The entry level three-wheeled Can-Am Ryker is proving a “hit” with women, says Can-Am On-Road PR Brian Manning.
While women riders are about 10-12% of the riding population, 30$% of Ryker owners are women.
In Australia it is slightly down at 25%, but that is still more than double the percentage of female motorcycle ownership.
The Ryker comes in three versions: a LAMS 600cc version for $A14,899 (standard colour); a 900cc version at $A17,299 (standard colour); and a 900cc off-road Rally Edition at $A18,999 (ride away prices).
That compares with the current 1330cc Can-Am Spyders which start at $19,990 for the RS and range up to $39,590 for the RT-S.
Brian says about 42% of Ryker owners are new to riding, but in Australia it’s a whopping 54%.
Perhaps the three-wheeled roadster is the saviour of motorcycling! After all, in Australia, the Can-Am Spyder and Ryker are classed as motorcycles and riders require a motorcycle licence.
“It’s accomplishing a phenomenon badly needed in the industry — significant growth fuelled by new, younger, and more diverse riders,” he says.
No, this isn’t two wheels, but it’s a hell of a lot of fun to ride. Just a different type of fun. And everybody should have access to the incredible thrill of riding.”
He says Australia’s Learner-Approved Motorcycle Scheme has provided the company with an opportunity for new riders to own a Ryker.
“That is why 60% of sales are the 600cc model,” he says.
“Females love the ease of use and the customisation.”
Training focus
Brian says they have had a focus on rider training in North America and have plans to extend to other countries.
So far more than 20,000 people have gone through Can-Am Rider Education at 193 riding schools in North America.
Brian says about half are female.
“We are implementing a training program in NZ similar to what it has been done in North America,” he says.