Quad bike review: Can-Am Outlander 450L
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Farm Trader puts the Can-Am Outlander 450L quad bike to the test.
Over the past 12 months Can-Am has released a number of new ATV and SSV models. However, it is the ATV line up that seems to share a common theme – that of a utility, hard working, farming orientated design.
Take for instance the Outlander 6x6 that comes in either the V-Twin 650cc or the powerhouse V-Twin 1000cc engine configuration. These models are without doubt a work horse that will carry more, work harder and survive in the hardest terrain or environment, even in New Zealand farming standards.
With the release of the Outlander 450L, Can-Am hopes to muscle in on what has been the largest selling segment in New Zealand, the 350-450cc range.
The Outlander 450L is quite simply an ATV that looks and feels more at home on a farm. Perhaps it's the grey colour, it's subtle and I would guess practical and hard wearing in the farming environment. The Outlander 450L has steel racks front and rear which are more traditional and familiar to farmers. The new model shares many popular design features as the larger 500-1000cc models.
The Outlander 450L boasts all the Can-Am design and engineering DNA partnered with a unique 38hp Rotax engine. The proven rotax engine offers unmatched performance while remaining both reliable and efficient. Like every other Can-Am, the 450L Rotax engine features best in class power and an industry leading power to weight ratio with superior fuel efficiency.
Taking the 450L for a drive…
Once sitting on the Outlander 450L you immediately notice the plush seat and you become aware that this bike feels a lot bigger than some of the other mid-range cc brands available on the market. The CVT (continuously variable transmission) delivers smooth power from the engine to the drive train.
When covering rough terrain the front double A-arm suspension soaks up the bumps effortlessly. The CVT means you are always in the right gear. For ease of use you can count on the integrated engine braking feature to help slow down the ATV when descending hills. A whopping 10.5 inches of ground clearance gives the Outlander 450L exceptional capabilities in challenging terrain.
Once the 4x4 is selected the system intelligently transfers power from the slipping wheel to the opposite wheel with traction and is not hampered by speed or rev limiters. For superior stopping power, large front and rear 214mm disc brakes with hydraulic twin piston callipers are standard.
With a 590kg towing capacity this new Can-Am certainly has the ability to deal with the more heavy-duty tasks with ease. A 400W magneto provides enough power to accessories like extra lights or heated grips, weed sprayer etc.
Instrumentation consists of one multi-function digital gauge: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip and hour meters, fuel, gear position, 4x4 indicator, and diagnostics.
The verdict
For those who question how well this new model will last in a local farming environment, Can-Am has a very simple response. This new model will come with the standard Can-Am three-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Pros
- 3-year unlimited km warranty
- Plenty of power combined with superior comfort and ride even over the rough stuff
- Excellent engine braking
- The price
Cons
- Head lights look cheap and nasty
- Rear storage compartment would in almost every situation get covered with dog mat or ATV attachment mounted on the rear carrier.
Read the full review in issue #217 of Farm Trader magazine. Subscribe here.
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