Check out this "Real World" on trail 4WD system comparison. We compare the engagement of the front drive systems on Can-Am, Polaris and Arctic Cat units. This video is just a basic comparison and I am posting it because it is a very common discussion topic and a common question I get in many of the videos. This is one of the main things a lot of new buyers think about and I hope this video can help give some basic insight on the variance between units. I tried to compare all the vehicles on the same section of rocks so it was as fair as possible. Leave a comment and let me know what your thoughts are. Also, let me know if you like videos like this and if you want me to make more videos explaining various vehicle features. Let me know what features or systems you are interested in learning about. A lot of people have wanted me to make a videos where I discuss various tire designs too, is that something that would interest YOU? Let me know!! Thanks for watching and thanks for the support everyone! Make sure you hit that like button, share the videos with your friends and subscribe to the channel!!! #TeamAJP
AdrenalineJunkieProd I'm a big huge fan of the Polaris front locker it's like my old Rhino electronically controlled locker where I chose what I wanted it to be in. In the video you talk about the after market lockers is there a way you can compare the 2 and may talk to someone that may have put another brands front differential in a CanAm SXS I've often wondered about putting my 06 660 Rhino front differential in my Commander because the one big thing I do lie about my Commander is the engine braking that works on all 4 wheels when 4x4 is engaged where as Polaris only works on the 2 rear wheels even when 4x4 is engaged ( unless you are giving the engine a lil bit of gas ) This is one thing that scared my brother while at Hatfield and McCoy trails with them slippery wet his rearend kept trying to whip around
UA-cam videos like this are exactly why I ended up buying a rzr. I like all the machines but the performance and aftermarket support for the Polaris stuff is tops! Good video thanks!
You forgot Yamaha! I truly think they have the best. Locked rear axle all the time, 4WD with front axle limited slip, and 4WD Diff lock to lock in the front axle. But of these listed, Arctic Cat takes it IMO.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd Well if you come to the Midwest (Indiana and Kentucky have some great parks) anytime soon post on your FB ahead of time and we can get a Yamaha in the mix :)
Thats why you see lot of arctic cats in tennessee on the trails they are cheaper and crawl very very well. They run rock ally all the time and usually outperform most rides. If there is an expert behind the wheel they always shine on rocks. Good crawlers unfortunately thats where the excellence ends. They are underpowered and just developmentally delayed. Textron will bring better stuff soon. @@AdrenalineJunkieProd
@@eddys.razorxp6445 with the wildcat xx there now not "underpowered".. its faster than an xp1000, even though its heavy, also was developed by arctic cat before textron took over.. wildcats are perfectly powered for their use... they just dont release high hp machines.. price and usability is there name in the game. Build quality is where they need to work on.. likely see textron focus on that..
Thanks Bob! Nothing fancy, but hopefully it gives new buyers an easy visual comparison of the various machines. I would love to do this again with more machines.
Hey man, it sucks to hear that. A lot of the earlier Teryx models had serious issues with overheating. My buddy had a first gen Teryx and he seized the engine in it when it was pretty new due to a serious overheating issue. Kawasaki made some big mistakes when they took their 650 V-Twin and made it a 750. They already ran hot and when they pushed more power out of them and put them into bigger machines they really started running into issues. However, like you said the rest of the machine is built quite tough. I really want to get my hands on a new one this summer and try it our for myself. Appreciate the input, good info for others to read.
Polaris by far!! Especially if you take it apart and replace the plastic Sprague(roller cage) and Armature plate with the upgraded metal ones and upgrade the Roll pin in the ring gear.. then its a really good front diff! I also like the cable actuated fully locking front diff on my Joyner Trooper, bulletproof all metal internals from the factory.. but good luck turning when its engaged!! LOL
You make some good points. Upgrading the Sprague carrier and armature plate are really good modifications. The turbo model RZR already comes stock with a metal sprague carrier. Upgrading the roll pin is also a good idea. Another good upgrade it replacing the output bearings in the diff with higher quality units. Sandcraft RCR makes a nice diff rebuild/upgrade kit. Here is a link to the top end Sandcraft RCR front differential upgrade kit for a RZR Turbo, they offer various options. I'm thinking of going this route sandcraftmotorsports.com/product/front-diff-rebuild-w-upgraded-sprague-12-tooth-armature-plate-ultimate-drain-plug-kit/ They also make a setup for a Maverick X3 Turbo: sandcraftmotorsports.com/product/can-am-x3-front-differential-race-bearing-kit-2016-2017/
I have been in all the machines and they are all capable but here is my take on them all. CanAm can go over the same stuff as the others but you have to drive it different. With the CanAm you have bump the ledges and not stop at the bottom of them and try to crawl the face. I don't personally like it as much because some places you just cant drive them like that due to incline or other situations. The Polaris 4wd system is next and it is OK....but just ok. I don't like how it disengages and I don't like that you have to be below a certain RPM before it will engage. The Arctic Cat is pretty good and allows more control with how it locks in. Yamaha (not mentioned in the video) is the best IMO. It allows the driver full control with the most amount of options. It also is the least intuitive though and requires the most knowledge out the drive as to not destroy parts. If I had my choice I would choose the Yamaha 4wd style but the AC and the Polaris are a good compromise between driver control and intuitive operations.
Awesome info Chad, appreciate it. You list a ton of good points that add a lot of value to our conversation! I would like to get more seat time in a Yamaha and an Arctic Cat.
