In its overhaul of the Outlander range, Can-Am has not forgotten the robust X MR. The Can-Am Outlander X MR 1000R is one of the most imposing ATVs designed by BRP, and it is more powerful and impressive on very difficult terrain. The bigger tires, the bigger engine, no challenge is too tough for these outgoing, mud-ready quads.
Equipped with all the additions necessary to tackle the deepest mud holes, these Outlander X MRs are available with two engine choices: the 850 and the 1000R. In the new G3 generation, the engine is a brand new 999 cm3 V-twin. In fact, the 850 and the 1000R share the same engine block and have the same displacement. What differentiates them is a different engine mapping and a stronger clutch for the 1000R. In its 850 version, the engine develops an output of 82 HP and a torque of 66 lb-ft, while in its 1000R version, we will have at our disposal an output of 101 HP and a torque of 69 lb-ft!
Whereas in the G2 era the length of the chassis varied according to the engine size, it will be that of the single-seater Outlander that serves as the basis for all the G3 generation X MRs.
The manufacturer’s attention to optimizing these machines for mud is impressive. In addition to the obvious, such as the relocation of the radiator, the wraparound bumpers, the aggressive 30-inch tires, the air intake snorkels for the engine and transmission. The suspension has been calibrated to maximize the wheel’s contact with the ground, in particular by installing Showa shock absorbers with internal floats. The transmission ratios, including the 1000R’s specifically calibrated ratio, have been adjusted to make the wheels turn in the quagmire, and the footrests are now sturdier to ensure solid support in the heat of the moment. At the wheel of these machines, you are overcome with a feeling of invincibility.
This feeling is induced first and foremost by the size of the mountain bike. The seat is very high, the steering wheel wide. You are really aware of the sheer size of the beast when you get back on a normal quad bike. However, its imposing dimensions and power do not make it a difficult mount to dominate. Its intimidating appearance quickly fades as the kilometers go by. In very rough terrain, the significant suspension travel and 13-inch ground clearance, combined with 30-inch wheels, give the quad an ease in crossing obstacles rarely seen. But it’s in the deep mud that we reach the peak, when the quad sinks up to its fenders, but the tire blades knead the mud to move us forward to the other side.
Very few things differentiate the 850 from the 1000R: a more powerful 101 hp engine with a correspondingly calibrated transmission, aesthetic LED signature around the headlights, handlebar grips, and $1500. If you’re determined to jump into the world of XMR, you might as well get the big size.
WHAT’S UP ?
- New model.
We like:
- The feeling of invincibility you get on the handlebars of these machines and the pleasure of tackling obstacles thanks to the astonishing traction of the XPS Swamp King XL tires.
We like less:
- Thinking about changing the tires in winter.
Skills:



