The low down on Can-Am's Monster 4x4 ATV
Did we mention how much fun this machine is?
The Outlander climbs like a mountain goat no matter how slippery the trail gets, and descends with equal prowess thanks to its engine braking system. Keep it straight, forget the brakes – just let the engine braking handle the decent. Slowing from speed, the brakes work reasonably well, although our test unit got a bit noisy when wet. Since this machine is designed for experienced riders only, we would like to see completely separate front and rear brakes. If you don’t know how to use separate brakes you have no business on this machine.
On long rides the seat, grips, and ergonomics are comfortable. However, one rider mentioned that he would have liked a bit taller pegs for muddy and snowy conditions.
The biggest weakness on the Outlander 800 XT is its unprotected undercarriage. We wish that a full chassis aluminum skid plate was a part of the XT package. In fact, we would gladly trade the front and rear bumpers for it. Still, the XT package is worth the extra thousand dollars. One thing we wouldn’t part with is the BRP winch. A die-hard 4x4 enthusiast is going to get in trouble from time to time, and it’s nice to be able to easily get out of a stuck situation. There were a few times out on the trail when it really saved the day for us.
Our search for mud continues.
The Outlander 800 is one of the true muscle cars of the ATV world. The $950 XT package takes a very cool quad, further enhances its appearance and makes it a more capable go-anywhere try-anything trail machine/work horse. While it’s not the perfect machine for everyone, for the rider with enough experience and the $9699 it takes to purchase it, there aren’t too many quads out there that can touch it in terms of looks, performance, intimidation factor and potential to make it even better. Yes the 2008 Outlander 800XT is a winner in our book.
-- A ridiculous amount of power – yet still surprisingly easy to ride.
-- Easy to use and effective 4wd system
-- Awesome suspension, especially in the rear
-- Nimble handling
-- No vibration
-- Very comfortable on long rides
-- Large, easy to read digital display
-- Stunning aggressive looks
-- Sweet XT Package improves looks and effectiveness out on the trail.
-- Poor undercarriage protection
-- Trailing arms could be tougher
-- Drive belt tends to get wet
-- Noisy brakes when wet
-- Pegs are a bit low – especially if conditions include deep mud and snow
