Can-Am Unveils the Ryker

A Spyder for the Masses

Can-Am debuted a new 2019 addition to their Spyder line this past week, a model targeted at younger, beginner, and women riders. Dubbed the Ryker, the new 3-wheeler is smaller, lighter, more affordable than ever before, and supremely approachable.

Long perceived as a company building machines for older males with money to burn but who prefer the stability of a tripod stance, Can-Am takes a turn toward the younger generations with the Ryker.

In two iterations, a 600cc twin and 900cc triple, plus an up-spec “Rally Edition” of the 900, all Rotax-powered, the Ryker models range from $8,499 for the 600, $9,999 for the 900, and $10,999 for the RE. All three come standard with a Bosch-developed VSS Vehicle Stability System, with ABS and traction control, are inline powerplants and are liquid-cooled. Plus- and here’s a great clincher for younger folks- all are CVT automatic transmissions. For the generations growing up without having to learn stick-shift driving (and clutch/throttle working), I consider this a huge welcome mat thrown out for them by BRP (Can-Am’s parent company).

And if that isn’t enough, Can-Am offers a myriad of accessories and configuration options, up to 75,000 possible combos according to company reps, via their “Ufit” system. Make it your own, perfectly configured, then just cruise off. No clutch, no shifter, no handbrake. It’s turn-key, and go.

The BRP-patented “Y-Factor” design is meant to give the open-air feel of a motorcycle, yet the stability of a “dialed-in sports car.” According to reps. We hope to get our hands on one soon for an eval article, to see if we can corroborate those claims.

So whether you like, are open to, or despise these as “not true motorcycling,” there’s no denying that Can-Am is targeting the future of the sport, i.e. the younger generations of riders and potential riders. Any move that gets people out on the roads, riding along with the rest of us, we think is a very good thing.

Rob Brooks