By Jon Crowley
DRT Motorsports used the new Can-Am Defender HD11 MAX as the foundation for a full-size custom build combining improved suspension capability, utility, passenger comfort and show-quality styling. Displayed at the 2026 Sand Sports Super Show, the six-seat Defender demonstrates how quickly the aftermarket has responded to Can-Am’s redesigned HD11 platform.
The completed vehicle is owned by DRT Motorsports, while the complete build and installation were handled by Moto United in St. George, Utah. Its major upgrades include CSC mid-travel suspension, SDi Terrain Master 2.1 shocks, SuperATV Rhino 2.0 axles, a complete selection of DRT protection and cargo accessories, heated and cooled PRP seats, 35-inch ITP tires, Baja Designs lighting, Rugged Radios communications and a 12-speaker SSV Works audio system producing 2,500 watts.
Several products on the Defender were not yet available when the vehicle debuted, including DRT’s extended aluminum fenders and sliding aluminum bed drawer. That makes the build both a finished show vehicle and an early preview of DRT’s expanding Defender HD11 product line.
New Can-Am Defender HD11 Platform
Can-Am introduced the Defender HD11 for the 2026 model year as the first major redesign of the Defender since the original platform arrived for 2016. The new-generation machine uses a wider 65-inch chassis, larger suspension components and a naturally aspirated 999cc Rotax ACE inline-three producing 95 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque.
The MAX configuration adds a second row of seating, making it a natural platform for families, hunting groups, work crews and destination-oriented builds. Its longer body also gives accessory manufacturers considerably more space to develop integrated racks, protection, storage and entertainment products.
DRT’s build moves the Defender beyond its work-focused roots without eliminating the attributes that make the HD11 useful. The enclosed cab, HVAC, rear seating and cargo bed remain intact, but Moto United transformed the suspension, stance, exterior protection, storage, electronics and interior.
CSC mid-travel suspension, SDi Terrain Master 2.1 shocks and SuperATV Rhino 2.0 axles
CSC Mid-Travel Suspension
A major part of the build is its Cedar Suspension Company mid-travel suspension system. The CSC conversion widens the Defender to approximately 72 inches hub-to-hub at both ends, giving the tall six-seat MAX a more planted stance while adding clearance for larger tires.
High-clearance front A-arms and extended rear suspension components replace the factory-width hardware without relying on wheel spacers. The CSC components were custom powder-coated to match the copper accents used throughout the vehicle.
The wider stance is more than a styling change. Increasing the Defender’s track width can improve stability in rough terrain, while the high-clearance suspension components provide additional room around rocks, ruts and uneven trail surfaces. The conversion also creates the clearance and suspension geometry needed to support the build’s 35-inch tires.
SDi Terrain Master 2.1 Shocks
The CSC suspension is paired with SDi Terrain Master 2.1 shocks developed specifically for the Defender HD11. These fully rebuildable coilovers use piggyback reservoirs, vehicle-specific springs and valving, adjustable preload and external compression adjustment.
Upgraded damping is particularly important on a wider and heavier build carrying 35-inch tires, cargo racks, a spare tire, audio equipment and numerous other accessories. Rather than asking the factory shocks to control the altered suspension geometry and additional weight, the Terrain Master 2.1 package gives the Defender a shock system better matched to the completed vehicle.
The external compression adjusters also provide a way to tune the ride for different conditions, passenger loads and cargo requirements.
SuperATV Rhino 2.0 Axles
HD11-specific SuperATV Rhino 2.0 axles transfer power through the wider CSC suspension.
Rhino 2.0 axles use 4340 chromoly construction, larger shafts and maximized CV joints designed to provide additional strength and operate at increased CV angles. That makes them an important supporting component of the mid-travel conversion rather than simply another item on the build sheet.
Together, the CSC suspension, SDi shocks and SuperATV axles substantially change the Defender’s stance and rough-terrain capability while creating a stronger foundation for its 35-inch wheel-and-tire package.
Unreleased DRT aluminum sliding bed drawer for the Can-Am Defender HD11
New DRT Aluminum Bed Drawer
Another unreleased DRT product showcased on the Defender is a new sliding aluminum bed drawer. Sometimes described as a bed slider or slide-out bed tray, the system brings cargo rearward for easier loading, unloading and access without requiring the user to reach deep into the Defender’s cargo box.
DRT already offers a similar aluminum bed drawer for the Polaris XPEDITION, but this Defender HD11 application had not been released or added to the company’s website when the Moto United build debuted.
