Overview
Anyone running farm chores, trail adventures, or recreational outings will appreciate the 2017 Can-Am Commander DPS 800R for its balanced mix of power, durability, and practicality. Designed as a sport utility vehicle in the mid-sized segment, it offers a powerful engine combined with purpose-built suspension and easy-to-use controls. The Commander 800R targets riders who need a dependable workhorse that can also handle moderate off-road terrain, making it suited for outdoor enthusiasts and property owners alike.
The 799.9cc V Twin engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection delivers a strong torque curve, enabling quick acceleration and sustained pulling power. Paired with a continuously variable transmission and selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes, this machine adapts easily to changing conditions, whether you’re hauling loads or navigating rugged trails. The vehicle’s width, at just over 58 inches, along with a 75.8-inch wheelbase, balances stability with maneuverability, while the 11-inch ground clearance allows it to clear rough terrain without excessive body roll.
The suspension setup emphasizes comfort and control, with independent double A-arm suspension in both front and rear and 10 inches of travel on each end. This configuration helps absorb bumps effectively, smoothing out rough trails and uneven ground. Braking performance is also solid, with dual hydraulic disc brakes up front and hydraulic discs at the rear, providing confident stopping power. These features, combined with Maxxis Bighorn tires on 14-inch wheels, make the Commander 800R an adaptable choice for varied off-road conditions.
At a starting price of just over $13,000, the Can-Am Commander DPS 800R offers a compelling package for those needing a durable, purpose-built utility vehicle with a sporty edge. Its notable features include a balanced chassis, reliable engine, and suspension setup that prioritizes rider comfort and control, setting it apart within the sport UTV segment for users seeking a reliable work and play machine.
Performance & Powertrain
With a 799.9cc V Twin engine, this machine delivers a balanced mix of power and smoothness suitable for recreational trail riding and work tasks. The liquid cooling system ensures consistent temperatures during extended use, preventing overheating under load. Fuel injection provides precise throttle response and efficient fuel delivery, maintaining power across varying conditions.
- Displacement of nearly 800cc provides substantial torque for hauling and towing
- V Twin configuration offers a broad power band, smoothing acceleration and deceleration
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) facilitates seamless power delivery without shifting gear
- Selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes give control over traction, ideal for different terrain conditions
The combination of a relatively large displacement and liquid cooling means this UTV can handle demanding terrain and extended sessions with sustained performance. The CVT setup simplifies operation, making it accessible whether you’re tackling rough trails or using it for utility tasks. The ability to switch between drive modes allows you to optimize traction and power delivery based on the terrain or workload at hand.
Suspension & Handling
With 10 inches of suspension travel in both front and rear setups, this machine offers a balanced mix of comfort and control across different terrains. The independent double A-arm front suspension is designed to absorb bumps effectively, making it suitable for trail riding where uneven surfaces and obstacles are common. The same 10-inch travel rear suspension provides additional damping and stability, which helps maintain traction and ride quality during aggressive turns or when navigating rough patches.
The dual hydraulic disc brakes in the front deliver strong stopping power with consistent modulation, essential when you’re riding at higher speeds or descending steep inclines. The hydraulic disc brake at the rear complements this system, offering reliable braking performance across varying conditions. Together, these brake choices enable confident slowing and stopping, especially when navigating work sites or trail segments that demand precise control.
Equipped with 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn tires-27 x 9-14 in the front and 27 x 11-14 in the rear-this UTV strikes a solid balance between grip and durability. The aggressive tread pattern and sizable contact patch provide excellent traction on loose dirt, mud, and rocky terrain, while also offering sufficient stability on packed trails or hard-packed surfaces. These tires are suited for a range of outdoor environments, giving you traction when needed and stability under load or during tight cornering.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Most sport utility vehicles in this segment measure around 118 inches in length, and the Can-Am Commander DPS 800R fits within that range at 118.3 inches. Its 58.6-inch width provides stability without feeling overly broad, while the 72-inch height keeps the rider comfortably seated without excessive reach. The wheelbase spans 75.8 inches, contributing to balanced handling, and the ground clearance of 11 inches allows it to navigate uneven terrain without getting hung up. With a dry weight of approximately 1,291 pounds, it remains manageable for towing or loading into a pickup truck or trailer.