Thanks RZR Daze! Stoked you enjoy the content. Ya.... I've never been a big Arctic Cat fan, however, the Wildcat Sport and Wildcat Trail are really solid and capable machines.
Great video, I am a Can-am fan but can't argue what you're saying the proof is in the video, What do you guys think of the Smart Loc front diff? Have you had the opportunity to give it a go?
Hey rmceachern1325, I have heard the Smart Loc is better but still far from perfect. We should have a few new Can-Am's joining the group this spring so I'm sure we will see it in action on the trails. I can't wait to see what Can-Am came up with. Guess I'll have to make a new comparison video this summer. We joke about the Can-Am's being 3 wheel drive but at the end of the day they are still super capable and can hold with the RZR no problem. A lot of it comes down to driver at the end of the day. With a Halo Locker or a Torq Locker they work great though!!!
This is a large reason why I didn't go with a Can Am. The old visco didn't engage as it should, but as was stated Smart lock finally does. I also never liked Yamaha's system as they were extremely hard to turn when fully locked. I love the Polaris system, all wheels engage when needed and when not needed the front is allowed to "ratchet" freely disengaged. Even when engaged steering is light and with EPS it's nearly invisible to the driver. I'm not familiar with the Arctic cat setup.
Ya, I am a huge fan of the Polaris Demand Drive too. The arctic cat is quite easy to steer also. The Can-Am is hard to steer at times with a Halo locker when engaged. Also, I've driven Kawasaki's with the manual cable locker and they too can be hard to steer when the front locker is fully engaged. I'm looking forward to trying out a machine equipped with the new smart lock diff.
Ya DoonDood. The locker option is a godsend. It's a whole other beast with the locker. A few of the guys in the group run the Halo lockers and it's an insane difference. Would of been cool to compare a unit with a Halo locker here. Maybe next video I can make the comparison a little more complex.
Had an open diff in my Pioneer 500, installed a torq-locker and now the machine wants to go places I never thought possible. Too bad Honda dropped the ball on the new Talon i4WD and went with traction control through braking.
Hey Alex S. I have heard a ton of great stuff about the Torq Locker kits in the Can-Am's and the Hondas. Ya.... the Talon..... I dunno how that's gonna go over in the "real world". I am really interested to see how it functions. All we can do now is speculate but I really want to try one out myself as soon as I can.
Alex S the P5 with the Torq Locker is unstopable! Just need to get her off the ground a bit more and she'll go every where these big guys will go and a lot of places they can't. Just as long as you're not in a big hurry to get there...lol.
Are you sure the front diff on the can-am is not defective or requires service? It's absurd for it to be this slow in engaging and not engaging long enough. The viscous liquid inside the diff should heat up when one tire spins and result in the "lock". That's how they're supposed to work.
Hello Adrenaline Junkie Prod, come from Germany. You are a good group. It's really fun to watch your videos. In addition your vehicles come the hammer there one becomes really jealous on you. :-) That means saving a lot of money until you can afford a Maverick X3. Continue so with the videos of you look forward to it.
I am a bit biased because I own a wildcat trail 700. The aftermarket is no where near the Polaris though. (I tell all my buddies it’s because Cat got it right straight from the factory haha) it’s fun to go out and quietly ride along with the bigger machines and at the end of the day when their heads are swollen and telling their big stories and I’m like ya, I know I followed you with my lil cart no problems lol. As long as we get muddy and end the day with fun memories that’s why we do it.
Wait till you do the same test on 4' of snow. Canam and Polaris will be stuck on the frame. Were a true lock will crawl through. We did it on atvs. But same make and 4wd systems as here.
Thinking about a trail model simply for trail access here in NW Montana,if I go new most likely be a can am if they are putting dif locks on them. But used cats are so much more affordable,any guys you ride with have a lot of issues with their cats..
The Green and black Wildcat Sport Limited in this video has been bullet proof and we also have a Wildcat Trail 700 in the group that has also been to hell and back a few times with no serious issues. You are right when you say they are much more affordable Ryan, you do get quite a bit of machine for the money. Honestly, I used to HATE Arctic Cat in general. Never was a fan of their ATV's and I am not a fan of the Wildcat 1000. HOWEVER, the Sport and Trail models have done nothing but surprise me on the trails. They are great machines that keep up with the rest of the pack with no issues at all. As I often say, the most important variable in a machine is the operator. With that in mind, if you drive it right and maintain it right it's a solid and capable machine. You can find them used for a steal of a deal too. Hope that feedback give you a little insight.
I'm not going to get into describing how they work but you should google it. Polaris is hands down the best system. Full front lock with the ability to make up for the difference in tire speed when turning AUTOMATICALLY. It also enguages automatically and disengages automatically. No need to stop twice to lock and unlocked the fron diff....
Hey dritbikes, it's a huge game changer in terrain like this. I was super stoked to see Can-Am include an optional locking front differential on certain newer models.
Im more and more impressed with that arctic cat....im getting the kids a machine soon was 900 s maybe just maybe its TEXTRON???? My XMR TURBO R has the smart lock 4 x4 mode and the front dif lock. It crawls really really well. With that said I loved my razor too over all i like the X3 better its more of a savage machine. Just kills whatever it wants to kill even without a tune on it.....
The XMR is a beast. I'm still running stock tune on my RZR Turbo, I find it plenty powerful. I haven't had a chance to try a machine with the new Smart Lock. Can't wait to see the new XMR in our group perform this season.
