2008 Can-Am Spyder, Condé Nast Portfolio, March, 2008
Boomers are embracing bulky trikes like the ones Elvis rode when Ford was in the White House, but another movement is afoot to make three-wheeled transportation cool again.
Bombardier Recreational Products' Can-Am Spyder is aimed at 35 to 55 year-olds who crave wind-in-the-hair exhilaration without the inherent dangers of motorcycles. Initially unveiled in early 2007, the Spyder met its pre-sale goal of 2,500 units and quickly developed a wait list. If the buzz continues to escalate, the $15,499 Spyder will be on its way to becoming the first mainstream, commercially viable entry in this nebulous category of niche vehicles.
"The Spyder concept is consistent with our success in paradigm shifting products," explains BRP Spyder Product and PR Manager Marc Lacroix. "By building the first snowmobile and sit-down watercraft, we demonstrated that we could replace an existing paradigm." And while a number of trikes and quads from boutique manufacturers like Bourget's, GG Quad, and TriRod offer bespoke construction with stunning attention to detail, BRP's manufacturing facilities are capable of high volume production if the market dictates.
The Spyder's charms lie in the fact that it is neither an impractical exotic, nor so utilitarian that it could be confused with basic transportation. The sensation of riding one is akin to piloting a motorcycle, but with the confidence-inspiring benefits of electronic safety nets and three-wheeled stability. Variable assist power steering reduces the effort required to turn the handlebars at low speeds, and sports car-like front suspension enables the Spyder to generate higher g-forces than many motorcycles. A little physicality won't hurt the experience, either: leaning your upper body into turns keeps the inside wheel from lifting and triggering the stability control. The Spyder can also be tame in more mundane riding conditions. A single foot pedal operates all three brakes, the hydraulic clutch lever is relatively light, and a semi-automatic transmission will be available for $1,500. Other options include a taller windscreen to reduce wind buffeting, and a backrest for rear passengers.
Though it lacks the refined fit and finish of higher end products, the Spyder has the potential to open up what is currently a specialized area of the market. Die-hard motorcyclists may continue to migrate towards more conventional trikes as they outgrow their two-wheeled phase, but the Spyder's sleek styling and dynamic ride proves there's no reason three wheels can't be sexy.
Basem Wasef
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