The Can-Am Maverick R is a flagship sport side-by-side built around 240 horsepower, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a 77-inch-wide chassis. It is not simply a more powerful X3. The engine, transmission, suspension geometry, tall forged-aluminum knuckles, electronics and cockpit form a distinct platform designed for high loads and serious speed. Two- and four-seat models are offered in X, X rs and rock-focused X rc packages.
If you are comparing a Can-Am Maverick for sale in Colorado Springs, browse Sun Powersports’ current Can-Am inventory and use this guide to narrow the range before comparing exact in-stock equipment.
Understanding This Maverick Family
The 999cc turbocharged Rotax 999T triple produces 240 horsepower and uses an integrated intercooler and high-performance air filtration. Instead of a conventional belt CVT, it drives through a Rotax seven-speed DCT with high and low ranges; X rc specifications use Extra-Low and add Rock mode. Paddle shifting and automatic logic give the driver direct ratios while avoiding the belt management habits associated with CVTs. Launch control is included on selected higher-spec configurations.
Can-Am package names describe more than appearance. Engine, width, seating, differential programming, shock specification, tires, protection and displays can all change. Model availability also evolves by year. Confirm the window sticker and build sheet for the exact unit rather than assuming a familiar badge includes every feature described in an earlier model year.
Current Models and Variations
Maverick R X
Maverick R X rs
Maverick R X rc
Maverick R MAX X
Maverick R MAX X rs
Maverick R MAX X rc
Chassis, Suspension and Steering
The Maverick R uses a 77-inch stance with forged-aluminum heavy-duty tall knuckles and approximately 25 inches of front travel. X rs models add FOX 3.0 PODIUM RC2 piggyback bypass shocks with extensive compression and rebound adjustment. Smart-Shox is available on X rs and X rc configurations, using sensors and electronically controlled damping to adapt to braking, cornering, jumps and changing terrain. Its advantage is breadth: comfort and body control can coexist without stopping to manually reset every shock.
Dynamic Power Steering reduces effort and kickback, but tire pressure and alignment still have an immediate effect on steering feel. Suspension settings should be adjusted around combined passenger and cargo load, speed and terrain. More damping is not automatically better: excessive compression can make the machine deflect, while insufficient damping can use travel too quickly. Begin with the factory baseline and change one setting at a time.
Choosing the Right Version for Colorado
Colorado buyers should treat the R’s width, pace and weight as planning factors. It is suited to open desert, large private riding areas and wide technical routes, not narrow mountain trails. The X package is the high-value starting point, X rs is the best match for repeated high-speed rough terrain, and X rc adds 35-inch rock tires, Smart-Lok Rock mode and protection for technical crawling. MAX models extend the wheelbase and add two seats, demanding additional trailer length and more room at switchbacks.
Colorado terrain changes quickly. Hardpack near Colorado Springs can transition to loose rock, ledges, washouts, mud or lingering snow at elevation. Read route maps, check seasonal closures and confirm width rules. Carry communication, water, layers, tire repair and recovery equipment. A high-output side-by-side can cover ground quickly, which also means the consequences of poor visibility or an unexpected obstacle arrive quickly.
Traction, Low Range and Driving Technique
Use two-wheel drive where traction is plentiful, four-wheel drive before wheelspin becomes excessive and the appropriate differential mode for the surface. Select low or Extra-Low before a slow technical climb, deep mud, recovery pull or other sustained high-load work. Maintaining controlled momentum protects tires, driveline and trail surface better than repeated full-throttle attempts.
Descending deserves the same planning as climbing. Enter the grade slowly, use the transmission range and engine braking appropriately, avoid abrupt steering inputs and leave room for the surface to change. Specialized mud or rock tires improve performance in their intended terrain but can trade away steering precision, noise, rolling resistance or braking feel elsewhere.
LinQ Accessories and a Practical Build
Can-Am’s LinQ system uses dedicated mounting points for compatible cargo boxes, coolers, racks, fuel solutions and holders. It lets owners change the machine from a day-trip setup to camping, hunting or recovery duty without permanently filling every cargo surface. Start with sealed storage for tools, first aid and clothing, then add accessories only when a repeated use case justifies them.
A sensible Colorado build often begins with a roof, mirrors, appropriate windshield, spare-tire solution, recovery kit and secure LinQ storage. Night riders may add lighting; cold-weather users may prioritize wind management and heated accessories. Confirm part-number fitment and interference between cargo, audio, spare tire, rear rack and cooler systems. Added accessories affect weight, dimensions, electrical demand and trailer clearance.
Safety, Route Planning and Responsible Use
A Maverick is an off-highway vehicle, not a substitute for a road car. Driver and passengers should use helmets, eye protection, doors or nets, seat belts or the installed harness system, and clothing appropriate for the weather. Keep hands, arms and legs inside the protective structure, match speed to visibility and never carry more occupants than the vehicle is designed to seat. Review the operator’s guide before the first ride and whenever a different driver takes control.
Check the land manager’s rules, fire restrictions, registration requirements and seasonal closures before departure. Stay on designated routes, reduce speed around other users and avoid spinning tires where erosion is likely. Tell someone the route and return time, download offline mapping and do not depend on cellular coverage in mountain terrain. Responsible use protects riders and helps keep Colorado routes available.
Ownership, Transport and Maintenance
Measure the complete vehicle before choosing a trailer or garage. Width, wheelbase, roof height, spare-tire mounts and wider aftermarket wheels can change fit. Use rated tie-down points and inspect straps after the first miles. Four-seat and wide-track machines need particular attention to deck width, fender clearance, axle rating and tow-vehicle capacity.
Routine care includes engine oil and filter service, air-filter inspection, cooling-system cleaning, brake and tire checks, drivetrain-fluid service and chassis inspection according to the current operator’s guide. Dust, mud, deep water, high-load low-speed operation and competition-style use are severe conditions. Keep radiator and intake areas clean and inspect protection, wheel bearings, suspension joints and fasteners after difficult rides.
CVT-equipped models require disciplined belt-system care: use the correct range, avoid prolonged high-load crawling in high, keep intake and exhaust paths clear and inspect the belt system as directed. The Maverick R’s DCT has different service requirements and should not be treated like a belt-CVT machine. In every family, use the specification and maintenance schedule for the exact model.
How It Compares
The Maverick X3 remains lighter, narrower in many versions and less expensive, with a huge accessory ecosystem and up to 200 horsepower. The Maverick R adds 40 horsepower, DCT ratios and a more substantial chassis. Polaris RZR Pro R is the closest rival, while the RZR Turbo R and Kawasaki KRX families occupy adjacent performance categories. Compare not only peak power but suspension package, width, cooling, visibility, dealer support, trailer requirements and the cost of the safety equipment you intend to use.
A useful comparison drive should include low-speed throttle control, sightlines, steering effort, seat and harness comfort, cabin heat, braking feel and suspension response—not merely straight-line acceleration. Calculate the real delivered build with the roof, protection, storage, recovery equipment and trailer changes you actually need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower does the Maverick R have?
Does the Maverick R use a CVT belt?
Which Maverick R models offer Smart-Shox?
How wide is the Maverick R?
Find the Right Can-Am Maverick in Colorado Springs
The best Maverick is the one whose width, seating, power and package match the trails you will actually drive. Choosing around real terrain produces a machine that is easier to transport, more enjoyable to use and less dependent on expensive changes immediately after purchase.
Visit Sun Powersports Colorado Springs at 945 Motor City Drive to compare models and plan compatible accessories. Browse Can-Am inventory, apply for financing, value your trade or schedule a test ride online.
