I have a F-3S Spyder. Love it!!! Been ridding my whole life. Then 7 years ago I had a major stroke. My balance is now virtually gone. I can’t-even ride a bicycle very well, due to my balance issues. The Spyder got me back in the wind!!! Thank you Can Am!!!! I can ride the heck out of it!
I’m not there yet, but I can see it coming at age 63. I am not sure I will be ready to give up riding in the wind when I can no longer safely manage two wheels and occasionally think a Spyder might be the way to go to get another decade or so of open air riding.
@@boris2997 not being able to have good balance doesn't necessarily prevent them from driving things that don't require balance. If they are medically allowed to do so that is, which I am assuming they are.
@@boris2997 kinda depends, if it really is just related to his balance then it probably is fine in cars and maybe on trikes. I would add that because he knows his limitations it's probably safe, people who don't know their limits are the issue (usually)
I want to let you know how much I enjoy your podcast. I listen to every episode, usually through my cardo while on my KLR 650 or my father's 1973 BMW R75/5. I got into riding over 30 years ago thanks to my father. Im at a point in my life where I don't have many friends that ride, although I continue to try to convert people. Listen to you Gents and your guests chat about bikes really fills a gap that I have been missing. Thank you very much. Also for what it's worth I wave to everyone. If someone on a mobility scooter flashes 2 down at me -i will return the wave... Do I think that's cool? No, but it doesn't matter what I think. You do you. Ride your ride! Love it! Thanks Dave
A Can-Am Ryker is an asphalt snowmobile. It is super cool looking. You sit on it like a motorcycle. But it is closer to a snowmobile than motorcycle. I would buy one. Just for the sake of having something different.
For me, leaning is one of the most magical parts of motorcycling. Getting the back leaned over for a turn and then switching back in a quick chicane-like turn is incredibly fun. It's like flying. It would be a much less exciting experience for me being on a 3-wheeler that doesn't lean. That seems more like driving than riding to me.
Spenser immediately challenged my prejudices by bringing up the one wheel early on at 16:00 - he's great at deconstructing the possible underlying reasons for our thinking. Should be a frequent guest on the podcast!
The answer is kindergarten level. Someone already figured it out for you a long time ago. It's in the terminology. Trike = 3, bike = 2, tricycle = 3 wheeled vehicle, bicycle = 2 wheeled vehicle, motorcycle = a cycle powered by a motor or an engine. Trikes are not bikes, bikes are not trikes, but both are motorcycles. Some trikes are self supporting and perform like a 4 wheeled vehicle that's missing a wheel in the front or back (delta vs tadpole), and some trikes are not self supporting and need to be driven like a bike by utilizing the gyro, leaning and countersteering, etc. Like my home built leaning trike.
I don't personally draw a distinction based on number of wheels; I ride motorcycles because I like being outdoors and experiencing the outside world. As far as I'm concerned anyone who chooses to forgo the safety bubble is a part of the "us" in this figurative "us and them" scenario. Being a motorcyclist is to sit on a saddle in the outside world. Being a driver is to sit in a car seperated from the outdoors. Somewhere in the middle of this spectrum, in between the polaris slingshot and the golf cart, lies my personal distinction. So in my personal view; snowmobilers, ATV riders, motorcyclists, bicyclists, scooter riders, trike riders and others are a part of "us". And they get a wave from me. The machine is less important than the philosophy.
Same here. I mean, I wouldn't be caught dead riding a motorcycle with training wheels, but gatekeeping isn't cool, and just because I don't think trikes are cool doesn't mean the rider is uncool. We all get rained on just the same. I tend to ignore the can-am trikes though. Not out of a sense of gatekeeping, but because I don't think I've ever gotten a wave back. They don't generally seem to be ridden by people who consider themselves to be part of the community, so they just kind of look at me funny.
I feel like you guys totally missed where the “reverse trikes” come from. It’s much more like a snowmobile than a car. It is basically a snowmobile with wheels instead of skids and tracks. It’s made by a the same company that makes ski doo… LOL
I was on two wheels all my life. Due to problems with diabetes, I’ve had to move to a Tri Glide. I’ve probably got a million miles on two wheels. Still laying down the miles just on three wheels now.
It is so sad that this conversation even exists. Trikes aren't even motorcycles! The definition of motorcycle is TWO WHEELS. So, why do 2 wheel riders get to say what's cool? Maybe 3 is cooler. I personally get more attention and looks on my Spyder then I ever did on any 2 wheeler I rode. From someone that comes from both sides, now that I've ridden both (20 years on 2 wheels), I would never go back to 2 wheels (and it was my choice, not because I had to). 3 gets more looks, are more comfortable, and more fun in my opinion. Not to mention safer. No worries about washout, GIANT potholes and whatnot. And, my F3 handles like a sportscar. It is FUN to ride aggressively. Ride what you like.
Another fantastic episode. Side cars could be an entire episode sometime. With Zack as an experienced side car rider, and Ari as well, and with the amazing academia and broad experiential knowledge of Spurge, this will not miss.... Maybe for next season. Compliments to each of you at HSLS for making these episodes entertaining, informative and always relevant. RevZilla productions are all "top-shelf," and I will continue to shop Motul and RevZilla!!
My uncle bought an ATC90 for his son, my cousin, back in the day, who was wisely afraid of even sitting on it. I was dumber, and managed to have some fun on it. In fact, I think I may have been the only person to ever ride it. But holy moly, was that machine eager to flip over! Thankfully, I never did. It did make me extremely skeptical of three and four wheelers, and I think it's a very bad idea to buy them for little kids to use. There's a Morgan dealer around the block from my house, and I've lusted after those three wheelers. But I categorize them more as cars than motorcycles. They seem to be considered the most fun stupid car you could ever buy. To me, with the skinny wire wheels, the big air cooled engine hanging off the front, and open cockpit, they're more like driving a WW I wingless biplane than a car or motorcycle.
Also had a ATC90 and than a 110. Turn it over every way you could but was l lucky and not get hurt. I used it in field work for my dad, and realize that if I wrecked it I would have to walk to do my job, so I learned early not to wreck it.
Thanks for the shoutout for the Czech Republic. 😄 A fellow Czech here, also a long-time listener, though I listen on Google Podcasts. Well done with Prague and Brno (a city in Southern Moravia and it has a race circuit, though it's not being used for WSBK these days). However, of particular interest to you as motorcyclists should be Most, which is a smaller town in the north-western part of the country and which also has a race track that actually hosts a MotoGP race (and it also happens to be my birthplace 😊). Just a little bit of extra info for anybody interested. Thanks a lot for the kick-ass podcast. ❤️
Everyone in the sales business of gear and accessories (Revzilla, Cycle Gear, J&P) should be loving and embracing all three wheelers, especially CanAm, as it introduced another level of riders to the game. I ride two but love canam for what they did
Need to clarify.... a reverse trike (2 wheels at front) IS more stable at low and high speeds in general. A standard trike (2 wheels at back) is less stable at high speed.... its all about weight transfer when changing directions and/or decelerating.
Even before I listen to the podcast while Spurg reads the Motul ad. A trike is not a bike. It is a motorcycle, or it can be considered a motorcycle. But a bike requires two wheels. Bike coming from bicycle. Then a trike is a tricycle... Both of those can be motored, tho =P Now, on to podcast shenanigans
Not all are motorcycles in my opinion. I consider a trike based off of a motorcycle is still a motorcycle. A Honda Goldwing trike or a Harley Tri-Glide is a motorcycle. A motorcycle with a sidecar is still a motorcycle. Can Am Spyder is a motorcycle. A Polaris Slingshot, Vanderhall, or a Morgan is not a motorcycle. Once you put in a car seat to sit in or have a steering wheel instead of handlebars it's not a motorcycle to me. They can still be a blast to drive and if someone wants to drive one or ride one them more power to them. Some people have them because of health reasons and others just because it's what they like. Who really cares? It's your money, buy what you want.
