no matter the obstacle, be it mud, rock or stump. On top of reducing rider fatigue, the DPS system’s “Max” mode also absorbs a good deal of the impacts normally transmitted from the wheels to the steering in these conditions. At higher speeds, the steering system becomes too power assisted and slightly vague in Max mode; so much so that you are better off switching to the Min mode, which reduces power assistance, increases steering precision, and provides some feedback to the handlebars.

Push a bit harder - the machine can take it.