Defender 6X6: Likes vs Dislikes

We've had our Can-Am Defender 6x6 since last fall and have had the opportunity to do some longer-term testing and really see what it can do. Luke's got some likes and dislikes he wants to share with you following his full review of this vehicle on the show last season.
#werebuiltforthis #canam #dirttraxtv
WATCH THIS:
Defender HD10 6x6 Review: • The 2020 Can Am Defend...
Defender 6X6 First Impressions: • 2020 Can-Am Defender 6...

[@pajamatime5750]

Love the content guys! Thanks for bringing us the great reviews!

[@dirttraxtv]

Thank you!!

[@wildbill23c]

Being able to unlock the differentials would not only save your lawn, it also gives you better turning radius too. To have turf mode it would need to have a way to unlock both rear differentials, and yes it can be done, and yes it would work, and for the ridiculous price these machines are sold for there's no excuse why the manufacturer couldn't incorporate it for the same price. The only benefit to the 6x6 version is being able to haul more due to the longer bed, in reality it doesn't necessarily add more traction, although when loaded it helps with traction by being able to distribute the weight over another axle. These machines are so ridiculously priced that most people that actually could use one for their intended purpose couldn't afford them, or realize for the price they could buy a damn nice used truck to do the same work and be able to drive it to work during the week too where most people couldn't do that with their ATV, well I could just due to where I live and work, but most people couldn't due to their commuting distance and laws regulating the use of ATV's.

[@nathantodd4433]

I bought one in June of 2020. They are an amazing machine. Was a diehard Polaris Ranger fan, but not anymore. Been flawless with no issues at all. Way smoother, quieter, and I think more power than a Ranger 1000. 6ft bed is great. I have a 110 gallon sprayer tank in mine from March until October, and still have as much room as a normal bed behind it. It handles it full, even with the suspension set fully soft, better than my 800 ranger did with a 26 gallon tank with the shocks cranked up. It rides so smooth. The only 4 downfalls i have found: 1. No turf mode is my biggest complaint. I would easily pay 2000 more for full unlocking rear differentials. it would make the turning radius better, and not tear up rock or grass, and save tires. 2. No locking front differential. Come on... 3. The center switch panel seems like it could pop off way to easy, but never has while riding. 4.The height of the rollcage, I have a friend who is 6' 4" and his head is still over a foot below the bars. With a sport roof you have to have a 7' tall enclosed trailer stock tires and suspension set soft. I Love this machine.

[@nathantodd4433]

Oh, forgot they need to make a track kit for the 6x6 defender ASAP!

[@robertevans8503]

the first thing i'd rip off of there is that net crap

[@dirttraxtv]

Think upgrading to half doors would be our first move.

[@ericthompson3253]

It is a base model so I wouldn’t expect much

[@adampetten1009]

I removed the netz completely, later on I got half doors as the wife thought she was going to fall out

[@randymahowich4336]

I built the first Yamaha 6X6 Big Bear 350 quad in 2004-5 , I still have the big bear .Polaris from Elk Iland sales men took pictures of the quad on Fork Lake , Alberta . They told me that they like things that are unusual , and are going to put it up on the wall at Polaris at Elk Island . Not to happy they copied my quad .

[@1966cambo]

Randy Mahowich Polaris first built the 6x6 in 1999, sorry to bruise your ego.....

[@boris2873]

We put the 1st 6 miles on a friends last night. I couldn't tell the 3rd axle was there even going through a 2-3' deep whoop section at 20mph. Didnt even spilled my coffee

[@MainvilleATV]

Heck of a unit! Had a chance to play with one at my local canam dealer and it is certainly impressive. More than I need, very cool though!

[@dirttraxtv]

Right on!

[@aaronsbarker]

the only way to address the wheel scuffing on grass is to uncouple the axles(maybe an over-riding clutch system?), unlock the differentials and add a steering system to the rear axle, either passive or active, similar to big trucks, particularly European ones.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

damn that is a good 1; The side walls for the bed hve built in aluminum ramps, or add option ramps.

[@joeyholthusen6495]

Full cab, heater, fenders all around, power lift for box, front and back winch, snowplow I'd add. Just curious if it can handle duals out back?

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I would make a fold down flooring extension both sides so u can squeeze in a third person pushing legs outside of both sides for make it work deal.

[@alexlavoie5311]

Yes everything about the 6x6 is great!! Love mine

[@glennbawbcanada6391]

I agree with your take on the removable glove box I have an XT and have never once taken it out of it’s spot. I find it very useful as it is but agree might be a tad gimicky. The under seat one is great. Still giving the head scratchers at Can Am 👍👍

[@dirttraxtv]

Yup, really like that under-seat container.

