Introducing the 2017 Can-Am Defender MAX
- Updated: March 29, 2016
The tough, capable and clever Can-Am Defender family of side-by-side vehicles gives drivers a leg up over the competition in the agricultural, hunting and outdoor market segments. The addition of the new Defender MAX family offers comfortable seating for up to six adults, unmatched versatility with its pick-up truck-inspired features and enhanced stability from its 115.5-in. (293.4 cm) long chassis.
The Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle is available with either a 72-hp Rotax HD10 or a 50-hp Rotax HD8 heavy-duty engine. With either package, the rear-mounted engine is joined to a PRO-TORQ Transmission with an exclusive Quick Response System (QRS) that enhances low-speed riding and offers smooth engagement, as well as better belt life and true dependability with its optimized ventilation and electronic belt protection.
The Defender MAX vehicle has a 32.5-in. (82.5 cm) longer chassis (compared to the single bench seat Defender) with automotive-like technology and fabrication tolerances that are in line with the quality and strength found in modern pick-up trucks. An easy and cost-effective maintenance system requires no break-in maintenance and lets owners spend more time doing what they need to do – getting jobs done.
When it comes to hard work, the Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle impresses with its class-leading towing, hauling and payload capabilities. A Can-Am-exclusive TTA-HD rear suspension provides optimal comfort, drivability and durability, and has 10 inches (25.4 cm) of travel.
The Defender MAX vehicle is also laden with unmatched terrain competencies by way of its versatile 4-mode traction system, three selectable engine operating modes, superb tight turning radius and available, specific-tuned Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) system for enhanced maneuverability.
All Can-Am Defender vehicles are built with clever and adaptable solutions to work smarter. The versatile cargo box dumps easily and can haul up to 1,000 pounds (454 kg). Furthermore, it is compatible with the Can-Am LinQ quick-attach accessory system and is functionally designed for the workingman with multiple integrated recesses, cutouts, walls and tie-down points.
A roomy and intuitive cockpit features tilt steering, an A-pillar that has been configured to improve entry/exit and visibility, and dual VERSA-PRO bench seats with two 40/20/40 profiled benches that comfortably accommodates up to six adults. The industry’s most versatile cockpit provides ample in-dash storage with an exclusive removable toolbox, available removable waterproof under-seat storage, cup holders and more. Owners can customize the Defender MAX side-by-side with numerous cabin options for work, recreational use and hunting.
Identifying Defender MAX Features vs. Defender
- Dual VERSA-PRO bench seats
- Seating for 6 adults (1 driver and 5 passengers)
- Folding passenger seats, both front and rear
- Rear lateral grab bar strategically positioned for a natural hold and footrests
- Central armrests, front and rear
- Six cup holders (2 in dash, 4 total in front and rear center armrests)
- 152.5 in. (387.5 cm) long; 32.5-in. (82.5 cm) longer chassis
- 1,750-lb. (793.8 kg) payload
- Four 220 mm disc brakes with hydraulic twin-piston calipers
- 26-in. (66 cm) tires (DPS)
- 10-in. (25.4 cm) ground clearance (DPS)
- 11.1-gal. (42.1 L) of storage (DPS)
- 16.9-gal. (63.9 L) of storage (XT)
- Full-length, hard roof (XT)
For information:
www.brp.com
www.can-am.brp.com
DEFENDER MAX FAMILY MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
DPS PACKAGE
• Two heavy-duty, high-torque V-Twin engine choices: 72-hp Rotax HD10 or 50-hp Rotax HD8
• PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick Response System, high airflow ventilation and Electronic Drive Belt Protection. Extra-L / H / N / R / P)
• 1-year maintenance free (1,865 miles / 3,000 km or 200 hours)
• Easy access to key maintenance components
• High-precision, HSLA chassis
• 4-mode traction system including a Turf Mode
• 10-inch (25.4 cm) ground clearance
• Double A-arm front suspension with twin tube gas charged shock (10-inch travel)
• TTA-HD rear suspension with external sway bar and twin tube gas charged shock (10-inch travel)
• Lightweight 26-inch Maxxis tires on 12-inch cast-aluminum wheels
• Four 220 mm brake discs
• 140-W lighting output and LED tail lights
• Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)
• Visco-Lok QE front differential
• Tight turn radius
• 2,000-pound (907.2 kg) tow rating
• 1,000-pound (454 kg) cargo box load (600-pound in California)
• 1,750-pound (793.8 kg) payload
• 2-inch rear hitch receiver
• 650W magneto
• Lighter-type DC outlet in console (20-A)
• 12-V (18 amp/h) battery
• Integrated front steel bumper
• Central skid plate
• Multifunction cargo box with sturdy tailgate that holds up to 250 pounds / 113 kg
• 11.1-gal. (42.1 L) of storage including a water-resistant removable toolbox and under-dash compartments
• Dual VERSA-PRO bench seats for six adults
• Roomy and intuitive cockpit
• Adjustable tilt steering wheel
• Centrally located multifunction digital gauge cluster with open storage area
• Optimized A-pillar placement for improved visibility and easy entry / exit
• Multiple cup holders
• Rugged ergonomically configured grab bar and three foot rests for passengers
• Profiled cage with flush mount for available Can-Am cabin accessories
• Colors: Green, Yellow; exclusive water-dipped Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo
XT PACKAGE ADDS
• 4,500-pound (1.81 kg) winch
• 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
• 14-inch black cast-aluminum wheels
• Full hard roof
• Enhanced dual VERSA-PRO bench seats with reinforced seat skin and adjustable driver’s seat
• 16.9-gal. (63.9 L) of storage including a removable waterproof under seat storage
• Multifunction analog/digital gauge cluster with enclosed storage
• 3-driving modes Eco/Work/Normal
• Full skid plate
• Colors: Painted Intense Red, Painted Pure Magnesium Metallic, exclusive water-dipped Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo
TOUGH
Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles share the same proven heavy-duty Rotax engines, PRO-TORQ Transmission, high precision, rigid chassis, TTA-HD rear suspension and easy serviceability as the single-bench seat Defender. Designed to be reliable and easy to service, the Can-Am Defender side-by-side vehicle is available in two different packages (DPS and XT), has no break-in requirements and is maintenance free for the first year (1,865 miles / 3,000 km or 200 hours). When it comes to a dependable, rugged modern-day workhorse, nothing compares to the 2017 Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle, engineered to be tough, capable and clever.
Rotax V-Twin Engines
The Defender MAX DPS side-by-side vehicle offers two very capable power plant options. The 72-hp Rotax HD10 V-Twin is specifically tuned for serious work but also offers 61 lb-ft torque and peak torque at lower RPM for optimal delivery during recreational use. The work-focused Rotax HD8 V-Twin delivers 50 horsepower and 50 lb-ft torque for tough tasks.
PRO-TORQ Transmission
The PRO-TORQ Transmission is specifically calibrated to meet the utilitarian demands of the Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle. This new generation of transmission features a Quick Response System (QRS) that enhances low-speed riding, delivers smoother and more responsive power delivery and offers precise engagement. Larger CVT ratios with a work-specific low gear ensure optimal torque delivery for heavy loads. At low speeds, optimized ventilation improves belt durability and ensures more efficient power transfer. The Electronic Drive Belt Protection monitors the CVT belt to determine its condition and alerting the driver when necessary. This device offers belt-spotting protection to alert the driver if he or she is in high gear, but should be in low gear. The vehicle will not move and a “LOW GEAR” message will appear on the gauge, alerting the driver. The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles also come standard with Park, Reverse, Neutral, High and extra Low. The system offers smooth shifting, along with integrated hill descent control for smooth, predictable deceleration.
A helical gear transmission provides a quiet environment for the operator. The rear, maintenance-free differential gear-on-gear components are efficient, responsive and also built to last.
Maintenance free for one year
With zero break-in maintenance required and an annual maintenance schedule, Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles reduce total maintenance costs for owners. The yearly advised maintenance intervals are 1,865 miles (3,000 km) or 200 hours.
