Trump Administration Banned Canadian-Made Motorcycles
Owners of Can-Am Spyders face new import restrictions following an administration trade policy shift.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Motocycles
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The Trump administration implemented a ban on imports of Canadian-made motorcycles, including the Can-Am Spyder, on September 29, 2026. The move follows an escalating trade dispute involving reciprocal tariffs on steel, aluminum, and hundreds of consumer goods.
Why it matters
The ban serves as a negotiation tactic intended to force Canada to the trade table, potentially disrupting supply chains for Canadian-manufactured vehicles in the U.S. market. With 100,000 Spyders already in the country, the policy adds uncertainty to the future availability of parts and new models for current owners.
The administration invoked Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to halt imports of Can-Am Spyders, which start at $27,999. This follows earlier 2025 tariffs of 25 percent on aluminum and steel and a 50 percent tariff on Canadian motorcycle imports.
The players
Bombardier Recreational Products
The manufacturer of Can-Am Spyder vehicles based in Valcourt, Quebec, known for its powersports equipment.
Freedom Cycle
A motorcycle dealership located in Concord, New Hampshire, monitoring the impact of trade policy on vehicle inventory.
The details
The ban prohibits the import of vehicles manufactured by Bombardier Recreational Products in Valcourt, Quebec. Officials implemented this measure as an economic lever during ongoing negotiations over trade disparities. If the import restriction persists, industry observers anticipate that dealerships may pivot to selling Ryker models manufactured in Mexico as an alternative for domestic buyers.
Timeline
2025: U.S. imposed a 25 percent tariff on Canadian aluminum and steel.
July 2026: U.S. announced a 50 percent tariff on various Canadian products.
Sept. 29, 2026: The Trump administration officially banned Canadian-made motorcycles.
Spring 2027: Expected resolution date for the ongoing trade dispute.
The Home Front
This import ban follows a series of escalating tariffs between the United States and Canada that have already impacted over 700 categories of American products. The development marks a departure from standard trade relations, moving from tariff-based pressure to direct import prohibition.
Owners of Can-Am Spyders should maintain their current vehicles as if the supply of new units or components remains restricted. If you are in the market for a new vehicle, contact a local licensed dealership to discuss available inventory and whether non-Canadian models like the Ryker are currently in stock.
The takeaway
Trade disputes of this nature can lead to sudden inventory shifts and service uncertainty for owners of imported powersports equipment. Consider documenting your vehicle's service history and serial numbers to keep on file in case future maintenance requires specialized sourcing due to supply limitations.
What happens next
Trade experts and dealerships, including Freedom Cycle, expect potential resolution of the trade dispute by spring 2027.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the industry, see our guide on Motocycles.
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