Pricing, load capacity, extension distance and final production specifications had not yet been announced. On this build, the drawer works with the DRT chase rack and elevated spare-tire carrier to make the rear cargo area more accessible without eliminating the Defender’s utility-focused character.
A DKZ foam drawer kit adds a finished, protective surface that helps organize equipment and prevents loose cargo from resting directly on the aluminum tray.
Prototype DRT extended aluminum fenders for the Can-Am Defender HD11
Prototype DRT Extended Aluminum Fenders
One of the most distinctive components on this Defender is also one of DRT’s newest HD11 products. The extended aluminum fenders had not been released or added to the DRT website when the vehicle was displayed at the Sand Sports Super Show.
The formed panels give the front and rear corners a more substantial appearance while extending coverage around the 35-inch tires. That additional coverage can help reduce the amount of mud, sand, rocks and other debris thrown against the vehicle’s body and doors.
The Defender HD11 fenders follow the same general approach as DRT’s existing aluminum fender products, using formed metal panels, vehicle-specific fitment and styling intended to complement the factory body lines. Final construction details, pricing, finishes and availability had not yet been announced.
The copper finish on this vehicle is part of Moto United’s coordinated show-build theme and should not necessarily be considered a standard production finish.
DRT front bumper for the Defender HD11 with Baja Designs LED lighting
DRT Front Bumper and Baja Designs Lighting
DRT’s Defender HD11 front bumper with bull bar replaces the understated factory appearance with a stronger and more aggressive structure. Its angular design follows the body lines of the new Defender rather than looking like a universal bumper adapted to fit the vehicle.
The heavy-duty steel bumper helps protect critical front-end components from trail impacts and debris. Its integrated brush guard includes mounting locations for auxiliary lights, while the design maintains compatibility with the factory winch and fairlead location.
A MOJAB recessed winch shackle and fairlead provide a clean recovery point without leaving a conventional winch hook exposed at the front of the vehicle.
Aluminum mesh panels and removable accent plates introduce visual contrast and provide opportunities for custom finishes. On this build, the bumper’s copper-colored panels help establish the exterior theme carried throughout the vehicle.
The functional lighting package includes an extensive selection of Baja Designs products. A seven-light XL Linkable array provides the primary forward lighting, while a four-light XL Linkable setup works with Reflex light actuators that allow the lights to be repositioned.
Additional Baja Designs S2 pods provide lighting from the sides and rear of the roof rack. Squadron 2.0 lights mounted to the mirrors add illumination closer to the vehicle and help fill areas that the roof-mounted lights may not reach.
MB Whips three-foot Flash Series white whips, illuminated wheel rings and an underglow strip kit add accent lighting around the vehicle. These components complement the functional Baja Designs package while helping the Defender stand out at shows, in camp and after dark.
DRT Defender MAX roof rack and Baja Designs auxiliary lighting
Defender MAX Roof Rack and Auxiliary Lighting
A full-length DRT roof rack for the Defender MAX HD11 takes advantage of the long six-seat cab. The vehicle-specific rack adds useful cargo space for equipment that owners may not want to carry inside the passenger compartment or cargo bed.
The rack combines steel front and rear sections with extruded 6061-T6 aluminum crossbars to balance strength and weight. CNC-machined aluminum side plates incorporate tie-down points that help organize and secure cargo over rough terrain.
It also provides multiple lighting and accessory mounting opportunities. The Baja Designs lights are distributed across the front, sides and rear of the rack to provide forward and peripheral illumination for nighttime trail rides, work around camp or finding equipment after dark.
The copper finish applied to the rack matches the bumpers, mirrors, door handles, chase rack, suspension and wheel details. That consistency makes the individual accessories read as one complete build rather than a collection of unrelated bolt-on parts.
DRT chase rack with elevated chase tire rack
DRT Chase Rack Preserves Bed Utility
The DRT Defender HD11 chase rack adds storage, tie-down and lighting options without preventing the Defender from functioning as a utility side-by-side.
The welded steel structure mounts directly to the factory bed rails and retains operation of the Defender’s tilt bed. Integrated tie-down points provide locations for securing cargo, while multiple mounting positions support forward-, side- and rear-facing lights.
The chase rack is part of a modular system, and this build adds DRT’s chase tire rack to carry a full-size spare above the bed. Mounting the spare in the elevated rack keeps it readily accessible while preserving space beneath it for additional cargo.
Combined with the sliding aluminum bed drawer, the chase rack creates a layered cargo system. Tools, recovery equipment and smaller items can be organized in the drawer, while the elevated structure carries the spare tire and leaves additional room in the bed.
