My Journey Continues........ Riding with a Disability

[Bytemi]

So it has been about 4 months since I picked up Peanut and I have to say, WOW!

OK lets start with what I love about the Spyder RT vs the GS (I still love you Billie) and how it accommodates the MS, besides the ones already discussed:

1. Cruise control, OMG what a life saver, you have no idea how tired a hand without feeling gets trying to make sure that you are pressing the throttle!
2. The Electronic Brake, I never put the Emergency Brake on Billie, is was impossible for me take it off!
3. The Front Release button, so much easier they trying to coordinate my actions.
4. Semi Automatic, whereas I felt bad about not shifting, it is so much easier (See Still Stuggling Section).
5. The seat supports my back and my degraded spine so the shooting pains down my legs are relieved.
6. The adjustable windshield, OK this is probably for everyone, but I got caught in the rain yesterday and I stayed totally dry, thank you!

I'm still struggling with:

1. The leak, Erik thinks it is oil and we know why the shop didn't see it. It only leaks if you let it sit for long periods of time without riding, so the shop moving it inside and outside everyday prevented the leak.
2. Shifting, shifting up is not a problem, but down shifting is rough and if I let Peanut downshift on her own, it is still rough, I really need to figure this out.
3. Still having difficulties turning off the turn single and turning on cruise control, I assume this will improve with time.

Fun Stuff:

So as I was on my way home the other day, stuggling to turn off my turn signal, a ride pulled up next me and signed, R U O K, I signed back yes, and he waved and went on his way. LOL Who knew knowing sign language would come in handy!

So Erik go me a vest to wear while riding:


http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab354/wahjs123/vest.jpg (http://s879.photobucket.com/user/wahjs123/media/vest.jpg.html)

For the last couple of days other riders have adopted me and as I get off on my exit or go a different way they pass me and scream "Warrior!" LOL

So the adventure continues...

[UtahPete]

So it has been about 4 months since I picked up Peanut and I have to say, WOW! OK lets start with what I love about the Spyder RT vs the GS (I still love you Billie) and how it accommodates the MS, besides the ones already discussed:

Fun Stuff:

So as I was on my way home the other day, stuggling to turn off my turn signal, a ride pulled up next me and signed, R U O K, I signed back yes, and he waved and went on his way. LOL Who knew knowing sign language would come in handy!

For the last couple of days other riders have adopted me and as I get off on my exit or go a different way they pass me and scream "Warrior!" LOL So the adventure continues...

I love your spirit. Thanks for sharing.

[Bob Denman]

Adele,
It's SOOOO good to hear from you again! :clap:
I'm glad to hear that you're still riding, and getting the new bike sorted out.
Have you got the "keeping cool" issue all sorted out now?

[cognaccruiser]

You have my utmost admiration and respect.

Gary

[Easy Rider]

2. Shifting, shifting up is not a problem, but down shifting is rough and if I let Peanut downshift on her own, it is still rough, I really need to figure this out.
3. Still having difficulties turning off the turn single and turning on cruise control, I assume this will improve with time.



The shifting "problem" might have to do with what you are doing with the throttle at the time. Others with the auto tranny should be able to make suggestions there.

Given my experience and what "the book" says, you never should really HAVE to cancel the turn signals.
Mine self-cancel during the turn most of the time......and the book says there is a time out interval if the turn doesn't do it.

[Bytemi]

Adele,
It's SOOOO good to hear from you again! :clap:
I'm glad to hear that you're still riding, and getting the new bike sorted out.
Have you got the "keeping cool" issue all sorted out now?

We have the cool vest that we have not put to a real test yet, but Erik me Cooling shirts which are working well and I just got a cooling Helmet. He ware also getting a sun shade for the seat so it doesn't heat up in the sun when I'm not riding. So far so good. :D

[Bytemi]

The shifting "problem" might have to do with what you are doing with the throttle at the time. Others with the auto tranny should be able to make suggestions there.

Given my experience and what "the book" says, you never should really HAVE to cancel the turn signals.
Mine self-cancel during the turn most of the time......and the book says there is a time out interval if the turn doesn't do it.


Yes there is a time interval 30 seconds, but inevitably my husband gets on the Bluetooth and says turn signal. So then I fumble trying to turn it off. As for the downshifting I release the throttle when down shift, but not when up shifting, I believe that is the way it is suppose to go.

