The Can Am Defender is one of the most popular ATV and UTV brands with a foothold in the industry. Loved for fusing comfort and toughness, the vehicles are excellent workhorses known for their hauling and towing capabilities.
Besides hauling and towing, Can Am Defenders are excellent for exploring the local trails. However, when it comes to shopping for the best Can Am Defender for use, most people discover that there are more than 20 models spanning five engine performance levels.
Depending on the individual model, the engine size varies. However, does the top speed vary? Well, let’s find out. In this post, we look at the top speeds of different Can Am Defender models.
Can Am Defender Base Models
There are different types of Can Am Defender base models available on the market. They include the:
- HD7
- HD8
- HD9
- HD10
Can Am Defender HD7
The HD7 comes with a 650 cc single-cylinder engine capable of generating 52 HP. The four-stroke liquid-cooled engine is powerful and can make the Can Am Defender reach a top speed of up to 66 MPH. However, like the majority of ATVs and UTVs, this model is also restricted by a speed limiter.
Can Am Defender HD8
Next, we have the Defender HD8 which comes equipped with an 800 cc V-Twin engine. This engine is capable of generating around 50 HP. This is one of the smallest V-Twin engines found in a Can Am Defender. However, it’s powerful enough to make the Can Am Defender reach a top speed of 66 MPH just like the HD7. Just like the HD7, the HD8 is also restricted by a speed limiter.
What you ought to know is that the HD8 is no longer available in new models but was available in pre-2022 models. They include the Defender DPS, Defender XT and Defender DPS Cab.
Can Am Defender HD9
The Can Am Defender HD9 has a 976 cc V-Twin engine that is more powerful than that of the HD7 and HD8. As such, it has an output of 65HP. While the engine is bigger and more powerful, the UTV’s top speed is similar to that of the HD7 and HD8 – 66 MPH.
The reason why the HD9 has a similar top speed to the HD7 and HD8 despite having a more powerful engine is that it comes with a rev limiter. The speed limiter caps the top speed of the powerful HD9.
Can Am Defender HD10
The Can Am Defender HD9 and H10 are equipped with a similar engine – a 976 cc V-Twin engine. However, the HD9’s engine has an output of 65 HP while that of the HD10 has an output of 82 HP. The HD10 is the most powerful model among Can Am Defenders. However, it has a similar top speed to the HD7, HD8 and H9 – 66 MPH.
Currently, the HD10 engine is available in more than 15 models. Lucky for you, there are ways to boost the horsepower which would increase the top speed of the Can Am Defenders.
How to Boost Can Am Defender Top Speed
The following are ways to boost a Can Am Defender top speed.
Tune the ECU
Tuning the ECU is one of the simplest ways to increase the top speed of your Can Am Defender. In addition, it will increase power at cruising speeds and the hill climbing performance of your ATV and UTV.
This is because when you tune your ECU, it will ensure 100% throttle in high, low and reverse gears. In addition, reflashing the ECU will remove the shaft or axle saver feature. This will add more than four degrees of ignition timing and make your ATV or UTV fast.
Upgrade the Air Intake System
Increasing the flow of clean air to the combustion chamber is another sure way of increasing the top speed of your ATV and UTV. All you need to do is replace the stock air filter with a high-flow air filter.
In addition, you can make changes to the air box to allow more air into the combustion chamber. Higher air flow ensures the fuel-air mixture to burn more efficiently generating more power.
Upgrade Exhaust System
Besides increasing airflow to the combustion chamber, another way to increase the top speed is to upgrade the exhaust system. Doing so will increase exhaust flow from the engine which enhances the performance of your ATV or UTV.
To upgrade your exhaust system, all you need to do is swap out your stock muffler and get a lighter one. In addition, you can add slip-on muffler cores which also improve exhaust flow rate.
Now when you combine the high intake system and upgraded exhaust system, you receive the full performance which boosts your top speed.
Adjust Gear Ratios
The gear ratios of your Can Am Defender determine the top speed and torque of your vehicle. What you ought to know is that smaller gear reductions can boost the top speed of your ATV or UTV.
To change the gear ratios, simply switch the front and back sprockets. Remember, when you gear down, which means mounting a bigger rear sprocket, you’ll improve the vehicle’s acceleration but reduce its speed.
Change Tire Size and Pressure
Changing tire size and pressure will play a role in increasing the speed of your ATV and UTV. Most people say 5 PSI is a good number, but we recommend that you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. When it comes to changing tires, we recommend lightweight aluminium wheels. Don’t forget to get a new set of performance tires.
Final Thoughts
The Can Am Defender top speed and engine performance are usually dependent on the engine displacement, air intake system, exhaust system and other components. If you want to increase the Can Am Defender top speed, you need to make upgrades.
You can make upgrades to the air intake system, exhaust system, and tires. In addition, you can tune the ECU and choose to use high-octane fuel instead of regular gas. Besides upgrades to the engine, you should also consider the weight of the rider and passengers.