Easy access for serviceability
Can-Am engineers, gathering insights and feedback from owners, created a convenient platform for service, improving access to components with a special focus on do-it-yourself and ease of maintenance. A Service Center is located beneath the front hood with easy access to brake fluid, toolkit, fuse box and diagnostic connector. The rear-end also features easily-reachable maintenance elements such as engine bay, oil dipstick, air filter, CVT, transmission and coolant. Other critical parts such as the battery, bushings, drainage /cleaning holes and lightbulbs have been also strategically positioned for a quick-access.
High rigidity chassis
The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle is an extremely capable off-road vehicle and a legitimate workhorse that uses a 32.5-in. (82.5 cm) longer chassis with automotive-like technology and fabrication tolerances that are in line with modern pick-up trucks. The high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) grade steel means a more rigid frame to withstand even the toughest chores.
650W magneto
The Defender MAX side-by-side has a powerful 650W magneto capable of handling high-powered lighting and other electrical accessories.
Integrated central front steel bumper
The front bumper offers protection for the front end, yet is minimalistic in its appearance.
Central skid plate
A full-length, central skid plate lines the underside on the Defender MAX vehicles to protect the vehicle from contact.
CAPABLE
Defender MAX vehicles are engineered to offer versatile performance in varying terrain with control, whether it’s for serious work or recreational enjoyment. The Defender MAX family is outfitted with a dependable and plush suspension, tight turning radius for unmatched terrain capabilities and maneuverability to supply drivers the confidence to go practically anywhere. The Defender MAX lineup also features industry-leading towing, hauling and payload capacities.
True 4-mode traction system with Turf Mode and front auto-locking Visco-Lok QE
The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle offers a new 4-mode traction system with choices for varying terrain and tasks. Users, via separate front-and-rear toggle switches, can select between a 2×4 open rear differential for tight turning and turf protection, a 2×4 lockable rear for improved 2WD traction, a 4×4 open rear for more maneuverability in rugged terrain and a 4×4 locked rear for maximum traction. Regardless of mode, the Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle is designed to offer a tight turning radius for improved maneuvering in tight, technical terrain. The rear differential is gear-on-gear to the transmission for better response, no maintenance, better efficiency and fewer components.
Double A-arm front suspension with twin tube gas charged shock (10-inch / 25.4 cm travel)
Defender MAX vehicles have a front double A-Arm suspension system designed to offer predictable handling and control even in difficult terrain. With 10 inches of travel, the ride is smooth in all situations, even when carrying heavy loads.
TTA-HD rear suspension (10-inch / 25.4 cm travel)
The Defender MAX heavy-duty Torsional Trailing A-arms (TTA-HD) are designed specifically for utility and recreational usage, offering a full 10-in. (25.4 cm) of travel to provide a smooth ride whatever the terrain. Its architecture offers optimal comfort and drivability in all conditions, thanks to no camber.
10-inch (25.4 cm) ground clearance
Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles offer 10 inches (25.4 cm) of ground clearance for maximum performance for conquering difficult terrain or carrying a maximum load.
Lightweight 26-inch Maxxis tires on 12-inch cast-aluminum wheels
The DPS package includes 12-in. (30.5 cm) cast-aluminum wheels with 26-in. (66 cm) Maxxis tires. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo color includes 12-inch black aluminum wheels.
Four 220 mm disc brakes with hydraulic piston calipers
The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle uses front and rear twin piston calipers with two 220 mm discs up for superior stopping force, even when pulling heavy loads.
140-W lighting output and LED tail lights
For a superb wide-visibility, two 35-W reflectors on each side run at 140 watts on high beam to provide superb candlepower for early-morning scouting trips, trail rides or late-night farm chores. Taillights are LED for enhanced visibility in all conditions and confer a new level of refinement.
Dynamic Power Steering
The specific DPS system is tuned for utility applications while also offering responsiveness for recreational use. DPS improves steering feel in slow-speed working situations and in more technical terrain. It also is engineered to offer less assistance at high speed and more assistance at low speed.
