Honda Talon Vs Can Am Maverick: A Quick Analysis
Out of all the UTVs out on the market today, few come close to the notoriety that the Honda Talon and the Can Am Maverick have managed to make for themselves. With that in mind, we’d like to take a look at a few key differences between the two to see which one is the superior model in certain important categories.
Both of these are 1000cc models, so it’s only natural that we compare the two. After all, they both come from brands we trust and appreciate immensely. Both are also equal in suspension travel numbers and Fox QS3 shocks. However, now let’s focus on the differences.
Testing the Motors
Since both of the basic models have the same motor capacity, it’s hard to try and figure out a clear winner between the two. With that said, there are several different variations of each model, but the most common variations that can be found for both of them are fairly similar.
For example, the Can Am Maverick X3 Turbo comes with three cylinders whilst the Honda Talon 1000R only has two. Can Am has a displacement of 900 while the Talon has a displacement of 999. The valve configuration in the Can Am is DOHC while the Talon has an OHV config. Finally, the main difference between the two models’ engines is that the first one is a horizontal line-in engine type while the former is a parallel type.
Other Differences and Similarities
The Can Am Maverick X3 Turbo has a CVT automatic transmission whilst the Honda Talon 1000R comes with a manual transmission with an automatic clutch option integrated. Both of these have electric starters, liquid cooling, and a fuel capacity of 10.5 for the Can Am and 7.3 for the Honda.
Both of these UTVs can reverse, come with a rear drive shaft, and a front suspension of 20 for the Can Am and 17.7 for the Honda Talon. The Can Am also comes with a 6-month warranty, while the Honda comes with a full 12-month warranty. You’ll also be pleased to know that both of these UTVs have dual hydraulic brakes both on the front and in the back.
Honda Talon Vs Can Am Maverick - What Should You Choose?
The Honda Talon doesn’t have a Turbo model, unlike the Can Am Maverick, so we can’t truly compare the entire lineup overall. We have decided to only judge by the existing models and compare them head to head depending on how close the price to value ratio and the specifications are.
Some people might say that Honda should have released a sports UTV a long, long time ago, yet here we are with a recently-released model that somehow manages to stand up even to established sports UTV. Essentially, the Honda Talon is a 1000-class, naturally aspirated machine. The powertrain is adapted from the Pioneer 1000 lineup, but both the engine and transmission have received specific upgrades to make them more sporty in every way.
4x4 UTVs
The Maverick and the Talon both allow their users to choose a 4x4 driving mode if they so desire. Select Trail Activ mode and the diff will feed power to the front wheel and grab more traction, or it will engage both at the same time. Finally, you can fully lock the front differential to have full-time, 100-percent 4×4 engagement.
We like the fact that the Talon also has I4WD where Honda uses technology to avoid a locking front differential. I4WD is made possible by the installation of the Brake Traction Control System (BTCS). The brains of the system measure the force required to stop the spinning wheel, and it shuffles four times that amount of power to the wheel on the opposite side.
For the most part, the two machines are similar in the front suspension, though they use different terminology. Can-Am says “A-arm” and Honda “double wishbone.”
Can-Am has strong, high-clearance A-arms in the front and rear for 14.75 inches of wheel travel front and rear with 2.5-inch QS3 shocks. They are compression- and preload-adjustable coil-over piggyback reservoir shocks that soak up trail abuse. Progressive-rate shock springs are standard, and the front and rear of the Can-Am have sway bars installed to aid stability.
Comfort?
If nothing else matters, then comfort should be the main thing concerning your needs. The Maverick Sport variation has a less comfortable cockpit compared to the Talon. However, it is easier to get inside the Can Am thanks to the fact that it has half doors, while the Honda has quarter doors with nets.
Both machines have much-appreciated in-cab storage. The Can-Am gauge is a bit easier to read at speed. Both steering wheels are tilt-adjustable, and both have gated shifters that work well. Our Honda wasn’t instantly engaged when we went to low range. Both machines have retractable three-point belts, but there are pass-through openings in seatbacks for four- or five-point harness-type seat belts.
The downside, however, is that the Can Am feels very rough when riding on open trails with lots of bumps. That doesn’t mean that it’s stiff in other situations. Overall, we actually think that the Can Am Maverick is much more comfortable and comes with a far better suspension system than the Honda Talon.
Final Thoughts
Whatever your choice is at the end of the day, we have tons of accessories for tuneup options for both of these. Whether you’re a Honda Talon enthusiast or a Can Am Maverick connoisseur, you have a lot of things to choose from our online store.
Anyway, feel free to drop us a comment and tell us your opinion regarding the two. Also, feel free to ask any questions related to these vehicles and we will answer them as best as we can.
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