Can-Am introduced motorcycles for motocross and endurance racing in the early 1970s.
Can-Am is turning 50 this year, and Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), Can-Am’s parent company, is celebrating with collaborations on custom products and festivities throughout the summer.
The first Can-Am motocross motorcycle was built in 1973 and saw immediate success in motocross and endurance racing. In 1996, the started working on the Spyder, a three-wheeled half-motorcycle/half-convertible, which was finally introduced in 2007.
Since then, the brand has brought other three-wheeled models to the market, including the Spyder F3, the Ryker, and the Spyder RT.
2023 Can-Am Ryker 600 in Icepop Blue
The brand’s three-wheeled lineup has opened the doors for more riders to enjoy the sport, and sales have more than doubled in the last four years.
Using its three-wheeled models as a way to engage with a diversity of riders, BRP has shown support to its fans in more ways than one. For example, Can-Am sponsored the Road Warrior Ride last September and gave veterans full gear and riding courses, as well as the use of Spyders, to ride 1,000 miles from Florida to Ohio.
The 2022 Road Warrior Ride, sponsored by Can-Am, supported veterans over 1,000 miles.
“Can-Am’s 50th anniversary is also a celebration of the people behind the brand who forged its DNA and constantly pushed the limits of what’s possible,” says José Boisjoli, president and CEO of BRP. “The brand had instant success on the track and the trail when it all began 50 years ago, owning the podiums and setting land speed records. Since then, driven by our commitment to innovation, technology, quality, and a passion that never wavered, we have reinvented Can-Am in so many ways, always keeping in mind to deliver the best experience for our riders. When I look at the future, I am convinced it will continue to achieve legendary milestones and I cannot thank our employees, dealers, customers and partners enough for carrying the Can-Am DNA year over year.”
Can-Am celebrated International Female Ride Day with women-led group rides in several countries.
Can-Am has also seen success with its ATVs and SSVs, which have had the fastest-growing market share in the category in North America since 2015. In early 2023, it celebrated its sixth consecutive Dakar Rally win. Looking to the future, the brand is now excited to break ground with its two electric motorcycles for 2024: the Origin dual-sport and Pulse streetbike.
BRP has unveiled two all-electric motorcycles, the Can-Am Pulse streetbike and Can-Am Origin dual-sport. Both are scheduled for release in mid-2024.
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Can-Am has announced a collaboration with The Shoe Surgeon to create three custom Rykers and three styles of Can-Am-inspired riding shoes. BRP will also introduce new product updates and models in August. There will also be activities and celebrations on social media and in person for fans and owners, including some of the championship riders from the early days of the brand.
To learn more about the brand’s history and current model lineup, visit Can-Am’s website.
The 2022 Road Warrior Ride, sponsored by Can-Am, ended at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum in Columbus, Ohio.
During the week of Sept. 23-30, a group of veterans seeking adventure, camaraderie, and healing rode Can-Am Spyders from Florida to Ohio, covering over 1,000 miles. It was the 9th annual Road Warrior Ride, hosted by the Road Warrior Foundation and Can-Am. Selected from hundreds of applicants, these veterans were given a full set of gear and riding courses on the Spyders, all free of charge, to prepare them for the trip. Read more in Can-Am’s press release below.
Throughout this past week, Can-Am, together with the Road Warrior Foundation, hosted a group of military veterans for an epic “Adventure Therapy” ride that covered more than 1,000 miles aboard Can-Am Spyder 3-wheel vehicles. Now in its ninth year, this annual Road Warrior Ride gives veterans the opportunity to disconnect from their day-to-day life and experience the incredible healing power of riding the open road, all completely free of charge.
The veterans were selected by RWF from a pool of hundreds of applicants, and included representatives of the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Marine Corps. And as is the focus of every RWF adventure, they were all young – in their 20s and 30s – with various injuries, both physical and mental. Something else they all had in common: a thirst for adventure and a desire to inject some fun in their lives. Riding is a perfect recipe for a group of likeminded strangers with so much in common.
