If you're hunting for a used ATV that packs a serious punch without feeling like an outdated relic, the 2016 can am 850 outlander is probably at the top of your list for a good reason. It was a bit of a "sweet spot" year for BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products). They took everything that people loved about the older 800R models and bumped the displacement up, refined the electronics, and kept that aggressive G2 chassis that still looks modern even compared to brand-new machines sitting on showroom floors today.
I've spent a lot of time around these machines, and there's something about the way Can-Am tunes their V-twins that just feels different from the single-cylinder thumpers you get from other brands. The 850 specifically was a big deal when it dropped because it bridged the gap between the "tame" 650 and the "hold-on-for-your-life" 1000. It's plenty of power for most mortals, and honestly, in many trail situations, it's actually easier to handle than its bigger brother.
That Rotax V-Twin Magic
The heart of the 2016 can am 850 outlander is, of course, that 854cc Rotax V-twin. In 2016, this engine was pushing out about 78 horsepower. To put that in perspective, many mid-sized cars from twenty years ago weren't pushing much more than that, and here it is tucked between your legs on a 800-pound quad.
The power delivery is what really stands out. It's snappy. You flick the thumb throttle and the front end wants to light up immediately. But it's not just about raw speed; it's the torque. Whether you're trying to lug through a sticky mud hole or you're climbing a rocky technical section, the 850 has this deep well of power that doesn't require you to scream the engine to get movement. It's got that signature V-twin growl too—that low-end rumble that turns into a high-pitched wail when you really open it up.
Handling and the G2 Chassis
Can-Am's G2 (Generation 2) Surrounding Spar Technology (SST) frame was well-established by 2016. The goal of this frame was to reduce the number of welds and parts, making it more rigid and durable. On the trail, this translates to a ride that feels "planted." When you're hitting corners at speed, you don't feel the frame flexing or groaning under you.
One of the best features you'll find on many 2016 can am 850 outlander units (specifically the DPS, XT, and Max models) is the Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS). If you've never ridden a quad with power steering, it's a life-changer. You can adjust the level of assist depending on how you're riding. If you're doing 50 mph down a fire road, you want less assist so you can feel the trail. If you're crawling through tight trees and over boulders, you want it on "Max" so you don't break your wrists when a tire catches a rock.
Suspension That Actually Works
The 2016 model year featured the Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension. This is a big deal because, unlike some other setups, the rear wheels move straight up and down rather than in a "butterfly" motion. This keeps the tire contact patch consistent and prevents the "scrubbing" feeling you get on some other ATVs when the suspension compresses.
Up front, you've got double A-arms with dive-control geometry. If you've ever slammed on the brakes on an older ATV and felt the nose dive into the dirt, you'll appreciate this. It stays relatively level, which keeps your steering geometry intact even when you're slowing down in a hurry. It's a very predictable machine, which is exactly what you want when you're navigating a cliffside trail.
Real World Usability and the LinQ System
Let's talk about the practical stuff for a second. The 2016 can am 850 outlander isn't just a toy; a lot of guys use these for actual work. The racks are rated for a decent amount of weight, and they feature the LinQ system. This is basically a quick-attach system for accessories. You can swap a gear box for a fuel caddy or a chainsaw holder in about ten seconds without needing tools or bungee cords.
The storage compartment in the back is also surprisingly useful. It's not huge, but it's enough to keep a pair of gloves, a small tool kit, and a bottle of water dry and out of the mud. It's those little design touches that make you realize the engineers actually ride these things.
What to Look for if You're Buying Used
If you're scouting the classifieds for a 2016 can am 850 outlander, there are a few things you'll want to keep an eye on. These are high-performance machines, and sometimes people treat them like race cars rather than utility vehicles.
First, check the frame. While the G2 frame is tough, it can be prone to "spar" damage if the previous owner did a lot of jumping or hit a stump at high speed. Look for any kinks or cracks near the suspension mounting points. Second, check the fluids. If the oil looks like chocolate milk, walk away—that means water got into the engine.
Also, pay attention to the heat. The 2016 models are known for running a bit hot on the right leg. It's just the nature of having a big V-twin packed into a tight space. If the plastic side panels look melted or warped, it's a sign the machine was pushed hard in hot conditions without much airflow. Many owners ended up adding aftermarket heat shielding or "wraps" to the exhaust to help with this.
The Maintenance Factor
Owning a Can-Am is a bit like owning a European car. It's high-performance and a blast to drive, but you can't ignore the maintenance schedule. The CVT belt is usually the first thing to go if you're heavy-handed with the throttle or if you try to pull a heavy trailer in "High" gear instead of "Low." Replacing the belt isn't the end of the world, but it's an annoyance you'd rather avoid.
The greasing points are also important. The 2016 can am 850 outlander has several grease zerks on the suspension and driveshafts. If the previous owner kept it greased, the bushings will be tight and the ride will be quiet. If they ignored it, you'll hear a lot of squeaking and clicking every time you hit a bump.
Why the 850 Over the 1000?
This is the big question. Why buy the 850 when the 1000 exists? Well, the 850 is often described as having a "revvier" feel. The 1000 is all about sheer, brutal torque. It's great for drag racing and deep mud, but for general trail riding, the 850 often feels more balanced. It's a little bit lighter in the front end, and it doesn't try to loop out on you quite as aggressively if you're clumsy with the throttle.
Plus, on the used market, you can often find the 850 for a significantly lower price than the 1000, despite the real-world performance difference being fairly slim for most riders. You're still getting that premium Can-Am feel, the great ergonomics, and more power than a Polaris 850 from the same era.
Final Thoughts
The 2016 can am 850 outlander remains one of the most capable and fun all-around ATVs out there. It has that rare combination of being a workhorse during the week and a trail-shredding beast on the weekends. It looks good, sounds better, and has the tech to keep up with much newer machines.
Whether you're looking to upgrade from a smaller quad or you're just getting into the hobby and want something you won't outgrow in six months, the 850 is a solid bet. Just make sure you do your homework, check the maintenance records, and be prepared to hold on tight when you hit the gas. It's a lot of machine, but once you get a taste of that V-twin power, it's really hard to go back to anything else.