Origin
Pulse

The Rider’s Guide to Can-Am Electric Motorcycle Drive Modes

By Can-Am On-Road

4 min read

November 2025

Electric motorcycles aren’t just about instant torque and zero emissions, they’re about giving you full command over the ride. With Can-Am’s all-electric Pulse and Origin models, you don’t just ride, you shape the journey your way.

Both models are equipped with several drive modes designed to match your terrain, skill level, and mood. Whether you're commuting in the city or exploring rougher terrain, there's a Can-Am drive mode tailored to your ride.

Let’s break down what each mode does and when to use it.

Terms to know:
MTC: Motorcycle Traction Control (or Traction Control)
ABS: Anti-lock Braking System
Slip: Refers to the action of the rear wheel losing traction with the road surface. Different modes allow varying levels of permissive or restrictive slip. A more restrictive mode means the system will prevent wheel slip as much as possible to maintain traction.

Driving Modes Summary

Can-Am Drive Modes Explained

1. Normal Mode: Everyday Control, No Compromise

Available on: Can-Am Origin and Can-Am Pulse
Best for: Daily commutes and general riding
Key Features:
• Smooth, balanced throttle response
• ABS active on both wheels
• Standard traction control (MTC) provides a normal slip of the rear wheel

This is your all-around mode, ideal for most conditions and skill levels. Great for navigating the city or cruising the suburbs.

2. ECO Mode: Max Range, Max Efficiency

Available on: Can-Am Origin and Can-Am Pulse
Best for: New riders, range optimization
Key Features:
• Softer acceleration for increased battery range
• Lower instant power delivery
• ABS and MTC settings same as Normal Mode

Looking to extend your ride or ease into electric motorcycling? ECO Mode helps you go farther while maximizing your range.

3. Rain Mode: Confidence When It’s Wet

Available on: Can-Am Origin and Can-Am Pulse
Best for: Slick or unpredictable road conditions
Key Features:
• Normal throttle response
• MTC operates in its most restrictive setting to prevent wheel slip and maximize stability in most conditions
• ABS active on both wheels

Rain Mode helps you stay in control when roads are wet and slippery, reducing wheel slip and improving confidence in poor weather.

4. Sport+ Mode (Pulse) / Sport Mode (Origin): Push Acceleration Performance

Sport+ Mode Available on: Can-Am Pulse
Sport Mode Available on: Can-Am Origin
Best for: Aggressive riding and experienced users
Key Features:
• Sharper throttle response for fast acceleration
• Maximum instant power from the motor
• ABS active on both wheels
• MTC allows more permissive slip and can be turned off, per user preferences

These modes are built for thrill-seekers and open roads, perfect for those looking to unlock the full performance of their electric motorcycle on the road.

5. Off-Road Mode: Explore Beyond the Pavement

Available on: Can-Am Origin (exclusively)
Best for: Loose, non-paved terrain like gravel, dirt roads or trails
Key Features:
• Traction control allows more slip and is more permissive (MTC can be disabled, per user preferences)
• MTC off during deceleration and regen usage
• Rear-wheel ABS disabled; frontwheel ABS sensitivity reduced

This mode is tailor-made for experienced trailblazers. It’s engineered for rugged exploration but is not recommended for use on asphalt. Off-Road Mode automatically reverts to Normal after turning the vehicle off.

6. Off-Road+ Mode: Next-Level Trail Power

Available on: Can-Am Origin (exclusive)
Best for: Advanced Off-Road riding, trail riding and rugged terrain
Same as Off-Road Mode, with these added features:
• Increased throttle response for maximum off-road performance
• Very permissive traction control (MTC can be turned off, per user preferences)

When you want ultimate performance off the grid, Off-Road+ delivers. It’s built for skilled riders who want more acceleration, more slip, and more fun on rugged terrain. Like Off-Road Mode, it resets to Normal Mode when the motorcycle is powered off.

Innovation Has Two Names: Pulse and Origin

From energy-saving ECO Mode to powerhungry Sport+, from wet-weather control to dirt-road freedom, Can-Am drive modes adapt your electric motorcycle ride settings for almost any conditions and preferences.

Understanding these modes isn’t just about performance, it’s about making every ride smarter and more personal. Whether you’re tackling traffic, conserving battery, or getting dirty on the trail, your Can-Am is ready to match your mood and terrain.

For more detailed info about ride modes, consult your Owner’s Manual for the Can-Am Origin and Can-Am Pulse.