I see a lot of yxz comments.. what I learned from Julian's videos was smoked clutches. 2019 supposed to have better low gears.. That said 2019 visco is supposed to be better. I have seen videos of X3's dominate on closed course tracks. Maybe that is the point. X3 not a great "trail" machine.
Ya, in stock for the early Yamaha YXZ's did not do well in these types of conditions. However, with a gear reduction, a weighted flywheel and the proper clutching they do much better. (The following comment isn't directed specifically at you AZAdventure, it just a general statement) With that being said, mid to high range and on the track they are monsters. In the dunes, with a turbo kit..... they slay! On the track and rippin high speed, the Visco Lok front end feels great and hooks up awesome. In high wheel spin scenarios when you are doing climbs under heavy throttle it does great too. You can see the X3 is a beast of a machine on the trail in my other videos. This test put the X3 in a spot it does not shine, however, it is an important flaw to be aware of when choosing a machine. Like I always say, the right machine for me may not be the right machine for you, it all comes down to how you plan to use it, where you plan to ride and what you expect out of it. A lot of the decision at the end of the day comes down to personal preference. I was quite clear in the video that I think ALL of these machines are awesome and am totally serious about that. The goal of most of my videos besides entertainment is to showcase how the various machines function in the real world, in mixed riding conditions with mixed operators. No test will be perfect and no one machine will be the best in every single scenario. The goal is to select the machine that will make YOU happy. I hope that people can pick up on this message. I love riding with a variety of machines and I appreciate them all. The key is to get out there and ride as much as you can!!!! I know that sometimes I step on some toes with the videos I make, but i never intend to make people mad or upset, I think that most of the long time viewers can vouch for me when I say I try to be fair and show the machines when the do well and when they struggle. I've had some less then proud moments in many of the videos riding my RZR and I've been schooled by various machines on the trail, just like at time's I've been the one doing the schooling. Take all this content with a grain of salt and just use it to help you form YOUR opinion on whats best for you.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd great points. Learn how to get the most out of a machine, drive to its strengths. The strength of the Sport that I believe I have found it is beast at corners and responsive turning. I seem to be faster out there than most and in full control.... could just be my perception. ;)
@@yellowsuzuki06 I won't argue that point. One thing I've always noticed about the RZR S models was how they would carve corners. The sport models are so damn nimble. On tight trails the Sport model can often leave a bulky machine like my RZR Turbo in the dust. If trail riding is what you like to focus on than the 60 inch Sport models are amazing platforms.
Hey Brandon, I've got another CF MOTO review video to upload still and there will be some CF MOTOS in some of the upcoming videos. Unfortunately, the CF MOTO dealership I was working with thinks I'm too hard on the vehicles and that I don't do reviews that are positive enough to warrant me testing more machines. I guess they expect biased reviews and I just don't roll that way. I'm gonna try to get my hands on some more CF MOTOS in the future.
Okay thanks I've bought a cf moto 800 ex and so far I really like it and I'm not downing rzrs but I did have to pull a 900 rzr up a hill that I made with a cfmoto and trust me we was both impressed
Hey Brandon, stoked you enjoy the videos. I may make negative comments about CFMOTO at times, but at the end of the day the goal is to get out and ride. Doesn't really matter what you ride. I just hate the way they try to market some of their machines.... rubs me the wrong way.
Hey Brandon, I've been saved by machines smaller than mine many times, lol. Can't win them all, sure does make for some good ball busting during and after the ride though!!!
Just a point of note, to really compare you would have to have the same driver, same tires in every machine attempt the same obstacle. Not IDEAL i know, but that would be a perfect test.
You my friend are CORRECT! This test is far from perfect. I hope that this season we can do a more "accurate" version of this comparison. Just trying to get the basic concept across in this video and I think that most the key points were addressed in the video clips.
Ya, I do. I'd love it if someone in our group go a Maverick RC! A few of the guys in the group run a Halo Locker. I'm gonna post a comparison video of a Halo Locked front Diff vs a stock front diff in the near future.
The visco lok in that particular machine is the worst front diff can am has ever put in anything anyways, the QE model from the older turbo Maverick is 100x better but end of the day it's a $399 fix with a Torq locker and 3hrs of your time
Torque locker is only $399? That's a solid deal. I didn't realize they were that affordable. I'd like to do a similar test with the new Smart Lock front diff.
So like $4000 Canadian.... lol ;) ;) $399 US is quite a reasonable price. Thanks for the info! For anyone interested, here is a link to the Can-Am Maverick X3 TORQ locker: www.torqmasters.com/torq_locker_tl_canam_front_differential_locker
Can ams visco is good for durability, but shitty for crawling. I loved my QE DIFF in my turbo mav, but when it grenaded I put a halo in. If broke 4x more axles since halo but it definitely goes better.
Tyler Matthews my little 900trail has kept up with all of these guys on every trail we’ve ridden. Aside from wide open trails/roads, and crazy off camber stuff...
jkwind 08 yep same here. I have spacers that put me a 55inches wide and a 2 in lift it’s a great combo. Also I hear a tune really wakes the 900’s up think thats next on the list.
I dont understand why u wouldnt want 4wd I bought my 2018 General because it was a full lockup 4wd system U cant afford to be committed to a obstacle and only have 3 wheels and no backing up my preference
Ya Brad, you make a valid point. Sometimes going back is just not an option. The newer models do better in this test. In the next little while I'm going to post a video of a stock Maverick X3 Turbo and one with a Halo Locker.
