Can-Am has a reputation for well-built and dependable machines that don’t just handle but thrive on an assortment of terrains. We’ve tested a bunch of these machines, and we’ve been spending time testing the 2023 Can-Am Outlander XT 700,...
Can-Am has a reputation for well-built and dependable machines that don’t just handle but thrive on an assortment of terrains. We’ve tested a bunch of these machines, and we’ve been spending time testing the 2023 Can-Am Outlander XT 700, putting it through everything from dirt to mud to rocky trails. The results were overwhelmingly positive, as it met or exceeded expectations for every challenge faced during our test. But not everything is perfect, so let’s dive right in and explore Can-Am’s new mid-bore offering.
New Outlander, familiar looks
The first thing you notice before you even step onto the Outlander is its appearance. A bulky presence with an aggressive demeanor, the Outlander XT 700 looks as if it’s built to take on whatever the trails may throw at it. The build quality is excellent, combining beefy bumpers with study plastics and beautifully fitting bodywork and controls. The body design is incredibly well engineered and does a fantastic job of protecting the rider. It’s reflected in how the front bumper, plastics, and factory windshield absorb or deflect effectively all of the water and mud that splashes up towards the rider.
Still, larger riders may face some wind to their shoulders, but most riders will find Can-Am’s bodywork working well to keep them protected. After two full days in the woods testing the Outlander in mud at a variety of speeds, we barely even needed to wipe off our jackets. On the contrary, on an equivalent day riding the Polaris Scrambler XP 1000 S, we and the machine needed a bath.
Single vs twin: Jury is out
We noted in our First Look our intrigue and desire to further explore the feeling of being underwhelmed by the low-end power from the new single-cylinder 650cc Rotax engine. That was (somewhat) proven true on the trails, where the low-end torque was lacking and all 858 pounds that the Outlander weighs in at are present. However, this assessment of low-end power comes with a disclaimer worth taking note of: This is judgment based on accelerating on a flat, straight, open dirt trail where big horsepower thrives.
Can-Am’s new mid-bore engine thrives on the tight and narrow trails, when the throttle response allows the rider to manipulate the machine more effectively, accelerating harder and more aggressively without fear of losing control. On flat and open trails, the mid to upper end of the new engine’s power is satisfactory enough that it almost makes you forget about any of the lower end’s lacking. The key word there is “almost.”
Good first impression but more seat time is needed
Suspension is a surprisingly pleasant part of this rig. It absorbs impacts from rocks and bumps extremely well, sparing the rider of any physical punishment typically associated with rough terrain. The suspension and turning radius make maneuvering rock ledges a pleasure for the rider. Mud was also no match for the Outlander, where the 26-inch XPS Trail Force Tires (26x8x14 front; 26x10x14 rear) provided ample traction for every mud pit, some so deep it nearly reached the fender.
Stepping off the Can-Am gave us reason to reflect on the new Outlander XT 700 as a machine not just in the brand’s lineup, but in the ATV space as a whole. It left us thoroughly satisfied, providing a comfortable ride with adequate power beneath a durable frame and aesthetically pleasing body. In short, for this mid-level machine, Can-Am absolutely nailed it while still keeping the price reasonable, presenting substantial bang-for-your-buck. Can-Am sure has lived up to its reputation, and while we lament the loss of the 650 V-Twin, this new engine works quite well in helping the Outlander sustain its glory.
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