Can-Am, the motorcycle company known for its off-road vehicles, made a big announcement two years ago when it revealed its plans to re-enter the motorcycle market with fully electric bikes. Now, the company has finally released the specs and pricing for its first electric motorcycle offerings: the Pulse and the Origin.
Both the Pulse and the Origin bear a striking resemblance to the concept bikes that were unveiled alongside the announcement. These bikes are positioned as direct competitors to the Harley-Davidson LiveWire S2 and the Zero Motorcycles FX lines.
When it comes to the powertrain, both bikes share the same setup. They are equipped with a Rotax electric motor that produces 47 horsepower and 53 pound-feet of torque. The motor is integrated into a combination swing-arm and enclosed chain case, which drastically reduces the need for chain maintenance. Like most electric vehicles, the powertrain operates on a single-speed transmission.
The Pulse, which weighs 390 pounds when dry, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. On the other hand, the Origin, weighing in at 413 pounds when dry, accomplishes the same feat in 4.3 seconds. Despite the slight difference in acceleration, both bikes offer impressive performance.
One notable feature of both bikes is their battery pack, which is mounted within the frame in the space typically occupied by an engine and fuel tank. The 8.9-kWh battery pack allows for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, with Level 2 charging replenishing the battery from 20% to 80% in just 50 minutes. This charging speed outperforms both the Zero FX and the LiveWire S2, although the LiveWire S2 does have a larger battery pack.
When it comes to range, the Pulse and the Origin are comparable to their competition. The Origin has a claimed city range of 100 miles and 80 miles of combined riding. In comparison, the LiveWire S2 Del Mar offers 113 miles of city range and 86 miles of combined riding. The Zero FX bikes have a city riding range of just over 100 miles.
Where the Pulse and the Origin truly stand apart is in their styling and chassis. The Pulse is designed for the road with a lower seat height of 30.9 inches and sporty aesthetics. It features 17-inch wheels and is equipped with an upside-down non-adjustable fork and a single coilover rear shock with adjustable preload. The Origin, on the other hand, is an adventure bike with a seat height of 34 inches and 10 inches of suspension travel. It has larger wheels, with an 18-inch rear and a 21-inch front, and is fitted with knobbier tires for off-road capabilities.
Both the Pulse and the Origin are packed with technology. They come with enormous 10.25-inch touchscreens for instruments and infotainment, as well as Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay. Each bike also includes a USB charger in the glove compartment where the gas tank would normally be found. Standard features include ABS, traction control, and different riding modes, with the Origin having exclusive off-road modes.
When it comes to pricing, the Pulse comes in as the more affordable option. The base model starts at $13,999, while the ’73 trim with extra stickers, a silver paint scheme, and LED accent lights starts at $15,999. The Origin starts at $14,499 for the base model and $16,499 for the ’73 trim.
Orders for the Pulse and the Origin are now being accepted, with production slated to begin later this year and deliveries expected to start early next year. Can-Am’s entry into the electric motorcycle market offers riders a compelling alternative to established brands, with competitive pricing and impressive performance.