In 500cc spec, the Outlander XT is a comfortable and versatile mid-range machine, that would shame some of the larger capacity ATV’s. In Canary yellow, you will not lose this machine in the paddock, unless it’s full of Buttercup!
With its 40 hp V twin, fuel injected Rotax engine there is plenty of go, and the Outlander in 500, 650, 800 and 1000cc are the only ATV’s on the New Zealand market with adjustable power steering, called Tri-mode Dynamic Power Steer (DPS) in Can Am speak. Sounds like a gimmick? Believe me; it works –with three settings that adjust the amount of assistance provided.
Suspension is key to this machine and it’s a great ride. A torsional trailing arm at the rear provides class-leading comfort and the McPherson double A arm front suspension keeping it all balanced and plush. Hidden in the front wheels are two big 214mm ventilated disc brakes with twin calipers and a single disc – the same size for the rear. With this bike coming from the US, the left hand brake operates both axles. This provides progressive and controlled braking, while the foot brake only operates the rear brakes as is usual.
With front suspension travel of 229mm and rear, 236mm, there is plenty of room to soak up bumps and ground clearance is 279mm. Solidly built, the 500 XT tips the scales at 320 kg, which is heavier than almost all Japanese Quads. This has a bearing on towing ability, and is rated at a class-leading 600kg. Rack capacity is 136kg, and the test unit came with the standard heavy duty bumpers front and rear, which adds to the look too.
The Outlander 500 XT is packed with features, such as the selectable 2 and 4 wheel drive system, with the trademarked Visco-Lok front differential. This works by detecting slip and diverting traction to the wheel that isn’t spinning, much like the clever All Wheel Drive systems found in expensive cars.
A comprehensive “multimeter” dash display keeps track of fuel, time, speed, hours with trip functions along with a rev counter. The 500 XT comes standard with a 3000lb (1500kg) WARN 8 winch with roller fairlead and remote control. Useful!
I went on an 80km “cockies day out” around the hills of Hunterville in the Rangitikei, run by the Poukiore Dog Trial Club. I was amazed at how well the Outlander treated me, and my daughter, who was very sore after being beaten up by a horse the day before.
We alternated between a 400cc Outlander and the test rig. And the difference is? If the 400 is a Hi-Lux, then the 500 is the latest Range-Rover – such is the difference in power, comfort and ease of operation. We negotiated some hairy slopes on the ride and it was amazing to see the non-Japanese machines scrabble their way up and down the hills with no drama, helped by the excellent CVT transmissions –meaning that the machine is in the right gear every time!
The engine braking on the 500 isn’t as good as its smaller sibling, but still plentiful enough for strong downhill control.
The Outlander on test is in run-out mode, with the new G2 version with altered styling and a few upgrades imminently due. These machines are very well priced. See your local dealer for a sharp deal, and with the $1000 cash back offer being extended, at $12,450, these well spec’d machines are excellent value for money.