Ya.... it wasn't their strongest design. They have spent so much time trying to perfect that Visco Lok setup... however, from what I've heard the updated Smart Lock front differentials function much better. Also, models like the Maverick X3 RC are coming equipped with electronic locking differentials now.
They used to have one, but the horrble gearing in the tranny put it on the side lines 3 times, then i think unfortunate the guy wrecked it real bad and got hurt. YXZ is just not suited for this enviroment even if you put 10 k in the tranny and clutch. I dont think you would even see much improvement with the 19 model. Still seems to be overgeared for trails riding.
Yeah the yxz wouldn't even be able to climb that section it would either have to try to climb that way too fast, or if you're going slow it would bern out the clutches
Ya, the YXZ needs to carry more speed in this stuff. It's just not designed for this type of use. It's more of a mid-high speed machine in my opinion. It is not as well rounded as these 3 machines.
The can am 4wd sucks and the Polaris is either 2wd or awd which is diff lock yamaha has the best 4wd system because you can choose 4wd limited slip or 4wd diff lock reason I like it is look how many rzrs that break axles from jumping in 4wd and it snaps axels soon as you land yamaha you can choose what's best for the situation your in
I've got 5500 miles in my yamaha wolverine and haven't broke a axel yet and I've seen numerous times when a rzr jumps and lands in 4wd it will snap the axel yea if they let off the gas it wouldn't happen but sometimes you have to stay in it the whole time y'all need to come down to westpoint Tennessee and ride sometime guys
Ya, it seems a lot of people like the Yamaha 4WD system. I'll have to make an updated video that includes a Yamaha. Would also like to see how a Kawasaki Teryx would do. I hear a lot of people saying that the new Can-Am Smart Lock front diff works much better.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd the teryx is speed limited to 10 or 15 MPH when the diff is locked. There is mods you can do to bypass this. I'm also surprised it took can am so long to come out with a locking diff. I think they were trying to save front axles.
Ya, I am sure Can-Am would say they had many reasons for it. However, comparisons like this show many more reasons against this design. In regards to the Kawasaki Teryx, that's good information Joseph. I wasn't aware that the newer models were speed limited with the locker engaged. I'm going to try to get behind the wheel of a Teryx for a ride this season. I'm hoping my local dealership lets me borrow one for a weekend to try out.
@@zrbsrbija I know that I just said it would be a more accurate test with same size cause that can am is gona engage that tire at different times with a different size and tread tires
Not true at all you are comparing oem against oem just the way they came from factory regardless of anything otherwise you are dumping exta money in one machine and not the other
Check out this "Real World" on trail 4WD system comparison. We compare the engagement of the front drive systems on Can-Am, Polaris and Arctic Cat units. This video is just a basic comparison and I am posting it because it is a very common discussion topic and a common question I get in many of the videos. This is one of the main things a lot of new buyers think about and I hope this video can help give some basic insight on the variance between units. I tried to compare all the vehicles on the same section of rocks so it was as fair as possible. Leave a comment and let me know what your thoughts are. Also, let me know if you like videos like this and if you want me to make more videos explaining various vehicle features. Let me know what features or systems you are interested in learning about. A lot of people have wanted me to make a videos where I discuss various tire designs too, is that something that would interest YOU? Let me know!! Thanks for watching and thanks for the support everyone! Make sure you hit that like button, share the videos with your friends and subscribe to the channel!!! #TeamAJP
AdrenalineJunkieProd I'm a big huge fan of the Polaris front locker it's like my old Rhino electronically controlled locker where I chose what I wanted it to be in. In the video you talk about the after market lockers is there a way you can compare the 2 and may talk to someone that may have put another brands front differential in a CanAm SXS I've often wondered about putting my 06 660 Rhino front differential in my Commander because the one big thing I do lie about my Commander is the engine braking that works on all 4 wheels when 4x4 is engaged where as Polaris only works on the 2 rear wheels even when 4x4 is engaged ( unless you are giving the engine a lil bit of gas ) This is one thing that scared my brother while at Hatfield and McCoy trails with them slippery wet his rearend kept trying to whip around
THUMBS UP! If you think POLARIS is the best!
AdrenalineJunkieProd 😉
UA-cam videos like this are exactly why I ended up buying a rzr. I like all the machines but the performance and aftermarket support for the Polaris stuff is tops!
Good video thanks!
I agree with you Junk. It's the same reason I've got a RZR parked in my garage too. Glad you enjoyed the video!
THUMBS UP! If you think ARCTIC CAT is the best!
In this video, Arctic Cat is the only one with a true locker. IMO it’s the best system. Yamaha gets it too.
love the real locker in my wildcat, gets you into but mostly out of trouble haha
You forgot Yamaha! I truly think they have the best. Locked rear axle all the time, 4WD with front axle limited slip, and 4WD Diff lock to lock in the front axle. But of these listed, Arctic Cat takes it IMO.
Yeah the Yamaha 4WD system is excellent
@@Mrmizilplix Ya, I would love to have a Yamaha in the mix. The Yamaha 4WD is a great system.
The RZR rear end is always locked too. I believe the Arctic Cat is also, I would guess the Can-Am is too. Not 100% sure.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd Well if you come to the Midwest (Indiana and Kentucky have some great parks) anytime soon post on your FB ahead of time and we can get a Yamaha in the mix :)
@@mikeacton8442 Hell yeah man! Hoping to make it down your way this spring/summer. I'll make sure to let everyone know ahead of time.
