Introduction to the 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5
The 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is a highly capable utility ATV designed to handle the toughest tasks and terrains. As a part of Can-Am’s renowned Defender lineup, this model is built to serve the needs of farmers, ranchers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts who require a reliable workhorse for demanding applications. Upgraded for the 2021 model year, the Defender DPS HD5 boasts several notable enhancements that further elevate its performance and versatility.
Equipped with a robust steel frame, the Defender DPS HD5 features a durable construction that ensures long-term durability in challenging environments. Its plastic body material is complemented by standard exterior guards, while optional nerf bars and rear bumper provide additional customization options for users seeking tailored functionality. Moreover, the inclusion of a standard skid plate and differential lock underscores the ATV’s off-road prowess and protection against potential obstacles.
When it comes to driveline capabilities, the Defender DPS HD5 offers selectable 4X2 / 4X4 driveline types and a standard differential lock brand, ViscoLok, located at the front. With two driveline modes and the inclusion of a front bash plate, this ATV is well-equipped to tackle a wide range of terrains and conditions, making it an exceptional choice for users seeking a standout utility ATV that delivers top-tier performance and reliability.
Can-Am Defender DPS HD5: A Unique Offering in the Can-Am Lineup
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is a utility ATV that holds a distinctive position within the Can-Am lineup, offering a unique blend of capabilities and features. As part of the 2021 range, this model exemplifies Can-Am’s commitment to providing versatile and rugged vehicles for a wide range of applications.
Distinctive characteristics, such as its selectable 4X2 / 4X4 driveline type and standard differential lock with ViscoLok technology, set the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 apart from other ATVs in the same category. Its robust construction, including a steel frame and standard skid plate, further reinforces its position as a reliable and capable off-road vehicle.
Price and Value of the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5
When considering the 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, it’s essential to address the question of its manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and how it stacks up against other ATVs in the market offering similar features and specifications.
The MSRP for the standard 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is listed at $11,899, accompanied by a 12-month limited warranty. It’s worth noting that variations based on different configurations or editions may affect the pricing, but the standard MSRP sets a competitive benchmark for the value this ATV provides to enthusiasts and professionals alike. Comparing the pricing to similarly priced models in the market provides crucial context for evaluating the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5’s value proposition.
Model | Price |
---|---|
2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 | $11,899 |
Engine Specifications and Performance
The 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a robust and reliable engine, designed to meet the demands of off-road enthusiasts. The single-cylinder Rotax® engine boasts a displacement of 427cc (26 cubic inches) and delivers an impressive 38 horsepower at 7500 RPM. With a bore of 94mm (3.7 inches) and a stroke of 61.5mm (2.42 inches), this engine is optimized to provide substantial power and torque for conquering challenging terrains.
The liquid-cooled engine features a 4-stroke design with 4 valves per cylinder, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) configuration. Fuel injection is employed to ensure efficient and precise delivery of fuel, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The inclusion of optional parental controls and snorkel air intake further showcases the engine’s adaptability to varying off-road conditions, making it an ideal choice for users seeking specific power characteristics tailored to their individual preferences.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Engine Type | Single-Cylinder |
Displacement (cc/ci) | 427 / 26 |
Horsepower | 38 @ 7500 RPM |
Torque | Not specified |
Transmission System and Benefits
The 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) system, offering seamless and smooth power delivery across a wide range of speeds. This transmission type, known for its reliability, is ideal for both utility work and off-road adventures. The CVT allows for precise control and immediate response, ensuring that the vehicle can handle various terrains and tasks with ease.
In addition to its standard Continuously Variable Transmission, the 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 also features a Hi / Low Range and Reverse gear options. This versatility further enhances its capability for utility work, enabling it to tackle heavy-duty tasks with ease. Off-road, the Hi / Low Range proves beneficial for conquering challenging landscapes, while the Reverse gear ensures maneuverability in tight spots, making it a well-rounded choice for adventurers and workers alike.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Transmission | Standard |
Transmission Type | Continuously Variable (CVT) |
Hi / Low Range | Yes |
Reverse | Yes |
Primary Drive (Front Wheel/Rear Wheel) | Shaft / Shaft |
Driveline Configuration and 4×4 Capabilities
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a selectable 4X2 / 4X4 driveline, offering flexibility and adaptability to various terrain conditions. With two driveline modes, it provides the driver with options to optimize performance based on the terrain. The differential lock, utilizing ViscoLok technology and located at the front, enhances traction and stability, ensuring efficient power distribution to all wheels.