Tight turning radius
Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles have a tight 17.3 feet (527 cm) turning radius for easy maneuverability in restricted work environments, hauling heavy loads and for recreational use. When turning a full circle, the vehicle has a 2-foot (60.9 cm) shorter diameter than the segment’s top-selling competitor.
Towing / Hauling / Payload
Handling serious chores is simpler thanks to the Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle’s strong Rotax V-Twin engines and exceptional towing, hauling and payload capacities. The Defender MAX side-by-side is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds (907.2 kg), haul up to 1,000 pounds / 454 kg (600 pounds / 272.2 kg in California model) in its large cargo box and has a 1,750-pound (793.8 kg) payload capacity.
2-inch rear hitch receiver
All Can-Am Defender models feature a 2-inch hitch receiver. Its standard size means a hitch can be transferred directly from a work truck.
Fuel Tank
Combined with an industry-leading 10.6-gal. (40 L) fuel tank and excellent fuel efficiency, the Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles provide maximum range for both serious work and recreation.
CLEVER
The Defender MAX family of utility side-by-side vehicles offers clever and meaningful solutions, enhancing ease of use and helping owners work smarter. Can-Am engineers and designers crafted the Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle ergonomics to accommodate a wide range of users while at the same time providing comfort, convenience and an unmatched fit-and-finish. Owners can make the vehicle their own by fully utilizing the cargo box’s versatility and taking full advantage of the adaptable storage areas.
Multifunction Cargo Box With Sturdy Tailgate
The highly durable Cargo box has a 1,000-lb. (454 kg) load capacity and simple dumping capability. Clever features include 5-gal. (18.9 L) pail recesses, integrated anchors on the sidewalls and several tie-down points for added convenience. To fully optimize the sizeable cargo box, consumers can divide the box using the integrated recesses. The box allows for both 1×3 and plywood separators and accepts bed extenders for refining the bed’s overall dimensions. The cargo box is also adaptable to accept 14 LinQ quick-attach accessories for further customization.
Additionally, the sturdy tailgate can withstand ordinary farm use and serve as a seat during your lunch break (max weight: 250 lb. / 113 kg). It can also be removed in seconds without tools.
Open dash with removable toolbox and under dash adaptable storage
The open dash design features a handy removable and water-resistant 1.7 gal. (6.3 L) toolbox – an industry exclusive – to allow users to carefully carry tools and supplies they need in an organized manner. In addition, it includes 6 gal. (22.8 L) of under dash storage with an enclosed pocket, perfect for stowing small essentials. In total, the Defender MAX DPS side-by-side vehicle has a total of 11.1 gal. (42.1 L) of storage solutions.
Dual Versa-Pro Bench Seats; Pick-Up Truck-Inspired Seating
The dual VERSA-PRO bench seats are engineered as a 40/20/40 bench seat, inspired by modern pick-up trucks. The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle can comfortably accommodate up to six adults and features profiled” corners to improve entry/exit of the cab, as well as a sturdy vinyl cover for improved wear resistance. The five passenger seats have integrated hooks on their underside and can be flipped up to improve onboard storage. Can-Am designers also added front and rear foldable armrests with cup holders for additional convenience.
Roomy and intuitive cockpit
The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle offers a spacious cockpit with unmatched fit-and-finish. Engineers optimized the interior ergonomics for a wide range of uses. Tilt steering, improved sight lines, enhanced storage and overall cockpit volume improve comfort and convenience. The A-pillar was moved far forward to provide almost effortless entry/exit and to enhance visibility for all the occupants. More interior cabin and dash space, rather than overall exterior hood size, creates a more spacious interior.
Tilt steering
The steering wheel was specifically designed for utility applications with a larger diameter for improved handling and control. The automotive-like tilt steering lets drivers adjust it up to 25 degrees to their preferred driving style and ergonomics. It offers also an easier maneuvering while entering/exiting the vehicle.
Multifunction digital gauge with open storage
The location of the gauge is strategically positioned in front of the driver to increase readability. The LCD gauge displays key information including speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip and hour meters, fuel level, gear position, seat belt and 4×4 indicators, diagnostics, clock and auto shutoff. A 0.7-gal. (2.6 L) compartment behind the gauge cluster offers an easy-access storage solution for the driver.
