Polaris has been making waves this summer with their new releases, including the Xpedition overland rig and the 1500 heavy-duty side-by-side. Their latest addition is the RZR Pro R Factory, a dedicated racing UTV. Not to be outdone, Can-Am has entered the scene with their all-new Maverick R lineup, This move signaling their intention to dominate the market with a focus on power, speed, suspension travel, and aesthetic.
The Maverick R lineup consists of three models: the Maverick R, the R X, and the R X RS. The R X RS is available with either Fox Podium shocks or Fox’s electronically adaptive Smart Shox units. These UTVs have a width of 77 inches and a wheelbase of 108 inches.
Making use Of Internal Suppliers:
Can-Am’s parent company, Bombardier Recreational Products, also owns Austrian engine maker Rotax. The Maverick R is powered by a turbocharged 999-cc three cylinder Rotax engine, delivering 240 horsepower. This engine features a closed deck and aluminum block, along with a dry sump oil system. The Maverick R sets a new standard for stock output, surpassing Polaris’ RZR Pro R by 15 horsepower. Notable features of the Rotax engine include dual injectors for each cylinder and an electronically controlled wastegate. Engineers have incorporated a boost pre-load system, activated in Sport+ driving mode, which acts as a launch control by shutting down the middle cylinder.
The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R is equipped with Rotax’s first-ever dual-clutch transmission, a seven-speed gearbox with high and low ranges that can be shifted on the fly. In certain Maverick models, paddle shifters are available, providing a more engaging driving experience. This dual-clutch transmission is a significant step forward in the UTV market, as most vehicles have traditionally used CVTs.
Standout Suspension:
One of the standout features of the Maverick R lineup is its tall-knuckle suspension. The suspension offers an impressive 25 inches of front travel and 26 inches of rear travel. Using stamped steel upper and lower control arms, forged aluminum knuckles, and trailing arm setup. These numbers are typically seen in high-performance race rigs and demonstrate Can-Am’s commitment to providing exceptional suspension capabilities. Can-Am claims that the design of the tall-knuckle suspension offers numerous benefits, including improved stability, higher torsional rigidity, reduced stress on components, and a repositioned roll center that enhances safety by mitigating the risk of rollovers.
The Maverick R comes standard with either 15 inch or 16 inch aluminum wheels, depending on the trim. The 16 inch wheels have a six-lug pattern commonly found on pickups, expanding the options for customization. The stock tires are either 30 inch or 32 inch ITP Tenacity XNRs. For those wanting larger the setup can accommodate tires up to 35 inches. The braking system features a three-piston caliper in the front that clamps onto a 10.4 inch disc, while a two-piston caliper in the rear grips a 10 inch disc.
The interior of the Maverick R offers car-like features, such as a 10.25 inch infotainment screen on equipped models, steering wheel buttons, a telescoping steering column, and paddle shifters.
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