The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R represents a significant departure from earlier Maverick models, built on an entirely new platform designed for high-performance desert racing and aggressive recreational riding. This side-by-side delivers factory-installed components and engineering that would typically require extensive aftermarket modification on competing vehicles.
Understanding what sets the Maverick R apart from other sport side-by-sides helps you determine whether its premium price matches your riding style, terrain, and performance expectations. This guide covers the powertrain, suspension, dimensions, safety equipment, and ownership considerations specific to this model.
What Makes the 2024 Can-Am Maverick R Different From Other Performance Side-by-Sides?
The Maverick R uses a naturally aspirated 999cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing approximately 240 horsepower, paired with a CVT transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with front and rear electronic locking differentials. The vehicle rides on 25 inches of suspension travel in front and 26 inches in rear, with Fox Live Valve X2 internal-bypass shocks that adjust damping in real time based on terrain sensors.
Engine and Powertrain Performance
The Rotax turbocharged engine delivers power across a wide RPM range, with peak torque available lower in the rev band than naturally aspirated competitors. The turbocharger operates at approximately 18 psi of boost and includes an intercooler to manage intake temperatures during sustained high-speed operation.
The CVT transmission uses a QRS-X primary clutch and a dedicated cooling system to handle the increased horsepower. Heat management becomes critical during aggressive riding, especially in sandy or slow-speed technical terrain where airflow through the clutch housing decreases.
Cooling System Considerations
The Maverick R includes separate radiators for the engine, transmission, and intercooler, positioned to maximize airflow while minimizing exposure to mud and debris. The cooling system capacity and fan operation require monitoring during extended hill climbs, dune riding, or slow-speed rock crawling in high ambient temperatures.
Check coolant levels before every ride and inspect radiator screens frequently when operating in dusty conditions. Reduced cooling efficiency leads to power reduction as the engine management system protects components from heat damage.
Suspension and Handling Characteristics
The Fox Live Valve X2 shocks receive input from accelerometers, steering sensors, and throttle position to adjust compression and rebound damping multiple times per second. This system attempts to keep the chassis stable during acceleration, braking, and cornering while maintaining wheel contact over rough terrain.
You can select between different ride modes that alter suspension behavior, throttle mapping, and four-wheel-drive engagement. The system defaults to automatic settings, but manual override allows you to lock specific parameters for consistent handling in familiar terrain.
Suspension Travel and Ground Clearance
The long-travel suspension provides 15 inches of ground clearance at ride height with approximately 24 inches of wheel travel available before reaching bump stops. The increased suspension movement requires careful attention to body positioning and weight transfer, especially during side-hill traverses and high-speed whoops.
Wheel travel this extensive means the vehicle can handle larger obstacles and faster speeds over rough terrain, but it also increases the risk of rollovers if you carry too much speed into corners or fail to read terrain changes ahead.
Dimensions and Capacity Specifications
The Maverick R measures approximately 82 inches wide, making it too large for many single-track trails and some designated UTV trail systems with width restrictions. Verify trail width limits with land managers before traveling to riding areas, as some locations restrict vehicles over 64 or 72 inches wide.
The vehicle seats two occupants with a payload capacity that includes driver, passenger, fuel, cargo, and accessories. Adding aftermarket wheels, tires, bumpers, roof racks, or other equipment reduces available payload for passengers and gear.
Fuel Capacity and Range
The turbocharged engine consumes more fuel during aggressive riding than naturally aspirated competitors. Range depends heavily on throttle use, terrain type, elevation changes, and vehicle loading.
Plan fuel stops based on your specific riding style rather than manufacturer estimates. Carry extra fuel in approved containers secured properly to the vehicle when riding in remote areas without services.
Safety Equipment and Restraints
The Maverick R includes a certified roll-over protective structure (ROPS), three-point harnesses for both occupants, and doors with intrusion protection. Always wear the helmet and safety gear required by your state or riding area, and keep harnesses properly tightened throughout operation.
The factory harnesses meet certification standards, but many aggressive riders upgrade to four-point, five-point, or six-point restraint systems with additional shoulder and submarine protection. Any harness modification must maintain structural integrity and proper anchor points.
Helmet and Protective Gear Requirements
Some states and public riding areas mandate DOT-approved helmets for all occupants regardless of age. Others apply helmet laws only to riders under specific ages or on certain trail systems.
Verify current helmet laws, riding area rules, insurance requirements, and registration obligations with your state motor vehicle department and the land manager before operating the vehicle. Many riding parks require visible permits, safety flags, or spark arrestors as conditions of access.
Tires and Wheel Compatibility
The Maverick R ships with 32-inch tires on 15-inch beadlock wheels sized specifically for the suspension geometry and gear ratios. Changing tire diameter affects ground clearance, speedometer accuracy, gear ratio, clutch engagement, and power delivery.
Larger or heavier tires increase rolling resistance and heat buildup in the CVT system. Smaller or lighter tires may improve acceleration but reduce ground clearance and increase final drive speed.
Tire Pressure for Different Terrain
Tire pressure dramatically affects traction, handling, ride quality, and tire wear. Sand and dunes typically require lower pressures for flotation, while rocky terrain benefits from higher pressures to prevent pinch flats and sidewall damage.
Adjust pressure based on terrain type, vehicle loading, temperature, and tire construction. Check pressures when tires are cold, before beginning your ride, and reinflate to recommended settings before returning to paved roads if you air down for off-road use.