Wind is wind, no matter how many wheels are getting you out in it. Always saw it that way, and rode with everything from dual sports to dressers, because it's about getting out there with others who enjoy riding as well. I lost my right leg 2 years ago. Soent the days of recovery figuring out how to alter my foot brake, on a few of our smaller, lighter, bikes, so I can set my prosthetic foot and limb resting on the pedal, and use my anterior anx posterior muscles to push down my residual limb, primarily to get back on 2. With everyone pushing me towards 3. Which yes, my wife did buy a Spyder back in 2020. And yes, I have ridden it, and converted it to a LH lever, left grip, using a Clutch Master from a Goldwing. That does work. But I rebuilt and modded the 84 YZ 125, just to train with my metal leg. Same with the Suzuki SP 400. And now, a 2002 LS 650 Savage. Because 2 is harder. Sure. I can set 3 as the bar, hell, I've even gotten the Ural out this year, so to me, that's setting the goal I Know I can do. That's a cheat. That is placing a limit on Myself. On my dream, and my goal. I'm riding 2 again, because so many people said that I can't. All my life, my answer to it can't be done, has Always been, You only say that because I haven't done it. Yet. Trikes keep those who can't ride on 2 anymore, out there with us, get more non bike prople into it, and for a few of us, allow us to take the kids, or our service dogs, or pets along with us, via sidecars. It's how my dad, at 73, still rides. Not ready to go 3 wheeled exclusively, but they are part of life now, just like a walker, wheelchair, and shower seat are for me. Another tool to let me get back to who I was, before my life changed, and my short leg became the long one. Hell. I rode home from the care and rehabilitation place on the back of my brother's Electraglide, still stapled, and stitched.
Love you guys! Always picking up interesting topics. HSLS is the first podcast that got me hooked on the format! Usually listen to you guys from spotify. But came by here to leave a short comment. Keep up the great work. I would love to see you guys talk more about smaller displacement motorcycles. Here in asia, 100, 125 and 150cc are more of the norm... 250cc's are even considered big bikes here. Maybe you can make a podcast about smaller displacement engines someday. Any way, thank you for the awesome content. Always lovely to listen to you guys. Cheers from indonesia✨
I came from the podcast to comment on the Not the News segment, especially with your upcoming episode on electric motorcycles. Japan has made a geostrategic decision to prioritize hydrogen over electric vehicles. They have a lot of natural gas (the main source of hydrogen) and want to become energy independent. They’re shifting away from nuclear, and from energy sources that could be blockaded (because they’re an island really close to China, western Russia, etc). Like how you’ve talked about regulatory environments shaping motorcycle engine sizes, making hydrogen motorcycles is a political decision.
Why was the title of this video changed? When I watched it a few days ago it was "Can a motorcycle have three wheels." The original question was far better. Is a trike a bike, no but that is strictly a linguistic distinction wherein tri = 3 and bi=2. Can a motorcycle have three wheels? Yes, yes it can, see my previous post for explanation.
The Niken is very stable when the area gets rough. I was at the introduction of the Niken in the Nürburgring area and the rural roads are littered with gravel. After a few curves you get the hang of it and just go for it without any fear of loosing the front end. Very liberating. And at a later event I was behind a rider who underestimated a curve and went uphill the embankment and went back to the road. Just when the personell asked how the test drive went I was ripping the grass out behind the brake lever. That's how stable the Niken rides. TEST IT BEFORE JUDGING.
I normally listen to the podcast (often while riding) This is the first time watching the pod on YT. Thanks for this. I feel like I got a lot from watching this one in particular. Personally I wave to everyone. I believe everyone should ride their own ride. Zipping by someone on the road you have no way of knowing what conditions they are dealing with or where they are coming from. 30 years ago I was riding a DR 200 s and would be snubbed by Harley riders regularly. No big deal, but I'm not going to do that. Thanks for the podcast guys!
@@edwardsp1916 Thank you. It has been my impression that somewhere around 30hp is needed for a sub 400lb(180kg) motorcycle, and that final gear ratios/power curve can make a big difference. The TriCity 300 is a whole different animal (fairings, weight, CVT, etc). With some motorcycles it almost feels like you are torturing them at highway speeds!
Zack its Season 7 Episode 6 not 7. Guessing Spurge shaved for the wedding? Kinda looks Bruce Campbell. Burn that shirt Spurge its dreadful! The infrastructure problem for hydrogen is way less daunting that many think it is. The machine that separates hydrogen and oxygen from water is about the size of a vending machine, i.e. a little larger than a standard gasoline pump, and only requires water and electricity to work. These can easily replace gas pumps with minimal effort at any and every gas station in the world. The biggest problem, as I see it, for hydrogen pumps is getting them built and distributed. Can a Motorcycle have 3 wheels? YES! PERIOD! END OF STORY! The word "motorcycle" is a combination of two words "motorized" and "cycle", and does does not derive specifically from bicycle. ANY cycle style conveyance with a motor is a "motorcycle." Uni, bi, tri, quad, etc. refers only to the number of wheels the cycle has. Excuse me Zack but you rather looked down your nose at me last season when HS/LS featured my Spyder RT-S for the engine sound guessing game! Whether or not you think something is cool is personal and going to vary, literally, person to person. BTW trikes are NOT just for people with disabilities. I am 46 have no disability and I chose a Spyder over a two-wheeled motorcycle, and yes I have a two-wheeled motorcycle license. I rather like Spurges take, like it, don't like it just, just show us trike owners the same respect as any other rider. The "training wheel" trike has four wheels so technically it's a quad. HD also has the Freewheeler which, I believe, is based on the Dyna platform. Spencer, the Can Ams come either with a manual or push button shifter but not a fully automatic transmission, and an inclusive braking system operated by a foot pedal. Yeah, so the slingshots and such are not motorcycles. They have seats, seatbelts, and steering wheels so they are 3 wheeled cars. I think they're cool and probably a lot of fun to drive but not a motorcycle. Laws and regulations for three wheeled vehicles will, like all laws, vary wildly from state to state. Spencer Can Am makes or at least made dirt bikes so there is "motorcycle DNA" in the company. Zack by your own definition a motorcycle is a motorized cycle so how can a Can Am not be a motorcycle? Its' not a bike but its a motorcycle. You guys are asking different questions here, are trikes bikes? No, in the same way coke isn't pepsi but they are both still soda. To answer your original question can a motorcycle have three wheels the answer is, undeniably, YES! My first thought was the HD 107, but I'm not hearing the potato/potato/potato indicative of HD engines. So, Zack was right about something today and I'm 0-6. Maybe Mike can get a sidecar or a trike! Good show as always old sports, see in two!
There are many custom three-wheeled motorcycles on the market but the only ones being used in practice are bikes with sidecars and scooters with two front wheels such as those made by Yamaha and Piaggio. There is a niche in dual front-wheel scooters for commuters where the benefits are better stability, a greater performance in the rain compared to two-wheeled scooters and bikes and the fact that in some countries a car licence is the only requirement. I know of someone with a Yamaha Tricity that waves at those with scooters and motorcycles stranded next to the road during heavy rain. I am in my mid sixties and I am seriously considering a Yamaha Tricity for the comfort it offers.
I believe South Korea has the most advanced hydrogen infrastructure. I read an article recently and two of the take aways from that article was it takes a lot of energy to separate the hydrogen from whatever source you are using and there was a twenty minute wait between fillups to repressurize to fill the next car so South Korea inspite of huge investments hasn't gotten it to work.