In addition, the driveline also features a standard hi/low range transmission, along with a reverse gear, and a primary shaft drive to both the front and rear wheels. This configuration equips the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 with the capability to tackle challenging terrains, providing the necessary torque and power for conquering obstacles. Whether it’s navigating through mud, climbing steep inclines, or traversing rough trails, the driveline configuration ensures impressive off-road capability and handling.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Driveline Type | Selectable 4X2 / 4X4 |
Number Of Driveline Modes | 2 |
Rear Unlocking Differential | No |
Rear Solid Axle | No |
Differential Lock | Standard |
Differential Lock Brand | ViscoLok |
Differential Lock Location | Front |
Transmission | Standard |
Transmission Type | Continuously Variable (CVT) |
Hi / Low Range | Yes |
Reverse | Yes |
Primary Drive (Front Wheel/Rear Wheel) | Shaft / Shaft |
Dimensions and Technical Specifications
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Length (in/mm) | 121 / 3073.4 |
Width (in/mm) | 62 / 1575 |
Height (in/mm) | 76 / 1930.4 |
Wheelbase (in/mm) | 83 / 2115 |
Ground Clearance (in/mm) | 10.5 / 266.7 |
Dry Weight (lbs/kg) | 1322.8 / 600 |
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 1200 / 544 |
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 1500 / 680 |
Fuel Capacity (gal/l) | 10.6 / 40 |
Storage Capacity (cuft/gal/l) | 1.6 / 10.4 / 39.5 |
Engine Displacement to Weight (cc) | 0.32 |
One key aspect that significantly influences the usability and performance of the 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is its dimensions and weight specifications. With a length of 121 inches and a width of 62 inches, the vehicle offers a balance between stability and maneuverability, making it suitable for navigating diverse terrains. The 76-inch height and 83-inch wheelbase contribute to its off-road capabilities, allowing it to tackle challenging landscapes with ease. Additionally, the ground clearance of 10.5 inches ensures that the ATV can traverse obstacles without getting stuck, further enhancing its usability in rugged environments.
Exterior Design and Visual Appeal
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 features a robust and purposeful exterior design, with key elements that contribute to both its functionality and visual appeal. The frame, color options, and built-in functional elements all play a significant role in shaping the ATV’s exterior aesthetics and performance.
The frame of the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is constructed using durable steel, providing the necessary strength and rigidity to withstand challenging off-road conditions. This robust frame not only ensures the ATV’s structural integrity but also contributes to its rugged and commanding visual presence. Additionally, the availability of various color options allows for personalization, further enhancing the vehicle’s visual appeal to match individual preferences and style.

Steering System and Handling Performance
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a power steering system, providing precise control and responsiveness in both utility and off-road settings. This advanced steering system enhances the overall handling characteristics of the vehicle, ensuring optimal maneuverability and ease of operation across diverse terrains.
When tackling utility tasks, the power steering enables effortless navigation, allowing the driver to execute precise movements even when carrying out demanding workloads. In off-road scenarios, the system contributes to enhanced agility, making it easier to navigate through challenging obstacles and varying terrain conditions.
Suspension System and Ride Comfort
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 features an independent double A-arm front suspension and a trailing torsional A-arms (TTA-HD) rear suspension, both designed to deliver exceptional performance across a variety of terrains. The front suspension offers a travel of 10 inches (254 mm), providing ample wheel movement to absorb impacts and maintain stability. At the rear, the independent suspension with steel construction and shock-mounted adjustment ensures robust handling and comfort, even when traversing rugged terrain.