- Seat height is designed to accommodate riders from shorter to taller build types, aiding comfort and control.
- With a 10-gallon fuel capacity, it offers a practical range for longer rides without frequent refueling stops.
- The dimensions allow for easy fitting in most standard pickup truck beds, simplifying transportation options.
This machine’s size and weight are optimized for a mix of stability, maneuverability, and ease of handling, making it suitable for a variety of terrain and rider preferences.
Notable Features
Anyone running tough trail conditions or engaging in work tasks will appreciate the added convenience of the electronic fuel injection system and liquid cooling, which help maintain consistent performance under demanding loads and prevent overheating. Compared to base models, this model offers several upgrades that enhance usability and comfort.
- Selectable four-wheel drive allows for quick switching between 2WD and 4WD, improving traction on varied terrain
- Liquid cooling system ensures engine temperature remains stable during extended operation, reducing the risk of overheating
- Fuel-injected engine provides reliable startup and consistent power delivery in different weather conditions
- CVT transmission simplifies shifting, allowing for smooth acceleration without clutch operation
- Enhanced ergonomics and accessible controls tailored for extended use on trails or work sites
These features not only set this Commander apart from basic trims but also offer tangible benefits like reduced maintenance, more control on challenging surfaces, and better overall ride quality, making it a practical upgrade for owners demanding more from their utility vehicle.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to spend around $13,299, you’ll want to know if this Can-Am Commander DPS 800R delivers enough features and performance to justify that price point. Within the segment of sport utility vehicles, this model targets riders looking for a combination of utility and recreational riding without stepping into the premium price ranges. Its price aligns with many mid-tier UTVs offering similar engine size and feature sets, but it’s important to compare what you get here versus higher or lower trims within the Can-Am lineup.
At this price, the Commander DPS 800R sits comfortably in the brand’s mid-level offerings. It generally replaces more basic models that lack some of the creature comforts and performance enhancements found here. Moving up one rung in the lineup, a model with additional features such as electronic power steering, upgraded suspension, or larger engine options will push the price beyond the $14,000 mark. Conversely, stepping down to more stripped-down versions can save a few hundred dollars but often means sacrificing ride comfort or utility features.
Assessing its value involves considering what you receive for the premium over entry-level UTVs. The Commander DPS 800R includes a 78-horsepower engine, which is competitive for this class, and a fully purpose-built chassis meant for both work and play. Its price seems justified when you factor in the brand reputation for durability, the overall build quality, and the inclusion of features like the DPS (Dynamic Power Steering). This model positions itself as a balanced choice for riders seeking a reliable, purpose-built machine without the expense of top-tier trims that can easily exceed $15,000 or more. it offers a reasonable balance between cost and capability in its segment.”
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the Can-Am Commander DPS 800R’s focus on delivering a balanced mix of power and handling at a reasonable price point. This machine is best suited for riders who want a sport UTV that can handle trail riding and moderate off-road challenges without demanding the higher investment of more specialized models. Its 71-horsepower V-twin engine provides enough torque to tackle steep inclines and rough terrain, while the adjustable suspension allows for a degree of customization to improve stability and comfort during ride sessions.
The defining quality of this model is its ergos and control layout, which prioritize rider confidence across a variety of terrains. The DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) system helps manage steering effort, making it easier to maneuver through tight trails or rocky sections, especially for riders who prefer a more responsive yet controlled experience. This steering feature is the key selling point, as it directly influences how intuitive and manageable the UTV feels during longer or more aggressive rides.
Buyers should consider this model if they’re in search of a well-balanced, accessible machine that performs reliably in trail and recreational settings. It’s not designed for heavy-duty work or extreme rock crawling, and those needing maximum towing capacity or specialized features might need to look at other options. The Commander DPS 800R’s strongest aspect is how it combines power, control, and comfort at a competitive price, making it a sound choice for enthusiasts who want a fun, engaging machine that’s easy to handle and ready to ride right out of the box.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2017 Can-Am Commander DPS 800R
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassSport UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire27x9-14
- Dry weight1291 lb
- Tires27x9-14Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- Roof and windshieldWeather protectionShop on Amazon
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit799ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1291 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.