I have the SW Motech’s SLC carrier system with their LC2 legend sidebags on my bike. It works very well, is detachable, classically styled, and the brackets that attach the bags don’t look bad. I went with the black edition to match my bike. I highly recommend them.
I think a good way to delineate when possible is "do you need a motocycle license?" Slightly off topic, but I find the episodes with Spencer exceptionally enjoyable; I have rewatched and re-listened via spotify to those the most. When will they do a sequel to the movie episode?
I saw the Can-Am Ryker and thought I want that! Next door to PA in NJ, you need at least a 3 wheel license. My instructor emphasized extra training and honing your skills. Also mentioned an advanced course for 3-wheel coming soon. BRP subsiding the 3-wheel course also makes it hella easy at least for Can-Am products
If you have to counter steer to turn, it is a motorcycle, or a bicycle if lacking an engine/motor. If you have to direct steer to turn and have three wheels, it is a trike. If you have to direct steer to turn and have four wheels, it is a car, truck, etc.
Ok. You don't have to like it, but definitions exist to define things and put them in categories. By definition, a trike is a motorized cycle ... a motored cycle ... a motorcycle. But they are not motorbikes. But but ... the way I look at it is this, folks who ride trikes, scooters, or nontraditional motorbikes are doing it from a more pure place. They aren't Harley riders, or some other brand rider, they are doing it for the experience of riding, and this is the way they can access it. I would rather wave to these folks than most of the other 2 wheelers who don't deign to put their hand out to someone who doesn't fit their ideal of a motorcyclist.
I grew up on 3-wheelers and never considered them a motorcycle. Crashed many many times! I’m 50 years old and have 2 atc 70s in the shop and many frames, forks, and motors lying around. Sliding around the yard on a hopped-up atc 70 with a 110 Chinese motor and slick tires is a hoot!
Here in Europe the three wheeled scooters are really popular. All have the same type of steering as the Niken. Yamaha Tricity 125 and 300, Piaggio Mp3, Kymco CV3 and Peugeot Metropolis is the most sold. They are all balance vehicles and are registered as motorcycles. It's popularity is from the legislation that allows you to ride them on your car license. They are a bit more stable than two wheelers and have some car like features like a footbrake with combined brakes in addition to the traditional scooter brakes, cruise control, keyless etc.. to make car drivers more comfortable with them. They are grouped with trikes and quads wich are not balance vehicles so they really are loophole motorcycles/maxi scooters for people that don't want to get a mc license or if you just like cool and weird things. The bigger cc ones are serious (and very comfortable) tourers.
Ive had a sidecar for most of the last 30 years, mostly BMW K series, currently an 1800 Goldwing. Initially it was for a desert trip and practicality. But soo much fun I still have one. I get to carry my 30kg dog and a ton of camping gear everywhere with ease. A trike wouldnt do the same job for me. Sidecar= 2 wheel ruts on a dirt road, trike =3 ruts(one wheel in loose rubbish on a dirt road). I still ride an R1250RS as well. All enjoyable.
Most people I have seen and spoken with that have Spyders are older riders who moved to them from motorcycles due to age or disability. I haven’t seen a single Spyder rider that was an entry level rider who chose that as a “safer” way to get into motorcycles. It would be interesting to see some real data on that, but I am not sure that is the main reason for existence of the Spyder.
Cam chain tensioner is one of the ticking noises for sure, but that goes away after oil pressure After a few revs. This ticking sounds like valves. But mine still does it after a valve check. Annoying, but common apparantly.. fuel injectors?
When talking about the Morgan the important thing to remember that in the UK if it’s got a reverse gear it is a car and you need a car licence no matter how it’s set up and if it does not and is under a certain weight it’s a motorcycle even if it’s driven like a car
We have a BMW K1600 with Hannigan conversion. Super stable at high speeds. Reason for having it is that the wife loves to be on the back of this thing. She can move around, jam to the music. If I ride alone I am on the two wheeler...
In the UK, in the early 1980s, there was a traffic loophole that would allow a learner to ride a Z1300 with a "shower tray" leaning-sidecar, (on a learner licence) which was very controversial! I'd need access to a copy of Bike! Magazine from 1983 to demonstrate this ...
As an owner of two sidecars and 7 motorcycles, I can tell you that they drive totally different from a motorcycle. The Yamaha Niken or the Piaggio MP3 probably mimic a motorcycle the best. With a side car, you fight every turn and acceleration and braking can pull the rig in two different directions if the sidecar does not have brakes. Leaning does help like Ari showed with Zack. Counter steering is not an option. More like an atv I guess. Fun conversation:)
A Can Am Ryker is pretty much the easiest way to get around anywhere other than taking the bus. The aftermarket support is pretty decent, too. I'm going to put hard cases on mine and use it for long trips sometime soon.
I wave to classic trikes, side car, and the handlebar reverse trikes. The steering wheel reverse trikes like crossbow and slingshot don't get a wave. They wave to me and I ignore them or in the case of the one that parks in the motorcycle parking at my job gets flipped off.
Serious question…. If a trike is a 3 wheeler, the trike conversions you talk about the retain the original rear wheel and then add 2 extra wheels on the side…… is that not now a quad, or quadricycle as it has 4 wheels even if one is hidden…. Is it even a trike?
I have to admit that here's always a somewhat prejudiced vibe check whenever I meet a trike (more precisely: can-am) rider. Mostly because the most common iteration I meet in my city is a dude in his mid-40s that rented a Ryker for the weekend (fun fact: you're allowed to drive trikes on your regular car licence here in Sweden) and spends the majority of the time racing around in my neighborhood where the speed limit tops out around 25mph. So there's always a initial moment of suspicion in regards of the other person's character from my part. I wish it wasn't that way because I can see how three-wheelers fit into the tapestry of motorized fun, but there's a time and a place for hooliganism and it is not anywhere/anytime.
Hey guys, love the channel! I had to get out of two wheel riding due to a right knee injury. So, i bought a Can Am 3 wheeler. I woukd like to see you do some daily rider reviews of Can Ams and Harley trikes, there are a lot of us out there for all kinds of reasons. Keep up the great content!
I have seen a Honda GL 1800 that had a trike conversion kit on BOTH ends. It was a huge street quad. I really didn't understand other than they did it on a dare...LOL!!!
I had a friend who bought a brand new Harley Davidson trike 60000 Canadian out the door, it was his second one the first one was 55,000 out the door. Friend of mine tried to convert a Suzuki motorcycle Boulevard to a trike the bike is worth 6000 the conversion would have been fifteen thousand and good luck trying to find a place to do in Canada. I've seen a burgman scooter 650 with a trike conversion it looks kind of cool.
I just came back home from getting a estimate on putting on a Motor Trike kit on my Street Glide. I’ve road MC all my life, started out riding stump jumpers. Still have a Ossa Desert Phantom in my garage. At 69 I know my riding abilities are going down hill. Parking lots are my downfall. I hate the thoughts of going the trike route but if I want to ride the trike is my only path.
Nc750 or 700 and they even come in automatic trims. It isn't as high as a klr or similar class bike and maneuver well. If your only option is trike... I'm sorry, you'll be thrown with the can am stereotypes if you're in my state.
German perspektive: As long as you share the some wind and weather, I am cool with whatever how many wheels you have. A big uncool are only those sport quads which spoil the area with extremely loud exhausts, which hits motorcyclists first. That's why I don't greed them - either they are agricultural used ATV's which don't give a damn about greeting or they are those loud AF sport quads - and I never listened to one that sounded half decent like a four banger close to redline.
The 3-wheelers with steering wheels are technically cyclecars. Licensing & helmet laws vary between states. Some states treat them identically to motorcycles. Some states have specific cyclecar laws.