[Bytemi]

OH I figured out the Check Engine problem, it was the NAV, as long as I don't plug the NAV in it no check engine light. I got the NAV from someone here on the forum, but it is apparently a Harley NAV not a Spyder NAV so I assume it consumes power differently.

[cuznjohn]

good for you, many happy miles and smiles

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

Can you go into detail ...EXACTLY ... what your shifting issue is ??? ... I have designed ergonomic pads for the thumb paddle on the SE shifter ..... I could do something for the index finger if this is the problem ( ie short fingers ) ........ Mike :thumbup:

[Bytemi]

Can you go into detail ...EXACTLY ... what your shifting issue is ??? ... I have designed ergonomic pads for the thumb paddle on the SE shifter ..... I could do something for the index finger if this is the problem ( ie short fingers ) ........ Mike :thumbup:

When I down shift, specifically into 2nd or first, she jump forward during the downshift. I use my thumb for shifting up and index finger for shifting down. At first I thought it was be not pressing and releasing but that is not it.

[ARtraveler]

So glad to hear you are mostly enjoying the RT. Have owned both flavors and the RT seems to also win, hands down for me.

Try not disengaging the throttle for smoother downshifts. The RT auto downshift is right on about 95% of the time for me. Upshifts you are doing by the book. :yes:

Give the shifter the chance to let it downshift on its own and see what you think.

[Bytemi]

So glad to hear you are mostly enjoying the RT. Have owned both flavors and the RT seems to also win, hands down for me.

Try not disengaging the throttle for smoother downshifts. The RT auto downshift is right on about 95% of the time for me. Upshifts you are doing by the book. :yes:

Give the shifter the chance to let it downshift on its own and see what you think.

OK, I will try that on the way home. I need some local to come and help me and explain what I am doing wrong. Erik said he saw a truck bed lined Spyder so I know there is someone close! LOL

[ARtraveler]

OK, I will try that on the way home. I need some local to come and help me and explain what I am doing wrong. Erik said he saw a truck bed lined Spyder so I know there is someone close! LOL

I checked your profile and could not find what year RT you purchased.

If it is a 998 (before 2014) your upshift point should be 5000 - 5500 rpm. The Rotax likes higher rpms. Keep it in that range when driving. I usually do not use 5th gear until I am over 60 mph. You may find yourself in first gear most of the time if you are driving in town and 30 mph or so.

If it is a 1330-three cylinder--your upshift point should be 3000 - 3500 rpm. Keep it in that range also. 65 on the highway will give you 3500 in 6th gear.

You will eventually get used to the "sound" the engine makes when it is time to shift.

[Easy Rider]

As for the downshifting I release the throttle when down shift, but not when up shifting, I believe that is the way it is suppose to go.

I don't have an automatic so I don't really KNOW.....but I think decreasing the throttle slowly (unless coming to a sudden stop) would work out much better.

Hey......SE owners: Where are you ??

[ARtraveler]

I don't have an automatic so I don't really KNOW.....but I think decreasing the throttle slowly (unless coming to a sudden stop) would work out much better.

Hey......SE owners: Where are you ??


Been here, see above. :roflblack::roflblack:

[Bytemi]

I checked your profile and could not find what year RT you purchased.

If it is a 998 (before 2014) your upshift point should be 5000 - 5500 rpm. The Rotax likes higher rpms. Keep it in that range when driving. I usually do not use 5th gear until I am over 60 mph. You may find yourself in first gear most of the time if you are driving in town and 30 mph or so.

If it is a 1330-three cylinder--your upshift point should be 3000 - 3500 rpm. Keep it in that range also. 65 on the highway will give you 3500 in 6th gear.

You will eventually get used to the "sound" the engine makes when it is time to shift.


It is a 998 2012 Limit Edition RT. Yes the shift point is the same as with the GS that I had, so that I am accustom too. The manual said to not throttle during down shift so I release it, I am generally braking so that makes sense......

[Easy Rider]

If it is a 998 (before 2014) your upshift point should be 5000 - 5500 rpm.

Listen I SEE that you have thousands of posts on here but................
It is in NO WAY necessary, or desirable even, for most riders to rev their engines that high all the time.
It just isn't.

I think that you preaching that it is somehow necessary is not doing the community in general any favors.

[Easy Rider]

The manual said to not throttle during down shift so I release it, I am generally braking so that makes sense......

Releasing the throttle IS "throttling down"; ALL the way down. Too far down.