With the front adjustable fork pre-load and rear adjustable shock/spring pre-load, the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to suit their preferences and specific riding conditions. The inclusion of a rear stabilizer bar further enhances stability, while the absence of air adjustable components simplifies maintenance and ensures consistent performance without the need for air pressure adjustments.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Front Suspension Type | Independent Double A-Arm |
Front Adjustable Fork Pre-Load | Yes |
Rear Suspension Brand Name | Trailing Torsional A-arms (TTA-HD) |
Rear Suspension Type | Independent |
Rear Suspension Material | Steel |
Adjustment Type | Shock Mounted Adjustment |
Rear Adjustable Shock / Spring Pre-Load | Yes |
Number Rear Shock Absorbers | 2 |
Rear Stabilizer Bar | Yes |
Air Adjustable | No |
Front Travel (in/mm) | 10 / 254 |
Rear Travel (in/mm) | 10 / 254 |
Wheels and Tires for Off-Road Performance
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Tire Brand | Maxxis® |
Tread Type | Knobby |
Front Tire Width | 8 |
Front Wheel Diameter | 12 |
Rear Tire Width | 10 |
Rear Wheel Diameter | 12 |
Front Tire Diameter (in) | 25 |
Rear Tire Diameter (in) | 25 |
Front Tire (Full Spec) | Maxxis® M923J 25 x 8-12 |
Rear Tire (Full Spec) | Maxxis® M924J 25 x 10-12 |
When it comes to the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, the standard wheels and tires play a crucial role in its off-road performance. The Defender DPS HD5 comes equipped with Maxxis® knobby tires, featuring a front tire width of 8 inches and a rear tire width of 10 inches, paired with 12-inch front and rear wheel diameters. The front and rear tires have a diameter of 25 inches, providing ample ground clearance and traction. These tires are specifically designed for off-road use, offering excellent grip and durability in challenging terrains such as mud, rocks, and uneven surfaces. The Maxxis® M923J 25 x 8-12 front tire and Maxxis® M924J 25 x 10-12 rear tire are optimized for off-road performance, ensuring reliable traction and stability, making them well-suited for the demands of off-road exploration and work applications.
Braking System and Safety Features
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a highly efficient braking system designed to deliver exceptional stopping power and control. The front brake type features dual hydraulic discs, while the rear brake type is hydraulic disc. This configuration ensures consistent and reliable braking performance across various terrains and operating conditions.
In addition to the robust disc types, the braking technology integrated into the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 contributes significantly to user safety and control. The standard engine braking further enhances the effectiveness of the braking system, providing added peace of mind and confidence during descents and challenging maneuvers. These advanced braking features collectively elevate the overall safety and performance of the vehicle, offering users a secure and reliable driving experience.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Front Brake Type | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
Rear Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
Engine Braking | Standard |
Towing and Cargo Capacity
The 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is designed to excel in towing and cargo capacities, making it an ideal choice for utility applications. With a towing capacity of 1500 lbs (680 kgs) and a payload capacity of 1200 lbs (544 kgs), this model offers impressive hauling capabilities for various tasks. Equipped with a standard hitch type, it ensures secure and reliable towing, further enhancing its utility performance. Additionally, the cargo bed with a capacity of 600 lbs (272.2 kgs) provides ample space for transporting tools, equipment, and supplies, adding to its practicality for utility-oriented tasks.
The integral tie-down hooks and optional storage accessories such as front and rear racks, rack rails, and a storage cover contribute to the model’s versatility in accommodating different types of cargo. These features enable users to secure items and organize the cargo space effectively, ensuring efficient and safe transportation of goods. The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5’s dimensions, including a bed length of 38 inches (965 mm), bed height of 12 inches (305 mm), and bed width of 54.5 inches (1384 mm), further enhance its suitability for utility tasks, providing ample room for carrying bulky items and equipment.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs / 680 kgs |
Hitch Type | Standard |
Payload Capacity | 1200 lbs / 544 kgs |
Cargo Bed Capacity | 600 lbs / 272.2 kgs |
Seating and Comfort Features
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a bench seat constructed from durable vinyl material, providing comfortable seating for up to three passengers. The seat comes with headrests and the ability to fold, making it versatile for various riding conditions. Additionally, standard grab rails or straps are included to ensure passenger safety and stability during the ride.