FWIW, Can Am made motorcycles in the 1970's and early 80's, so they had motorcycle experience at one time. Their parent company was/is Bombardier that owns Rotax and their motorcycles used Rotax engines.
@@ItsDaJax I think that Bombardier reorganized and sold off its recreational products. It formed Bombardier Recreational Products Inc, BRP, a separate company in 2003. Bombardier Inc downsized a couple of times since but still builds some aircraft.
@@ItsDaJax I'm an Old Fart and remember being exited that a North American company was making competitive off road and dual sport motorcycles in the 1970's. Can Am motorcycles started off strong, but did not keep up with development and fell behind. Also, they were 2-strokes and could not meet emission standards for on-road motorcycles in the 1980's, so their dual-sport line disappeared.
You really should have a look at the famous "Hondukis Yamakazufan 4000" from Ed March of C90adventures (who I'm sure that Zach and Ari must be aware of) - "EP10: Trans America Trail part 2". (25 minutes in). At the end of the trip, the beast was converted back into a Honda C90. The stuff of legends ...
I own 3 unicycles. I have been pulled over multiple times and have gotten let go based on the grounds that, according to the state of Florida, bicycles have tandem wheels. Florida statue 316.003(4) Definitions Bicycle: Every vehicle propelled solely by human power, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include a scooter or similar device.
On the topic of “adventure trikes”, there probably a half dozen adv bikes with sidecars at touratech rally west this year. They’re hilarious and awesome and I want one.
I've ridden most things over the years, and have ended up being a harley rider. Mostly because they suit my riding style and needs now. If i get to a point where i cant hold a bike up for one reason or another , I'll probably end up with a tri glide. That said i saw an old yamaha xt 600 with a side car on it being used for camping weekends and it looked the dogs dangelies. I'd love to give that a go.
The two sidecar thing is something I've wanted to build for years. Somebody did build a bike with three wheels in a row. Tadpole trikes are superior to delta trikes imho.
I have owned both I had a Sea to Sky for 2 years and it was a fun bike now I am on a Tri Glide the Harley is their big difference having the shifting again is nice but thats about it for these 3 to chat about something they have never driven for a long period of time. I think thr Harley is much better quality wise then the Can am the biggest thing for me right now is the radio and nav system works great sync you phone works and having apple car play way better ten the Can am. Ether way they are both fun
Love the podcast, listen while I'm working on my bikes and atv's. Just wanted to say the discussion of a DNA background to call a trike a bike made sense to me, but if I'm remembering correctly you guys claimed can-am didn't have that. Granted their trikes do not, but the company did in the late 70's to late 80's. So for me I think it's fair to call them bikes. Great podcast and keep up the great job you guys are doing!
Yes, that is why "ikes" is in name, BUT some of them where peiple sit in them like in a car like one or 2 vehicles mentioned and 2 similar vehicles not mentioned such as the Morgan 3 Wheeler and aptera solar EV, are classified as autocycles which only one state, Massachusetts, requires a motorcycle license for.
Two version of the reason I will still judge people not for what they ride but how they ride. I now have sidecar rig with a max speed of about 55 mph specifically to take my Newfie rescue on rides but damned if I don't prefer taking it on the weekly shopping more than any of my 4-wheeled vehicles in spite of unnatural riding dynamics! A good friend and his wife "downgraded" from a Blackbird and a Fireblade when should could no longer reliably back the bike in and out of parking spaces in their late 60's due to an old knee injury. They got two Can Am's and I can guarantee, they lay down more miles of twisties than 95% of the US motorcycle riders each year.
In Texas, essentially 2 wheels in the front is a car (driver's license), 2 wheels in the rear is a motorcycle (motorcycle endorsement). The Nyken would throw an interesting monkey wrench at that distinction.
i have a can am ryker that i bought essentially because i needed a replacement for my car, which was too big and expensive to justify however, as someone with a budding passion for motorcycles and intent to replace said can am with a "proper" motorcycle (a Husqvarna or Triumph, with strong lean to the Husqy, for those interested), the Ryker often leaves me feeling as though I'm riding half a vehicle. it's like it's so close yet so far from a bike, and it kinda messes with me. i WANT to lean, but it doesn't. i WANT to rev it up and shift, but it has a CVT. i WANT to lane split, but that's not gonna happen it feels like a motorcycle that's stunted in some way, and as someone who - beyond lack of riding experience - DOES NOT NEED all of what the ryker would offer, say, someone whose legs/lower half have been disabled would get out of it... get me off this fucking thing lmao it's fun in ways, but it feels like I have an instinct for how a bike is like to ride and this trike is FIGHTING me at every point i have respect for trikes as their own class or vehicle. i have MASSIVE respect for them allowing folks who - for various reasons - can't ride a bike, to get their hair in the wind, but i think this whole class of vehicles just isn't for me
For me the Yamaha Tricity 300 was a way to get daily riding in before taking my bike license as three wheelers with 45cm between the wheel pair can be driven in a car license. My buddy could seldom ride with me so that I got time on the Tracer 9GT that I bought to be my first bike. I reckon the Tricity gave me the miles to be able to get the license first try. And then I traded the Tracer first day for my beloved Speed Twin ❤
13:47 Instead of going 3 wheels, I dropped to one. These electric unicycles coming to market are perfect for city usage. Basically GROM replacement. I average 85miles ride on one charge.
Sidecars are cool because of childhood trauma. One might argue the same for regular motorcycles. They are an extension of going out on your bicycle and getting away from problems and bonding with friends.
I have a F-3S Spyder. Love it!!! Been ridding my whole life. Then 7 years ago I had a major stroke. My balance is now virtually gone. I can’t-even ride a bicycle very well, due to my balance issues. The Spyder got me back in the wind!!! Thank you Can Am!!!! I can ride the heck out of it!
I’m not there yet, but I can see it coming at age 63. I am not sure I will be ready to give up riding in the wind when I can no longer safely manage two wheels and occasionally think a Spyder might be the way to go to get another decade or so of open air riding.
You shouldn't be driving anything in your condition especially if you can't ride a bicycle
@@boris2997 not being able to have good balance doesn't necessarily prevent them from driving things that don't require balance. If they are medically allowed to do so that is, which I am assuming they are.
@@boris2997 kinda depends, if it really is just related to his balance then it probably is fine in cars and maybe on trikes.
I would add that because he knows his limitations it's probably safe, people who don't know their limits are the issue (usually)
@@boris2997watch out for that karma train
13:29 thank you editors for putting the unicycle picture in, never miss a single vehicle mention
Imagine growing up as Zack's kid. What a privilege.
I want to let you know how much I enjoy your podcast. I listen to every episode, usually through my cardo while on my KLR 650 or my father's 1973 BMW R75/5.
I got into riding over 30 years ago thanks to my father. Im at a point in my life where I don't have many friends that ride, although I continue to try to convert people. Listen to you Gents and your guests chat about bikes really fills a gap that I have been missing. Thank you very much.
Also for what it's worth I wave to everyone. If someone on a mobility scooter flashes 2 down at me -i will return the wave... Do I think that's cool? No, but it doesn't matter what I think. You do you. Ride your ride! Love it!
Thanks
Dave
A Can-Am Ryker is an asphalt snowmobile. It is super cool looking. You sit on it like a motorcycle. But it is closer to a snowmobile than motorcycle. I would buy one. Just for the sake of having something different.
I wave at everyone. Bikes, trikes, scooters, cars, trucks, pedestrians, dogs, everyone. I'm a waving machine
For me, leaning is one of the most magical parts of motorcycling. Getting the back leaned over for a turn and then switching back in a quick chicane-like turn is incredibly fun. It's like flying. It would be a much less exciting experience for me being on a 3-wheeler that doesn't lean. That seems more like driving than riding to me.
