Overview
Most sport UTVs in the $19,600 range focus on combining high-performance features with comfort for long rides and technical trails. The 2018 Can-Am Maverick MAX DPS 1000R fits squarely into this category, offering a blend of power, handling, and passenger capacity that appeals to riders seeking more than just a single-seater experience. It’s designed to handle trail riding, dune excursions, and recreational outings with a focus on driver control and passenger comfort.
This machine is built for riders who want a sport-oriented side-by-side that can comfortably carry two passengers while still delivering spirited performance. The Maverick MAX 1000R features a 976cc V Twin liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine paired with a CVT transmission and selectable two- or four-wheel drive. Its suspension setup, with double A-arms in the front and independent rear suspension, ensures confidence on uneven terrain, and the dual hydraulic disc brakes provide respectable stopping power. The machine’s overall design emphasizes stability and agility, making it suitable for trail enthusiasts and recreational users alike.
Within Can-Am’s lineup, the Maverick MAX DPS 1000R stands out for its emphasis on passenger comfort paired with strong performance fundamentals. Its 12.5-inch ground clearance and 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn tires give it the ability to tackle rough trails, while the 10-gallon fuel tank supports extended adventures without frequent refueling. Notable for its balanced mix of power, comfort, and off-road capability, this model targets riders who want a sport UTV that can serve as their primary outdoor recreational vehicle, rather than just a utility workhorse.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and the Can-Am Maverick MAX DPS 1000R delivers a responsive and confident ride, thanks to its 976cc V Twin engine. This engine design provides a broad torque curve that makes acceleration smooth and predictable, especially at lower RPMs. The liquid cooling system keeps engine temperatures in check during prolonged use, which is ideal for longer trail sessions or work tasks that demand consistent power output.
The fuel injection system ensures precise throttle response and efficient fuel delivery across various conditions. With 976cc of displacement, this engine ranks slightly above average for sport UTVs in its class, offering a healthy balance of power without feeling overwhelming for less experienced riders. The power delivery feels strong and linear, making it suitable for climbing steep inclines, hauling gear, or navigating technical terrain where control and torque matter most.
The transmission relies on a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which shifts smoothly without noticeable gear changes. This setup provides an almost automatic feel that reduces rider fatigue and allows focus on the trail or work environment. The driveline is switchable between 4X2 and 4X4 modes, giving the rider the flexibility to optimize traction for different conditions. This combination of engine and drivetrain makes the Maverick MAX DPS 1000R an effective choice for those needing a machine that can handle both recreational trail riding and demanding utility tasks with ease.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on trail riding or hauling gear across rough terrain puts the suspension components to the test, especially with 14 inches of travel at both the front and rear. The front suspension features double A-arm design, which helps maintain wheel alignment and provides more predictable handling on uneven surfaces. This setup absorbs bumps effectively on rocky trails or loose dirt, offering a smoother ride and better control when navigating tight corners or uneven sections.
The rear suspension uses independent arms, matching the front’s 14 inches of travel, which improves stability over rough terrain and keeps the tires in contact with the ground. These travel numbers are beneficial on rocky or rutted sections, where suspension articulation can significantly reduce rider fatigue and improve traction. On hard-packed trails or flatter work sites, the suspension still offers enough cushion to prevent jarring impacts, making it suitable for all-day use.
Braking is handled by dual hydraulic disc brakes on both front and rear wheels, which deliver strong stopping power and modulation. This setup allows for confident braking in varied conditions, from loose gravel to firm dirt. The Maxxis Bighorn tires in 27-inch diameters with 9-inch and 11-inch widths provide good grip and flotation across different terrains. The wider rear tires help maintain traction when climbing or hauling loads, while the front tires ensure responsive steering on tight trail turns. the suspension and brake choices create a machine that handles well on rugged trails without sacrificing comfort or control on smoother surfaces.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Among sport UTVs priced around $19,600, the 2018 Can-Am Maverick MAX DPS 1000R strikes a balance between size and rider comfort. Measuring 148 inches in length and 64 inches wide, it provides enough footprint for stability without overwhelming tight trails or narrow paths. Its height of 78 inches offers sufficient headroom for most riders, while the wheelbase of 113.8 inches contributes to handling and ride stability, especially at higher speeds or on uneven terrain.
With a ground clearance of 12.5 inches, this machine clears obstacles reasonably well while maintaining a low enough profile for confident cornering. It weighs 1,572 pounds when dry, making it manageable for transport in a standard pickup truck bed or trailer, yet substantial enough to feel planted during aggressive driving. The 10-gallon fuel capacity supports extended rides without frequent stops for refueling, which is helpful for longer outings or trail adventures.
