Seems with each passing day the side-x-side industry is growing in leaps and bounds and at times almost appears to eclipse the popularity of ATVs.
As demand for more tech, more options and a never ending quest for more power drives up prices, the appeal of a closely priced side-x-side is becoming attractive.
To combat this, without cannibalizing the SXS division, manufacturers must bring in new ATVers and entice the riders less interested in breaking the bank on an offroad vehicle.
Can-Am just unveiled its value line of Outlander ATVs titled the L Series, which includes two two fuel-injected engine choices – the proven 45 horsepower 500 V-twin or an all-new Rotax 427cc single producing a claimed 38 horsepower tucked into a stripped down G2 chassis available in both single passenger and Max 2-upper models.
The Outlander L features dual A-arm front suspension that has a newly designed upper A-arm with reduced caster to provide a lighter steering feel. A simplified version of Can-Ams TTI rear suspension handles the bumps out back and steel body coilover oil shocks that are slightly smaller than those found on other Outlander models can be found at all four corners.
There are obviously a few differences that put this line on the budget end of the spectrum such as steel racks as opposed to the sweet looking composite racks on the bigger bore Outlander models, the absence of DESS and different front and rear bumpers to name a few.
However, theres a DPS line available featuring Visco-Lok QE with all the benefits of Visco Lok offered on the base L, but with a quicker engagement point. It also features Can-Ams tri-mode DPS, which allows the rider to select between three levels of power steering input from minimum to maximum. This is an amazing option especially if this unit will be used for an entry-level rider or simply if you want to get a great trail ride in without feeling the associated post-ride shoulder ache.
The DPS version also gets a sweet looking set of cast aluminum wheels to set it apart from the base L. Both versions use 25-inch Carlisle Trail Wolf tires.
Even though the popularity of side-x-sides continues to grow, theres still a demand for ATVs and more importantly, for a value line of ATVs that riders can still be proud to own. Seems Can-Am may have hit its target squarely with the 2015 Outlander L and its 5-year extended warranty isnt a bad feature either.