Maintenance Schedule and Service Points
The Maverick R requires regular maintenance of the CVT system, air filter, engine oil, transmission oil, differential oil, and brake fluid. The turbocharged engine and high-performance components demand more frequent service intervals than utility side-by-sides.
Dusty conditions accelerate air filter clogging and increase engine wear if dirt bypasses filtration. Inspect the air filter after every ride in dusty terrain and clean or replace it before performance decreases or the engine management system triggers warnings.
CVT Belt Inspection and Replacement
The CVT belt experiences high heat and stress during aggressive acceleration, hill climbing, and slow-speed crawling. Inspect the belt for cracks, glazing, fraying, missing cogs, or uneven wear at the intervals specified in your owner’s manual.
Carry a spare belt and the tools necessary to replace it whenever you ride in remote areas. Belt failure far from the trailhead requires either replacement in the field or vehicle recovery, both of which are easier to manage if you prepare in advance.
Shock Maintenance and Rebuild Intervals
The Fox Live Valve shocks require periodic oil changes and seal service to maintain damping performance and prevent fluid leaks. Harsh riding conditions, high mileage, and aggressive use accelerate wear on internal components.
Shock rebuilds require specialized tools, technical knowledge, and proper fluid specifications. Most owners send shocks to qualified suspension service centers rather than attempting rebuilds without training and equipment.
Legal Requirements for Operation
Registration, titling, insurance, and operator licensing rules for side-by-sides vary significantly by state. Some states classify the Maverick R as an off-highway vehicle (OHV) that cannot operate on public roads except for designated crossings, while others permit street use with specific equipment and registration.
Consult your state motor vehicle department for current registration requirements, operator age limits, helmet laws, required safety equipment, and permitted operating locations before purchasing or operating the vehicle. Rules change frequently, and penalties for improper operation can include fines, vehicle impoundment, or suspension of driving privileges.
Insurance Considerations
Comprehensive and collision coverage for performance side-by-sides costs more than coverage for utility models due to higher replacement values, increased accident risk, and expensive components. Liability coverage becomes critical if you ride in areas where property damage or injury to others could occur.
Some property insurance policies exclude coverage for recreational vehicles stored at home, while others limit claim amounts. Review your coverage with your insurer before taking delivery and verify that your policy addresses the specific make, model, and intended use.
Storage and Transportation
The Maverick R requires an enclosed trailer at least 20 feet long or an open trailer with a deck width and length sufficient to accommodate the 82-inch width and overall length. Secure the vehicle with rated tie-down straps attached to frame mounting points, not to suspension components or plastic body panels.
Enclosed storage protects the vehicle from weather, UV damage, theft, and rodent intrusion. If you store the vehicle outdoors, use a fitted cover and prepare the fuel system, battery, and fluids according to the procedures in your owner’s manual.
Winterization and Long-Term Storage
Prepare the Maverick R for storage by stabilizing fuel, changing engine oil, lubricating pivot points, protecting metal surfaces, disconnecting the battery, and elevating the vehicle off the tires if possible. Ethanol-blended fuel absorbs moisture and degrades over time, leading to carburetor or injector problems and fuel system corrosion.
Consult your owner’s manual for the complete storage procedure specific to your model year. Proper preparation prevents expensive repairs and ensures the vehicle starts and operates correctly when you return it to service.
Cost and Ownership Expenses
The Maverick R carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price significantly higher than entry-level sport side-by-sides, with actual transaction prices varying based on dealer availability, regional demand, and added accessories. Purchase price represents only the initial expense.
Plan for ongoing costs including registration, insurance, fuel, routine maintenance, wear items such as tires and belts, trailer expenses, protective gear, and eventual component rebuilds. High-performance use accelerates wear on drivetrain, suspension, and brake components.
Comparing Ownership Cost to Competitors
Sport side-by-sides from Polaris, Kawasaki, Honda, and Yamaha offer different combinations of power, suspension travel, width, features, and price. Total ownership cost depends on purchase price, financing terms, insurance rates, fuel consumption, maintenance intervals, parts availability, and resale value.
Evaluate the Maverick R against competitors based on your specific terrain, riding frequency, performance requirements, storage capacity, towing capability, and budget. A vehicle that exceeds your needs wastes money, while one that lacks necessary capability limits your riding opportunities and satisfaction.
Who Should Consider the Maverick R
The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R suits experienced riders who prioritize high-speed desert performance, aggressive dune riding, or competitive racing over utility work, tight trails, or budget-conscious recreation. The wide stance and long wheelbase provide stability at speed but limit maneuverability in technical terrain.
If your riding focuses on trail riding, hunting access, ranch work, or family recreation at moderate speeds, you may benefit more from narrower utility models with lower purchase prices and reduced operating costs. The Maverick R delivers capabilities that many recreational riders will never fully use.
Final Considerations Before Purchase
The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R delivers factory-supported performance that matches or exceeds heavily modified competitors in specific high-speed applications. That performance comes with higher purchase costs, increased maintenance requirements, larger physical dimensions, and greater fuel consumption than less aggressive alternatives.
Visit Can-Am dealers to inspect the vehicle in person, verify current pricing and availability, review warranty coverage, and confirm that local riding areas accommodate the width and performance characteristics. Test ride the vehicle in terrain similar to where you plan to operate it, and verify registration requirements and insurance costs before making your final decision.