[@rayheppner8391]

It would make a great box for a first aid kit.

[@TheRiley8]

Thx for the review,the 6x6 will be my next purchase for sure.

[@dirttraxtv]

Thank you!!

[@jamesmerkel9442]

Flintstones cut outs so u can just, push off against some thing, to move it diff line, then put panel back, quick twist latch.

[@GNR325]

Nice review and machine. I would love to see you guys review and compare the base model machines that many people buy like the HD5 and Ranger 570 full size. A mid-size review would also be great with the HD8 as I suspect that size machine can do 99% of what the biggest machines can do. I suspect a lot more people buy base and mid-level machines than top of the line. Thanks!

[@dirttraxtv]

Thank you! We did a review of the HD8 a couple seasons back, but don't think we've had the HD5 yet. I like the power of the HD8, but it is a noticeable difference moving up to the HD10.

[@gregrowe1168]

The problem with the smaller displacement models is the size is basically the same. Especially with the HD5. Its half the power but pretty much the same weight except for a smaller engine. A smaller chassis would be more appropriate like the Ranger 500 and Arctic Cat Prowler 500.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I would make the hub axle length recess 3" or so all the rims except the rear, so that more rubber flex & wt is centered over tire so less strain on drive components hub bearing etc,etc.

[@timothykonewka5130]

You can just plug in the seatbelt for the middle seat into the driver's belt buckle device. it will not get in the way and bypasses the limiter

[@randomreviewz]

Thanks, you should make a turn test video on different type of grass, high and low, gravel etc. I’ve only watched defender 6x6 videos for the last week hh 🙂, hope we can get in scandinavia soon but my c-a dealer has no clue yet 😞

[@dirttraxtv]

Great suggestion!

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I would try making back axle stick out 3", same rut line, not dually wide just 3 extra inches & see if it corners less like a 6 by 6.

[@barsaf9989]

What if they put all wheel steering on it for turf mode haha. Can you imagine how much money that would cost? Or they could have a future that lifts the back wheels so it pivots and drives on the center ones. Like a semi truck.

[@57Pad]

Is that 30" tires on her l have a 2022 6x6 Defender want to put a set of 30" XPS swamp force . Do anyone know if they will fit thanks

[@AtvAdventureVlog]

Great Review!

[@dirttraxtv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bradthesing]

Turf mode... Yes, inherently by design you will have tire scrub on the back two axles when turning irregardless if there is a turf mode or not. The tire scrub from turning with two rear axles is a fraction of the wheel slip required to turn two positive locked axles. Now having said that, having open differentials makes a very significant difference on the amount of wear tear and damage to the train when driving under a full load or on hard surfaces. Polaris offered their 6x6 with a solid locked mid axle and a lockable rear differential axle. There is significantly noticeable difference when the rear axle is locked & in open differential mode that can be seen on the wear and tear and the train thats driven on, the feedback to the driver, and just the base maneuverability. This isn't something new, 18 wheelers know this well and there's a reason why they have lockable rear differentials in trucks that are routinely used off-road. Also,why not make the most versatile machine reasonably possible. Most people can't afford to buy two separate wheelers, one for use on yard work and a second for use on extreme terrain. Having seen and experience the difference, I would gladly pay more for optional lockable rear differentials! I'm looking forward to giving them my money as soon as they can add this feature.

[@fauztran]

Hoping to see you customize this machine sorta like Ostacruiser's. Would like to see some big 30" or 31" dirt/radial type tires.

[@dirttraxtv]

His 6x6 build is pretty awesome.

[@chrisE815]

I assume hes running portals?

[@michaelbury1941]

Seatbelt silencer on amazon will solve the limiter

[@JGKingCrusher]

How do you fit in the cab? Considering one, but I'm 6'2" and 380lbs. Thanks in advance.

[@fraserhenderson7839]

I want someone to provide a custom frame mounted cab-over camper to accessorize on this over achiever.

[@dirttraxtv]

That would be awesome. It would be like 2 bedroom cabin.

[@ih302]

Easy to build...

[@FloridaManConstruction]

Thanks!

[@eat5hams]

Is there any way to add a power-dump to the box? It would be great to be able to dump gravel and stuff out without having to shovel a bunch out first and then strain to lift it. Or is it somehow easy to dump when loaded? Thanks for the great review!

[@dirttraxtv]

Thank you! I think there must be an aftermarket product to convert it to a power dump box. I'll check around online. If you find something first, please post it here and update us!

[@r.griffin7941]

Defender 6x6 XT version specs a power tilt bed.

[@brodycampbell2990]

Is there tracks offered for the Utv 6x6?

