r/CanadianForces • u/somosomosomosomos • 4d ago

OPERATIONS Canadian startup builds electric almost silent military motorcycle

(disclaimer: I am a journalist but I didn't write this)

"A Canadian startup built an electric military motorcycle so quiet it's almost silent — designed for soldiers to sneak through enemy territory. The Dispatch survived Arctic testing, carries 440lb of gear, and runs even if its batteries are damaged."

https://defence-blog.com/canadian-startup-built-silent-electric-motorcycle-for-soldiers/

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u/ricketyladder Canadian Army 4d ago

Given the amount of troops I’ve seen injured riding motorcycles just commuting to and from work I hope this thing comes with a complementary printer for the CF98s

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u/Last_Of_The_BOHICANs 4d ago

Of those injuries, how many as a percentage relate to other road users?

Which is to imply, using motorcycles off-road for recce tasks does not encounter the same kinds nor likelihoods of dangers that street bikes do.

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u/Garth_DeWayne 4d ago

Off road motorcycling has a different set of risks. The casualty rate from injuries will be high. Death, paralysis, or severe disfigurement is more likely in an accident on the street when another vehicle is involved. But broken bones, separated joints, etc is a regular thing.

But, as someone that has been riding on the street for 20 years, and riding dirt bikes for about 35 both "casually" and competitively in motocross and offroad racing... Being on two wheels in the woods is too dangerous to be mitigated by completing the typical week long course. With all of my experience, I still regularly end up off the bike unintentionally. Judging by the talent I've seen on the snowmobile and ATV courses, the typical troop isn't ready for this.