Another great video . I really like seeing how the different machines compare
Thanks Dustin. Stoked you enjoyed this one. I love making comparison videos too. I love seeing how the various machines perform side by side.
Great video!!! I think the Arctic Cat won the day! All great machines!
Thanks man. Ya, that little Arctic Cat works great! It shines in areas like this. They crawl awesome.
Thats why you see lot of arctic cats in tennessee on the trails they are cheaper and crawl very very well. They run rock ally all the time and usually outperform most rides. If there is an expert behind the wheel they always shine on rocks. Good crawlers unfortunately thats where the excellence ends. They are underpowered and just developmentally delayed. Textron will bring better stuff soon.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd
@@eddys.razorxp6445 with the wildcat xx there now not "underpowered".. its faster than an xp1000, even though its heavy, also was developed by arctic cat before textron took over.. wildcats are perfectly powered for their use... they just dont release high hp machines.. price and usability is there name in the game. Build quality is where they need to work on.. likely see textron focus on that..
Great comparison Julian! Polaris all the way baby!
Thanks Bob! Nothing fancy, but hopefully it gives new buyers an easy visual comparison of the various machines. I would love to do this again with more machines.
Thats what i did before i bought my first sxs was look up vids on UA-cam,i think its great,keep it up bro
Hey Bob, Glad I can help people decide which machine is best for them! Appreciate the feedback man.
Love my 2016 Teryx's 4wd system, it goes like a billy goat! Another great video guys.
Thanks Trail Teryx! I'm hoping I can get a Teryx out on the trails this season. I've really been wanting to try out a new Teryx for a while.
Hey man, it sucks to hear that. A lot of the earlier Teryx models had serious issues with overheating. My buddy had a first gen Teryx and he seized the engine in it when it was pretty new due to a serious overheating issue. Kawasaki made some big mistakes when they took their 650 V-Twin and made it a 750. They already ran hot and when they pushed more power out of them and put them into bigger machines they really started running into issues. However, like you said the rest of the machine is built quite tough. I really want to get my hands on a new one this summer and try it our for myself. Appreciate the input, good info for others to read.
I own a rzr 800s lifted and snorkel and I absolutely love it,
Cool man thanks for the reply, look forward to see the new comparisons 🤘🏻
Polaris by far!! Especially if you take it apart and replace the plastic Sprague(roller cage) and Armature plate with the upgraded metal ones and upgrade the Roll pin in the ring gear.. then its a really good front diff!
I also like the cable actuated fully locking front diff on my Joyner Trooper, bulletproof all metal internals from the factory.. but good luck turning when its engaged!! LOL
You make some good points. Upgrading the Sprague carrier and armature plate are really good modifications. The turbo model RZR already comes stock with a metal sprague carrier. Upgrading the roll pin is also a good idea. Another good upgrade it replacing the output bearings in the diff with higher quality units. Sandcraft RCR makes a nice diff rebuild/upgrade kit. Here is a link to the top end Sandcraft RCR front differential upgrade kit for a RZR Turbo, they offer various options. I'm thinking of going this route sandcraftmotorsports.com/product/front-diff-rebuild-w-upgraded-sprague-12-tooth-armature-plate-ultimate-drain-plug-kit/
They also make a setup for a Maverick X3 Turbo: sandcraftmotorsports.com/product/can-am-x3-front-differential-race-bearing-kit-2016-2017/
I have been in all the machines and they are all capable but here is my take on them all. CanAm can go over the same stuff as the others but you have to drive it different. With the CanAm you have bump the ledges and not stop at the bottom of them and try to crawl the face. I don't personally like it as much because some places you just cant drive them like that due to incline or other situations. The Polaris 4wd system is next and it is OK....but just ok. I don't like how it disengages and I don't like that you have to be below a certain RPM before it will engage. The Arctic Cat is pretty good and allows more control with how it locks in. Yamaha (not mentioned in the video) is the best IMO. It allows the driver full control with the most amount of options. It also is the least intuitive though and requires the most knowledge out the drive as to not destroy parts. If I had my choice I would choose the Yamaha 4wd style but the AC and the Polaris are a good compromise between driver control and intuitive operations.
Awesome info Chad, appreciate it. You list a ton of good points that add a lot of value to our conversation! I would like to get more seat time in a Yamaha and an Arctic Cat.
Ima polaris guy, love my rzr turbo. But I have seen how well those artic cat buggys do in your videos as well. Love the educational content.
Thanks RZR Daze! Stoked you enjoy the content. Ya.... I've never been a big Arctic Cat fan, however, the Wildcat Sport and Wildcat Trail are really solid and capable machines.
Great video, I am a Can-am fan but can't argue what you're saying the proof is in the video, What do you guys think of the Smart Loc front diff? Have you had the opportunity to give it a go?
Hey rmceachern1325, I have heard the Smart Loc is better but still far from perfect. We should have a few new Can-Am's joining the group this spring so I'm sure we will see it in action on the trails. I can't wait to see what Can-Am came up with. Guess I'll have to make a new comparison video this summer. We joke about the Can-Am's being 3 wheel drive but at the end of the day they are still super capable and can hold with the RZR no problem. A lot of it comes down to driver at the end of the day. With a Halo Locker or a Torq Locker they work great though!!!
