The Complete Guide to Tubeless Tire Setups for ATVs

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Can-Am Defender Lift Kits: Top Options & Pro Advice

Surprising stat: improving suspension geometry and ground clearance can add more real trail time than a power mod—Blackwater tires— many owners see as much as a 30% gain in obstacle clearance after the proper setup.

Expect clear numbers: 32-inch tires fit with the bracket alone; add boxed forward arms and you can go to 35 inches. You’ll see comparisons on warranty, materials, and ride to clarify what remains OEM, what reuses ball joints, and the install watch-outs.

Ready for practical recommendations? This intro lays the groundwork so your next purchase improves clearance, stability, and daily usability without overcomplicating the install.

Pick the Right Can-Am Defender Lift: Quick Picks & Key Benefits

A handful of smart upgrades deliver more clearance, larger tires, and fewer trail snags.

ITP Blackwater evolution tire

Why Upgrade: Clearance, Tire Size & Trail/Jobsite Performance

Increased ground clearance minimizes snagging on stumps, ruts, and rocks. That means fewer stops and less damage when you work or play.

Upsized tires increase contact patch while sharpening approach and departure angles. Expect truer tracking in ruts and better float in mud and sand.

  • ThumperFab: a 3″ bracket that bolts on, keeps the factory sway bar, and comes with a lifetime warranty. Clears 32″ tires alone and up to 35″ with forward arms.
  • HCR: forward high-clearance arms with up to 3″ built-in lift and a +2.5″ front push. High-clearance boxed design; some 2023 models need ZBROS Exit shocks and these arms omit sway bar mounts.

Easy choice: pick the bracket for speed of install, sway bar compatibility, and lifetime coverage. Opt for forward arms if you need added tire space and geometry gains on rough trails.

Lift Kit for Can-Am Defender: Features, Fitment & Install Essentials

Get clear details on build quality, fitment, and installation expectations.

ThumperFab supplies a 3″ bracket built from CNC laser-cut/formed US steel. Bolt-on fit, sway bar retention, and a lifetime warranty are included.

HCR Racing offers forward high-clearance arms (up to 3″ lift built-in) pushing the hub +2.5″. They feature TIG welds, CNC chromoly mounts, and reuse the OEM ball joints.

Clearance & Fitment

Thumper Fab fits many Cab and MAX models (Single Cab 2018–2023 and Crew Cab MAX 2018–2023, plus select 2020+ trims). Run 32″ on bracket-only; pair with boxed forward arms to reach 35″.

Installation notes and ride

  • Bracket installs bolt-on and retains sway bar; passenger-side bolts may be tight near HVAC/AC lines.
  • 2023 fit with HCR arms may require ZBROS Exit shocks; verify shock fitment first.
  • Owners report near-OEM ride with the bracket and improved obstacle compliance with forward arms.

Compare the Top Options: Thumper Fab 3″ Bracket vs HCR Forward HC A-Arms

Consider quick install versus geometry and tire-clearance benefits over time.

Why Choose the Bracket

A USA-built 3″ Thumper Fab bracket offers straightforward bolt-on installation. You retain the factory sway bar and receive lifetime coverage.

The bracket alone supports 32″ tires. Add boxed forward control arms to reach 33–35″.

Forward arms advantages

HCR Racing’s forward high-clearance arms build the lift into the suspension. They add a +2.5″ front push and use boxed lower arms to avoid snags on rocks and roots.

Arms reuse OEM ball joints and feature TIG welds plus CNC chromoly mounts for strength.

Fitment and requirements

  • HCR front arms do not include sway bar mounts; this affects roll control.
  • HCR on 2023 models usually pairs with ZBROS Exit shocks.
  • Check offset: 4+3 is recommended; certain 5+2 wheels can work depending on true spec.
Spec ThumperFab Bracket HCR Forward Arms Notes
Install Bolt-on, afternoon project Bolt-on with added steps Check shock and sway bar fitment
Tire room 32″ on bracket-only; to 35″ with arms 33–35″ supported with forward push Confirm tire brand/tread
Ride/Geometry Near-OEM ride feel Improved obstacle compliance Arms change front wheelbase

The Bottom Line

Choose parts aligned with your goals to gain off-road confidence.

Thumper Fab’s 3″ bracket offers a quick bolt-on, sway bar compatibility, lifetime warranty, and stock 32″ clearance. Add boxed forward arms for up to 35″.

HCR forward arms add up to 3″ of built-in lift, a +2.5″ front push, and a high-clearance geometry that helps maintain momentum over obstacles. Remember: 2023 models often require ZBROS Exit shocks and particular offsets.

Double-check model, offset, and shock needs, then choose the right kit and arms—sale pricing can boost value.