No, this is about a different level of adventure, whether it be for pure recreation or hunting or fishing or, in some cases, simply to be able to move around in the snow for work and/or ranching.
Track kits, as was pointed out by BRP’s Allen Bernais, are not new to the market but they continue to get better and one of the latest creations are Can-Am’s Apache Backcountry and Backcountry LT Track Kits.
Riding in remote Quebec near Saint-Urbain (near ish—still an hour’s drive from town to Auberge du Ravage Outfitters on Moreau Lake), we drove several Apache Backcountry track kit-equipped Can-Ams, from two different Maverick X3 models to a Maverick Sport to an Outlander ATV.
And lest anyone think this was a simple trail ride in the countryside, we’re here to tell you it was backcountry riding deep powder with no groomed trails in sight.
The track kits—designed especially for Can-Am vehicles—were impressive as they helped propel the vehicles through the powder, up and down hills and across a lake. They take Can-Am’s off-road dirt vehicles to a new arena of play opportunities and make these vehicles a year-round option in the snowbelt.
Our goal on ride day was to experience the recreational side of the Apache Backcountry kits—hence the deep powder ride in the hills above Moreau Lake as well as riding on the frozen—and snow-laden—lake itself.
First and foremost, it was so much fun to tackle snow from the seat of a Maverick or Outlander. It shouldn’t be any surprise that the Maverick X3 models were beasts on the snow as they could power up most any hill or through deep snow. These models have the horsepower to do just that.
No, this is about a different level of adventure, whether it be for pure recreation or hunting or fishing or, in some cases, simply to be able to move around in the snow for work and/or ranching.
Track kits, as was pointed out by BRP’s Allen Bernais, are not new to the market but they continue to get better and one of the latest creations are Can-Am’s Apache Backcountry and Backcountry LT Track Kits.
And lest anyone think this was a simple trail ride in the countryside, we’re here to tell you it was backcountry riding deep powder with no groomed trails in sight.
The track kits—designed especially for Can-Am vehicles—were impressive as they helped propel the vehicles through the powder, up and down hills and across a lake. They take Can-Am’s off-road dirt vehicles to a new arena of play opportunities and make these vehicles a year-round option in the snowbelt.
Our goal on ride day was to experience the recreational side of the Apache Backcountry kits—hence the deep powder ride in the hills above Moreau Lake as well as riding on the frozen—and snow-laden—lake itself.
First and foremost, it was so much fun to tackle snow from the seat of a Maverick or Outlander. It shouldn’t be any surprise that the Maverick X3 models were beasts on the snow as they could power up most any hill or through deep snow. These models have the horsepower to do just that.
One feature on the Apache kit that makes that possible for a nearly1,500-pound vehicle is the contact patch of the tracks, which is 29 percent larger and is purpose-built to support a side-by-side. Another important feature is that the Apache Backcountry LT adds 7 inches of ground clearance compared to the SxS’s tires. We needed every last inch of that in Quebec.
Perhaps one of the more important features is a DPS module that made it easy to steer the side-by-sides. Even in the deepest snow we found, turning was fairly easy. We also appreciated the approach angle of the front tracks, which help, as much as possible, the vehicle to climb up on the snow rather than plow through it. Compare that to a flat track, which would plow and be harder to turn.
Did we get stuck? Yes. The tracks aren’t idiot proof. Let’s just leave it at that.
And if the truth be known, we had as much fun on the track-equipped Outlander ATV as we did the side-by-side. We could go more places in tighter trees and traverse sidehills we wouldn’t dare in a side-by-side.
There are actually two different track systems available: Apache Backcountry Track System and Apache Backcountry LT (long track) Track System.
Here are a few details:
Apache Backcountry Track System
Designed to support ATVs and lightweight SSVs while delivering better control.
- All Can-Am ATVs
- Maverick Trail
- Maverick Sport
Apache Backcountry LT Track System
Designed to support the heavier loads of SSVs while delivering better traction and an unmatched flotation level.
- Defender
- Maverick X3
Bernais explained that the Backcountry and Backcountry LT systems are being positioned as winter-use only; not really all season. For that you’ll have to look at the Apache 360 and 360 LT.
Track Patterns
2-inch lug and 3-inch pitch to increase floatation and traction in various snow conditions.
Geometry
Aluminum slider system reduces rolling resistance and increases the contact patch. Bernaise pointed out that the geometry is “snowmobile-like” and thus offers excellent weight distribution on snow.
Accessories
Customize your kit to your riding conditions with additional idler wheels, Vespel sliders and ice scratchers.
DPS Module
You can enhance your track experience with a unique Can-Am Dynamic Power Steering module. By configuring multiple settings such as power steering response and speedometer with the track ratio, your vehicle’s speedometer and odometer will stay true and in sync.
Frame Anti-Rotation Arm
Adjustable pre-loaded spring and multiple rubber dampers keep tracks securely in place and ensure your machine’s performance. Can-Am’s unique system has been improved for better performance and control.
Frame
The Backcountry system was designed for one purpose: to increase the contact patch. Composed of a steel upper section that supports lower aluminum sliders the snowmobile-like geometry offers unmatched weight distribution on snow.
Sprocket Tensioner
The Backcountry and Backcountry LT use an external drive sprocket for slip-free power transfer. Developed exclusively for Can-Am vehicles, it uses a 3-inch pitch for optimized performance in deep snow. The Backcountry and Backcountry LT use an easy to operate snowmobile-type tensioner.