For an adventure-oriented HD11 MAX, the roof rack, chase rack, tire carrier and bed drawer can support coolers, tools, recovery equipment, camping gear and other oversized cargo.
DRT rear bumper for the Defender MAX HD11
DRT Rear Bumper
At the rear, the DRT rear bumper for the Defender HD11 protects the rear chassis and cargo-bed area while following the factory body lines.
Its high-clearance profile is designed to reduce hang-ups in uneven terrain, and the bumper retains operation of the factory tilt bed. DRT also integrates provisions for the factory rear camera, helping preserve visibility without exposed wiring or an improvised camera mount.
Removable aluminum accent panels allow the bumper to be painted, powder-coated or wrapped to match a custom build. Moto United used those panels to continue the copper detailing found across this Defender.
DRT’s Can-Am Defender HD11 MAX Limited built by Moto United
DRT Mirrors and Exterior Details
The exterior uses DRT side mirrors and a matching rearview mirror. The side mirrors mount to vehicle-specific DRT billet mirror mounts for the Defender HD11.
The mounts are CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and attach to factory mounting locations on the Defender’s doors. They provide a solid mounting point for DRT Tactical Mirrors while maintaining a clean, integrated appearance.
Baja Designs Squadron 2.0 lights mounted near the mirrors add useful illumination along the sides and front corners of the vehicle.
Other DRT details include a custom hood emblem, shift knob and hardware dress-up kit. Individually, these are much smaller than the bumpers, racks and aluminum fenders, but they help carry the build’s design theme into areas that might otherwise retain a stock appearance.
Heated and cooled PRP XCR seats set off the Defender’s custom interior
Heated and Cooled PRP XCR Seats
The cabin received custom PRP XCR seats mounted with Voodoo seat brackets. The seats incorporate both heating and cooling, making them an appropriate upgrade for an enclosed Defender Limited intended for year-round use.
Whiskey-colored leather and suede complement the white, black and copper exterior theme. The materials and stitching give the Defender a more tailored appearance while adding support and comfort for longer days on the trail.
The upholstery theme continues beyond the PRP seats. Matching materials were used on the headliner, center seating and steering wheel so the cabin reads as a complete custom interior rather than a set of replacement front seats installed in an otherwise stock vehicle.
DKZ Foam Interior
DKZ Offroad foam kits finish the dashboard, doors and sliding bed drawer. The precision-cut foam adds cushioning, protects contact surfaces and introduces another layer of color and texture inside the Defender.
The dash and door kits help visually connect the cabin’s hard surfaces with the PRP seats and custom upholstery. In the cargo area, the DKZ drawer kit protects equipment and gives the aluminum drawer a more finished surface.
Separating the DKZ foam from the PRP seating is important because the two companies serve different roles in the build: PRP supplied the heated and cooled seats, while DKZ provided the foam treatment for the dash, doors and bed drawer.
SSV Works Phase 7 audio system with dual subwoofers and added exterior speakers
12-Speaker SSV Works Phase 7 Audio System
One of the build’s biggest upgrades is an SSV Works Phase 7 audio system featuring dual subwoofers and four additional exterior speakers. The completed 12-speaker system produces a reported 2,500 watts.
UTVGuide.net has also examined the differences between factory and aftermarket Defender sound systems in our Can-Am Defender HD11 audio upgrade guide.
The system is designed to deliver sound throughout the Defender’s six-seat cab while also projecting music outside the vehicle. That allows the HD11 MAX to function as a mobile sound system at camp, in the dunes or at an off-road event instead of limiting the audio experience to its occupants.
The exterior speakers complement the build’s recreational focus. This Defender can transport passengers and equipment during the day, then become the center of a gathering after returning to camp.
SWITCH Works Alpha12 Accessory Control
A SWITCH Works Alpha12 digital smart switcher controls the Defender’s extensive electrical accessory package. SWITCH Works is the electrical-accessory division of SSV Works.
The Alpha12 provides 12 programmable solid-state outputs controlled through an LCD push-button display with customizable icons. That centralized system is particularly useful on a build carrying multiple Baja Designs lighting circuits, MB Whips accent lighting, audio equipment and other powered accessories.
Rather than filling the dashboard with unrelated switches, conventional relays and replaceable fuses, the Alpha12 provides a cleaner interface and consolidated electrical control. The system can also display live amperage information and allows individual outputs to be configured for different accessories and operating requirements.
Rugged Radios STX Communications
A complete Rugged Radios STX system gives the six-seat Defender dedicated in-vehicle and vehicle-to-vehicle communications.