“Can-Am has been the title sponsor of the Road Warrior Foundation since it was established, proudly enabling its mission to provide Adventure Therapy to U.S. Military veterans,” said Martin Ethier, Global Marketing Director, Can-Am 3-Wheel Vehicles and Motorcycles. “We firmly believe that the open road is open to all, and this sponsorship brings that to life with many incredibly deserving individuals.”
Prior to hitting the road, the group of riders gathered in Orlando, Fla., where they spent time getting to know each other and received a hero’s welcome from more than 250 Can-Am owners at an event put on by the riding group, U.S. Spyder Ryders. Then it was time to ride.
Veterans enjoying the roads and each other’s company on the Road Warrior Ride.
Several of the riders had only recently acquired their motorcycle license, and most had very little experience riding in a group, so prior to the main event, Can-Am and RWF representatives did some closed-course and classroom training on the fleet of vehicles provided by Can-Am. The brand also gave the riders a full suite of riding gear to cover the various climates they’d come across on their way from Orlando, Fla., up through some of the most iconic roads in North America, ultimately ending up at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum in Columbus, Ohio.
“The Can-Am Spyder is the only vehicle that will allow us to do what we do because it’s so easy to learn to ride,” said Stephen Berger, co-founder of the Road Warrior Foundation and U.S. Air Force veteran. “BRP provides us a fleet of vehicles that we keep all over the country, so for this ride and other smaller ones we have throughout the year, we’re able to get Veterans of all skill levels out riding fairly quickly by putting them through the Can-Am Rider Education Program. Then it’s just get on and go.”
As always, once the wheels were rolling, the excitement was undeniable from all, and throughout the ride, the veterans experienced amazing views, great food, visits to local Can-Am dealers, Can-Am Spyder group meet-ups, and lasting memories along the way. It was a ride of a lifetime, full of teambuilding and camaraderie that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on all involved.
The Road Warrior Foundation is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that’s run by veterans, for veterans. The organization primarily utilizes powersports as Adventure Therapy to produce a challenging environment that puts wounded veterans back in the driver’s seat. The Foundation’s experiences range from quick day-trips to multi-day rides like this one, as well as off-road days and snowmobiling excursions.
Can-Am also reiterated its commitment to growing the number and diversity of on-road riders through its “We Can All Ride” campaign. According to BRP:
71% of Can-Am three-wheel owners are new to powersports
40% of Can-Am riders are women, the highest percentage of female riders in any of BRP’s product lines
The Can-Am Women of On-Road community now has more than 15,000 female riders
2023 Can-Am Spyder and Ryker models
“Whether it’s for new entrants to the sport or for our community of passionate riders, we never stop looking for ways to innovate and improve the Can-Am experience,” said Martin Éthier, Global Marketing Director of Can-Am On-Road. “Our riders come from all over the world and from all walks of life, and we want our products to match that diversity by offering a fully curated experience that opens the road to all.”
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3 Lineup
The Can-Am Spyder F3 lineup includes five models:
Can-Am Spyder F3
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3 in Steel Black Metallic
Starting at $23,099, the Can-Am Spyder F3 features a 115-hp Rotax ACE 1330cc in-line Triple engine with an Eco mode, a semi-automatic 6-speed transmission, a vehicle stability control system, relaxed cruiser-like comfort with the UFit System, 6.5 gallons of storage capacity, LED lighting, and a 4.5-inch digital display. For 2023, it’s available in Steel Black Metallic.
Can-Am Spyder F3-S Special Series
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3-S Special Series in Manta Green
Starting at $26,299, Can-Am Spyder F3-S Special Series has the same features as the F3 plus a Super Sport grille, a gauge spoiler, a mono seat cowl, high-performance KYB shocks, a 7.8-inch digital display, and BRP Connect with vehicle-optimized smartphone apps. For 2023, it’s available in Manta Green and Monolith Black Satin with blue accents.
Can-Am Spyder F3-T
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3-T in Petrol Metallic
Starting at $28,599, the Can-Am Spyder F3-T adds touring capability with a windscreen, cruise control, adjustable rear air suspension, hard saddlebags and a glove box with 21 gallons of total storage, towing capability, and the BRP Audio 4-speaker sound system with audio control keypad. For 2023, it’s available in a new Petrol Metallic colorway as well as Pearl White.
Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited in Plasma Red
Starting at $32,499, Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited adds extra touring capability and luxury with a top trunk with an integrated passenger backrest, 36.5 gallons of total storage, heated grips, footboards, and color-keyed Dark or Platinum (replacing Chrome) trims. For 2023, it’s available in Steel Black Metallic Platinum, Plasma Red Platinum, Monolith Black Satin Dark, and a new Petrol Metallic Dark colorway.
Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited Special Series
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited Special Series in Mineral Blue
Starting at $35,599, Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited Special Series adds a comfort seat, a short-reach handlebar, auxiliary lights, 12-spoke wheels, a top case rack, and a Super Sport grille. For 2023, it’s available in new Mineral Blue and Petrol Metallic colorways, both with carbon black-colored parts and trim.
2023 Can-Am Spyder FT Lineup
The touring-ready Can-Am Spyder RT lineup includes three models:
Can-Am Spyder RT
2023 Can-Am Spyder RT in Hyper Silver
Starting at $29,999, the Can-Am Spyder RT features a 115-hp Rotax ACE 1330cc in-line Triple engine with an Eco mode, a semi-automatic 6-speed transmission, a vehicle stability control system, touring footboards, an electric windscreen, a touring seat with extra lumbar support, heated grips, 31 gallons of storage capacity, a 7.8-inch digital display, BRP Connect with vehicle-optimized smartphone apps, and the BRP Audio 4-speaker sound system with audio control keypad. For 2023, it’s available in Petrol Metallic and Hyper Silver.
Can-Am Spyder RT Limited
2023 Can-Am Spyder F3 Limited in Deep Marsala Metallic
Starting at $34,499, the Can-Am Spyder RT Limited has the same features as the RT plus self-leveling rear air suspension, a premium passenger backrest, heated seats and grips for the rider and passenger, 47 gallons of storage capacity with a LinQ-ready top case, premium BRP Audio 6-speaker sound system with audio control keypad, signature LED lights, color-keyed Dark or Platinum trims, and a lined and lit front cargo box. For 2023, it’s available in Carbon Black, Hyper Silver, Deep Marsala Metallic, and Petrol Metallic (Dark only).
Starting at $37,499, the Can-Am Spyder RT Sea-to-Sky offers top-of-the-line luxury, with features for other RT models plus new, exclusive Green Shadow paint, a color-matched top case, 16-spoke wheels in a new Prosecco color, ultra-comfortable adaptive foam seats with lumbar support, and exclusive Prosecco-colored trim, Sea-to-Sky stitched seats, and Sea-to-Sky badging. It also features adjustable side wind deflectors and a colored rear panel for a sportier look when top case is removed.
New accessories for Spyder F3 and Spyder RT models include footboard lights and footboard risers for added comfort and accessibility for shorter riders.
2023 Can-Am Ryker Lineup
The smaller, sportier, more accessible, and more affordable Can-Am Ryker lineup includes three models:
Can-Am Ryker
2023 Can-Am Spyder Ryker 600 in Icepop Blue
Starting at $11,399, the Can-Am Ryker features a Rotax 600cc 2-cylinder or 900cc 3-cylinder engine, an automatic CVT transmission with reverse, shaft final drive, a vehicle stability control, adjustable ergonomics, and a drift-friendly Sport Mode and fuel-saving Eco Mode (on 900cc model only). The Ryker is available with replaceable Panel Kits for a custom look, and 23 different options are available. New panel colorways for 2023 include Lemon Twist, Icepop Blue, Gold Rush, and Silver Lava.
Can-Am Ryker Sport
2023 Can-Am Ryker Sport in Gold Rush
Starting at $15,099, the Can-Am Ryker Sport features all Rotax 900-spec Ryker features plus Sport model-exclusive styling, KYB HPG suspension (with front/rear adjustable preload and rear adjustable compression damping), a Sport comfort seat, a MAX Mount that adds long-haul cargo and passenger options, Sport Mode, and cruise control. Like the standard Ryker, the Sport is available with 23 different panel colorways, including four new ones for 2023.