The computer is "rev matching" to a degree to keep from sudden engine braking.

And yes, you can be on the brake lightly without having the throttle completely closed.

[Bytemi]

Listen I SEE that you have thousands of posts on here but................
It is in NO WAY necessary, or desirable even, for most riders to rev their engines that high all the time.
It just isn't.

I think that you preaching that it is somehow necessary is not doing the community in general any favors.

I learned to drive in an automatic, I shift when the engine starts saying F'in shift, you can hear it. I don't pay attention to RPM to tell you the truth. I listen to the engine and let her be my guide.

[Bytemi]

Releasing the throttle IS "throttling down"; ALL the way down. Too far down.

The computer is "rev matching" to a degree to keep from sudden engine braking.

And yes, you can be on the brake lightly without having the throttle completely closed.


Ok so a throttle down without releasing it all the way.

[Bob Denman]

Adele,
You don't need to release the throttle when downshifting (or upshifting): the computers will take care of all of that for you! :thumbup:

[ARtraveler]

Listen I SEE that you have thousands of posts on here but................
It is in NO WAY necessary, or desirable even, for most riders to rev their engines that high all the time.
It just isn't.

I think that you preaching that it is somehow necessary is not doing the community in general any favors.

The redline on the 998's is at 9500, there is nothing being hurt at or near 5000 - 6000.

You are entitled to your opinion. I will respectfully disagree with what you are saying. Most of the group, agrees with exactly what I have been "preaching."

I have owned 4 998's and have never had a problem with any of them. All driven under the same perimeters.

The "power band" on the 998 is 5000 and above.

[Bytemi]

You are entitled to your opinion. I will respectfully disagree with what you are saying. Most of the group, agrees with exactly what I have been "preaching."

The "power band" on the 998 is 5000 and above.

My intention was not to start a fight.

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

When I down shift, specifically into 2nd or first, she jump forward during the downshift. I use my thumb for shifting up and index finger for shifting down. At first I thought it was be not pressing and releasing but that is not it.
OK the issue is not whether you are comfortable with the lever position or not .....you are. I read the other answers given but in order for you to " jump forward " you have to be giving it gas !!! ....especially on a downshift ..... unless you are mis-reading the sudden change. I ride pretty HOT in the " twistie's " and manually downshift my SE to accelerate out of the apex , but otherwise I let the computer do 90% of the shifting. I think it is 95% correct in that respect .......jmho .... Mike

[ARtraveler]

My intention was not to start a fight.

:bowdown::bowdown: There is no fight, just a friendly discussion. You can check out previous posts by both.

[Bytemi]

OK the issue is not whether you are comfortable with the lever position or not .....you are. I read the other answers given but in order for you to " jump forward " you have to be giving it gas !!! ....especially on a downshift ..... unless you are mis-reading the sudden change. I ride pretty HOT in the " twistie's " and manually downshift my SE to accelerate out of the apex , but otherwise I let the computer do 90% of the shifting. I think it is 95% correct in that respect .......jmho .... Mike


So I should let her downshift herself.

[Bob Denman]

There's actually a pretty darn good reason why "D" is suggesting that the powerband is at or about 5,000 rpm.
It's not that that they don't make power below that level: it's that you need to keep the engine spinning at or above approximately 3,500 rpm; in order to keep the clutch fully locked-up. :thumbup:
It has a centrifugal engagement system, and needs to be kept spinning. :D

(The newer bikes (with the 1330) use an hydraulic setup: much less fussy about the rpm levels.)

[ARtraveler]

So I should let her downshift herself.


For most of us, self downshifting 90% to 95% of the time is what is recommended. If you need to downshift to get extra power, then you hit it when you need it.

[pegasus1300]

Since you say you can upshift OK have you tried downshifting manually to see if that is any smoother for you. One suggestion on the manual downshift,if you are in cruise control,roll your throttle to where it just starts to accelerate then downshift.


So it has been about 4 months since I picked up Peanut and I have to say, WOW!

OK lets start with what I love about the Spyder RT vs the GS (I still love you Billie) and how it accommodates the MS, besides the ones already discussed:

1. Cruise control, OMG what a life saver, you have no idea how tired a hand without feeling gets trying to make sure that you are pressing the throttle!
2. The Electronic Brake, I never put the Emergency Brake on Billie, is was impossible for me take it off!
3. The Front Release button, so much easier they trying to coordinate my actions.
4. Semi Automatic, whereas I felt bad about not shifting, it is so much easier (See Still Stuggling Section).
5. The seat supports my back and my degraded spine so the shooting pains down my legs are relieved.
6. The adjustable windshield, OK this is probably for everyone, but I got caught in the rain yesterday and I stayed totally dry, thank you!

