What do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ?

[Kredab]

My dealer is building a huge new building to house Dr Powersports. The owner wants to turn it into a destination for Spyders.The pictures attached are the new building.
1) what do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ?
2) do you travels to dealers to see what accessories they have?

Thank you you in advance, I want to know your thoughts

[DGoebel]

Well organized Group Rides, nice Vendor Village location that allows all weather browsing, purchasing, and installing. Good variety of lodging nearby, hotels, motels, camping. We really enjoyed the Passport Rides that took us (individually or in small groups) to local attractions, businesses, restaurants, etc.

[Bob Denman]

:shocked: What do I NOT like about the events?
The fact that I'm able to get to so few of them! :gaah:

:D What do I like about them?
Everything else!! :yes:

Whenever I'm at a Dealership: I always cruise the accessories... :thumbup:
(After the showroom floor; of course!)

[Roadster Renovations]

Only downside I see is crime occurring at the hotels. I think that smaller to medium-sized towns are more suitable for events.....

[Buckeye Bleau]

Very nice looking building for the dealership, I truly hope that it works out well for them.

I would guess that a centralized location would be the most effective, Iowa is right there.

I always ask myself what is in it for me? I believe that the group Rydes are a big thing, the geography in the USA is so diverse, people are always looking for good roads, places to see and things to do with their valuable vacation time and dollars.

Another note would be the weather and the vendors, local eateries, especially if the local has unique foods to experience, but negotiated hotel or campsites is a big plus. I know most people stay in hotels, but for me to go to some of these, I would prefer to have a good place to camp, park a camper or whatever, then I can spend more money while there.

I think that the Pitbull custom bykes tend to draw some people there and they do sell a few while there. You can only buy those from them.

Joe

[SPECTACUALR SPIDERMAN]

for long island that would be considered a huge building and property for bikes

[Chupaca]

Nice building looks very similar to the New Pit Bull building. Now most will travel and enjoy dealerships that are in remote places with little conjestion and plenty of room. Most will browse the parts and acc section for the latested acc's . As for events there are two types. The dealer day long with rydes that are more locally attended and the open 3 day events with folks from all over. Organization will make or break the success of the event. I only get to one big event a year and they have all been great and several local ones that are fun and successful but not often repeated....:ohyea:

[JayBros]

My Spyder rally experience is very limited because I've had my bike going on just three years this fall. I had a lot of fun at two Spyderfests and I like the organizational approach the Mogang uses. Why do I go -- to meet new folks and to ride and see other parts of our great country. I enjoy group rides but also enjoy very much riding alone. For that reason I would like to see organizers have available ride routes in .gpx format that an attendee could download to a GPS and I'd even be willing to pay a reasonable fee to have access to such routes, either downloadable online or on a flash drive. I'm not a shopper always looking for more bling to add to my Spyder so I can be through a dealer's accessories area in 5-10 minutes.

[viperryder]

I seem to like that some of the rallies we go to have a get together the first night, so everybody could get to know each other. Guided rydes are another great thing, vendors are a big draw and at some gatherings they have breakfast and dinners at host hotel. This keeps the ryders at the hotel and better to get to know each other. Vendors such as: tire people, goodies and the like. My thoughts. Let the party begin.:roflblack::yes:

[JerryB]

Hi Kredab,

Re: What do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ? (http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?106604-What-do-you-like-or-dislike-about-Spyder-Events)

I would like to see Tech Sessions at these various events.

As a Mech Engr I'm a nuts & bolts kinda guy. It would be nice to see 1 or 2 1-hour Tech Sessions each afternoon of any event. They could be simply a speaker explaining something or a 'hands-on' event where they would do something to a Spyder; such as do an oil change for one example.

Jerry Baumchen

[Tyris]

Waterloo?

Variety of vendors offering what dealers generally don't have on hand.
Discounted installations, LEDs, Swaybars etc.

Large get-together area both indoor and out. A Pond, trees etc.
Seminars, how-tos, that sort of thing

[ARtraveler]

Will have to sit back and watch. I am looking at two to three days travel just to get to the lower 48. Timing is important, vendors are important, sponsoring dealership needs lots of accessory stuff--which can be a problem if they only have one event a year.

:bbq::popcorn::bbq::popcorn::bbq::popcorn::bbq:

[T.P.]

Become a Can Am Spyder Supporting Dealer on SpyderLovers, so the members can see who they are.

Treat the members correctly and the word will get around,
Treat them badly and the word will also get around.

They will need to draw Spyder Ryders from a state or two away by offering something their local dealer doesn't.



T.P.