Cup holders
The new Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle has six easily accessible cup holders. Four cup recesses are also incorporated into the cargo box tailgate for added convenience.
Rugged ergonomically configured grab bar and three foot rests
The ergonomically placed grab bar and footrests allow for optimal occupant stability and comfort.
Profiled Cage Cab-Ready
The sturdy Profile cage (steel) is designed in tandem with the Can-Am cab and genuine accessories to ensure the best fit-and-finish and seamless integration in the industry. The front section of the cage was moved far forward to enhance visibility and improve entry/exit of the cab.
Color option (standard)
The Defender MAX DPS HD8 and DPS HD10 side-by-side vehicles are available in Green or Yellow.
Exclusive Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo
When it comes to concealment, nothing compares to the exclusive Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camouflage. The highly durable water-dipped camo finish is more resistant to scratching, mineral deposits and sun fading. Equally as important, it lets hunters match their favorite camo manufacturer with their favorite side-by-side vehicle brand.
DEFENDER MAX XT PACKAGE DETAILS
The Defender MAX line of utility side-by-side vehicles is also available with the highly popular XT package, which includes a winch, large cast-aluminum wheels, roof and more for a customized fit-and-finish.
4,500-pound (2,041 kg) winch
The winch is designed to handle heavy-duty loads at the worksite and on the trail, thanks to its 4,500-pound capacity and roller fairlead. A convenient button was also added to the console on the left side of the steering wheel for easy operation.
27-inch (68.6 cm) Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires feature rugged six-ply radial construction, yet are lightweight to cut down on unsprung weight. The non-directional tires are very capable of climbing and clawing across tough terrain and also absorb varying surfaces for a smooth ride and provide predictable cornering.
14-inch (35.6 cm) cast-aluminum wheels
Sturdy, lightweight, 14-inch cast-aluminum wheels with a unique painted black finish come standard.
Full hard roof
A durable, heavy-duty plastic roof protects all occupants from elements while giving the Defender MAX XT units a custom appearance.
Advanced dual VERSA-PRO bench seats
The dual VERSA-PRO bench seats include a reinforced seat cover on the XT models. The high-quality bench seats offer the same versatility as the DPS seats, but the cover uses a thicker vinyl construction and special material to endure everyday use on the farm, job site and trail. In addition, the XT VERSA-PRO bench seat comes with a 3-in (8 cm) adjustable driver’s seat (forward/rearward) for added comfort and better ingress/egress.
Open dash with removable toolbox and under dash storage adaptable storage
The open dash design features a handy removable and water-resistant 1.7 gal (6.3 L) toolbox, an industry exclusive, to allow users to carefully carry tools and supplies they need in an organized manner. In addition, it includes 6 gal. (22.8 L) of under dash storage with an enclosed pocket, perfect for stowing small essentials. Combined with the removable and waterproof under seat storage box, the Defender MAX XT side-by-side vehicle features a total of 16.9 gal. (63.9 L) of storage solutions.
Enclosed under seat storage
The 5.6 gal. (21 L) enclosed under seat storage beneath the front passenger seat offers a large waterproof space for the most precious items, and is easily removable for the user’s convenience.
Multifunction analog/digital gauge with enclosed storage
The multifunction analog/digital gauge package includes state-of-the-art instrumentation as well as an additional enclosed and water-resistant 0.9 gal. (3.4 L) storage section to protect smaller items. This includes an analog tachometer and speedometer combined with an advanced digital information center.
Three driving modes
The driver can select between three different driving modes on the Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle to adapt to personal preference and the riding conditions: Eco, Normal and Work. Normal mode has no speed or torque limitations and is optimized for recreational use with no load or a light workload. Work mode is calibrated for working with high loads in a smooth manner, offering a smooth power delivery along with full power and torque. ECO mode limits both high-range speed and torque to produce moderate driving with regulated-but-smooth acceleration.
