This is guaranteed to attract attention: Can-Am Canyon Redrock - a bolide with three wheels

From Canada, outdoor specialist Can-Am launches an adventurous three-wheeler dynasty called the Canyon. The highlight of the striking collection is called the Redrock and boasts full touring regalia. Anyone who wants to ride the 478-kilogram beast, however, will have to shell out a hefty sum.

This vehicle is not for the reserved: The extroverted Can-Am Canyon Redrock automatically makes its rider the center of attention. The sheer presence of this powerful vehicle, with its flowing, angular lines in elegant metallic matte olive, turns heads on both sides of the road. Furthermore, the Canyon's large radiator grille and broad shoulders exude an understated aggressiveness.

But also a great deal of poise, which comes from the 1330 cc, liquid-cooled three-cylinder engine, supplied by the in-house engine specialist Rotax from Austria. This powerhouse delivers a maximum of 115 hp via a semi-automatic six-speed transmission with a dual clutch, operated by a shift paddle on the left handlebar and transferred to the rear wheel via a toothed belt. Acceleration requires only the left thumb, in addition to the open throttle, for clutchless upshifts; when downshifting, the engine braking torque further delays the engine. If you forget it, that's no problem either: The system automatically downshifts, making stalling impossible.

The driver determines the force of acceleration and the level of assistance provided by the assistance systems via the selected drive program, which influences four parameters: the engine characteristics, the semi-active damping, the level of steering assistance, and the effect of the electronic vehicle stability system (VSS). All this is bundled in four preconfigured, yet variable, drive programs and a freely assignable mode.

Exceptional driving dynamics

The exceptional driving dynamics of the three-wheeler, which are comparable neither to a single-track vehicle nor to a car, make the VSS particularly important. This controls the ABS, the brake force distribution to all three wheels, and the traction control. It sounds like a lot of intervention, but it only becomes noticeable when things get too fast, and the driver notices this immediately. If you want to deliberately take corners with gentle drifts—which doesn't require any special skills—this is only possible in Rally mode.

The high-quality suspension elements respond smoothly to both small and large bumps, absorbing them from a smooth to a subtle level, depending on the setting. This ensures a comfortable ride for the crew, who have climbed the expansive uprights in 84.3 centimeters past all sorts of superstructures. Ample space, comfortable knee angles, and powerful levers provide support in every situation, while the wide handlebar ensures control and comfort in equal measure. Behind the manually adjustable shield and the wide stem, wind and rain have no chance. The standard aluminum luggage system also makes longer excursions possible, with two side cases and a top case offering an impressive 120 liters of storage space.

Basic robust design and modern technology

Despite its basic, robust design, the control center offers modern technology in the form of a 10.25-inch TFT display. Apple CarPlay functionality and the rearview camera, which automatically displays when reverse gear is engaged, are special convenience features.

Nevertheless, the tricycle demands a level of commitment from its rider, consistent with the chosen speed. Winding paths are a lot of fun, but can cause sore arms and shoulders for those who are inexperienced – the Can-Am tricycle requires a bit of upper body effort to maneuver around corners on the handlebars. However, the power steering, with its various assists, helps out when needed.

478-kilogram monster needs a huge brake pedal

The massive 478-kilogram beast can only be stopped with the right foot, via a massive brake pedal that combines all three disc brakes and uses ABS to engage them. Given the unwavering braking stability, the lack of sensitivity is easily overlooked.

Now the question arises: Who is actually allowed to enjoy this unique driving dynamic? Essentially, anyone with a motorcycle license A or a car license B, provided they have at least 21 growth rings and the necessary cash: Almost €35,000 is no small sum for the exclusive fascination of a three-wheeler. For three-wheeler novices, participation in a demo tour regularly offered by Can-Am dealers is definitely recommended.

Can-Am Canyon Redrock - technical data

• Engine: Liquid-cooled three-cylinder engine, displacement: 1,330 cc, 85.8 kW/115 hp, maximum torque: 130 Nm at 5,000 rpm; injection, six-speed dual-clutch transmission with reverse gear, timing belt
• Chassis: tubular steel frame; double wishbones with one spring strut each, semi-active damping, 26 cm of travel; tubular steel double-sided swing arm at the rear, one spring strut, automatic spring preload, semi-active damping, 23.5 cm of travel.
• Cast alloy wheels; XPS Adventure tires (2x 155/65 R16 front and 225/50 R15 rear). Two 27 cm single-disc brakes with four-piston fixed calipers at the front, and a 27 cm single-disc brake with a single-piston floating caliper at the rear.
• Assistance systems: ABS, traction control, brake force distribution, five driving modes
• Dimensions and weight: Wheelbase 1.718 m, seat height 84.3 cm, weight ready to drive 478 kg, payload 280 kg; fuel tank capacity 27 liters.
• Performance (factory specifications): Top speed 180 km/h. Idle noise 86 dB(A). Standard fuel consumption according to the WMTC standard (EU 5+) 7.2 l/100 km.
• Price: 34,669 euros