[@marksjunction69]

Do you think this unit is too big for the trails? I'm worried that the regular defender is not as capable on the trails. Also, was hoping they would release a 6x6 limited for 2021, but no such luck. I have a small 6 acre property and like to go trail riding in the Rocky Mountains in Alberta and British Columbia. If you had to make a choice between a 6x6 and a limited defender, what would you choose?

[@dirttraxtv]

We use our 6x6 on the trails all the time. It actually ends up being the chase vehicle our camera crew uses for every test ride we've been doing so far this season and I think the 2021 edition has a hydraulic tilting bed, which was one of the only factors we felt the 2020 needed. If I had a choice btwn the two I might personally go with a 4x4 instead of the 6x6 though just for its size. Otherwise, great vehicle.

[@wyattwells3698]

About the seat belt you could go to the scrap yard and get a buckle out of junk car and it'd be cool to see can am come out with a radio to go into the glove box

[@jacobstrutner8232]

Bed sides need to go down for pallet fork loading. Can't load anything that way without it unless just from the back and not sides

[@stalkinghorse883]

"Push the button Max"

[@RobertClontz]

Make a trip to Alaska again to test a 6x6's and an argo in the boggy terrain up there. Extreme environment, extreme vehicles.

[@21005554]

Robert Clontz My Honda 420 is better. If I bottom out the Defender 6x6 I’m really in trouble.

[@dirttraxtv]

That was an amazing trip and having an Argo and a 6x6 to do it again would be awesome.

[@21005554]

It’s November and I never did get stuck in our bogs. Great machine, comfortable and well built.

[@endurancekennels]

Do you know if they're going to make tracks for the 6 x 6?

[@dirttraxtv]

Great question!!

[@boris2873]

On of my gripes about the cab, the armrest is way to low, im a midget & to use it i have to lean over sideways to put my arm on it.

[@17buckrogers]

even with turf tires?

[@charlie-gf5hp]

@dirttractv I’m looking at getting like a 2014 Yamaha grizzly 700. Are they any good?

[@dirttraxtv]

Yup! This was before the bodywork restyling, but still had the same 686cc engine. Clearly you're buying used, so watch for anything beyond typical wear and tear and ask about maintenance (if any was ever done). If the ATV is in good shape, you'll have yourself a winner.

[@gregrowe1168]

Yes, good choice for a used atv. As they said, how it was maintained is important. Yamahas are generally reliable and the Grizzly 700 especially has a great reputation for longevity.

[@wildbill23c]

They're great, and fuel injected, means easy starts in cold weather. I had a Grizzly 450, that thing was terrible starting in the cold, in the summer the CDI would randomly overheat and shut the engine off....great fun on a machine with engine braking, finally scrapped that piece of crap it was a danger when that thing would decide to shut down. Their fuel injected models are great...I had the Yamaha Rhino 700 with the same engine, had plenty of power, the huge negative was the locked rear differential with no selection to unlock it when not needed so for utility use around the yard it was a huge negative for me because that was the largest reason I got it was for chores around the property. Cub Cadet has a UTV that has selectable front and rear lockers, and Polaris has turf mode but their 4WD system leaves a lot to be desired, its not engaged till traction is lost then it engages.

[@jeremymerrix6236]

We didn't take sides off lol but shows a clip of them having the sides off.

[@dillydilly319]

Do a Honda 420 build

[@rachelguillen1439]

who is the dealer here in ph?

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I would make the middle tire 2" taller than front & rear so that most of the time empty wt u r wt center axle & wearing this1 not 3 axles w/of tires, & as wt is added well yeah u r using/wearing them all.

[@carlover4118]

3:18 I like that he said commander, the commander is very good why do people hate it !! 😒😒

[@21005554]

It’s superior to anything for ranch work. We have a Can Am Trail, Honda 420, Tacoma, Argo, and Land Cruiser. The Defender 6x6 goes anywhere except a real bog and carries as much as the truck.

[@dirttraxtv]

That's awesome! Thanks for sharing!!

[@21005554]

After 18 months of rough use have destroyed the nets and replaced front bushings. Have yet to get stuck and overall quality is very impressive.

[@justin-jt8bf]

What is your favorite sideXside for 2020?

[@dirttraxtv]

Tough question! Looking forward to driving the KRX more, love the Defender line, need to spend a bit more time in the RZR PRO XP. Those are a couple off the top of my head. Need to finish my coffee...

[@GNR325]

@@dirttraxtv The Defender line seems to strike a nice balance between recreation (not racing) and work. I have never been close to one, but from the reviews they seem like they are better put together than Polaris Rangers. Have you driven the HD5? If so what is your opinion?

