In 2018, manufacturer Polaris shook things up by introducing the industry’s first semi-active suspension for ATVs. Reserved for ultra-sports side-by-sides, this system allows a vehicle’s suspension to be adjusted in real time while in motion. The suspension setup is, therefore, always optimized, maximizing comfort.
In 2021, Can-Am followed suit by equipping the Maverick X3 X RS with its Smart-Shox suspension (read the article).
Semi-Active Suspension on ATVs—Can-Am Innovates Again
For 2026, Can-Am is offering its Smart-Shox system as an option on the Outlander XT-P and Outlander Max XT-P models. It also comes standard on the Outlander Max Limited 1000R.
Smart-Shox: How Can-Am’s Semi-Active Suspension Works
Can-Am’s Smart-Shox suspension is a semi-active system that adjusts shock absorber firmness in real time based on riding conditions. Using sensors that continuously monitor speed, acceleration, steering, and suspension travel, the electronics analyze the situation and send commands to the shocks equipped with electronically controlled valves.
These shocks instantly stiffen or soften, optimizing traction, stability, and comfort. In practice, this means the suspension can absorb a big impact, reduce body roll in corners, and maintain more predictable handling—without the rider needing to intervene.
Smart-Shox therefore delivers the perfect balance between the performance of sports ATVs and the comfort of utility vehicles, no matter the terrain conditions.
Outlander 2026: The Benefits of Smart-Shox Suspension
The four Smart-Shox sensors measure and adjust the compression and rebound of each shock up to 200 times per second. As a result, the computer makes adjustments every 5 ms (0.005 seconds), which is extremely impressive. To put this in perspective, the system takes just 17 ms to go from the softest to the firmest setting. You won’t notice these changes happening, but you’ll quickly realize that tackling rough terrain is much easier.
Body roll in corners and front-end lift under hard acceleration or sudden braking are greatly reduced if not eliminated. On bumpy or uneven terrain, the ATV also becomes much more predictable. As a result, your control and safety both increase. You should also notice reduced fatigue after a long ride or when navigating particularly rough terrain.
Depending on the model, the Smart-Shox system offers 4 or 5 modes:
- Comfort
- Comfort 2-up
- Work
- Normal
- Sport
Renegade with Smart-Shox—When Will It Happen?
If you ask the folks at Can-Am, you won’t get a direct answer, but I did catch a few knowing smiles when the question came up. So I wouldn’t be surprised to see a Renegade model equipped with Smart-Shox added to Can-Am’s lineup during the next refresh of that model.
Final Thoughts
Once again, Can-Am has succeeded in innovating, and I can’t wait to ride my first kilometres on an Outlander equipped with this suspension. Until then, for more information, I invite you to contact your preferred dealer or visit the Can-Am manufacturer’s website.