This is a large reason why I didn't go with a Can Am. The old visco didn't engage as it should, but as was stated Smart lock finally does. I also never liked Yamaha's system as they were extremely hard to turn when fully locked. I love the Polaris system, all wheels engage when needed and when not needed the front is allowed to "ratchet" freely disengaged. Even when engaged steering is light and with EPS it's nearly invisible to the driver. I'm not familiar with the Arctic cat setup.
Ya, I am a huge fan of the Polaris Demand Drive too. The arctic cat is quite easy to steer also. The Can-Am is hard to steer at times with a Halo locker when engaged. Also, I've driven Kawasaki's with the manual cable locker and they too can be hard to steer when the front locker is fully engaged. I'm looking forward to trying out a machine equipped with the new smart lock diff.
Except for on a snowy icy Road then the Polaris will break the rear end free and come around on you
Awesome vid! I love these tests, i own a rzr and am very happy with it. I wish i could afford 1 of every make...lol
You and me both man!! If I won the lottery I'd have one of each!!
Glad I waited for the 18 locker. I've had 0 issues so far
Ya DoonDood. The locker option is a godsend. It's a whole other beast with the locker. A few of the guys in the group run the Halo lockers and it's an insane difference. Would of been cool to compare a unit with a Halo locker here. Maybe next video I can make the comparison a little more complex.
Had an open diff in my Pioneer 500, installed a torq-locker and now the machine wants to go places I never thought possible. Too bad Honda dropped the ball on the new Talon i4WD and went with traction control through braking.
Hey Alex S. I have heard a ton of great stuff about the Torq Locker kits in the Can-Am's and the Hondas. Ya.... the Talon..... I dunno how that's gonna go over in the "real world". I am really interested to see how it functions. All we can do now is speculate but I really want to try one out myself as soon as I can.
Alex S the P5 with the Torq Locker is unstopable! Just need to get her off the ground a bit more and she'll go every where these big guys will go and a lot of places they can't. Just as long as you're not in a big hurry to get there...lol.
It would be nice to see an up to date rehash of this, most manufacturers have upgraded their drive systems in recent models
I agree. Maybe we can make it happen in the future.
Are you sure the front diff on the can-am is not defective or requires service? It's absurd for it to be this slow in engaging and not engaging long enough. The viscous liquid inside the diff should heat up when one tire spins and result in the "lock". That's how they're supposed to work.
Hello Adrenaline Junkie Prod, come from Germany. You are a good group. It's really fun to watch your videos. In addition your vehicles come the hammer there one becomes really jealous on you. :-) That means saving a lot of money until you can afford a Maverick X3. Continue so with the videos of you look forward to it.
I am a bit biased because I own a wildcat trail 700. The aftermarket is no where near the Polaris though. (I tell all my buddies it’s because Cat got it right straight from the factory haha) it’s fun to go out and quietly ride along with the bigger machines and at the end of the day when their heads are swollen and telling their big stories and I’m like ya, I know I followed you with my lil cart no problems lol. As long as we get muddy and end the day with fun memories that’s why we do it.
Wait till you do the same test on 4' of snow. Canam and Polaris will be stuck on the frame. Were a true lock will crawl through. We did it on atvs. But same make and 4wd systems as here.
That would make for a cool video Rick. I'd like to try that out. Hopefully I get a chance to do that this winter.
Thinking about a trail model simply for trail access here in NW Montana,if I go new most likely be a can am if they are putting dif locks on them. But used cats are so much more affordable,any guys you ride with have a lot of issues with their cats..
The Green and black Wildcat Sport Limited in this video has been bullet proof and we also have a Wildcat Trail 700 in the group that has also been to hell and back a few times with no serious issues. You are right when you say they are much more affordable Ryan, you do get quite a bit of machine for the money. Honestly, I used to HATE Arctic Cat in general. Never was a fan of their ATV's and I am not a fan of the Wildcat 1000. HOWEVER, the Sport and Trail models have done nothing but surprise me on the trails. They are great machines that keep up with the rest of the pack with no issues at all. As I often say, the most important variable in a machine is the operator. With that in mind, if you drive it right and maintain it right it's a solid and capable machine. You can find them used for a steal of a deal too. Hope that feedback give you a little insight.
I'm not going to get into describing how they work but you should google it. Polaris is hands down the best system. Full front lock with the ability to make up for the difference in tire speed when turning AUTOMATICALLY. It also enguages automatically and disengages automatically. No need to stop twice to lock and unlocked the fron diff....
Why doesnt can am have all wheel 4x4??
I had a Can am. Was really 3 wd, Arctic Cat with lock abilities is the bestb
Great video!!!!! Gotta stick to my RzR turbo.....love it!!!!!!! :-)
Thanks Kurt! I love mine too man!
The new 2019 Maverick X3s have a locking front diff. This should be a game changer
Hey dritbikes, it's a huge game changer in terrain like this. I was super stoked to see Can-Am include an optional locking front differential on certain newer models.
Any of them that you can lock the front wheels are going to be the same
Im more and more impressed with that arctic cat....im getting the kids a machine soon was 900 s maybe just maybe its TEXTRON???? My XMR TURBO R has the smart lock 4 x4 mode and the front dif lock. It crawls really really well. With that said I loved my razor too over all i like the X3 better its more of a savage machine. Just kills whatever it wants to kill even without a tune on it.....
The XMR is a beast. I'm still running stock tune on my RZR Turbo, I find it plenty powerful. I haven't had a chance to try a machine with the new Smart Lock. Can't wait to see the new XMR in our group perform this season.