Spenser immediately challenged my prejudices by bringing up the one wheel early on at 16:00 - he's great at deconstructing the possible underlying reasons for our thinking. Should be a frequent guest on the podcast!
Having had the experience of riding a dirt bike at a younger age has made me a better and instinctual rider as an adult.
Takes me back to the old biker saying: ‘let those who ride decide’. A trike isn’t a lesser bike, it’s a different life choice. Enjoy the ride!
The answer is kindergarten level. Someone already figured it out for you a long time ago. It's in the terminology. Trike = 3, bike = 2, tricycle = 3 wheeled vehicle, bicycle = 2 wheeled vehicle, motorcycle = a cycle powered by a motor or an engine. Trikes are not bikes, bikes are not trikes, but both are motorcycles. Some trikes are self supporting and perform like a 4 wheeled vehicle that's missing a wheel in the front or back (delta vs tadpole), and some trikes are not self supporting and need to be driven like a bike by utilizing the gyro, leaning and countersteering, etc. Like my home built leaning trike.
I don't personally draw a distinction based on number of wheels; I ride motorcycles because I like being outdoors and experiencing the outside world. As far as I'm concerned anyone who chooses to forgo the safety bubble is a part of the "us" in this figurative "us and them" scenario.
Being a motorcyclist is to sit on a saddle in the outside world. Being a driver is to sit in a car seperated from the outdoors. Somewhere in the middle of this spectrum, in between the polaris slingshot and the golf cart, lies my personal distinction.
So in my personal view; snowmobilers, ATV riders, motorcyclists, bicyclists, scooter riders, trike riders and others are a part of "us". And they get a wave from me.
The machine is less important than the philosophy.
Same here. I mean, I wouldn't be caught dead riding a motorcycle with training wheels, but gatekeeping isn't cool, and just because I don't think trikes are cool doesn't mean the rider is uncool. We all get rained on just the same.
I tend to ignore the can-am trikes though. Not out of a sense of gatekeeping, but because I don't think I've ever gotten a wave back. They don't generally seem to be ridden by people who consider themselves to be part of the community, so they just kind of look at me funny.
Spencer nailed the "engagement" aspect (or lack thereof) of riding a three-wheeled vehicle.
I feel like you guys totally missed where the “reverse trikes” come from. It’s much more like a snowmobile than a car. It is basically a snowmobile with wheels instead of skids and tracks. It’s made by a the same company that makes ski doo… LOL
Look at a 2005 rev and the first Spyder….you hit it on the head, summer toy for snowmobiles
I was on two wheels all my life. Due to problems with diabetes, I’ve had to move to a Tri Glide. I’ve probably got a million miles on two wheels. Still laying down the miles just on three wheels now.
It is so sad that this conversation even exists. Trikes aren't even motorcycles! The definition of motorcycle is TWO WHEELS. So, why do 2 wheel riders get to say what's cool? Maybe 3 is cooler. I personally get more attention and looks on my Spyder then I ever did on any 2 wheeler I rode. From someone that comes from both sides, now that I've ridden both (20 years on 2 wheels), I would never go back to 2 wheels (and it was my choice, not because I had to). 3 gets more looks, are more comfortable, and more fun in my opinion. Not to mention safer. No worries about washout, GIANT potholes and whatnot. And, my F3 handles like a sportscar. It is FUN to ride aggressively. Ride what you like.
Another fantastic episode. Side cars could be an entire episode sometime. With Zack as an experienced side car rider, and Ari as well, and with the amazing academia and broad experiential knowledge of Spurge, this will not miss.... Maybe for next season. Compliments to each of you at HSLS for making these episodes entertaining, informative and always relevant. RevZilla productions are all "top-shelf," and I will continue to shop Motul and RevZilla!!
12:36 that sidecar race was the coolest. Way to go full out - inspiration.
My uncle bought an ATC90 for his son, my cousin, back in the day, who was wisely afraid of even sitting on it. I was dumber, and managed to have some fun on it. In fact, I think I may have been the only person to ever ride it. But holy moly, was that machine eager to flip over! Thankfully, I never did. It did make me extremely skeptical of three and four wheelers, and I think it's a very bad idea to buy them for little kids to use.
There's a Morgan dealer around the block from my house, and I've lusted after those three wheelers. But I categorize them more as cars than motorcycles. They seem to be considered the most fun stupid car you could ever buy. To me, with the skinny wire wheels, the big air cooled engine hanging off the front, and open cockpit, they're more like driving a WW I wingless biplane than a car or motorcycle.
Also had a ATC90 and than a 110. Turn it over every way you could but was l lucky and not get hurt. I used it in field work for my dad, and realize that if I wrecked it I would have to walk to do my job, so I learned early not to wreck it.
Sidecars are cool because you can put a dog in it and give them doggles
The best day of the month is when there is a new HS/LS episode. Keep them coming. Wish you did one bi weekely
Thanks for the shoutout for the Czech Republic. 😄 A fellow Czech here, also a long-time listener, though I listen on Google Podcasts. Well done with Prague and Brno (a city in Southern Moravia and it has a race circuit, though it's not being used for WSBK these days). However, of particular interest to you as motorcyclists should be Most, which is a smaller town in the north-western part of the country and which also has a race track that actually hosts a MotoGP race (and it also happens to be my birthplace 😊).
Just a little bit of extra info for anybody interested. Thanks a lot for the kick-ass podcast. ❤️
The way Zack guessed the engine sound in the first go! Man of culture!
Everyone in the sales business of gear and accessories (Revzilla, Cycle Gear, J&P) should be loving and embracing all three wheelers, especially CanAm, as it introduced another level of riders to the game. I ride two but love canam for what they did
Need to clarify.... a reverse trike (2 wheels at front) IS more stable at low and high speeds in general. A standard trike (2 wheels at back) is less stable at high speed.... its all about weight transfer when changing directions and/or decelerating.
Even before I listen to the podcast while Spurg reads the Motul ad. A trike is not a bike. It is a motorcycle, or it can be considered a motorcycle. But a bike requires two wheels. Bike coming from bicycle. Then a trike is a tricycle... Both of those can be motored, tho =P
Now, on to podcast shenanigans
Big miss not having Jen Dunstan on for this episode, it seems like she has recent experience with the "trike"
Lol interesting point
First Cruisers, now Can Ams. When will the hate end? 😂
I saw a guy on a motorized unicycle dressed in full gear yesterday.
Full props to be brave enough to commute on that.
Let me help you guys out, if you ride it it's a motorcycle if you drive it, it's a car. You drive a slingshot, you ride a Can-Am
Not all are motorcycles in my opinion. I consider a trike based off of a motorcycle is still a motorcycle. A Honda Goldwing trike or a Harley Tri-Glide is a motorcycle. A motorcycle with a sidecar is still a motorcycle. Can Am Spyder is a motorcycle. A Polaris Slingshot, Vanderhall, or a Morgan is not a motorcycle. Once you put in a car seat to sit in or have a steering wheel instead of handlebars it's not a motorcycle to me. They can still be a blast to drive and if someone wants to drive one or ride one them more power to them. Some people have them because of health reasons and others just because it's what they like. Who really cares? It's your money, buy what you want.
Wind is wind, no matter how many wheels are getting you out in it. Always saw it that way, and rode with everything from dual sports to dressers, because it's about getting out there with others who enjoy riding as well.
I lost my right leg 2 years ago. Soent the days of recovery figuring out how to alter my foot brake, on a few of our smaller, lighter, bikes, so I can set my prosthetic foot and limb resting on the pedal, and use my anterior anx posterior muscles to push down my residual limb, primarily to get back on 2. With everyone pushing me towards 3. Which yes, my wife did buy a Spyder back in 2020. And yes, I have ridden it, and converted it to a LH lever, left grip, using a Clutch Master from a Goldwing. That does work.
