The Can-Am Defender is a versatile and rugged off-road vehicle designed to tackle a wide range of tasks and terrains. The Can-Am Defender is built to provide durability, performance, and versatility for both work and recreational purposes. You might want to change the rims, and you are looking for the right bolt pattern, no problem, we have you covered.
Bolt patterns determine the wheels and tires that can fit a vehicle. So, being aware of your UTV’s bolt pattern allows you to choose aftermarket wheels that are a perfect fit for your Side-by-side. It maintains excellent alignment for enhanced performance, handling, and safety.
The wheel hubs of Can-Am Defender models have a 4 x 137 stock bolt pattern and lug nut size of 10 mm x 1.25. The first value in the bolt pattern represents the number of boltholes, while the second value represents the bolt circle’s diameter in millimeters.
Whether you want to improve your Can-Am Defender, look better, or go on difficult rides with more confidence, this article will help you with everything you need to know about the bolt patterns on the UTV. Let’s get started and find out what’s behind the bolt patterns on your beloved Can-Am Defender.
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Can-Am Defender Bolt Pattern
Can-Am Outlander ATVs have special bolt patterns that determine if the wheels and tires fit. The table below shows the Bolt Pattern of the different Can Am Defender models.
| Can-Am Defender Model | Bolt Pattern |
|---|---|
| Defender HD 7 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender HD 8 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender HD 9 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender HD 10 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender XT HD 9 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender XT HD 10 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender Limited | 4 x 137 |
| Defender X MR | 4 x 137 |
| Defender X MR with half doors | 4 x 137 |
| Defender MAX X MR HD 10 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender MAX DPS | 4 x 137 |
| Defender MAX XT | 4 x 137 |
| Defender 6X6 DPS | 4 x 137 |
| Defender DPS PRO | 4 x 137 |
| Defender XU HD9 | 4 x 137 |
| Defender XU HD10 | 4 x 137 |
It’s wise to be aware of the bolt pattern for your particular make and model in case you need a spare, replace parts, or have to call for assistance when you’re in a bind.
What Are Bolt Patterns?
The bolt pattern, sometimes referred to as the lug pattern, is the measurement of the fictitious circle created by the lug holes in the center of wheel hubs. When assessing if a wheel will fit your vehicle, the bolt pattern of your car should be the first factor to be considered.
The spacing and number of the lug hole openings that correlate to the appropriate stud or bolt pattern measurement on the wheel hub create the bolt pattern. Imagine a circle that touches every stud and bolthole in the hub. The bolt pattern comprises the number of holes and the circle’s diameter, often stated in inches or millimeters.
The value measured on the wheel corresponds to the measurement on the wheel studs semi-permanently attached to the vehicle hub. So, the pattern is represented by two numbers, e.g., 4 x 110, 4 x 137, or 4 x 156 in millimeters, or 4 x 4.33”, 4 x 5.39″ and 4x 6.14″ in inches. And it shows you the number of boltholes and the size of the imaginary bolt circle.
Can-Am Defender Wheel Bolt Pattern
Knowing your side-by-side’s bolt pattern helps narrow your search for which wheels suit your Defender, and is critical for proper wheel fitment and safety. So, the two crucial factors in a bolt pattern are the number of holes and the size of the bolt’s circle, 4 x 137 mm for the Defender.
If you need help with the precise bolt pattern for your vehicle model, check the owner’s manual or consult the manufacturer. Use the bolt pattern of your UTV to find the appropriate wheel and tire option.
Factors to Keep This in Mind When Upgrading Wheels and Tires
Installing new wheels and tires can enhance your Can-Am Defender’s performance, handling, and appearance. While considering these improvements, there are some things to take into account to ensure the optimal performance of your UTV, including:
1. Wheel Designs
The Can-Am Defender is compatible with a range of wheel types, including alloy, steel, and aluminum. Each type has a separate set of benefits and drawbacks. For instance, while steel wheels are more inexpensive and durable, aluminum wheels are lighter and offer better handling. And Alloy Wheels present a balance between weight and strength.
2. Tire Type and Size
Selecting the proper tire and size to achieve optimal performance is critical. Larger tires provide better ground clearance and traction, while smaller tires offer increased acceleration and maneuverability. To choose the best tire tread pattern, consider the terrain you ride on, such as rocky, gravel, mud, sand, or all-terrain.
3. Compatible Bolt Patterns
Ensure the new wheels you select have the same bolt pattern as your Can-Am Defender. The wheels will attach firmly to your UTV and maintain accurate alignment with the right bolt pattern. It’s crucial to double-check the bolt pattern to prevent installation-related problems. But you can use a wheel adapter if you want to run wheels with different bolt patterns.
4. Brand and Quality
Go for high-quality items from reputable companies when upgrading your Can-Am Defender wheels and tires. UTV wheels and tires from the most reliable, trustworthy brands ensure durability, performance, and safety.
5. Suspension
You may need to upgrade your Can-Am Defender’s stock suspension to accommodate the aftermarket wheels and tires. The new tire can impact your suspension travel, ground clearance, and ride experience. It’s a good idea to consult specialists or professionals who can assist you in making any necessary suspension modifications, especially if you need more technical know-how.
6. Individual Preference
Ultimately, the wheels and tires you choose depend on your riding style, intended side-by-side use, and your preferences. To choose the best combination, consider elements like appearance, ride comfort, and your particular performance needs.
Your Defender can look and perform better with a well-planned modification, enhancing your experiences and off-road excursions.
Can-Am Defender Bolt Pattern Conversion
Thanks to bolt pattern conversion, you can use wheels with a different bolt pattern than the factory setup. Yet, there are a few crucial factors to take into account if you’re thinking about converting the bolt pattern on your Can-Am Defender, including:
1. Compatibility
Verify that the new bolt design you want to switch to is compliant with your Can-Am Defender. To achieve a correct fit, take into account variables such as hub diameter, stud size, and clearance.
2. Wheel Adapters
Typically, wheel adapters or conversion adapters are used to convert bolt patterns. They aid in modifying bolt patterns to correctly fit wheels from one vehicle onto the hub of another. Additionally, you can use the adapters to modify or fit aftermarket wheels made for a different vehicle. The adapters feature different bolt patterns on each side, allowing you to install a wheel with a different pattern.
However, adapters move your wheels outward and widen your stance. So, wheel adapters are always thicker and must be bolted to the hub. This implies that the wheels will still stick out wider than on a stock vehicle, even with the smallest adapter size. For this reason, it is crucial to check the clearance and trailer size. Also, choose premium adapters customized for your UTV and the intended conversion.
3. Professional Installation
Bolt pattern conversion can be complicated, but is generally safe. But everything should be fine if you take the necessary precautions to safely and securely mount them to your Side-by-side; expert installation is always advised. So, consult experienced mechanics or trustworthy UTV customizers to ensure a proper installation.
4. Considerations
Unexpected outcomes may occur if you deviate from the stock wheels and tires. For example, installing oversized wheels or tires without clutch adjustments risks power loss and slower engagements. Furthermore, maintenance becomes more crucial if you upgrade your tire and wheels.
Your wheel bearings, brakes, ball joints, axles, and tie-rod ends tend to deteriorate more quickly, with the front end being more problematic than the back. So, while keeping an eye on your machine at all times is crucial, it becomes even more so if you upgrade your wheels and tires.
Thus, thorough research, professional guidance, and appropriate installation are crucial when attempting to convert a bolt pattern. To make an informed choice, confirm that the parts are compatible and consider how they can impact your UTV’s performance, handling, and load capacity.
