Can-Am's Electrifying Return to Two Wheels
Image Credit: Can-Am.
Can-Am has finally decided to jolt back into the motorcycle scene! After focusing on three-wheeled vehicles for what felt like an eternity, they've rolled out their first electric motorcycles, the Pulse and Origin. That's right - no longer just prototypes, the first two-wheel electric Can-Ams have rolled off the production line yesterday! And guess what? They actually are quite cool!
These Can-Am bikes are a far cry from your average e-bike. They're sleek, sporty, and packed with enough power to make you smile. They probably can make your hair stand on end, or at least ruffle a bit.
First up, we have the Pulse, a naked street bike that's perfect for zipping around town. It's got a fairly minimalist design, with all the essential components neatly tucked away. The battery pack is integrated into the frame - that means a low center of gravity and agile handling. And with a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds, there's no way you can call it slow.
Image Credit: Can-Am.
Next, we have the Origin, a dual-sport bike that's ready for both on-road and off-road adventures. It's got a slightly more rugged look; it has knobby tires and a taller suspension. The Origin also boasts a slightly longer range than the Pulse - an ideal partner for exploring the great outdoors.
Both bikes share the same electric powertrain, a 47 hp motor that delivers instant torque and a whisper-quiet ride. No more roaring engines or smelly exhaust fumes, just pure, clean electric power.
Both motorcycles have a range of around 100 miles, provided you're careful with your right wrist. Not too bad, but not exactly blow-my-brains-out shocking either. Can-Am claims that the batteries can be charged from 20% to 80% in just 50 minutes using a Level 2 charger. So, if you're planning a long trip, you might want to factor in some charging stops.
But let's talk about the price. The Pulse starts at US $13,999, while the Origin will set you back US $14,499. That's not exactly cheap, but it's also not outrageous for an electric motorcycle. Plus, you'll save money on gas and maintenance in the long run.
Image Credit: Can-Am.
Can-Am has a long history of producing high-quality powersports vehicles, and I have no doubt that these electric motorcycles will be just as well-made. The limited range and relatively high price might be a turn-off for some riders, though.
But then again, who knows? Maybe Can-Am will surprise us all and become a major player in the electric motorcycle market. They have all the technology, all of the experience, and they have the brand recognition, which probably is the most important bit. And who wouldn't want to cruise around on a silent, emission-free motorcycle?
