Can-Am Maverick R Top Speed

Anyone who knows anything about UTVs should already know that the Can-Am Maverick R is a beast of a machine. Unlike some other workhorse-style UTVs, this one begs to be pushed to the limits. 

However, if you’re someone who is new to the whole UTV scene, it’s well worth giving you a quick rundown of one of our favorite UTVs.

The Can-Am Maverick R is a high-performance side-by-side, which was specifically designed to tackle everything from dunes to trails and beyond. It can be just as suited for casual trail riding as it can be for pushing your rig to the edge in a race. Overall, the Maverick R delivers some of the best performance we’ve seen in past years. 

Of course, the one thing most people care about when it comes to UTV specs is top speed, as it can be the difference between an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride and a Sunday drive. Plus, for many of us UTV enthusiasts, knowing what our machines are capable of is a flat-out point of pride. Bragging rights don’t hurt either!

So, in this guide, we want to take a closer look at the top speed of the Can-Am Maverick R and see what kinds of factors affect that top speed so you can make all the necessary mods to reach the limits you’re after.

Can-Am Maverick R Top Speed (2018-2024)

Now, let’s get down to the numbers, as we know that's what you're here for. Over the years, Can-Am has fine-tuned and improved the Maverick R series, with each new model pushing the envelope just a little further. Let’s take a look at how the Maverick R has evolved in terms of top speed from 2018 through 2024:

Model Year	Can-Am Maverick Top Speed
2018	85 MPH
2019	85 MPH
2020	90 MPH
2021	90 MPH
2022	94 MPH
2023	94 MPH
2024	100 MPH

As you can see, the engineers at Can-Am have been busy squeezing every last bit of speed out of these machines. The latest 2024 Maverick R, with its 999cc one-liter turbocharged engine and 54-millimeter turbo, can hit a jaw-dropping 100 MPH, which is seriously impressive for a stock UTV.

 

Factors That Affect Top Speed

Now, let’s take a closer look to see what actually impacts top speed.

Terrain

First and foremost, and while it might sound obvious, the type of terrain you’re driving on is a massive factor. A smooth, flat surface, such as a packed dirt road or a salt flat, will give you the best chance to hit the maximum top speed. 

Of course, most of us will never cruise down a fresh-paved highway in our UTVs. When you're riding through dunes, rocky trails, or muddy backwoods, top speed is naturally going to take a hit. 

For instance, in sandy or muddy conditions, the resistance from the ground is going to slow you down. So even in a 100 MPH Maverick R, you’ll probably only get around 75 or 80 MPH in those environments.

Tires

The type of tires you're running can also make a huge difference. Stock tires are usually a good all-around option, but if you swap them out for more aggressive off-road tires, you might sacrifice some speed. 

Larger tires or those with deep, heavy tread will give you better traction in tough conditions, but they also create more rolling resistance, which will slow you down. If you’re really gunning for top speed, smoother, performance-focused tires designed for speed might be your best bet.

Weight

Another important factor is the overall weight of your UTV. This is especially true if you're carrying a lot of gear or extra passengers. The heavier the load, the more strain you’re going to put on the engine, and that’s going to cost you some speed. 

If you’re a purist looking for the best possible speed, run your Maverick R as light as possible to get the best results.

Altitude

Altitude might not be something you think about when it comes to speed, but it can have a major impact on your Maverick’s performance. Higher elevations mean thinner air, and your engine has to work harder to perform. So, if you’re riding high in the mountains, expect your top speed to drop a little compared to a run at sea level.

Wind Resistance

Like altitude, wind is another subtle but important factor. Even a small headwind can shave several miles per hour off your top speed, while a good tailwind can help you push just a bit faster. If you’re looking to break personal speed records, finding a day with minimal wind could be in your favor.

Stock vs. Modified

And, of course, whether your Maverick is running stock or you’ve made some upgrades is something to consider. As you know, a stock Maverick R is impressive, but a well-modified one can really max out your speedometer. We’ll talk more about upgrades next, but just know that if speed is your goal, there’s plenty of room to improve.

 

Modifications and Upgrades for Enhanced Speed

Okay, so you're craving even more speed out of your Maverick R? The good news is that there are plenty of ways to customize your side-by-side to go faster. Here are some of the most effective upgrades and modifications you can make:

ECU Tuning

One of the simplest and most effective ways to squeeze more speed out of your Can-Am Maverick is with ECU tuning. The ECU controls how your engine performs, and with the right tune, you can unlock more horsepower and remove factory speed limiters. This could easily get you an extra 5-10 MPH, and paired with other upgrades, the difference is noticeable.

High-Performance Exhaust System

Upgrading your exhaust system is another way to boost your top speed. A high-performance exhaust allows for better airflow, which, in turn, boosts your engine’s efficiency and power. Not to mention, you’ll get a much throatier, aggressive sound that matches the increased performance.

Tire Upgrades

As we mentioned earlier, tires play a huge role in speed. If you're serious about maxing out your speed on flat terrain, consider swapping out your stock or off-road tires for smoother, more performance-oriented ones. You’ll trade a little off-road capability for speed, but it’s worth it if you’re looking to go fast.

Clutch Kit

A performance clutch kit can is one of our favorite upgrades for a Maverick R, as it optimizes the power transfer between the engine and the drivetrain. A quality clutch kit can improve acceleration and allow for higher RPMs, which ultimately means more speed.

Suspension Upgrades

While it’s not directly related to speed, having the right suspension can also make a huge difference. A stiffer, performance-focused suspension setup will help you maintain control at higher speeds, especially when you're pushing your way through uneven terrain.

And remember, for all your aftermarket gear needs, we’ve got you covered with Can-Am Maverick R accessories at StarknightMT.

Conclusion

Can-Am has always made some of the most capable UTVs on the market in terms of performance and speed, and it’s only getting better year by year. Whether you’re working with a 2018 model or you’re lucky enough to own the brand-new 2024 version, there’s always room to push it to the next level. 

FAQs

Q: What is the top speed of a 2024 Can-Am Maverick R?

The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R can reach a top speed of 100 MPH, which makes it one of the fastest UTVs on the market today. 

Q: How can I increase the top speed of my Can-Am Maverick R?

Some of the best ways to increase the top speed of your Maverick R is by modifying te ECU, upgrading the exhaust system, or changing to high-performance tires.

Q: Does modifying my Can-Am Maverick R void the warranty?

Some modifications, like ECU tuning or exhaust system upgrades, might void certain parts of your warranty. It's always a good idea to check with your dealer or manufacturer to see how specific changes might affect your coverage.