Can-Am Ryker Rally
2023 Can-Am Ryker Rally in Lemon Twist
Starting at $17,499, the Can-Am Ryker Rally features all Rotax 900-spec Ryker features plus stronger wheels, rally-ready tires, a pushbar, a skid plate, mud flaps, an intake with pre-filter, LED lights, an Akrapovič exhaust, a rally handlebar with handguards, a comfort seat, anti-slip footpegs, KYB HPG shocks with remote adjusters and an extra inch of travel, a MAX Mount that adds long-haul cargo and passenger options, Drift Mode for dirt-friendly cornering, and cruise control. Like the standard Ryker, the Sport is available with 23 different panel colorways, including four new ones for 2023.
2023 Can-Am Ryker with accessory Circuit wheels
New Ryker accessories include Panel Kits, heated grips, Circuit wheels, a driver backrest, grille protection, and more.
Can-Am has also redesigned is line of exclusive apparel, which includes jackets, gloves, and helmets in a variety of styles for men and women.
BRP has unveiled two all-electric motorcycles, the Can-Am Pulse streetbike and Can-Am Origin dual-sport. Both are scheduled for release in mid-2024.
Teased back in March, Can-Am finally unveiled two all-electric motorcycles during a global product reveal on August 7 at the annual Club BRP event. The models include the Can-Am Origin dual-sport and Can-Am Pulse streetbike, both slated to launch in mid-2024.
Detailed specs for the Origin and Pulse will not be released until August 2023, but BRP provided images of the futuristic-looking machines and company reps did a walk-around of the two prototypes during a virtual media briefing.
“Today, our story of innovation reaches new heights,” said José Boisjoli, President and CEO of BRP, at Club BRP 2023. “We have set out to reclaim our motorcycle heritage and are very proud to re-enter the market with the introduction of the first two models of our all-electric Can-Am motorcycle family. Half a century ago, Can-Am roared to victory on the track and the trail, and today, a legacy is reborn. In true BRP fashion, we are bringing our very own electric powerpack to our motorcycles, and crafting thrilling riding experiences for a whole new generation.”
Can-Am Origin
Both street-legal models will be powered by BRP’s all-new, proprietary Rotax E-Power technology, said to provide “highway-worthy speeds with plenty of horsepower and torque.”
They also share key design elements such as their distinctive LED headlights, large TFT displays, edgy white and gray bodywork, a bright yellow panel covering their battery packs, inverted forks, single-sided swingarms, single-disc brakes front and rear (with rather small front rotors), and solo seats. Rear cowls may cover pillion seats; passenger footpegs are not visible on either machine, but production versions will likely have passenger accommodations.
Left-side view of the Can-Am Origin shows its enclosed final drive. Chain or belt?
Setting the Can-Am Origin dual-sport apart from its streetbike sibling is rally-style bodywork, fork guards, and spoked wheels, in diameters that appear to be 21 inches in front and 18 inches out back, common sizes for off-road tires. The final drive is enclosed, and Can-Am reps would not reveal whether power is sent to the rear wheel via chain (used on nearly all dual-sports) or belt (used on many production electric bikes).
The Can-Am Pulse has the muscular stance of a streetfighter, with racy-looking cast wheels shod with sportbike rubber and a sculpted “tank” that keeps the bike’s profile in line with conventional gas-powered motorcycles.
According to BRP, both models will “showcase state-of-the art technology” and “offer a truly connected experience for riders.” The Origin and Pulse will be equipped with an on-board charger said to offer rapid charging times and easy charging at home or at automotive standard Level 2 charging stations.
BRP says the Rotax E-Power technology will “be at the heart of all BRP electric models, across all product lines – from water to snow, to dirt and asphalt.”
Full details about the Origin and Pulse will be revealed in August 2023 to coincide with Can-Am’s 50th anniversary. For more information, visit CanAmMotorcycle.com.
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The ride’s call to action “Just Ride!” asks women to be on their motorcycles or powered two and three-wheelers on the first Saturday of May each year.
IFRD was created in 2007 by Vicki Gray, a lifetime motorcycling advocate, road, and race instructor.
Her purpose is to profile and highlight the many diverse female riders, build awareness and strive for parity for women in motorcycling.