But I rebuilt and modded the 84 YZ 125, just to train with my metal leg. Same with the Suzuki SP 400. And now, a 2002 LS 650 Savage.
Because 2 is harder.
Sure. I can set 3 as the bar, hell, I've even gotten the Ural out this year, so to me, that's setting the goal I Know I can do. That's a cheat. That is placing a limit on Myself. On my dream, and my goal.
I'm riding 2 again, because so many people said that I can't. All my life, my answer to it can't be done, has Always been,
You only say that because I haven't done it. Yet.
Trikes keep those who can't ride on 2 anymore, out there with us, get more non bike prople into it, and for a few of us, allow us to take the kids, or our service dogs, or pets along with us, via sidecars. It's how my dad, at 73, still rides.
Not ready to go 3 wheeled exclusively, but they are part of life now, just like a walker, wheelchair, and shower seat are for me. Another tool to let me get back to who I was, before my life changed, and my short leg became the long one.
Hell. I rode home from the care and rehabilitation place on the back of my brother's Electraglide, still stapled, and stitched.
No matter the frame, the thrill is the same. ❤
Love you guys! Always picking up interesting topics. HSLS is the first podcast that got me hooked on the format! Usually listen to you guys from spotify. But came by here to leave a short comment.
Keep up the great work. I would love to see you guys talk more about smaller displacement motorcycles. Here in asia, 100, 125 and 150cc are more of the norm... 250cc's are even considered big bikes here. Maybe you can make a podcast about smaller displacement engines someday.
Any way, thank you for the awesome content. Always lovely to listen to you guys.
Cheers from indonesia✨
I came from the podcast to comment on the Not the News segment, especially with your upcoming episode on electric motorcycles. Japan has made a geostrategic decision to prioritize hydrogen over electric vehicles. They have a lot of natural gas (the main source of hydrogen) and want to become energy independent. They’re shifting away from nuclear, and from energy sources that could be blockaded (because they’re an island really close to China, western Russia, etc). Like how you’ve talked about regulatory environments shaping motorcycle engine sizes, making hydrogen motorcycles is a political decision.
Why was the title of this video changed? When I watched it a few days ago it was "Can a motorcycle have three wheels." The original question was far better. Is a trike a bike, no but that is strictly a linguistic distinction wherein tri = 3 and bi=2. Can a motorcycle have three wheels? Yes, yes it can, see my previous post for explanation.
The Niken is very stable when the area gets rough. I was at the introduction of the Niken in the Nürburgring area and the rural roads are littered with gravel. After a few curves you get the hang of it and just go for it without any fear of loosing the front end. Very liberating. And at a later event I was behind a rider who underestimated a curve and went uphill the embankment and went back to the road. Just when the personell asked how the test drive went I was ripping the grass out behind the brake lever. That's how stable the Niken rides. TEST IT BEFORE JUDGING.
The guys did this one early, they're eyes are puffy and swollen lol, thanks guys!
I normally listen to the podcast (often while riding) This is the first time watching the pod on YT. Thanks for this. I feel like I got a lot from watching this one in particular.
Personally I wave to everyone. I believe everyone should ride their own ride. Zipping by someone on the road you have no way of knowing what conditions they are dealing with or where they are coming from.
30 years ago I was riding a DR 200 s and would be snubbed by Harley riders regularly. No big deal, but I'm not going to do that. Thanks for the podcast guys!
As an owner of a Tricity 300, it does not matter if its a bike or trike, I love it.
Does it comfortably run with highway traffic? I have not seen one in the US, but am curious about it. Thanks
@@jfess1911 In the UK most highways are 70mph and the Tricity is fine. I can cruise at 70 and overtake at up to 80.
@@edwardsp1916 Thank you. It has been my impression that somewhere around 30hp is needed for a sub 400lb(180kg) motorcycle, and that final gear ratios/power curve can make a big difference. The TriCity 300 is a whole different animal (fairings, weight, CVT, etc). With some motorcycles it almost feels like you are torturing them at highway speeds!
Lol Loved the sidecar discussion! All very valid points!. There is something lovable/nostalgic/inviting/quirky/cool about them.
Zack its Season 7 Episode 6 not 7. Guessing Spurge shaved for the wedding? Kinda looks Bruce Campbell. Burn that shirt Spurge its dreadful! The infrastructure problem for hydrogen is way less daunting that many think it is. The machine that separates hydrogen and oxygen from water is about the size of a vending machine, i.e. a little larger than a standard gasoline pump, and only requires water and electricity to work. These can easily replace gas pumps with minimal effort at any and every gas station in the world. The biggest problem, as I see it, for hydrogen pumps is getting them built and distributed. Can a Motorcycle have 3 wheels? YES! PERIOD! END OF STORY! The word "motorcycle" is a combination of two words "motorized" and "cycle", and does does not derive specifically from bicycle. ANY cycle style conveyance with a motor is a "motorcycle." Uni, bi, tri, quad, etc. refers only to the number of wheels the cycle has. Excuse me Zack but you rather looked down your nose at me last season when HS/LS featured my Spyder RT-S for the engine sound guessing game! Whether or not you think something is cool is personal and going to vary, literally, person to person. BTW trikes are NOT just for people with disabilities. I am 46 have no disability and I chose a Spyder over a two-wheeled motorcycle, and yes I have a two-wheeled motorcycle license. I rather like Spurges take, like it, don't like it just, just show us trike owners the same respect as any other rider. The "training wheel" trike has four wheels so technically it's a quad. HD also has the Freewheeler which, I believe, is based on the Dyna platform. Spencer, the Can Ams come either with a manual or push button shifter but not a fully automatic transmission, and an inclusive braking system operated by a foot pedal. Yeah, so the slingshots and such are not motorcycles. They have seats, seatbelts, and steering wheels so they are 3 wheeled cars. I think they're cool and probably a lot of fun to drive but not a motorcycle. Laws and regulations for three wheeled vehicles will, like all laws, vary wildly from state to state. Spencer Can Am makes or at least made dirt bikes so there is "motorcycle DNA" in the company. Zack by your own definition a motorcycle is a motorized cycle so how can a Can Am not be a motorcycle? Its' not a bike but its a motorcycle. You guys are asking different questions here, are trikes bikes? No, in the same way coke isn't pepsi but they are both still soda. To answer your original question can a motorcycle have three wheels the answer is, undeniably, YES! My first thought was the HD 107, but I'm not hearing the potato/potato/potato indicative of HD engines. So, Zack was right about something today and I'm 0-6. Maybe Mike can get a sidecar or a trike! Good show as always old sports, see in two!
There are many custom three-wheeled motorcycles on the market but the only ones being used in practice are bikes with sidecars and scooters with two front wheels such as those made by Yamaha and Piaggio. There is a niche in dual front-wheel scooters for commuters where the benefits are better stability, a greater performance in the rain compared to two-wheeled scooters and bikes and the fact that in some countries a car licence is the only requirement. I know of someone with a Yamaha Tricity that waves at those with scooters and motorcycles stranded next to the road during heavy rain. I am in my mid sixties and I am seriously considering a Yamaha Tricity for the comfort it offers.
I believe South Korea has the most advanced hydrogen infrastructure. I read an article recently and two of the take aways from that article was it takes a lot of energy to separate the hydrogen from whatever source you are using and there was a twenty minute wait between fillups to repressurize to fill the next car so South Korea inspite of huge investments hasn't gotten it to work.
I have the SW Motech’s SLC carrier system with their LC2 legend sidebags on my bike. It works very well, is detachable, classically styled, and the brackets that attach the bags don’t look bad. I went with the black edition to match my bike. I highly recommend them.