Halo30 and rcv axles is the best way to go with the canam. Factory smartlok diff still has issues
I believe that's the setup the Yellow X3 Turbo in our crew runs.
I see a lot of yxz comments.. what I learned from Julian's videos was smoked clutches. 2019 supposed to have better low gears.. That said 2019 visco is supposed to be better. I have seen videos of X3's dominate on closed course tracks. Maybe that is the point. X3 not a great "trail" machine.
Ya, in stock for the early Yamaha YXZ's did not do well in these types of conditions. However, with a gear reduction, a weighted flywheel and the proper clutching they do much better. (The following comment isn't directed specifically at you AZAdventure, it just a general statement) With that being said, mid to high range and on the track they are monsters. In the dunes, with a turbo kit..... they slay! On the track and rippin high speed, the Visco Lok front end feels great and hooks up awesome. In high wheel spin scenarios when you are doing climbs under heavy throttle it does great too. You can see the X3 is a beast of a machine on the trail in my other videos. This test put the X3 in a spot it does not shine, however, it is an important flaw to be aware of when choosing a machine. Like I always say, the right machine for me may not be the right machine for you, it all comes down to how you plan to use it, where you plan to ride and what you expect out of it. A lot of the decision at the end of the day comes down to personal preference. I was quite clear in the video that I think ALL of these machines are awesome and am totally serious about that. The goal of most of my videos besides entertainment is to showcase how the various machines function in the real world, in mixed riding conditions with mixed operators. No test will be perfect and no one machine will be the best in every single scenario. The goal is to select the machine that will make YOU happy. I hope that people can pick up on this message. I love riding with a variety of machines and I appreciate them all. The key is to get out there and ride as much as you can!!!! I know that sometimes I step on some toes with the videos I make, but i never intend to make people mad or upset, I think that most of the long time viewers can vouch for me when I say I try to be fair and show the machines when the do well and when they struggle. I've had some less then proud moments in many of the videos riding my RZR and I've been schooled by various machines on the trail, just like at time's I've been the one doing the schooling. Take all this content with a grain of salt and just use it to help you form YOUR opinion on whats best for you.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd great points. Learn how to get the most out of a machine, drive to its strengths. The strength of the Sport that I believe I have found it is beast at corners and responsive turning. I seem to be faster out there than most and in full control.... could just be my perception. ;)
@@yellowsuzuki06 I won't argue that point. One thing I've always noticed about the RZR S models was how they would carve corners. The sport models are so damn nimble. On tight trails the Sport model can often leave a bulky machine like my RZR Turbo in the dust. If trail riding is what you like to focus on than the 60 inch Sport models are amazing platforms.
Are you guys gonna do more riding on the cf moto 800 ex and 1000
Hey Brandon, I've got another CF MOTO review video to upload still and there will be some CF MOTOS in some of the upcoming videos. Unfortunately, the CF MOTO dealership I was working with thinks I'm too hard on the vehicles and that I don't do reviews that are positive enough to warrant me testing more machines. I guess they expect biased reviews and I just don't roll that way. I'm gonna try to get my hands on some more CF MOTOS in the future.
Okay thanks I've bought a cf moto 800 ex and so far I really like it and I'm not downing rzrs but I did have to pull a 900 rzr up a hill that I made with a cfmoto and trust me we was both impressed
But thanks and I really enjoy your videos so keep them coming
Hey Brandon, stoked you enjoy the videos. I may make negative comments about CFMOTO at times, but at the end of the day the goal is to get out and ride. Doesn't really matter what you ride. I just hate the way they try to market some of their machines.... rubs me the wrong way.
Hey Brandon, I've been saved by machines smaller than mine many times, lol. Can't win them all, sure does make for some good ball busting during and after the ride though!!!
Just a point of note, to really compare you would have to have the same driver, same tires in every machine attempt the same obstacle. Not IDEAL i know, but that would be a perfect test.
You my friend are CORRECT! This test is far from perfect. I hope that this season we can do a more "accurate" version of this comparison. Just trying to get the basic concept across in this video and I think that most the key points were addressed in the video clips.
Need to find someone with the can am maverick rc it's made for that
Ya, I do. I'd love it if someone in our group go a Maverick RC! A few of the guys in the group run a Halo Locker. I'm gonna post a comparison video of a Halo Locked front Diff vs a stock front diff in the near future.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd I'm going to be getting one in about a year you guys should make a trip to southern California have room for rvs
The visco lok in that particular machine is the worst front diff can am has ever put in anything anyways, the QE model from the older turbo Maverick is 100x better but end of the day it's a $399 fix with a Torq locker and 3hrs of your time
Torque locker is only $399? That's a solid deal. I didn't realize they were that affordable. I'd like to do a similar test with the new Smart Lock front diff.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd yep $399 in the US I should say!
So like $4000 Canadian.... lol ;) ;) $399 US is quite a reasonable price. Thanks for the info! For anyone interested, here is a link to the Can-Am Maverick X3 TORQ locker: www.torqmasters.com/torq_locker_tl_canam_front_differential_locker
Polaris. It always seems that is engaged faster or fully engaged as soon as needed.
I like the Polaris AWD system a lot. However, the Arctic Cat's crawl awesome, the front drive on them is also really good for this type of riding.
Can ams visco is good for durability, but shitty for crawling. I loved my QE DIFF in my turbo mav, but when it grenaded I put a halo in. If broke 4x more axles since halo but it definitely goes better.