Many motorcycle manufacturers are promoting the day, including Harley which has long marketed to women as a growth area given they are half the population but represent less than 20% of riders. In Australia it’s as low as 12%.
Another company promoting heavily to women and encouraging them to ride on IFRD is Can-Am, the makers of the three-wheeled Spyder and Ryker roadsters.
Women with the Can-Am Ryker
They have organised rides and ambassadors in Australia, the US, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
CanAm Global Consumer Public Relations Brian Manning says that because of their focus on growing female ridership, Can-Am is heavily involved.
“We have rides lined up all over the world plus a call-to-action out to our owners to hit the streets that day,” he says from Quebec.
“We anticipate a lot of love from women coming together to celebrate their mutual passion for riding.”
One of the biggest hurdles to riding often quoted by women is the fear of dropping a bike and not being able to pick it up.
It’s not an issue with a three-wheeler … and of course it’s not an issue if you learn properly and don’t drop the bike.
However, it remains a hurdle that doesn’t exist for the Can-Am Spyder family.
Consequently, Can-Am claims a much higher proportion of female owners than any other brand.
More than 38% of their entry level three-wheeled Can-Am Ryker owners are female.
It’s about double the number of women who ride in the USA and about three times the female involvement in motorcycling in places such as Australia and Europe.
Can-Am’s success is the envy of other motorcycle companies which are gradually realising they should be targeting the forgotten half of the population.
That’s why they are organising rides for IFRD on May 7:
In Sydney, Can-Am Ambassador Helen Chik, editor of the popular lifestyle magazine, Grazia, will be riding her Ryker alongside others to celebrate the day.
Helen with her Ryker
Canada
In Ontario, Olympic Games gold medalist and member of the Canadian National Women’s Hockey Team, Natalie Spooner, will join TV host, Sherry Holmes, for a group ride that’s open to Can-Am owners.
In Los Angeles, Can-Am ambassador, actress and model, Karrueche Tran, will host a ride with Can-Am Spyder and Ryker owners.
In 28 other cities around the U.S., the US Spyder Ryders owners’ group is holding rides to mark the occasion.
In the UK, Can-Am ambassador, Sophie Morgan, will be riding her Can-Am Ryker with others to take part in the day’s efforts.
In Lausanne, Switzerland, the Can-Am team based out of the BRP office there will be taking to the streets to celebrate.
In Germany, the Ladies Riding Class community, which counts about thirty members, will also hit the road for the occasion.
Latin America
In Puerto Rico, singer-songwriter, Calma Carmona, will also participate in a “GRRRL Ride” event behind the handlebars of her Can-Am Ryker.
Can-Am is inviting all women riders to “Just Ride” on May 7 to celebrate IFRD along with these riders. If you do, use #IFRD2022 to be part of the movement!
Click here for more about the Can-Am Women of On-Road program and the brand’s participation in IFRD.
On Saturday, May 7, powersports manufacturer leader BRP and its Can-Am team will proudly take to the streets alongside female riders in more than 50 communities around the world as part of the 16th annual International Female Ride Day (IFRD). From the U.S. and Canada to Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Can-Am employees, ambassadors, dealers, and vehicle owners will ride together and celebrate the importance of female riders and their positive contributions to the industry.
This marks the third consecutive year that Can-Am will be an official supporter and partner of IFRD, and it will be the brand’s biggest push yet. The IFRD partnership is synonymous with Can-Am’s acclaimed Women of On-Road program, which addresses barriers-to-entry for female riders through rider education and mentorship. That program has been incredibly successful, resulting in nearly 38% of Can-Am owners being female, significantly outpacing the industry average of 22%.
“The open road should be open for all. Period,” said Martin Ethier, Director, Global Marketing at Can-Am On-Road. “International Female Ride Day is a celebration of that, and we’re proud to be a corporate partner. This year, we are truly globalizing our involvement and we can’t wait to watch so many incredible female riders come together to celebrate their shared passion of riding.”
Ahead of IFRD, Can-Am will host fellow Canadian and IFRD founder Vicki Gray at its corporate headquarters in Quebec. While there, Gray will have a chance to meet and ride with many of the incredible female Can-Am employees who inspire and manage the Women of On-Road program.