I think a good way to delineate when possible is "do you need a motocycle license?" Slightly off topic, but I find the episodes with Spencer exceptionally enjoyable; I have rewatched and re-listened via spotify to those the most. When will they do a sequel to the movie episode?
I saw the Can-Am Ryker and thought I want that! Next door to PA in NJ, you need at least a 3 wheel license. My instructor emphasized extra training and honing your skills. Also mentioned an advanced course for 3-wheel coming soon. BRP subsiding the 3-wheel course also makes it hella easy at least for Can-Am products
I just got my first bike so I’m happy to be in the cool kids club with a reason to be waving at people :). Judge not my friend
Watching you guys talk without a script is getting more and more brutal
If you have to counter steer to turn, it is a motorcycle, or a bicycle if lacking an engine/motor. If you have to direct steer to turn and have three wheels, it is a trike. If you have to direct steer to turn and have four wheels, it is a car, truck, etc.
Ok. You don't have to like it, but definitions exist to define things and put them in categories. By definition, a trike is a motorized cycle ... a motored cycle ... a motorcycle. But they are not motorbikes. But but ... the way I look at it is this, folks who ride trikes, scooters, or nontraditional motorbikes are doing it from a more pure place. They aren't Harley riders, or some other brand rider, they are doing it for the experience of riding, and this is the way they can access it. I would rather wave to these folks than most of the other 2 wheelers who don't deign to put their hand out to someone who doesn't fit their ideal of a motorcyclist.
I grew up on 3-wheelers and never considered them a motorcycle. Crashed many many times!
I’m 50 years old and have 2 atc 70s in the shop and many frames, forks, and motors lying around. Sliding around the yard on a hopped-up atc 70 with a 110 Chinese motor and slick tires is a hoot!
Here in Europe the three wheeled scooters are really popular. All have the same type of steering as the Niken. Yamaha Tricity 125 and 300, Piaggio Mp3, Kymco CV3 and Peugeot Metropolis is the most sold.
They are all balance vehicles and are registered as motorcycles. It's popularity is from the legislation that allows you to ride them on your car license.
They are a bit more stable than two wheelers and have some car like features like a footbrake with combined brakes in addition to the traditional scooter brakes, cruise control, keyless etc.. to make car drivers more comfortable with them.
They are grouped with trikes and quads wich are not balance vehicles so
they really are loophole motorcycles/maxi scooters for people that don't want to get a mc license or if you just like cool and weird things.
The bigger cc ones are serious (and very comfortable) tourers.
Just when i posted you mentioned the Tricity..
Ive had a sidecar for most of the last 30 years, mostly BMW K series, currently an 1800 Goldwing. Initially it was for a desert trip and practicality. But soo much fun I still have one. I get to carry my 30kg dog and a ton of camping gear everywhere with ease. A trike wouldnt do the same job for me. Sidecar= 2 wheel ruts on a dirt road, trike =3 ruts(one wheel in loose rubbish on a dirt road).
I still ride an R1250RS as well. All enjoyable.
Most people I have seen and spoken with that have Spyders are older riders who moved to them from motorcycles due to age or disability. I haven’t seen a single Spyder rider that was an entry level rider who chose that as a “safer” way to get into motorcycles. It would be interesting to see some real data on that, but I am not sure that is the main reason for existence of the Spyder.
The ADV Trike is still available just in case anyone was wondering.
Where
When I see a Slingshot, I think of the Batmobile!
I think of a bathtub 🛀 on wheels for some unknown reason.
Cam chain tensioner is one of the ticking noises for sure, but that goes away after oil pressure After a few revs. This ticking sounds like valves. But mine still does it after a valve check. Annoying, but common apparantly.. fuel injectors?
When talking about the Morgan the important thing to remember that in the UK if it’s got a reverse gear it is a car and you need a car licence no matter how it’s set up and if it does not and is under a certain weight it’s a motorcycle even if it’s driven like a car
We have a BMW K1600 with Hannigan conversion. Super stable at high speeds. Reason for having it is that the wife loves to be on the back of this thing. She can move around, jam to the music. If I ride alone I am on the two wheeler...
In the UK, in the early 1980s, there was a traffic loophole that would allow a learner to ride a Z1300 with a "shower tray" leaning-sidecar, (on a learner licence) which was very controversial! I'd need access to a copy of Bike! Magazine from 1983 to demonstrate this ...
I saw a number of Nikens and the Piaggio equivalent on a recent trip to Europe. Many more than I'm used to seeing in a US urban area.
As an owner of two sidecars and 7 motorcycles, I can tell you that they drive totally different from a motorcycle. The Yamaha Niken or the Piaggio MP3 probably mimic a motorcycle the best. With a side car, you fight every turn and acceleration and braking can pull the rig in two different directions if the sidecar does not have brakes. Leaning does help like Ari showed with Zack. Counter steering is not an option. More like an atv I guess. Fun conversation:)
Have you ever tried a leaning sidecar setup? I am curious how something like a Diamonado setup would feel?
@@jfess1911never tried it. But it would be cool.
A Can Am Ryker is pretty much the easiest way to get around anywhere other than taking the bus. The aftermarket support is pretty decent, too. I'm going to put hard cases on mine and use it for long trips sometime soon.
I wave to classic trikes, side car, and the handlebar reverse trikes. The steering wheel reverse trikes like crossbow and slingshot don't get a wave. They wave to me and I ignore them or in the case of the one that parks in the motorcycle parking at my job gets flipped off.
My 1968 BMW R50 had sidecar mounts & earls forks . But not enough power for one . Earls forks were anti dive , but a R 69 would work .
The CAN-AM trikes are closely related to snowmobiles and handle in a very similar manner.
Serious question…. If a trike is a 3 wheeler, the trike conversions you talk about the retain the original rear wheel and then add 2 extra wheels on the side…… is that not now a quad, or quadricycle as it has 4 wheels even if one is hidden…. Is it even a trike?
bit of a gray area on that one but if it retains the original rear wheel I would say its a quad.
I have to admit that here's always a somewhat prejudiced vibe check whenever I meet a trike (more precisely: can-am) rider. Mostly because the most common iteration I meet in my city is a dude in his mid-40s that rented a Ryker for the weekend (fun fact: you're allowed to drive trikes on your regular car licence here in Sweden) and spends the majority of the time racing around in my neighborhood where the speed limit tops out around 25mph. So there's always a initial moment of suspicion in regards of the other person's character from my part. I wish it wasn't that way because I can see how three-wheelers fit into the tapestry of motorized fun, but there's a time and a place for hooliganism and it is not anywhere/anytime.
Hey guys, love the channel! I had to get out of two wheel riding due to a right knee injury. So, i bought a Can Am 3 wheeler. I woukd like to see you do some daily rider reviews of Can Ams and Harley trikes, there are a lot of us out there for all kinds of reasons. Keep up the great content!
Ontario Canada has separate class of licence for 3 wheeled “bikes” if you have a motor cycle license it covers the 3 wheeler.
I have seen a Honda GL 1800 that had a trike conversion kit on BOTH ends. It was a huge street quad. I really didn't understand other than they did it on a dare...LOL!!!
I like the canals for sure. They are close to motorcycles. I think physically though, they are street snow mobiles
I had a friend who bought a brand new Harley Davidson trike 60000 Canadian out the door, it was his second one the first one was 55,000 out the door. Friend of mine tried to convert a Suzuki motorcycle Boulevard to a trike the bike is worth 6000 the conversion would have been fifteen thousand and good luck trying to find a place to do in Canada.
I've seen a burgman scooter 650 with a trike conversion it looks kind of cool.
thanks men!!!
