A new U.S. import ban targeting Canadian motorcycles is now in effect, potentially putting the brakes on the flow of some popular bikes across the northern border.

As of Tuesday, September 29, the United States has banned the importation of certain Canadian-made motorcycles as part of the escalating trade dispute between the U.S. and Canada.

For American motorcycle enthusiasts, one name stands out: Can-Am.

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), the Quebec-based manufacturer behind Can-Am motorcycles, confirmed that its three-wheel Spyder and Canyon models are among the motorcycles affected by the new restrictions. (AP News)

The timing may mean riders won’t notice an immediate shortage.

BRP says it has already completed most production and shipments for the current model year, meaning the impact of the ban is expected to become more apparent next year, rather than immediately emptying motorcycle dealerships. (AP News)

What does the ban mean for riders?

The restriction applies to new imports from Canada. It does not mean motorcycles already legally in the United States suddenly become illegal.

That distinction is important for current Can-Am owners.

If you already own a Canadian-built motorcycle that was properly imported and registered in the United States, this new action does not amount to a recall or a prohibition on riding it.

The bigger question is what happens to the supply of new Canadian-built motorcycles entering the U.S. market.

For riders shopping for a new Can-Am, that could eventually mean fewer Canadian-built models arriving at American dealerships if the restrictions remain in place.

Why are motorcycles being targeted?

Motorcycles are just one part of a much larger trade fight.

The U.S. ban also covers various Canadian alcoholic beverages and certain dairy products. The restrictions are retaliation for Canadian tariffs imposed on U.S. products following earlier U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. (Reuters)

The motorcycle portion of the ban is relatively small compared with the overall trade between the two countries.

According to an analysis cited by the Associated Press, the entire import ban covers approximately $967 million in Canadian goods, based on 2025 figures. Alcohol accounts for the overwhelming majority of that value. (AP News)

But for the motorcycle industry, the implications could extend beyond the dollar value.

Could this affect motorcycle prices?

That remains uncertain.

If the restrictions continue and Canadian-built motorcycles become harder to bring into the United States, supply could become a factor for certain models.

However, existing inventory and completed shipments mean the effects may take time to show up at dealerships.

And this isn’t simply a story about one manufacturer. The situation also highlights just how interconnected the North American powersports industry has become, with motorcycles and components moving across borders as part of a larger manufacturing and distribution network.

For now, riders shouldn’t panic about motorcycles already sitting in American garages or dealerships.

But if you’re planning to buy a new Can-Am Spyder or Canyon, it’s a situation worth watching closely.

The border may be thousands of miles away from some American riders, but what happens there could eventually show up on the showroom floor.