For those who have been in the powersports world for a while, the Can-Am name brings to mind images of three-wheeled Spyders and rugged off-road vehicles. But before all that, Can-Am was a dominant force in the motorcycle world. Now, after a nearly four-decade hiatus, BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) is reviving its two-wheeled legacy with a bold and modern twist: the all-electric Can-Am Pulse and Can-Am Origin motorcycles. This isn't just a nostalgic nod to the past; it's a significant leap into the future of motorcycling, and it signals a major commitment to electric power from one of the industry's biggest players.
A Legacy Reborn: Can-Am's Return to Two Wheels
To truly appreciate the significance of the Pulse and Origin, it helps to understand Can-Am's history. The brand first made a name for itself in the 1970s with championship-winning motocross bikes. These machines were known for their power and innovation, and they quickly gained a loyal following. However, BRP eventually shifted its focus to other recreational products, and the Can-Am motorcycle brand was put on hold. Now, with the rise of electric vehicle technology, BRP is seizing the opportunity to bring Can-Am back to its two-wheeled roots, blending its heritage of performance with a forward-thinking approach to design and engineering.
The Can-Am Pulse: Electrifying the Urban Commute
The Can-Am Pulse is a naked street bike designed for the modern urban rider. With its sharp lines, minimalist bodywork, and aggressive stance, the Pulse is a real head-turner. It's built for zipping through city streets and making every commute an exciting experience. The Pulse is not just about looks, though; it's packed with performance and technology that make it a joy to ride.
Pulse Specs and Features
The Pulse is powered by the innovative Rotax E-Power motor, which delivers a thrilling 3.8-second 0-60 mph acceleration time. It has a city range of up to 100 miles and a combined range of 80 miles (WMTC), making it more than capable of handling daily commutes and weekend rides. When it's time to charge, the Pulse can go from 20% to 80% in just 50 minutes using a Level 2 charger. It also features a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, keeping you connected and in control. The Pulse offers four riding modes—Sport+, Normal, Eco, and Rain—allowing you to tailor the bike's performance to your riding style and conditions.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $10,999 |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.8 seconds |
| City Range | Up to 100 miles |
| Combined Range | 80 miles (WMTC) |
| Charging Time (20-80%) | 50 minutes (Level 2) |
| Motor | Rotax E-Power 35 kW |
| Display | 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay |
| Riding Modes | Sport+, Normal, Eco, Rain |
The Can-Am Origin: Adventure Redefined
For those who prefer to venture off the beaten path, Can-Am offers the Origin, a dual-sport motorcycle that's just as comfortable on the trail as it is on the pavement. The Origin shares the same Rotax E-Power powertrain as the Pulse, but it's been adapted for adventure riding with a more robust chassis, long-travel suspension, and knobby tires. The Origin is a true do-it-all motorcycle, ready to take you on your next adventure, whether it's a weekend camping trip or a cross-country journey.
Origin Specs and Features
The Origin boasts a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds and offers a city range of up to 90 miles, with a combined range of 71 miles (WMTC). Like the Pulse, it can be charged from 20% to 80% in 50 minutes. The Origin also features a 10.25-inch touchscreen display and comes with six riding modes: Off-Road+, Off-Road, Sport, Normal, Eco, and Rain. The addition of the Off-Road modes gives you the confidence to tackle any terrain.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $11,499 |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.3 seconds |
| City Range | Up to 90 miles |
| Combined Range | 71 miles (WMTC) |
| Charging Time (20-80%) | 50 minutes (Level 2) |
| Motor | Rotax E-Power 35 kW |
| Display | 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay |
| Riding Modes | Off-Road+, Off-Road, Sport, Normal, Eco, Rain |
The Heart of the Beast: The Rotax E-Power Powertrain
At the core of both the Pulse and the Origin is the Rotax E-Power powertrain. This innovative electric motor is a testament to BRP's engineering prowess. It's a compact and lightweight unit that delivers impressive performance and efficiency. The liquid-cooled battery and on-board charger ensure fast and reliable charging, while the active and passive regen systems help to extend the bikes' range. The Rotax E-Power is more than just a motor; it's a complete system that's been designed to provide a thrilling and intuitive riding experience.
What This Means for the Powersports Industry
BRP's entry into the electric motorcycle market with the Can-Am Pulse and Origin is a significant development for the powersports industry. It shows that major manufacturers are serious about electric vehicles and are willing to invest in the technology. This will likely accelerate the adoption of electric motorcycles and push other manufacturers to develop their own electric models. For consumers, this means more choices, better technology, and a more sustainable way to enjoy the thrill of riding.
Pricing and Availability
The Can-Am Pulse will start at $10,999, while the Can-Am Origin will start at $11,499. Both models will also be available in a special '73 tribute edition, which pays homage to the original Can-Am motorcycles of the 1970s. The Pulse '73 will start at $12,999, and the Origin '73 will start at $13,499. The motorcycles are expected to be released in 2026, and you can pre-order yours now.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between the Can-Am Pulse and Origin?
The Pulse is a street-focused naked bike designed for urban riding, while the Origin is a dual-sport motorcycle built for both on-road and off-road adventures.
2. How long does it take to charge the Can-Am electric motorcycles?
Both the Pulse and Origin can be charged from 20% to 80% in approximately 50 minutes using a Level 2 charging station.
3. What is the range of the Can-Am Pulse and Origin?
The Pulse has a city range of up to 100 miles, while the Origin has a city range of up to 90 miles. The combined range is 80 miles for the Pulse and 71 miles for the Origin (WMTC).
4. When will the Can-Am Pulse and Origin be available?
Both models are expected to be released in 2026. Pre-orders are currently open.
In conclusion, the Can-Am Pulse and Origin are more than just new motorcycles; they are a statement of intent from BRP. They represent a bold step into the future of motorcycling and a commitment to electric power. With their impressive performance, cutting-edge technology, and stylish design, the Pulse and Origin are sure to be a hit with riders of all kinds. The return of Can-Am to the two-wheeled world is a welcome one, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for this iconic brand.