[SpyderAnn01]

Kyle, you've got a lot of great suggestions here. Getting a group of volunteers together to plan and execute is a huge part of successful rallies so I'd start with organizing a local riding chapter.

If you hold it Squared Away will come.

[Trailboss]

My Spyder rally experience is very limited because I've had my bike going on just three years this fall. I had a lot of fun at two Spyderfests and I like the organizational approach the Mogang uses. Why do I go -- to meet new folks and to ride and see other parts of our great country. I enjoy group rides but also enjoy very much riding alone. For that reason I would like to see organizers have available ride routes in .gpx format that an attendee could download to a GPS and I'd even be willing to pay a reasonable fee to have access to such routes, either downloadable online or on a flash drive. I'm not a shopper always looking for more bling to add to my Spyder so I can be through a dealer's accessories area in 5-10 minutes.

It sounds like H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) has the type of routes you are talking about and they can be downloaded.

[Killer Bee]

I'll let you know after the wife and I get back from our first - the Red Rock. :D

I am looking forward to the organized rides and the vendor village. And getting there and coming back!

[Fat Baxter]

Wouldn't know either way. No one holds Spyder events down here. Maybe there's too few Spyder riders to create the necessary critical mass.

Sometimes I get a flyer from the dealer up in Birmingham, but usually that's just announcing the latest models; "C'mon up and look." That's not enough to interest me.

[Kredab]

Waterloo?

Variety of vendors offering what dealers generally don't have on hand.
Discounted installations, LEDs, Swaybars etc.

Large get-together area both indoor and out. A Pond, trees etc.
Seminars, how-tos, that sort of thing

yep , Waterloo

[Desert Spyder]

At BRP owner events, not the co-sponsored like Red Rock, no competing vendors are allowed. BRP stuff is crap and overpriced anyway like apparel. It stops at 2X. Whats wrong with competition?

[Mazo EMS2]

Well organized Group Rides, nice Vendor Village location that allows all weather browsing, purchasing, and installing. Good variety of lodging nearby, hotels, motels, camping. We really enjoyed the Passport Rides that took us (individually or in small groups) to local attractions, businesses, restaurants, etc.

^^^Ditto^^^. Gotta have something to do if the weather doesn't cooperate. That's what I've enjoyed about a nice vendor village. I don't care much for the group rides myself, but that's just me. A group for 5 or 6 is plenty.

[SpyderAnn01]

Wouldn't know either way. No one holds Spyder events down here. Maybe there's too few Spyder riders to create the necessary critical mass.

Sometimes I get a flyer from the dealer up in Birmingham, but usually that's just announcing the latest models; "C'mon up and look." That's not enough to interest me.

Spyders on the Bayou is held in Louisiana in mid March. There are usually a bunch of Alabama Spyders that attend. You should plan on attending.

[otter28169]

Things that have worked well for us here in NY:
1) Guided rides, with a tail gunner that have had a recent pre-ride.
2) Limiting the number of "Long" rides (those approaching 200 miles)
3) Temporary mounted flashing lights for the leader/tail-gunner

Things that have not worked as well:
1) Even with experienced staff, rides with 50 or more bikes don't generally fare as well.
2) Having your event in a town that has a thriving tourism market. Makes it hard to get deals and special concessions.
3) Over-scheduling. If you put to many things into the itinerary, several may end up with minimal or no attendance.

I am sure there is a lot more that can be said, but finding your niche is what will make your event attractive to riders.

Just sayin'............

[PrairieSpyder]

There's something I'd like to see at an event (I'm going to suggest it to MoGang) is a rally course. They've done drag races and Spyder Games, so that covers straight acceleration and slow skills. But I'd like to see a twisty course with timed riding competition. The main problem would be getting cooperation from the LEOs and residents.

[Bob Denman]

There's something I'd like to see at an event (I'm going to suggest it to MoGang) is a rally course. They've done drag races and Spyder Games, so that covers straight acceleration and slow skills. But I'd like to see a twisty course with timed riding competition. The main problem would be getting cooperation from the LEOs and residents.
Some sort of gymkhana course DOES sound like fun! :thumbup:
You'd need a large parking lot, and a whole bunch of highway cones!

[SpyderAnn01]

Kyle, how far is the dealer from that big Indian Casino? That could be a good host hotel as there are probably multiple restaurant choices and entertainment along with a large parking lot. Having a hotel that can accommodate the majority of the group adds to the fellowship.

[Firefly]

Much good advice already given....