“It’s great to have the support and involvement again from Can-Am as one of the IFRD official partners. I really look forward to meeting the team and taking a ride together,” said Gray. “Can-Am is likewise dedicated to promoting and highlighting women riders and to making a positive difference for women in motorcycling and powersports everywhere. Together we are making advancements in this segment.
A sample of some of the Can-Am IFRD rides taking place on May 7, 2022:
Canada
In Ontario, Olympic Games gold medalist and member of the Canadian National Women’s Hockey Team, Natalie Spooner, will join TV host, Sherry Holmes, for a group ride that’s open to Can-Am owners.
USA
In Los Angeles, Can-Am ambassador, actress, and model Karrueche Tran will host a ride with Can-Am Spyder and Ryker owners.
In 28 other cities around the U.S., the US Spyder Ryders owners’ group is holding rides to mark the occasion.
EMEA
In the UK, Can-Am ambassador Sophie Morgan will be riding her Can-Am Ryker with others to take part in the day’s efforts.
In Lausanne, Switzerland, the Can-Am team based out of the BRP office there will be taking to the streets to celebrate.
In Germany, the Ladies Riding Class community, which counts about 30 members, will also hit the road for the occasion.
APAC
In Sydney, Australia, Can-Am Ambassador Helen Chik editor of the popular lifestyle magazine Grazia will be riding her Ryker alongside others to celebrate the day.
LATAM
In Puerto Rico, singer-songwriter Calma Carmona will also participate in a “GRRRL Ride” event behind the handlebars of her Can-Am Ryker.
Can-Am is inviting all women riders to “Just Ride” on May 7 to celebrate IFRD along with these riders. If you do, use #IFRD2022 to be part of the movement!
Click here for more about the Can-Am Women of On-Road program and the brand’s participation in IFRD. And to learn more about Can-Am On-Road including vehicle lineup, accessories, and product specs, as well as the numerous programs in place to empower and support our passionate owners’ community, please go to CanAmOnRoad.com and follow us on social media @canamonroad, or join our Women of On-Road Facebook Group which now counts more than 13,000 members.
More About International Female Ride Day International Female Ride Day is a globally synchronized ride day for women motorcycle riders and women powersport enthusiasts. Referred to as a “movement” by its participants, its call to action, “Just Ride!” asks women to be on their motorcycles or powersports vehicles on the first Saturday of May each year. Created in 2007 by Vicki Gray, a lifetime motorcycling advocate, road, and race instructor – with the purpose to profile and highlight the many diverse women enjoying the activity of motorcycling. Its mission, among several, is to that of building awareness and parity for women globally across all forms of motorsport and powersports. IFRD simultaneously encourages other women to take up the activity. The event is managed under the MOTORESS® canopy.
BRP has announced that the iconic Can-Am brand, which currently includes Spyder and Ryker three-wheelers and four-wheeled ATVs and side-by-sides, will return to its motorcycle roots. To mark the 50th anniversary of the Can-Am brand, BRP will launch a family of electric two-wheel motorcycles.
“With the motorcycle industry shifting to electric, we saw an opportunity to reclaim our motorcycle heritage and to re-enter the market,” said José Boisjoli, President and CEO of BRP. “This new product category is extremely important to us, and we are thrilled that Can-Am motorcycles are the first EV models in BRP’s electric lineup to be confirmed to consumers. Many of us have very fond memories of riding the early dirtbike models, and now we look forward to building on the rich history of the Can-Am brand to inspire and impress a new generation of motorcyclists and electric vehicle enthusiasts.”
So far, BRP has provided only the teaser photo above and a teaser video, which you can watch below:
BRP says the first models of the complete, all-electric lineup will be available in mid-2024. Based on the teaser photo, the lineup will include a roadster and an adventure bike. Bikes on the far right are harder to identify, but may include a cruiser and an all-electric version of the Spyder or Ryker three-wheelers.
