Can‑Am Origin Review: Fun Electric Bike With Limited Real‑World Practicality
Can‑Am Origin Review: Fun Electric Bike With Limited Real‑World Practicality
Image: Can‑Am Origin Review: Fun Electric Bike With Limited Real‑World Practicality – Performance Comparison and Specifications
When Bombardier’s Can‑Am unveiled the Origin in 2022, the buzz was undeniable. A sleek, low‑slung electric motorcycle promising instant torque and a “hoot to ride” experience felt like a glimpse into the future of two‑wheel freedom. Yet, as more riders have taken the bike out of the showroom and onto the street, a pattern has emerged: the more you push the Origin, the quicker the fun fades. In this article we break down what makes the Origin exciting, where it falls short, and whether it deserves a place in your garage.
Design & Dimensions
The Origin’s visual language is minimalistic, with a naked bike silhouette that hides its electric heart behind clean lines. The bike’s low seat height (≈ 770 mm) makes it approachable for shorter riders, while the 2‑inch wider rear tire adds a touch of stability without sacrificing agility.
| Attribute | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 2,040 mm | Compact footprint |
| Wheelbase | 1,350 mm | Balanced handling |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | Easy for most riders |
| Dry Weight | 185 kg | Heavier than comparable petrol bikes |
| Ground Clearance | 120 mm | Limits off‑road use |
Feature Comparison
To see how the Origin stacks up against its nearest rivals—both electric and traditional—we’ve compiled a quick side‑by‑side look.
| Feature | Can‑Am Origin | Zero SR/F | Kawasaki Ninja 650 (Turbo‑Petrol) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 58 kW (78 hp) | 82 kW (110 hp) | 71 hp |
| Peak Torque | 140 Nm | 190 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 4.8 kWh | 14.4 kWh | N/A |
| Range (City) | ≈ 140 km | ≈ 260 km | ≈ 350 km (fuel) |
| Charging Time | ≈ 3 h (Level 2) | ≈ 2 h (DC fast) | ≈ 5 min (fuel fill) |
| ADAS | None | Traction control, cornering ABS | ABS, Traction control |
Engine Specifications
While the Origin is electrically powered, many enthusiasts still think of “engine specs” when comparing bikes. Below is a snapshot of the motor and battery setup.
| Component | Specification | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Permanent‑magnet AC | Brushless, high‑efficiency |
| Maximum Output | 58 kW (78 hp) | Peak at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque Curve | Flat from 0–5,000 rpm | Instant torque delivery |
| Battery Pack | Lithium‑ion 4.8 kWh | Removable for indoor charging |
| Regenerative Braking | Yes – up to 30 % | Extends range in stop‑and‑go traffic |
Real‑World Practicality
Here’s where the Origin’s charm meets reality. The bike shines on short, twisty rides—think city streets or a weekend canyon. The instant torque makes overtaking a breeze, and the quiet power feels futuristic.
However, when you start demanding more—higher speeds, longer distances, or a bit of rugged terrain—the limitations surface quickly:
- Range anxiety: The 4.8 kWh pack delivers roughly 140 km in city mode, but real‑world conditions (wind, hills, colder weather) shave off 30‑40 %.
- Charging infrastructure: While home charging is straightforward, public fast‑charge stations are sparse for motorcycles, making long trips inconvenient.
- Weight: At 185 kg, the Origin feels more like a heavyweight scooter. This mass impacts low‑speed maneuverability and makes it harder to lift the bike for maintenance.
- Performance ceiling: The top speed is limited to about 130 km/h (80 mph). For riders used to turbo‑petrol machines that roar past 180 km/h, the Origin can feel restrained.
Riding Experience: The Fun Factor
On a sunny Saturday, I took the Origin out on a coastal road with gentle climbs. The first kilometre was pure joy—the motor delivered torque instantly, and the bike responded with the poise of a high‑end sport bike. The low seat allowed a relaxed riding posture, and the minimalist dashboard kept distractions to a minimum.
But after 45 minutes of spirited riding, the battery indicator dipped below 30 %. The bike’s power management system automatically softened the throttle to preserve range, and the previously “hoot” turned into a polite hum. The transition is subtle but unmistakable, reminding you that the Origin is still a city‑centric commuter rather than a long‑haul cruiser.
Price Comparison
Price is a decisive factor for many buyers. Below is a quick look at how the Origin’s sticker price lines up against other electric and conventional bikes.
| Model | Base Price (USD) | Typical Options | Total Approx. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can‑Am Origin | $9,999 | Premium seat, extra charger | $11,200 |
| Zero SR/F | $19,495 | Performance battery, heated grips | $22,000 |
| Kawasaki Ninja 650 | $8,099 | Sport exhaust, ABS | $9,200 |
| Harley‑Davidson LiveWire | $22,995 | Extended range kit | $24,500 |
Should You Buy the Can‑Am Origin?
If your daily commute is under 80 km, you have access to home charging, and you value a thrilling, silent ride over outright speed, the Origin checks many boxes. Its fun‑first character makes it a perfect weekend toy for urban riders who love to zip through traffic.
Conversely, if you regularly tackle highway stretches, need a bike that can handle a variety of road surfaces, or you simply crave the roar of a turbo‑petrol engine, the Origin may feel like a novelty rather than a practical solution. In those cases, a larger‑capacity electric bike—or even a traditional petrol model—might serve you better.
Conclusion
The Can‑Am Origin is undeniably a well‑crafted electric motorcycle that delivers excitement in short bursts. Its design is eye‑catching, the instant torque is addictive, and the riding experience feels genuinely modern. Yet, the limited battery capacity, modest top speed, and lack of advanced rider‑assist systems (ADAS) mean the fun evaporates as soon as you push beyond city limits. For riders who cherish the “hooray” feeling of electric torque and are comfortable with the bike’s practical constraints, the Origin can be a rewarding addition to the garage. For everyone else, it remains an interesting glimpse at what’s possible—but not quite a replacement for everyday riding.
For more details, see the original review on Motorcycle News.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the official range of the Can‑Am Origin?
- Approximately 140 km in city riding; real‑world range varies with conditions.
- How long does it take to fully charge the battery?
- About 3 hours on a Level 2 home charger; fast‑charging options are limited.
- Does the Origin have any rider‑assist technologies?
- No built‑in ADAS; it offers basic ABS but lacks traction control or cornering aids.
- Can the battery be removed for indoor charging?
- Yes, the 4.8 kWh pack is removable, making home charging convenient.
- What is the top speed?
- Roughly 130 km/h (80 mph), limited by the motor controller.
- Is there an aftermarket for larger batteries?
- Currently, Can‑Am does not offer official larger‑capacity packs, and third‑party options are scarce.
- How does the Origin compare to a turbo‑petrol bike in acceleration?
- 0‑60 km/h is achieved in about 2.8 seconds, which is quicker than many turbo‑petrol midsize bikes.
- What warranty does Can‑Am provide?
- A 2‑year/24,000‑km warranty on the bike and a 3‑year/30,000‑km warranty on the battery.
- Can I ride the Origin on light off‑road trails?
- Ground clearance is low (120 mm), so only mild gravel or packed dirt is advisable.
- Is the Origin eligible for electric vehicle incentives?
- Eligibility varies by region; many U.S. states offer rebates for electric motorcycles under $10,000.