These seating and comfort features contribute significantly to the overall rider and passenger comfort. The vinyl material offers a balance of support and cushioning, reducing fatigue during long rides. The availability of headrests adds another layer of comfort, especially during off-road adventures. Furthermore, the folding feature allows for easy customization of the seating arrangement, catering to different cargo and passenger requirements.

Dashboard and Instrumentation
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a comprehensive array of digital instrumentation and display features that play a pivotal role in enhancing the rider’s control and monitoring of the vehicle. These advanced instruments provide the operator with crucial real-time data, ensuring a heightened level of awareness and precision in various terrain and operating conditions.
- Digital Instrumentation: Standard
- Clock: Standard
- Speedometer: Standard
- Tachometer: Standard
- Trip Odometer: Standard
- GPS: Optional
- Hour Meter: Standard
- Voltage Meter: Standard
- Fuel Level Warning: Standard
- Fuel Level Warning Type: Gauge
- Temperature Warning: Standard
- Temperature Warning Type: Light
- Battery Status Gauge: Standard
Storage Options and Utility Features
When it comes to the 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, storage and utility features play a crucial role in enhancing its versatility for various tasks. The ATV comes equipped with a range of storage options and utility features that cater to different needs and requirements. Let’s delve into the various storage options such as racks and compartments, along with their specifications for capacity, to understand how they contribute to the vehicle’s overall utility.
The 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 offers a diverse array of storage options, including standard glove box/dash storage and cupholders, along with optional front rack, rear rack storage, rack rails, and storage cover. These features provide ample space and flexibility for carrying essentials, tools, and equipment, making the ATV well-suited for a wide range of tasks and activities. Additionally, the cargo bed with integral tie-down hooks and a substantial capacity further enhances the vehicle’s utility, allowing for secure and efficient transport of cargo.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Glove Box / Dash Storage | Standard |
Front Rack | Optional |
Rear Rack Storage | Optional |
Rack Rails | Optional |
Cupholder | Standard |
Number Of Cupholders | 2 |
Storage Cover | Optional |
Cargo Bed | Standard |
Integral Tie-Down Hooks | Yes |
Gun Scabbard | Optional |
Bed Length (in/mm) | 38 / 965 |
Bed Height (in/mm) | 12 / 305 |
Bed Width (in/mm) | 54.5 / 1384 |
Bed Capacity (lbs./kgs.) | 600 / 272.2 |
Lighting System and Visibility Enhancements
The 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a comprehensive lighting system designed to enhance visibility and safety, especially during low-light conditions. The system includes various types of lights that serve different purposes to ensure optimal visibility for the driver and surrounding environment.
- Type: Halogen
- Headlight Mounting Bar: Optional
- Work Light Front or Rear: Optional
- Other Lights: Optional
- Headlight(s): Standard
- Halogen Headlight(s): Standard
Convenience Features of the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5
The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a range of convenience features designed to enhance the user experience, making it well-suited for daily use and utility tasks. These features include digital controls, USB charging ports, onboard tool storage, and more, all of which contribute to the practicality and functionality of the vehicle.
- Digital controls
- USB charging ports
- Onboard tool storage
Mounting Options and Custom Attachments
When it comes to the 2021 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, there are various mounting options and custom attachments available that can significantly expand the vehicle’s functionality. These include mounts for gun scabbards, plows, and windshields, as well as other custom attachments designed to enhance the ATV’s versatility and utility.
These mounting options and custom attachments allow owners to tailor the Defender DPS HD5 to their specific needs and intended applications. For example, attaching a plow mount can transform the ATV into a capable snow-clearing machine, while adding a cargo carrier can significantly increase its hauling capacity, making it more suitable for heavy-duty tasks and demanding off-road adventures.
- Gun Scabbard Mount – Optional
- Plow Mount – Optional
- Windshield Mounts – Optional