If you've ever been miles away from civilization and heard that dreaded hiss, you already know why a can am commander spare tire holder is basically a non-negotiable accessory for your rig. There is nothing quite like the sinking feeling of realizing you're stuck in the middle of a muddy trail or a rocky canyon with a shredded sidewall and no way to swap it out. Sure, tire plug kits are great for small punctures, but when the terrain gets nasty, those little rubber strips aren't going to save you. You need a full-size spare, and more importantly, you need a way to carry it that doesn't involve it bouncing around loose in the bed.
The Can-Am Commander is a beast of a machine—it's that perfect middle ground between a workhorse and a trail-shredder. But because it's designed to be versatile, its cargo space is valuable. You don't want to just throw a heavy tire in the back and call it a day. It'll take up all your room for coolers, tools, and camping gear, and it'll probably beat up the interior of your bed while it's at it. That's where a dedicated holder comes into play.
Why You Shouldn't Just "Wing It"
I've seen guys try to strap their spare tires down with basic bungee cords or some cheap ratcheting straps they found in the garage. It works for about twenty minutes. Then, you hit a whoop or a big drop, and suddenly that spare is trying to launch itself into orbit or, worse, into the back of your head. A solid can am commander spare tire holder keeps that weight secured and balanced.
When you're choosing a mount, you've got to think about weight distribution. A wheel and tire combo isn't light. If you mount it too high, you're raising your center of gravity, which can make the Commander feel a bit tippy in off-camber turns. If you mount it too far back, you might notice the front end feeling a little light on steep climbs. It's all about finding that "just right" spot for your specific riding style.
Different Styles for Different Riders
There isn't just one way to mount a tire on these machines. Depending on how you use your Commander, one style might be way better for you than another.
The Rear Cage Mount
This is probably the most popular option you'll see out on the trails. These holders usually bolt onto the rear roll cage bars. Some are fixed in place, while others have a "pivot" or "swing-out" design. The pivot style is awesome because it keeps the tire up and out of the way, but you can still swing it out of the hood to access your bed. It's the best of both worlds. You get to keep your full cargo capacity for your gear, but the tire is right there when you need it. Just make sure the gas struts or locking pins are high quality, or you'll be dealing with annoying rattles every time the trail gets bumpy.
Bed-Mounted Holders
If you don't carry a ton of gear and you want to keep the center of gravity as low as possible, a bed mount is the way to go. These usually bolt directly into the LinQ system or the floor of the bed. It's rock solid. The downside, obviously, is that you lose a big chunk of your storage space. If you're just doing day trips and only need a small cooler, this is a simple, cost-effective way to get the job done.
Roof Mounts
Okay, let's talk about roof mounts. They look cool—very "safari" vibes—and they keep the bed completely open. However, you've got to be careful. If you ride in areas with a lot of low-hanging branches or tight wooded trails, that tire is going to be a magnet for every limb you pass under. Plus, lifting a 50-pound tire onto the roof when you're tired and muddy isn't exactly a fun time. But for desert riders? It's a solid choice that stays out of the way.
Build Quality and Material Matters
When you're shopping for a can am commander spare tire holder, don't just go for the cheapest thing you find on a random discount site. Think about the vibration. UTVs vibrate—a lot. If the mount is made of thin, cheap steel, those vibrations will eventually lead to stress cracks. Look for something made from heavy-duty steel or high-grade aluminum with clean welds.
Powder coating is another big one. Since this mount is going to be living outside and getting blasted by rocks, mud, and water, you want a finish that won't flake off the first time it gets hit. Once the rust starts, it's hard to stop. A good textured black powder coat usually holds up the best against the elements and matches the Commander's factory look pretty well.
Don't Forget Visibility
One thing people often overlook until they've already installed the mount is their rear-view mirror. If you use a center-mounted rear-view mirror, a tire mounted directly in the middle of the rear cage is going to completely block your view. It's not a deal-breaker for everyone—especially if you have side mirrors—but it's something to keep in mind. If you like being able to see who's behind you, look for a "high-mount" or an "off-set" holder that shifts the tire to one side or the other.
Installation: Can You Do It Yourself?
The short answer is: almost certainly. Most can am commander spare tire holder kits are designed to be "bolt-on." You shouldn't need a welder or a plasma cutter to get this thing on your machine. Usually, it's just a matter of basic hand tools—wrenches, a socket set, and maybe an extra pair of hands to hold the mount in place while you tighten the bolts.
If you're going with a cage-mount version, double-check the tube diameter. Most Commanders use a specific size for their roll cages, and while many mounts are "universal," some fit better than others. A snug fit is vital. If there's even a little bit of play in the mounting clamps, that tire is going to "clunk" every time you hit a bump, and trust me, that will drive you crazy within ten minutes of hitting the trail.
The "Total Package" Mentality
Having the holder is only half the battle. If you've got the tire mounted up beautifully but you don't have a jack or a lug wrench, you're still going to be waiting for a tow. When you pick out your holder, think about where you're going to put the rest of your tire-change gear. Some mounts actually have built-in spots to hold a scissor jack or a Y-wrench, which is super handy for keeping everything organized in one spot.
Also, check your lug nuts. Sometimes the spare tire you carry might have a different offset or require different lugs than the ones currently on your wheels. It's a small detail, but it's one that has left many people stranded. I always suggest keeping a small bag with the correct lug nuts taped or zip-tied somewhere near the holder just in case.
Final Thoughts on Trail Peace of Mind
At the end of the day, installing a can am commander spare tire holder is about one thing: confidence. When you know you've got a backup plan bolted securely to your machine, you're willing to take that slightly harder line or explore that extra mile of trail. You aren't constantly worried about "what if."
It's an investment in your weekend. Instead of a flat tire being the end of your trip, it becomes a 10-minute pit stop. You swap the tire, toss the flat one back onto the holder, and keep moving. Whether you go for a sleek pivot mount or a rugged bed-mounted setup, just make sure it's tough enough to handle the way you ride. Your Commander is built to work and play hard; your accessories should be too.