The system is paired with Rugged Radios AlphaBass headsets, allowing passengers to communicate clearly while reducing the effect of engine, tire, wind and trail noise. That becomes particularly valuable in a long MAX cab where normal conversation between the front and rear rows can be difficult.
The radio also gives the driver a reliable way to communicate with other vehicles during group rides. On a build designed to carry passengers into remote terrain, communications equipment adds meaningful functionality beyond the show-quality presentation.
XTC Turn Signals and Front Signature Lights
An XTC turn-signal kit adds street-legal signaling functionality to the Defender while maintaining a clean, integrated installation.
The system is complemented by the XTC Can-Am Defender HD11 Front Turn Signature Light Set. These vehicle-specific lights replace the factory accent lights above the headlights and connect to the Defender’s original front wiring harness.
With the ignition on, the lights operate as white daytime running lights similar to the factory accents. When connected to the XTC turn-signal system, integrated amber LEDs provide sequential turn-signal operation.
Combining the Signature lights with the turn-signal kit gives the complete street-legal system a much more factory-integrated appearance than separate universal signal lights mounted to the body.
Metal FX Wheels and 35-Inch ITP Intersect Tires
The widened suspension rolls on 35-inch ITP Intersect tires. The larger tires increase ground clearance and make use of the additional room created by the CSC high-clearance suspension and DRT extended fenders.
The tires are mounted on Metal FX Falcon forged three-piece beadlock wheels. The Falcon combines forged 6061-T6 aluminum construction with a concave floating-spoke center, hidden assembly hardware and a beadlock ring. The wheels received custom powder coating to coordinate with the copper-colored suspension and exterior components.
The combination of 35-inch tires, three-piece beadlock wheels and the approximately 72-inch-wide suspension gives the Defender a much more planted stance while visually separating it from a stock Defender MAX.
Custom Wrap, Upholstery and Powder Coating
Exclusive Wraps & Tint in St. George created the exterior wrap using three-dimensional and reflective elements. The shop also tinted the windows, wrapped the B-pillars and added custom visor emblems.
The DRT graphics combine white, black and copper across the long MAX body. Large DRT branding occupies the lower doors, while the angular design visually shortens the vehicle and connects the copper accessories from front to rear.
C&J Powder Coating in St. George handled the custom-colored powder coating used throughout the build. Applying the same finish to components from multiple manufacturers helps the bumpers, racks, suspension, wheels, mirrors and smaller details appear as parts of a single design.
Additional exterior details include billet door handles from MarqCAD Engineering, a Sector Seven fuel cap and a custom DRT hood emblem.
Evolution Powersports HD11 Power and Clutch Upgrades
The Defender’s naturally aspirated 999cc Rotax engine received an integrated package of Evolution Powersports upgrades consisting of a Captain’s Choice exhaust, Stage 1 ECU calibration for 91-octane fuel and a Shift-Tek Trail clutch kit with a 40–45S secondary helix.
UTVGuide.net previously detailed the Evolution Powersports Defender HD11 performance package. EVO claims its Stage 1 ECU Power Flash and compatible Shift-Tek clutch calibration can add more than 25 horsepower while improving throttle response, acceleration and overall drivability.
The Stage 1 calibration removes the factory torque limits in High and Low gear, raises the engine speed limiter from 8,500 to 8,750 rpm and increases the programmed top-speed limit from 68 to 93 mph. It also lowers engine-cooling fan activation temperatures and includes EVO’s No Brake Start function. Although the calibration is optimized for 91-octane fuel, EVO says it can adjust ignition timing when lower-octane fuel is used, with reduced performance.
Clutch calibration is particularly important on this build because the 35-inch ITP tires add substantially more rotating mass than the factory tire package. The Shift-Tek components help keep the engine operating in the intended power range during acceleration, while the 40–45S helix is specified for this four-seat MAX configuration and performance-oriented clutch setup.
The Captain’s Choice exhaust completes the package and gives the driver control over the Defender’s exhaust character. Together, the tune, clutching and exhaust help compensate for the larger tires and additional weight created by the racks, spare tire, audio equipment, lighting and other accessories.
Built by Moto United for DRT Motorsports
Although the Defender is owned by DRT Motorsports, the complete vehicle was assembled by Moto United in St. George, Utah.
Moto United coordinated the installation of components from more than 20 manufacturers and specialty shops, including the suspension, drivetrain, lighting, audio, communications, upholstery, graphics and custom-finished accessories. The result is cohesive because the dealership treated the project as one complete vehicle rather than a series of independent installations.