The seat height is designed to accommodate a range of rider heights, though shorter riders may find getting on and off slightly easier with the available ergonomics. The Maverick MAX’s dimensions work well for recreational riders seeking comfort during long hours in the saddle, while the size also provides enough cargo room for essentials. these dimensions give the Maverick MAX a usable footprint that balances stability, comfort, and transportability in real-world scenarios.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the inclusion of a 976cc V Twin engine paired with liquid cooling, which provides a noticeable boost in power and heat management compared to many base models. This model also offers a Fuel Injected system, ensuring more reliable starts and smoother throttle response across different riding conditions. These details make it better suited for riders who seek a more responsive and purpose-built machine without stepping into the high-end class of full sport models.
Beyond the engine, the Maverick MAX DPS 1000R introduces a selectable drive system, giving users the flexibility to switch between 4X2 and 4X4 modes with ease. This feature enhances performance on varied terrains, allowing riders to optimize traction as needed. The presence of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) simplifies operation, making it accessible for riders of different experience levels while still offering the ability to adapt to challenging trails or rougher ground.
In terms of convenience and design upgrades, this model also benefits from additional accessories and adjustments not typically found on base trims. For instance, the larger seating capacity with driver and passenger comfort in mind, along with accessible storage options, makes it more practical for longer outings. While it doesn’t include the extensive tech features seen in premium models, the focus on core performance and comfort enhancements makes it stand out for riders wanting a more refined experience without paying for high-end extras.
Pricing & Value
Most sport UTVs in the mid-range segment, like the 2018 Can-Am Maverick MAX DPS 1000R, carry an MSRP of $19,599. For that price, you’re getting a machine that aims to blend performance with comfort, targeting enthusiasts who want a purpose-built outdoor toy without stepping into the premium price bracket. The Maverick MAX sits above entry-level models that typically start around $15,000 and below models that can reach beyond $25,000, making it a middle-ground choice for those who want more than basic but not the top-tier features.
At this price point, Can-Am packages the Maverick MAX 1000R with features that appeal to recreational riders and weekend warriors. It’s positioned as a sport-oriented machine with enough refinement to work as a play vehicle on weekends or light utility tasks. The price reflects a machine that offers a substantial upgrade over lower trim models, which might lack some of the more powerful engine options, enhanced suspension, or additional seating comfort that is present here. Compared to the more expensive trims that might include electronic power steering or premium audio, this model keeps costs in check by focusing on core performance and comfort.
When evaluating whether the Maverick MAX DPS 1000R is good value, it largely depends on what you’re after. For the price, you get a machine that performs well in its class, especially if you prioritize power and agility. It is fairly priced against competitors such as the Polaris RZR XP 1000 or Yamaha YXZ1000R, which tend to run in a similar range but may offer different strengths like raw speed or specialized features. However, if your budget is tight, or if you need a machine with more utility features or advanced electronics, other options might offer better value for your specific use case. the Maverick MAX strikes a balance between cost and performance that justifies its asking price, but it may not be the best choice for those who want the most bells and whistles for their dollar.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the Maverick MAX DPS 1000R’s focus on offering a spacious, two-seat experience with serious power, making it a strong choice for recreational riders who prioritize comfort and performance in a side-by-side. Its wide, four-passenger seating configuration provides more room than typical sport UTVs, appealing to those who want a machine that can carry friends or family along for the ride without sacrificing aggressive handling.
This machine is best suited for riders who plan to spend their time on open trails, dunes, or recreational off-road terrain where its 1000R engine can shine. Its size and weight may make it less nimble in tight technical sections or narrow singletracks, so those who seek a machine for narrow, technical trails or intense rock crawling might need to look at more specialized models. Meanwhile, casual or utility-focused buyers should consider whether the sport-oriented design aligns with their needs, as the Maverick MAX prioritizes speed and stability over low-speed maneuverability.
The defining quality of this model is its combination of power, comfort, and passenger capacity, which creates a machine that can handle high-speed adventures with multiple riders aboard. The key to making a confident purchase lies in understanding whether your riding style matches its strengths. If you want a machine that delivers top-tier performance for recreational dual riders, this Maverick MAX fills that role well. For those who need a lighter, more agile machine or one built for heavy-duty work, other options within the Can-Am lineup or from different brands may serve better.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2018 Can-Am Maverick MAX DPS 1000R
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 tire27x9-12
- Dry weight1572 lb
- Tires27x9-12Front 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 kit976ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps3000 lbRated above the 1572 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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