Best OEM ATV Windshield Accessories for Factory Fit

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Best Lift Kit for Can-Am Defender — Expert Guide

Good to know: upgrading geometry and clearance often adds more usable trail time than a power upgrade—used RZR seats— reports suggest up to ~30% better obstacle success with the right configuration.

Expect clear numbers: the bracket alone fits 32″ tires; with boxed forward arms, 35″ is achievable. We compare warranty, materials, and ride feel to clarify what remains OEM, what reuses ball joints, and the install watch-outs.

Ready for practical picks? This overview sets the stage to improve clearance, stability, and everyday usability without complicating installation.

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.

RZR seats for sale

Reasons to Upgrade: Ground Clearance, Tire Diameter, and Performance

Increased ground clearance minimizes snagging on stumps, ruts, and rocks. That results in fewer interruptions and less damage on workdays and play days.

Upsized tires increase contact patch while sharpening approach and departure angles. Your ride will track truer in ruts and float better in mud or sand.

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

Quick pick: 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, and installation essentials

Read on for clear details about build quality, model fitment, and what to expect during installation.

ThumperFab has a 3″ bracket using CNC laser-cut, formed US steel. It’s bolt-on, retains the factory sway bar, and includes a lifetime warranty.

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

Clearance & Fitment

Thumper Fab fits numerous Cab and MAX models—Single Cab 2018–2023, Crew MAX 2018–2023, and select 2020+ trims. Bracket-only supports 32″; add boxed forward arms for up to 35″.

Installation Tips and Ride Quality

  • Bracket is bolt-on and keeps the sway bar; watch tight passenger-side bolts by HVAC/AC lines.
  • 2023 fit with HCR arms may require ZBROS Exit shocks; verify shock fitment first.
  • Feedback: bracket ≈ OEM ride; forward arms = improved obstacle manners.

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

When choosing upgrades, weigh fast installation against long-term handling and tire clearance gains.

Why Choose the Bracket

Thumper Fab’s 3″ bracket is a simple USA-made bolt-on. It keeps the factory sway bar and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Bracket-only setups fit 32″ tires. Add boxed forward control arms to reach 33–35″.

Forward-Arm Benefits

The HCR forward high-clearance system has lift built into the arms. You get a +2.5″ front push and boxed lowers that resist snags on rocks/roots.

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

Fitment Details and Requirements

  • HCR front arms omit sway bar mounts, which impacts roll control.
  • 2023 models need ZBROS Exit shocks when using the HCR arms.
  • Check offset: 4+3 is recommended; certain 5+2 wheels can work depending on true spec.
Spec Thumper Fab Bracket HCR Forward HC Arms Remarks
Install Bolt-on, afternoon project Bolt-on, more steps Check shock and sway bar fitment
Tire room 32″ stock, up to 35″ with arms Supports 33–35″ with +2.5″ push Verify brand and tread
Ride/Geometry Ride ≈ OEM Improved obstacle compliance Front wheelbase shifts

As a Final Point

Select parts that match your goals and the result is more confidence off-road.

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

HCR forward arms provide up to 3″ built-in lift, +2.5″ push, and high-clearance geometry to keep 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.