I just came back home from getting a estimate on putting on a Motor Trike kit on my Street Glide. I’ve road MC all my life, started out riding stump jumpers. Still have a Ossa Desert Phantom in my garage. At 69 I know my riding abilities are going down hill. Parking lots are my downfall. I hate the thoughts of going the trike route but if I want to ride the trike is my only path.
Just look at a smaller bike that’s easier to balance. Instead of a street glide, maybe a sport touring bike or a standard around 500 lbs or less.
Nc750 or 700 and they even come in automatic trims. It isn't as high as a klr or similar class bike and maneuver well. If your only option is trike... I'm sorry, you'll be thrown with the can am stereotypes if you're in my state.
Ossa bikes rock! Maico, Montessa, Rickman, Hodaka. The good ol’ days! Hey! If it takes a trike to keep riding, rock it!
German perspektive: As long as you share the some wind and weather, I am cool with whatever how many wheels you have. A big uncool are only those sport quads which spoil the area with extremely loud exhausts, which hits motorcyclists first. That's why I don't greed them - either they are agricultural used ATV's which don't give a damn about greeting or they are those loud AF sport quads - and I never listened to one that sounded half decent like a four banger close to redline.
The 3-wheelers with steering wheels are technically cyclecars. Licensing & helmet laws vary between states. Some states treat them identically to motorcycles. Some states have specific cyclecar laws.
FWIW, Can Am made motorcycles in the 1970's and early 80's, so they had motorcycle experience at one time. Their parent company was/is Bombardier that owns Rotax and their motorcycles used Rotax engines.
Can-Am is Bombardier. They changed their name to/back to it in the 00s
@@ItsDaJax I think that Bombardier reorganized and sold off its recreational products. It formed Bombardier Recreational Products Inc, BRP, a separate company in 2003. Bombardier Inc downsized a couple of times since but still builds some aircraft.
@@jfess1911 I just remember around the time they announced the name change, they were letting John Deere sell their rebadged quadbikes.
@@ItsDaJax I'm an Old Fart and remember being exited that a North American company was making competitive off road and dual sport motorcycles in the 1970's. Can Am motorcycles started off strong, but did not keep up with development and fell behind. Also, they were 2-strokes and could not meet emission standards for on-road motorcycles in the 1980's, so their dual-sport line disappeared.
I disagree that the Can Am’s are like a car, they are more like a ATV IMO.
You really should have a look at the famous "Hondukis Yamakazufan 4000" from Ed March of C90adventures (who I'm sure that Zach and Ari must be aware of) - "EP10: Trans America Trail part 2". (25 minutes in). At the end of the trip, the beast was converted back into a Honda C90. The stuff of legends ...
I own 3 unicycles. I have been pulled over multiple times and have gotten let go based on the grounds that, according to the state of Florida, bicycles have tandem wheels.
Florida statue 316.003(4) Definitions Bicycle: Every vehicle propelled solely by human power, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include a scooter or similar device.
On the topic of “adventure trikes”, there probably a half dozen adv bikes with sidecars at touratech rally west this year. They’re hilarious and awesome and I want one.
If it brings a big smile to your face..it's cool
I've ridden most things over the years, and have ended up being a harley rider. Mostly because they suit my riding style and needs now. If i get to a point where i cant hold a bike up for one reason or another , I'll probably end up with a tri glide. That said i saw an old yamaha xt 600 with a side car on it being used for camping weekends and it looked the dogs dangelies. I'd love to give that a go.
The two sidecar thing is something I've wanted to build for years. Somebody did build a bike with three wheels in a row. Tadpole trikes are superior to delta trikes imho.
I have owned both I had a Sea to Sky for 2 years and it was a fun bike now I am on a Tri Glide the Harley is their big difference having the shifting again is nice but thats about it for these 3 to chat about something they have never driven for a long period of time. I think thr Harley is much better quality wise then the Can am the biggest thing for me right now is the radio and nav system works great sync you phone works and having apple car play way better ten the Can am. Ether way they are both fun
What category would the Dodge Tomahawk fall into?
Love the podcast, listen while I'm working on my bikes and atv's. Just wanted to say the discussion of a DNA background to call a trike a bike made sense to me, but if I'm remembering correctly you guys claimed can-am didn't have that. Granted their trikes do not, but the company did in the late 70's to late 80's. So for me I think it's fair to call them bikes. Great podcast and keep up the great job you guys are doing!
Yes, that is why "ikes" is in name, BUT some of them where peiple sit in them like in a car like one or 2 vehicles mentioned and 2 similar vehicles not mentioned such as the Morgan 3 Wheeler and aptera solar EV, are classified as autocycles which only one state, Massachusetts, requires a motorcycle license for.
Goldwing 1500 fitted with a Flexit sidecar one either side It can be done
Two version of the reason I will still judge people not for what they ride but how they ride.
I now have sidecar rig with a max speed of about 55 mph specifically to take my Newfie rescue on rides but damned if I don't prefer taking it on the weekly shopping more than any of my 4-wheeled vehicles in spite of unnatural riding dynamics!
A good friend and his wife "downgraded" from a Blackbird and a Fireblade when should could no longer reliably back the bike in and out of parking spaces in their late 60's due to an old knee injury. They got two Can Am's and I can guarantee, they lay down more miles of twisties than 95% of the US motorcycle riders each year.
Can-am is a snowmobile for the road. A “Roadmobile”.
In Texas, essentially 2 wheels in the front is a car (driver's license), 2 wheels in the rear is a motorcycle (motorcycle endorsement). The Nyken would throw an interesting monkey wrench at that distinction.
The motorworks kit will lock at slow speed.
i have a can am ryker that i bought essentially because i needed a replacement for my car, which was too big and expensive to justify
however, as someone with a budding passion for motorcycles and intent to replace said can am with a "proper" motorcycle (a Husqvarna or Triumph, with strong lean to the Husqy, for those interested), the Ryker often leaves me feeling as though I'm riding half a vehicle. it's like it's so close yet so far from a bike, and it kinda messes with me. i WANT to lean, but it doesn't. i WANT to rev it up and shift, but it has a CVT. i WANT to lane split, but that's not gonna happen
it feels like a motorcycle that's stunted in some way, and as someone who - beyond lack of riding experience - DOES NOT NEED all of what the ryker would offer, say, someone whose legs/lower half have been disabled would get out of it...
get me off this fucking thing lmao
it's fun in ways, but it feels like I have an instinct for how a bike is like to ride and this trike is FIGHTING me at every point
i have respect for trikes as their own class or vehicle. i have MASSIVE respect for them allowing folks who - for various reasons - can't ride a bike, to get their hair in the wind, but i think this whole class of vehicles just isn't for me
In the Uk, most trikes are ridden by injured or disabled bikers, I have considered one, due to my inside leg being 34 on the left and 11 on the right.
For me the Yamaha Tricity 300 was a way to get daily riding in before taking my bike license as three wheelers with 45cm between the wheel pair can be driven in a car license.
My buddy could seldom ride with me so that I got time on the Tracer 9GT that I bought to be my first bike. I reckon the Tricity gave me the miles to be able to get the license first try.
And then I traded the Tracer first day for my beloved Speed Twin ❤
Only thing regarding the Tricity that I never liked was its weight.
I'm interested in your opinion of the upcoming 60mph electric monowheels hitting the market.
13:47 Instead of going 3 wheels, I dropped to one. These electric unicycles coming to market are perfect for city usage. Basically GROM replacement. I average 85miles ride on one charge.
I have been riding bikes for 35 years,my next bike will be a trike.
Yeah, just another step in the ladder of life.
Sidecars are cool because of childhood trauma. One might argue the same for regular motorcycles. They are an extension of going out on your bicycle and getting away from problems and bonding with friends.