I'm still struggling with:

1. The leak, Erik thinks it is oil and we know why the shop didn't see it. It only leaks if you let it sit for long periods of time without riding, so the shop moving it inside and outside everyday prevented the leak.
2. Shifting, shifting up is not a problem, but down shifting is rough and if I let Peanut downshift on her own, it is still rough, I really need to figure this out.
3. Still having difficulties turning off the turn single and turning on cruise control, I assume this will improve with time.

Fun Stuff:

So as I was on my way home the other day, stuggling to turn off my turn signal, a ride pulled up next me and signed, R U O K, I signed back yes, and he waved and went on his way. LOL Who knew knowing sign language would come in handy!

So Erik go me a vest to wear while riding:


http://i879.photobucket.com/albums/ab354/wahjs123/vest.jpg (http://s879.photobucket.com/user/wahjs123/media/vest.jpg.html)

For the last couple of days other riders have adopted me and as I get off on my exit or go a different way they pass me and scream "Warrior!" LOL

So the adventure continues...

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

So I should let her downshift herself.
When I said 95% correct - I meant .... in my opinion the transmission was doing a very good job at what it was designed to do ........... and imho there is a " lifespan " on the paddle shifter .... the more you use it , the more wear it is subjected to .... I don't know if BRP will re-place it if it just wears out :dontknow: ............. Mike :thumbup:

[greybeard]

EASY RIDER you need to crawl back in your hole

[Easy Rider]

I learned to drive in an automatic, I shift when the engine starts saying F'in shift, you can hear it. I don't pay attention to RPM to tell you the truth. I listen to the engine and let her be my guide.
Which is fine.
Every rider needs to feel comfortable with his ride and whether or not it is something "good to do" is secondary.......unless safety is involved.

Having said that, every person has a different "feel" for what is comfortable and proper.
We have one rider on here who shifts out of first BELOW 2000......and several others who insist that you aren't riding "right" unless you are running it up near 6000 before any shifts. Neither is "right" and neither is "wrong"........but advising others to take those extreme measures "as the right thing to do" is not acting responsibly.....in my opinion. :thumbup:

[Easy Rider]

EASY RIDER you need to crawl back in your hole

And YOU need to stop throwing around pointless insults.

My posts are all intended to be helpful, thought provoking or sometimes just funny.

I NEVER intentionally insult a person. OK, well maybe sometimes in retaliation but it doesn't feel good.

[Bob Denman]

EASY RIDER you need to crawl back in your hole
:shocked: Did we really need this in here? :dontknow:
Let's all relax, and remember that this is a sport that we ALL share and enjoy together. There's bound to be some differences of opinion: we can use them to promote honest discussions and learn new things. :2thumbs:

[Easy Rider]

So I should let her downshift herself.

OK that's an important point of clarification.
If the "trouble" only occurs when you are commanding the shift with the paddle.......then yes, just letting the downshifts "happen" as the bike slows down is probably better.
All 5 riders in my group with automatics have said that they just "let the downshifts happen" most of the time.
Doing that, however, will probably be a significant adjustment for the rider. ;)

[retread]

As far as downshifting, the only time I downshift my SE5 manually, is if it drops below 4000 rpm, if you are on the throttle, and under 4000, the downshift should be fairly smooth. Look for about 700 to 1000rpm drop when upshifting, and take the rpm to a point that the drop doesn't take the engine below 4000.

john

[ARtraveler]

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by greybeard http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1273929#post1273929) EASY RIDER you need to crawl back in your hole"

easy rider:
Quote:
"And YOU need to stop throwing around pointless insults.

My posts are all intended to be helpful, thought provoking or sometimes just funny.

I NEVER intentionally insult a person. OK, well maybe sometimes in retaliation but it doesn't feel good. "





Yes, we are having a friendly discussion here. A difference of opinions does not need to turn into insults. Discussion is healthy and brings out many opinions. :bowdown:

[Bytemi]

OK so from what everyone has said, I need to let peanut downshift herself and give her a little throttle while slowing down so the downshift is smooth. Do I understand, I am sorry if y'all feel like you are :banghead: not my intention, I am just trying to figure this out. :D I was so much better at a manual shifting.