Moto United is a Can-Am dealer offering vehicle sales, service, parts, accessory installation and custom-build capabilities. Its 114,000-square-foot St. George facility is located near Interstate 15 and approximately 20 minutes from Sand Hollow State Park, placing the dealership close to the dunes, desert trails and red-rock terrain where many Southern Utah UTVs are used.
Visit Moto United St. George for additional information about the dealership, its inventory and custom-build services.
Complete DRT Defender HD11 MAX Build Specifications
Base Vehicle
- 2026 Can-Am Defender MAX Limited HD11
- 999cc Rotax ACE inline-three engine
- 95 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque
- Six-seat enclosed cab with heating and air conditioning
DRT Motorsports Accessories
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- Front bumper with bull bar
- Rear bumper
- Chase rack
- Chase tire rack
- Side mirrors and rearview mirror
- Defender MAX roof rack
- Unreleased extended aluminum fenders
- Unreleased sliding aluminum bed drawer
- Shift knob
- Hardware dress-up kit
- Custom DRT hood emblem
Suspension and Drivetrain
- CSC approximately 72-inch mid-travel suspension system
- SDi Terrain Master 2.1 shocks
- SuperATV Rhino 2.0 axles for the Defender HD11
Wheels and Tires
- Metal FX Forged Falcon three-piece beadlock wheels
- Custom wheel powder coating
- 35-inch ITP Intersect tires
Lighting and Electronics
- Seven-light Baja Designs XL Linkable array
- Four-light Baja Designs XL Linkable array with Reflex light actuators
- Baja Designs S2 pods mounted to the sides and rear of the roof rack
- Baja Designs Squadron 2.0 lights mounted at the mirrors
- MB Whips three-foot Flash Series white whips
- MB Whips white illuminated wheel rings
- MB Whips underglow strip kit
- SSV Works SWITCH Works Alpha12 digital smart switch system
- XTC turn-signal kit
- UTV Stereo second-battery kit
- Trail Icon Veratek device mount
Interior, Audio and Communications
- PRP heated and cooled XCR seats
- Whiskey-colored leather and suede upholstery
- Voodoo seat brackets
- Material-matched headliner, center seats and steering wheel
- DKZ foam dashboard kit
- DKZ foam door kit
- DKZ foam bed-drawer kit
- SSV Works Phase 7 audio system
- Dual subwoofers
- Four added exterior speakers
- 12 speakers and a reported 2,500 watts of total audio power
- Rugged Radios STX communications system
- Rugged Radios AlphaBass headsets
Engine and CVT
- Evolution Powersports Captain’s Choice exhaust
- Evolution Powersports Stage 1 ECU Power Flash for 91-octane fuel
- Claimed gain of more than 25 horsepower with the Stage 1 tune and compatible clutch calibration
- Evolution Powersports Shift-Tek Trail clutch kit
- 40–45S secondary helix
Exterior and Finishing Details
- Three-dimensional and reflective wrap by Exclusive Wraps & Tint St. George
- Window tinting
- Wrapped B-pillars
- Custom visor emblems
- Custom upholstery-matched headliner, center seats and steering wheel
- Custom color powder coating by C&J Powder Coating St. George
- Billet door handles from MarqCAD Engineering
- Sector Seven fuel cap
- MOJAB recessed winch shackle and fairlead
A More Capable Defender HD11 MAX
This Can-Am Defender HD11 MAX is more than a collection of appearance accessories. The CSC suspension, SDi shocks and SuperATV axles change its stance and provide the foundation for more demanding off-road use. The 35-inch ITP tires and Metal FX beadlock wheels build on that foundation, while Rugged Radios communications add practical capability for group rides.
DRT’s bumpers, racks, mirrors, extended fenders and aluminum bed drawer add protection, storage and functionality. The unreleased fenders and bed drawer also provide an early look at where DRT’s Defender HD11 product line is headed.
Inside, heated and cooled PRP seats, DKZ foam panels and custom upholstery improve passenger comfort. The SSV Works audio system, SWITCH Works Alpha12 and extensive Baja Designs lighting transform the Defender into an entertainment and adventure vehicle without eliminating its enclosed cab, six-seat capacity or cargo utility.
The finished vehicle also reflects Moto United’s ability to coordinate a large number of products into one coherent build. DRT Motorsports owns the vehicle and supplied its core accessory package, while Moto United completed the installation and brought the suspension, protection, interior, electronics, communications and styling together.
Browse the complete collection of DRT Motorsports Can-Am Defender HD11 accessories. For more background on the vehicle and how the platform has evolved, see our complete Can-Am Defender history and model guide.
