Can-Am Launches Two All-Electric Motorcycles: Origin and Pulse

BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), a Canadian company renowned for its diverse lineup of recreational vehicles, has re-entered the motorcycle market after a nearly four-decade hiatus by introducing two fully electric motorcycles under the Can-Am brand. The announcement marks a significant moment for the company, which originally ceased production of Can-Am motorcycles in 1987. The reintroduction of the brand aligns with BRP’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, echoing its extensive experience in the power sports industry.

Can-Am, originally a subsidiary of Bombardier in the 1970s, gained a strong following for its motorcycles before shifting focus. Bombardier, which later became primarily known for its aviation products, including a line of executive jets, spun off its recreational products division in 2003, leading to the formation of BRP. Since then, BRP has concentrated on its snowmobiles, off-road vehicles, and watercraft, while also reestablishing the Can-Am brand in 2006 with a range of four-wheel ATV/UTVs. The introduction of the Spyder three-wheeled motorcycles in 2007 further diversified BRP’s offerings, but the return to two-wheeled motorcycles had remained elusive until now.

The two new electric motorcycles, named Origin and Pulse, represent a modern twist on Can-Am’s legacy. Both models share a common platform, showcasing a design philosophy deeply rooted in BRP’s expertise with vehicles like Ski-Doo snowmobiles. BRP has been producing electric snowmobiles for several years, and this experience has significantly influenced the technology and design of the new motorcycles. Central to both the Origin and Pulse models is a Rotax-built liquid-cooled electric motor, a testament to the ongoing collaboration between BRP and Bombardier, Inc., the parent company of Rotax.

The Rotax motor, compact yet powerful, generates 47 horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque at 12,000 rpm. This performance is bolstered by an 8.9 kWh battery pack that serves as the structural backbone of the motorcycles. The PowerUnit Core, as BRP dubs it, integrates several critical components, including the DC to AC voltage converter, power regulator, and a 6.6 kW charging module. The motor is strategically placed at the swingarm pivot, partially housed within the swingarm itself, which helps optimize torque output through a reduction gear that drives the rear wheel via a chain. Notably, the motorcycles lack a traditional clutch or gearshift, a standard feature for electric motorcycles, simplifying the riding experience.

In terms of performance, the adventure-oriented Origin model can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, while the urban-focused Pulse model, with its different wheel sizes, tire types, shorter suspension, and slightly lower weight, achieves the same speed in just 3.8 seconds. Both motorcycles incorporate regenerative braking, a feature common in electric vehicles that allows the motor to act as a generator when slowing down, thereby recharging the battery. This system also enables what is known as “one-pedal driving,” where the rider can control the bike’s speed and deceleration without relying heavily on the brake lever, thus extending range and reducing brake wear.

A distinctive feature of the Can-Am electric motorcycles is the fully enclosed motor, reduction gear, chain, and final drive within a single-sided rear swingarm. This innovative design not only enhances the aesthetics of the bikes but also offers practical benefits. By encasing the drivetrain, Can-Am has been able to optimize the placement and size of the battery pack while simplifying the rear suspension system. The single-sided swingarm, a design choice shared with high-end models from other manufacturers like Ducati, BMW, and Honda, facilitates easy rear wheel removal—a crucial advantage for off-road riders who might need to repair a puncture in remote locations. The enclosed chain system is maintained with an idler wheel and an oil bath, ensuring minimal maintenance requirements.

Technology integration is another highlight of the Origin and Pulse models. Both bikes are equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display that offers multiple viewing modes, including the ability to connect with Apple CarPlay. When paired with an iPhone, the display can show GPS routing and other essential information simultaneously. For safety reasons, most touch functionality is disabled while the motorcycle is in motion, but a pod with buttons on the left handlebar allows the rider to control music, voice commands, and screen settings without taking their hands off the controls. All lighting on the motorcycles is LED-based, including a twin-lens front headlight array.

The bikes also come with a range of accessories, such as “LinQ” quick-mount systems for travel cases, windscreens, and racks, providing riders with customization options to suit their needs. The styling of the motorcycles is characterized by futuristic, angular bodywork, and they are available in three color combinations: Bright White, Carbon Black (which comes with a $500 premium), and Sterling Silver in a special “73” trim. Pricing for the Origin model starts at $14,499, while the Pulse model starts at $13,999. Both models come with a two-year overall warranty, and a five-year warranty is provided for the battery. These electric motorcycles are expected to be available for purchase soon, signaling Can-Am’s bold return to the two-wheeled motorcycle market with an eye on the future of electric mobility.