[Bob Denman]

OK that's an important point of clarification.
If the "trouble" only occurs when you are commanding the shift with the paddle.......then yes, just letting the downshifts "happen" as the bike slows down is probably better.
All 5 riders in my group with automatics have said that they just "let the downshifts happen" most of the time.
Doing that, however, will probably be a significant adjustment for the rider. ;)

A point worth clarifying:
The earlier RTs with 998s under the bodywork did seem to downshift a bit... harshly! :shocked:
By the time BRP brought out the 1330s: they had the downshifting protocols figured out, and they're all as smooth as warm butter now! :thumbup:
I used to manually diownshift my 2010 RT about 75% of the time...
My 2014 was so smooth, that I let it handle all of the "normal"*** downshifting chores on it's own!


*** Steep hills, heavy loads, and passing maneuvers will always require a bit of human interaction.

[greybeard]

The shifting "problem" might have to do with what you are doing with the throttle at the time. Others with the auto tranny should be able to make suggestions there.

Given my experience and what "the book" says, you never should really HAVE to cancel the turn signals.
Mine self-cancel during the turn most of the time......and the book says there is a time out interval if the turn doesn't do it.
so your encouraging riders to let the turn signals self cancel ? 20 30 seconds before that happens can get them killed will you take the responsibility for that? I use my signals more for lane changes where you have to cancel

[Bob Denman]

so your encouraging riders to let the turn signals self cancel ? 20 30 seconds before that happens can get them killed will you take the responsibility for that? I use my signals more for lane changes where you have to cancel

150286

[Tx web rider]

my wife has been riding my GS and occasionally says its surges when down shifting i tell her to foll off the gas so its not surging
she don't always remember to roll off all the way i hear the motor trying to accelerate against the brakes

good luck getting use to the new ride
be sate out there warrior

[pegasus1300]

:D I was so much better at a manual shifting.

I try to ride mine as if it were a manual that I didn't have to use a clutch for. May be that will take some of the stress off for you.

[ARtraveler]

OK so from what everyone has said, I need to let peanut downshift herself and give her a little throttle while slowing down so the downshift is smooth. Do I understand, I am sorry if y'all feel like you are :banghead: not my intention, I am just trying to figure this out. :D I was so much better at a manual shifting.

A couple hundred miles and it will be like nothing ever happened. You have it figured out.


:cheers::coffee: to many more miles and smiles. :yes:

[Easy Rider]

so your encouraging riders to let the turn signals self cancel ? 20 30 seconds before that happens can get them killed will you take the responsibility for that? I use my signals more for lane changes where you have to cancel

Oh PLEASE.

How long they run depends upon how LONG they have been on already.
And "getting killed" by a signal that is left on a few extra seconds........especially when another rider is the next vehicle behind ???

Seems to me like you are just itching for a fight.

And......do you realize that the person who made this statement initially has a disability that makes it difficult to DO the cancellation ??

[Easy Rider]

I need to let peanut downshift herself and give her a little throttle while slowing down so the downshift is smooth.

I think it is more: Don't slam the throttle completely shut suddenly.
Although some seem to indicate that won't be a problem either.

You will need some practice letting her shift without your help. How much and how quickly you drop the throttle will be a part of that learning experience.

P.S. My daughter has a little brown dog that she calls Pnut.

[Bytemi]

I think it is more: Don't slam the throttle completely shut suddenly.
Although some seem to indicate that won't be a problem either.

You will need some practice letting her shift without your help. How much and how quickly you drop the throttle will be a part of that learning experience.

P.S. My daughter has a little brown dog that she calls Pnut.

I am on vacation all next week for my birthday, so Erik and I are going to practice. Thank you, I will remember this.

:D

[Bytemi]

I realized something last night, OK Erik reminded, I have a driving limitation, due to cognitive problems, of 30 to 45 minutes, then rest for 15 minutes, which applies the Peanut too. So when planning longing trips we need to account for that. I didn't even consider that. Dang I have a good husband....

[Bob Denman]

Next week is your Birthday? :shocked:

:congrats:

When is the cake being served?? :thumbup:

[Bytemi]

Next week is your Birthday? :shocked:

:congrats:

When is the cake being served?? :thumbup:

I don't know, all Erik told me was, make no plans for Thursday.