Full skid plate
The high-strength full skid plate (center and sides on XT) is designed for supreme protection and provides the ability to slide over certain obstacles.
Premium color options and exclusive Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo
The Defender MAX XT HD8 and XT HD10 vehicles are available with premium painted plastic, providing a first-class appearance. Available color choices include Intense Red and Pure Magnesium. The highly durable water-dipped Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo finish is more resistant to scratching, mineral deposits and sun fading. Equally as important, it lets hunters match their favorite camo manufacturer with their favorite side-by-side vehicle brand.
GENUINE CAN-AM DEFENDER MAX ACCESSORIES
Can-Am accessories let owners add personal touches to their Can-Am vehicles by enhancing the functionality for work, play and everything in between. No matter which model, the ability to customize it to personal needs is a great way to enhance the driving experience. The diverse Can-Am accessories lineup now includes specific products for the Can-Am Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle. These accessories offer seamless integration because they were designed alongside the vehicle during development and testing. Many of the current Can-Am side-by-side vehicle accessories and Defender-specific accessories will carry over to the Defender MAX. Whether it’s protection from the elements, cargo hauling or carrying key tools essential for the job, the Can-Am accessory offerings let people design a package that’s perfect for their needs.
Items for the Cab
A full soft cab (715003032) offers cozy protection from the elements for the driver and passengers. Owners can customize the modular system to allow for a variety of seamless accessory configurations with doors, various windshield options, roofs and rear windows. Protective products include front (715002418) and rear bumpers (715002419), bumper plates, body side and front corner protectors and fender flares.
Work-Related
Can-Am work-ready accessories are designed to enhance the experience and make chores easier. The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle uses the same innovative cargo box as the single bench-seat Defender. Owners can mount the Can-Am Bed Wall Extender (715002421) to the Can-Am Headache Rack (715002423) to improve the box volume capacity. The Bed Wall Extender is adjustable to various needs thanks to its removable, foldable topside panels and removable rear doors.
The LinQ Tool Holder (715003059), sold in pairs, is an ultra-versatile tool holder using a convenient swivel-latch that allows tools to be stored in any orientation. The holders can be used on the cargo bed, the Headache Rack or the Bed Wall Extender. LinQ Adaptor (715003058) is required for installation on the Headache Rack and on the Bed Wall Extender. Winches, hitches, Apache 360 LT track system (715003064) and Alpine Flex Plow Kit (715003108) can also be added to enhance the Defender MAX side-by-side vehicles’ ability to work.
Hunting-Related
The Defender MAX side-by-side vehicle is designed to offer extreme versatility for work and recreational use. The lightweight-yet-durable anodized black aluminum Can-Am Gear Rail (715003391) is a universal mount for a wide variety of accessories when using the Gear Rail Mount (715001422). Hunters will appreciate the Gun Boot 6.0 Impact by Kolpin (715001419), which fits with the Gear Rail Mount and Gun Boot Mount (715001420), The Gear Rail, made from durable, heavy-duty 7-gauge anodized black aluminum, fits on the Headache Rack and accepts the Gun Boot. The Removable Winch Mounting Kit (715001652) is ideal for those in the field, as it allows them to quickly remove the winch when needed, and when used in conjunction with the Multimount Winch Harness (710005082) and Higher Front Receiver Hitch (715003109), to quickly and conveniently relocate a front-mounted winch to the rear of the vehicle.
Electronics
Can-Am electronic accessories for the Defender MAX vehicles are meant to make things simpler. A Powered Tilt-Bed (715000829) uses a strong actuator to electronically lift the tilt cargo box and includes a handy switch integrated in the unit’s dashboard. The Can-Am exclusive Digitally Encoded Security System (D.E.S.S.) keys (715002458) offer anti-theft protection for your vehicle using encrypted chip technology that restricts access to a vehicle’s electronic ignition system. The kit includes three programmable keys (Work, Standard and Performance). Thirteen available lighting kits are offered for the Defender family of utility-recreation side-by-side vehicles, including the Rear Cargo Light (715002422) that illuminates the cargo bed for chores at dusk and dawn.
