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The Unconventional Charm of the Can-Am Ryker Rally
There are very few reasons I find myself getting out of bed at 6:00 am. Early flights or an off-road race might nudge me from my slumber, though I’m usually more of a “roll out at 9:00 am” kind of person. However, when the Can-Am Ryker Rally appeared at my doorstep, my usual habits took a back seat.
The blazing high desert of California was already approaching 100 degrees by 8:00 am due to a summer heatwave. To avoid gearing up in such intense heat, I managed to rally myself for an early morning ride. This was my introduction to the curious and exciting world of the Can-Am Ryker Rally.
The Ryker Experience
You’ve probably seen a three-wheeled Can-Am bike on the road at some point. However, it’s essential to differentiate the Ryker from the car-like Polaris Slingshot. The Ryker, along with its sibling the Spyder, leans more toward the motorcycle end of the spectrum.
In California, where I reside, I don’t need special permission to ride the Ryker. A helmet, leather jacket, sturdy pants, and boots are my gear of choice. Unlike many costly hobbies, getting into the Ryker world isn’t sky-high with a base model starting at under $10,000. The Rally model I tested boasts a 900cc three-cylinder engine delivering 82 horsepower and 58 pound-feet of torque.
Starting and Shifting Gears: A Learning Curve
Starting the Ryker Rally was an experience in itself. Used to the simplicity of dirt bikes, I found myself genuinely puzzled. Here’s a quick breakdown of the starting process:
- Use a unique claw-like key that latches onto a ball on the Ryker’s side.
- Turn on the power and press the ignition button.
- Turn the throttle forward until a beep is heard.
- Press the ignition button once more to start the engine.
It certainly was unusual and required a quick YouTube tutorial to master.
Shifting into gear presented another challenge. The shifter is placed further forward on the left side, unlike typical motorcycles. To engage reverse, I needed to press down and pull backward. Adding to the complexity, the parking brake had to be disengaged by flipping a lever. After 20 minutes of trial and error under the intensifying sun, I was on the road.
First Ride Impressions
For my maiden voyage, I took it slow, cruising around the neighborhood. The Ryker’s stability, courtesy of the two front wheels, made it exceptionally beginner-friendly. The continuously variable transmission eliminated the need for gear shifts, enhancing the ride’s simplicity. Steering and braking were straightforward without the complexity of countersteering or leaning into turns. The self-canceling blinkers were a cherry on top.
Conquering Traffic
Feeling confident, I ventured into traffic. Despite the early hour, numerous commuters were already on the road, seeking to beat the predicted 115-degree high. Initially timid, I soon got used to the 40-mph speed limit and found the Ryker’s acceleration satisfactory. Up a twisty, shaded road I went, gradually learning the peculiarities of leaning and steering at higher speeds.
Highway speeds of 65 mph felt stable and comfortable. Despite the soft seat, I felt sufficiently insulated from the engine’s vibrations. The handlebars’ slight vibration wasn’t overly bothersome, and the option of cruise control provided welcome relief.
Off-Road Adventure
The heat relented slightly for my off-road escapade. Equipped with rally-specific features like an aluminum skid plate, better tires, and reinforced wheels, the Ryker Rally promised durability. Adjusting the suspension to a softer setting made traversing dirt roads smoother.
On washboard ripples, maintaining a consistent speed helped navigate the bumps efficiently. When encountering loose sand patches, I learned to control the bike calmly. Tackling whoops provided exhilarating yet manageable challenges.
Final Thoughts
Summing up my experience, the Can-Am Ryker Rally turned out to be impressively enjoyable. It might not offer the thrill of high-speed sports bikes, but its user-friendly nature, moderate power, and stability make it a delightful ride. At $14,599 (not including destination), it’s an affordable way to scratch the motorcycle itch.
Whether receiving waves from fellow riders due to mutual respect or shared heat-induced misery, the Ryker Rally managed to generate a genuine sense of inclusiveness and enjoyment.
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