[@dirttraxtv]

We actually really like the Defender line. THey're great runners and there's a lot of variety in this line to kind of find exactly what you want. We've had the HD8, but not an HD5 that I can remember. It has a 427cc single so I kind of feel it might be low on power. Not that I'm saying you'll only be happy with the HD10, but if you have the budget to move up to at least the HD8, I would recommend it.

[@user-gy9qd1gm3r]

Pulled a john combine front head for corn 35 ft, Blew the belt after 1 hour . Brakes pads are too small.

[@mattsauriol6349]

Hey Guys. Would love to see a Defender XTP vs Ranger XP 1000 comparo.

[@dirttraxtv]

Stay tuned and we'll see what we can do!!

[@alexlavoie5311]

Love mine

[@dirttraxtv]

Saw your photos on our Facebook page! Thanks for posting!!

[@wildcatoutdoors]

Man i have never heard anyone like the ranger trans over anything before. After 5 rangers i can honestly say shifting into different gears is ridiculous. Most of the time you have to give it throttle to get it to engage.

[@dirttraxtv]

Can't say that "most of the time" has been our experience with our Rangers, but definitely appreciate your opinion having owned several.

[@wildcatoutdoors]

@@dirttraxtv love the show and variety of products you bring us review on, thanks.

[@gregrowe1168]

Cvt engagement on older Polaris machines always seemed clunky. I assume its improved on newer models though.

[@boostromboost2088]

Can you guys review a Keeway gts 320 t3b 4x4

[@dirttraxtv]

I'm not sure if these are available in Canada to get our hands on one to test.

[@boostromboost2088]

Dirtobsexxxion answerd me the same

[@gavindrews9853]

Top speed?

[@joshszydel8202]

65

[@robbiesmith9786]

Do they make a half door for that

[@dirttraxtv]

Can-Am does make half doors for the Defender line. There's also a ton of aftermarket suppliers that make them too.

[@danielsmorodin5478]

@@dirttraxtv I know this thing is a work horse, but id like to use it for everything. some trail riding, dirt road riding, id like to know what you think of the fun factor of the unit and if could handle a good cruses around that 35 mph 40 mph range,

[@robbiesmith9786]

Wood a yz 250 dirt bike fit in the back

[@dirttraxtv]

If it'll fit an Outlander, it should fit a YZ250.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

why can't u just turf turn in reverse w/only rear drive shafts turning, so don't mess up the grass. Or Flintstones turn the thing in reverse.

[@videomaker8207]

Awesome though

[@veseli4406]

This is my life's wish that will never come true!😪

[@32plug]

Since your done with it, Can I have it please?

[@mlevesque3022]

I like what ostacruiser did to his.

[@dirttraxtv]

Us too!!

[@burningfarts]

John Deere Gator from 10 years ago has this thing completely out engineered and I'm not even a John Deere fan.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

A polly windshield that folds twice long ways so u can hve shorty shield or no shield laying flat or full shield like u hve some common sense.

[@johnserrano9689]

You can tell can am pays this dam guy to talk very good about can am.

[@bluefj-wc3vz]

How does that not have a factory hydraulic bed dump? It's killer otherwise

[@dirttraxtv]

The 2021 does.

[@bluefj-wc3vz]

Good deal. Smart move by BRP. I’ve owned an ‘06 Bombardier XT quad since new. Been a great machine.

[@StinkyTeal]

I would override the seatbelt BS before it left the dealership....good lord

[@videomaker8207]

This things a brute

[@sprucesoldier]

Ain’t no Big Red 250...🙄

[@dirttraxtv]

No it is not.

[@TheBandit7613]

Net is lame. a hundred bucks more on the price for removable doors won't be noticed. And, TURF MODE on everything. More of us use these on the road at least partially and turf mode on the road feels safer. Like the informal no nonsense review. And no annoying music, Who-hoo!

[@dirttraxtv]

Thanks!

[@alfiesmales4799]

Early

[@dirttraxtv]

Mornin'!!

[@alfiesmales4799]

My guy love the vids

[@dirttraxtv]

Thank you!!

[@alfiesmales4799]

Dirt Trax TV no problem

[@thelandrovermaniac5334]

Wouldn't last 5 minutes in my hands

[@canadaplace2be176]

What ever floats your boat. Do u need 6 wheels. Tit for tat

[@jessybinoy4929]

First

[@tuckerschwab5331]

Yessir

[@bemi0604]

don't have your hands in your pockets when giving speeches.

[@dirttraxtv]

Thanks for the pro tip.

[@TheMidasMD]

If you had to use it on grass, just make sure your turning radius is very wide. This way, the dragging and scrubbing is negligible.