The first Can-Am motorcycle was introduced in 1973 and the brand became a dominant force in motocross and endurance racing. The success elevated the brand to an iconic status right from the start. Half a century later, BRP says the new products have been developed with many different riders in mind, more specifically for those who crave adventure, seek the thrill of the open road, long for a quiet ride in the country, or want to liven up the city streets. BRP says riders can expect these new state-of-the-art electric Can-Am motorcycles to be perfect for everyday commuting and, to stay true to the track-and-trail heritage of the brand, recreational on- and off-road riding.
A week after Canadian Powersports company Can-Am announced a range of four electric two-wheelers, the company has confirmed they will be available in Australia.
“I can confirm that they will be available in your part of the world,” Can-Am, Global Consumer PR Brian Manning told me.
“We are (not) disclosing any timing or pricing information yet.”
That’s a big move for electric two-wheelers in Australia whose market supply is currently limited to mainly electric scooters.
The announcement that Can-Am will return to its motorcycle roots with a product lineup that will be completely electric is big news not only for our market, but around the world.
Can-Am is produced by Canadian company Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) which also makes jet skis, ATVs, snow mobiles and the Can-Am Spyder range of three-wheeler roadsters.
So far there are few details except a launch date of mid-2024 and a silhouette image of four bikes.
From left, it looks like a streetfighter, an adventure bike and two cruisers.
Can-Am electric bikes
The official Can-Am press release simply says:
Riders can expect these new state-of-the-art electric Can-Am motorcycles to be perfect for everyday commuting and, to stay true to the track & trail heritage of the brand, recreational on- and off-road riding.
BRP boss José Boisjoli says the return to motorcycling coincides with the company’s 50th anniversary.
”With the motorcycle industry shifting to electric, we saw an opportunity to reclaim our motorcycle heritage and to re-enter the market,” he says.
“This new product category is extremely important to us, and we are thrilled that Can-Am motorcycles are the first EV models in BRP’s electric lineup to be confirmed to consumers.
“Many of us have very fond memories of riding the early dirt bike models, and now we look forward to building on the rich history of the Can-Am brand to inspire and impress a new generation of motorcyclists and electric vehicle enthusiasts.”
The first Can-Am motorcycles were enduro and motocross models in 1973.
BRP Australia has issued a recall for their entry-level Can-Am Ryker three-wheeler roadster because a front wheel may drop off.
Riders have been advised to stop riding their Ryker, according to the official recall notice issued through the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
The issue only affects 30 of this year’s models sold between March 27 and September 26.
Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) of affected vehicles are listed at the end of this article.
The notice says the front wheels assembly may not have been installed properly, referring to the amount of torque applied to the installation of a red locking clip (pictured below).
“This could result in a wheel loss, reducing the vehicles handling and control,” the notice quaintly asserts. “This increases the risk of an accident, potentially leading to serious injury or death of the rider or other road users.
“Do not ride your vehicle until it has been inspected and repaired.”
BRP will contact owners by mail and arrange to repair involved vehicles, free of charge.
The company has only issued three other recalls in Australia for their Spyders, twice for brake defects and once for the vehicle bursting into flames.
YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS ON RECALLS
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If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.
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Company spokeswoman Amelie Forcier tells us the inclusivity and education program is designed and led by women to inspire more women to overcome the barriers that prevent them from riding.
“Our mentors are an incredible group of inspiring women with diverse backgrounds and levels of riding experience,” she says.
“The Women’s Mentorship Program is for female riders around the world. We have had members from Australia and New Zealand join our Facebook group.”
While women riders are about 10-12% of the Australian riding population, 25% of Ryker owners are women.
The Ryker comes in three versions: a LAMS 600cc version for $A14,899 (standard colour); a 900cc version at $A17,299 (standard colour); and a 900cc off-road Rally Edition at $A18,999 (ride away prices).
Brian says Australia’s Learner-Approved Motorcycle Scheme has provided the company with an opportunity for new riders, especially women, to own a Ryker.
“That is why 60% of sales are the 600cc model,” he says.
“Females love the ease of use and the customisation.”
Training focus
Brian saysthey have had a focus on rider training in North America and have plans to extend to other countries.
So far more than 20,000 people have gone through Can-Am Rider Education at 193 riding schools in North America.
Brian says about half are female.
“We are implementing a training program in NZ similar to what has been done in North America,” he says.