THUMBS UP! If you think CAN-AM is the best!
you need to get a better mix of machines.maybe a few people with some japanese machines in the mix.no honda's,kowi's or yamahas?
I liked and commented
YYAAAA BUDDD!!
Yaaaaaaaa Boi! Can't wait to hit the trails with ya again broseph.
Even the little 900 trail with bicycle tires did better than the canam lol
lol, in this test ya. On the high speed trails I think the little 900 trail would have a hard time keeping up.
AdrenalineJunkieProd and in the tight technical trails it would dominate.. I know from experience lol
AdrenalineJunkieProd #noloveforthetrail
Tyler Matthews my little 900trail has kept up with all of these guys on every trail we’ve ridden. Aside from wide open trails/roads, and crazy off camber stuff...
jkwind 08 yep same here. I have spacers that put me a 55inches wide and a 2 in lift it’s a great combo. Also I hear a tune really wakes the 900’s up think thats next on the list.
I dont understand why u wouldnt want 4wd I bought my 2018 General because it was a full lockup 4wd system U cant afford to be committed to a obstacle and only have 3 wheels and no backing up my preference
Ya Brad, you make a valid point. Sometimes going back is just not an option. The newer models do better in this test. In the next little while I'm going to post a video of a stock Maverick X3 Turbo and one with a Halo Locker.
It's a shame they Market these open differential models as being four wheel drive when in all actuality they are three wheel drive.
I just don't understand CanAm's reasoning for their 3 wheel drive system.....
Ya.... it wasn't their strongest design. They have spent so much time trying to perfect that Visco Lok setup... however, from what I've heard the updated Smart Lock front differentials function much better. Also, models like the Maverick X3 RC are coming equipped with electronic locking differentials now.
Need a yxz in the vid
Ya man, we sure do! Hopefully I can make another video like this in the future with more machines.
The next time we meet up we will get sum like that
They used to have one, but the horrble gearing in the tranny put it on the side lines 3 times, then i think unfortunate the guy wrecked it real bad and got hurt. YXZ is just not suited for this enviroment even if you put 10 k in the tranny and clutch. I dont think you would even see much improvement with the 19 model. Still seems to be overgeared for trails riding.
Yeah the yxz wouldn't even be able to climb that section it would either have to try to climb that way too fast, or if you're going slow it would bern out the clutches
Ya, the YXZ needs to carry more speed in this stuff. It's just not designed for this type of use. It's more of a mid-high speed machine in my opinion. It is not as well rounded as these 3 machines.
The can am 4wd sucks and the Polaris is either 2wd or awd which is diff lock yamaha has the best 4wd system because you can choose 4wd limited slip or 4wd diff lock reason I like it is look how many rzrs that break axles from jumping in 4wd and it snaps axels soon as you land yamaha you can choose what's best for the situation your in
Breaking diffs and axels is the skinny peddle problems. Not really a problem with the systems. Even smart loc breaks axels and diffs.
Why does having a limited slip make it better. I would like to know in which situation you ever need limited slip?
Ya, every machine breaks axles. Driving style is the biggest factor in whether you break axles or not in my opinion.
Michael, I would think that in some high speed riding scenarios a limited slip would offer benefits.
I've got 5500 miles in my yamaha wolverine and haven't broke a axel yet and I've seen numerous times when a rzr jumps and lands in 4wd it will snap the axel yea if they let off the gas it wouldn't happen but sometimes you have to stay in it the whole time y'all need to come down to westpoint Tennessee and ride sometime guys
Rzr best
Never see anyone in a Teryx out there in these vids
3wd would be a deal breaker for me. i like my yammys 4wd or 4wd diff LOCK. i see these can ams struggle all the time in your vids.
Ya, it seems a lot of people like the Yamaha 4WD system. I'll have to make an updated video that includes a Yamaha. Would also like to see how a Kawasaki Teryx would do. I hear a lot of people saying that the new Can-Am Smart Lock front diff works much better.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd the teryx is speed limited to 10 or 15 MPH when the diff is locked. There is mods you can do to bypass this. I'm also surprised it took can am so long to come out with a locking diff. I think they were trying to save front axles.
Ya, I am sure Can-Am would say they had many reasons for it. However, comparisons like this show many more reasons against this design. In regards to the Kawasaki Teryx, that's good information Joseph. I wasn't aware that the newer models were speed limited with the locker engaged. I'm going to try to get behind the wheel of a Teryx for a ride this season. I'm hoping my local dealership lets me borrow one for a weekend to try out.
1:40 tires are tiny!
Yup, Stock tires and wheels on the RZR 900 Trail. It's a 50 inch model but it hauls serious ass on the trails! It's actually a pretty capable machine.
And she got new buns as soon as we got home from this trip!
No I definitely disagree with that mine will climb just about anything I put his wheels on
Cant really make it an accurate test unless all the machines were in the same gear on the same tires
I don't really think the tires play a big role here, the focus is the way the front drive engages. All of the machines were in 4 low.
@@AdrenalineJunkieProd if that was the case it was can am vs actual 4wd lol
@@BurninRubber93 lol, 4WD vs 3WD
@@zrbsrbija I know that I just said it would be a more accurate test with same size cause that can am is gona engage that tire at different times with a different size and tread tires
Not true at all you are comparing oem against oem just the way they came from factory regardless of anything otherwise you are dumping exta money in one machine and not the other
Those skinny rzr's don't like that hill
hey
Hey bud.
First
Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner!
I see horrible throttle control and very clearly how shitty polaris factory clutching is😛