The Can-Am Commander is a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts for its versatility, durability, and power. Whether you're navigating rugged trails, tackling sand dunes, or cruising through dense forests, the Commander delivers a robust performance. However, for many thrill-seekers, the standard suspension setup may not be enough to satisfy their desire for greater stability, comfort, and control on rough terrain. This is where a Can-Am Commander Long Travel Kit comes into play.
In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about long travel kits for the Can-Am Commander, including what they are, their benefits, how they enhance off-road performance, and tips for choosing the right kit.
What is a Long Travel Kit?
A long travel kit is an aftermarket upgrade that significantly enhances the suspension system of off-road vehicles like the Can-Am Commander. This kit includes components that increase the width of the vehicle's stance and the overall travel distance of the suspension. These kits typically feature:
- Wider A-arms (upper and lower control arms)
- Longer axles
- Upgraded shocks
- Extended tie rods
- Additional mounting hardware
In essence, a long travel kit increases the vehicle’s suspension travel—the vertical movement of the wheels as they respond to the terrain. This upgrade allows for more suspension movement, providing a smoother ride and improved stability when navigating difficult or bumpy off-road conditions.
Benefits of a Long Travel Kit for the Can-Am Commander
Installing a long travel kit on your Can-Am Commander offers a range of advantages that can enhance your off-road experience:
1. Increased Stability
One of the most noticeable benefits of a long travel kit is the increased width of the vehicle. With wider A-arms, your Commander will have a broader stance, reducing the risk of tipping over on sharp turns or uneven ground. This increased stability is particularly beneficial when tackling challenging trails, steep inclines, or rocky terrain.
2. Smoother Ride
The additional suspension travel allows the wheels to absorb more of the bumps and impacts from rough terrain. This results in a smoother and more comfortable ride, as the suspension system can better handle dips, rocks, and ruts without jarring the driver and passengers.
3. Enhanced Traction
A long travel suspension improves the vehicle’s ability to keep all four wheels in contact with the ground, even in extreme off-road conditions. With more suspension travel, the Can-Am Commander can maintain better traction, which is crucial for overcoming obstacles like deep ruts, steep hills, or uneven terrain.
4. Better Handling
By widening the vehicle’s stance and enhancing suspension travel, a long travel kit improves the overall handling of the Can-Am Commander. The vehicle becomes more responsive to steering input, allowing for more precise control, even at higher speeds or in technical sections of a trail.
5. Increased Ground Clearance
Some long travel kits also offer a boost in ground clearance, giving your Commander the ability to clear larger rocks, stumps, and other trail obstacles. This can prevent damage to the undercarriage and allow you to explore more challenging off-road environments.
6. Customization and Performance Tuning
Long travel kits often come with upgraded shocks that offer more adjustability compared to stock suspension systems. This means you can fine-tune your suspension settings to suit your specific riding style, the terrain you're tackling, or the weight of your load.
How a Long Travel Kit Enhances Off-Road Performance
A long travel kit transforms your Can-Am Commander into a more capable off-road machine by enhancing several key performance areas:
Articulation: Long travel suspensions allow for greater wheel articulation, meaning each wheel can move independently over larger obstacles without losing contact with the ground. This is essential for technical off-roading and rock crawling.
Shock Absorption: By upgrading to performance shocks included in most long travel kits, you can better absorb harsh impacts from jumps or rough terrain. The shocks are designed to offer more dampening control, which helps reduce body roll and bottoming out.
Cornering: With a wider stance and improved suspension, you can take corners more aggressively without sacrificing control. The wider footprint gives the vehicle more stability, which reduces the chance of tipping in high-speed turns.
Jump Capability: For those who love hitting jumps, a long travel suspension allows for more lift and a softer landing. The increased suspension travel can better absorb the impact of jumps, protecting both the rider and the machine from damage.
Choosing the Right Can-Am Commander Long Travel Kit
When it comes to selecting a long travel kit for your Can-Am Commander, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the right setup for your needs:
1. Quality of Materials
Look for long travel kits made from high-quality materials such as chromoly steel or aircraft-grade aluminum. These materials offer the durability and strength needed to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. Inferior materials may bend or break under stress, which could lead to costly repairs.
2. Compatibility
Not all long travel kits are designed to fit every model of the Can-Am Commander. Be sure to select a kit that is compatible with your specific year and model to ensure a proper fit. Some kits may also require additional modifications to your Commander, such as changing the shock mounts or brake lines, so be prepared for potential adjustments.
3. Shock Absorbers
Many long travel kits come with upgraded shocks, but not all shocks are created equal. Consider what type of riding you plan to do and choose a kit with shocks that match your performance needs. High-performance shocks with adjustable settings can be beneficial for riders who want to customize their suspension for different terrains.
4. Ease of Installation
Some long travel kits are designed for easy, bolt-on installation, while others may require welding or significant modifications to your vehicle. If you're planning to install the kit yourself, look for one that offers detailed instructions and minimal additional modifications. Alternatively, professional installation can ensure the kit is installed correctly.
5. Price
Long travel kits can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand, materials, and components included. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality kit will provide better performance and durability in the long run.
Popular Brands for Can-Am Commander Long Travel Kits
Several reputable companies manufacture long travel kits for the Can-Am Commander. Here are a few brands known for their quality and performance:
HCR Racing: Known for their rugged, high-performance long travel kits, HCR Racing offers suspension upgrades specifically designed for extreme off-road use.
SuperATV: SuperATV provides a variety of long travel kits that cater to different riding styles and budgets, making them a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts.
Lonestar Racing: Lonestar Racing offers a range of long travel suspension systems that provide excellent durability and performance for the Can-Am Commander.
Conclusion
A Can-Am Commander Long Travel Kit is one of the best upgrades you can make to your vehicle if you're serious about off-roading. The increased stability, improved handling, smoother ride, and enhanced traction make a long travel suspension kit an ideal investment for those looking to tackle more challenging terrain with confidence.