One main thing I've enjoyed is when the events are in SMALLER towns.
Spyderfest was much better (IMO) when it was in the small town of Cuba. It just loses its appeal in a bigger city and no one likes riding in city traffic.
Maggie Valley NC has also been a great place as was Durango.
There's no need to try and be the biggest of the biggest, just have a nice rally in a smaller town with good rides, food and vendors and people will show up!

[Kredab]

Kyle, how far is the dealer from that big Indian Casino? That could be a good host hotel as there are probably multiple restaurant choices and entertainment along with a large parking lot. Having a hotel that can accommodate the majority of the group adds to the fellowship.

Hello, Are you talking the Isle of Capri (not indian). Did you see it on the way to my house?, if yes Dealer is 2 miles from that. There is Mesquaki Casino about 30 miles away also.

My Dealer is investing huge amounts into the state of the art place. He already has Platinum certification and has a Master Spyder tech. He is not the most seller dealer in Iowa but wants to be. He asked me to head up Spyder events and he wants to be big, I was just trying to get some feelers out there. :spyder2::spyder2:

[cptjam]

Fellowship, fun, food, farkles.
Have those 4, it will be Fantastic!!
carefully choose the date, too. Weather is tricky, as well.
We do need more central locations for rallies. I also think Friday-Monday is better than mid week.

[UtahPete]

My dealer is building a huge new building to house Dr Powersports. The owner wants to turn it into a destination for Spyders.The pictures attached are the new building.
1) what do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ?
2) do you travels to dealers to see what accessories they have?

1) I like to see new products (farkles) and talk to other knowledgeable owners and vendors about tech stuff. Although I don't participate in group rides (don't like them) I like the venue to be in a part of the country that is interesting to visit because of its scenic rides, history, etc.
2) No. Most dealers don't carry enough of a selection to make it worthwhile.

[SpyderAnn01]

Hello, Are you talking the Isle of Capri (not indian). Did you see it on the way to my house?, if yes Dealer is 2 miles from that. There is Mesquaki Casino about 30 miles away also.

My Dealer is investing huge amounts into the state of the art place. He already has Platinum certification and has a Master Spyder tech. He is not the most seller dealer in Iowa but wants to be. He asked me to head up Spyder events and he wants to be big, I was just trying to get some feelers out there. :spyder2::spyder2:


The casino you told us to stay at.

[Kredab]

The casino you told us to stay at.

That is the isle of Capri , it has 2 restraurants in it and 2 bars , buffet and gambling , open 24 hours a day and lots of parking lot lighting ....2-3 miles from new dealership - perfect

There is rumored to a hotel getting built next to dealership also

[south GA Farm Boy]

My dealer is building a huge new building to house Dr Powersports. The owner wants to turn it into a destination for Spyders.The pictures attached are the new building.
1) what do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ?
2) do you travels to dealers to see what accessories they have?

Thank you you in advance, I want to know your thoughts

We live down south, and all the rallies are too far off! The one we get to go to is the Maggie Valley one! We like it! Down south, we have too few dealers (selling only 8 or 10 spyders per year) and no rallies. Our nearest spyder dealer is over a 100 miles away, and they usually don't have spyder tech's! So service, and warranty work is hard to fine! Maybe Spyder should copy Harley and have rider groups, dealers with assessories, more advertisement, and really push their products!

[Bob Denman]

Fellowship, fun, food, farkles.
Have those 4, it will be Fantastic!!


:D The Four major "F-Groups"! :thumbup:

[Pirate looks at --]

Fellowship, fun, food, farkles.
Have those 4, it will be Fantastic!!
carefully choose the date, too. Weather is tricky, as well.
We do need more central locations for rallies. I also think Friday-Monday is better than mid week.

Agree Joe about weekends...but the problem is that the hotels usually get a premium price for their rooms on the weekend, if they are in a "resort" type of area. So the weekdays are way more affordable.

[Many brands]

I personally - have found it VERY hard to "break into" the group. (Sacramento, ca.) Nice enough folks -- just felt I and my Wife were outsiders.

[UtahPete]

I personally - have found it VERY hard to "break into" the group. (Sacramento, ca.) Nice enough folks -- just felt I and my Wife were outsiders.

I know what you mean. Some clubs are sincerely welcoming of interested newcomers and others seem more exclusive. Not sure why that is.

OR, are you talking about the Spyders in the Redwoods Rally?

[2dogs]

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by Many brands http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1287515#post1287515) I personally - have found it VERY hard to "break into" the group. (Sacramento, ca.) Nice enough folks -- just felt I and my Wife were outsiders.


I know what you mean. Some clubs are sincerely welcoming of interested newcomers and others seem more exclusive. Not sure why that is.

OR, are you talking about the Spyders in the Redwoods Rally?

We had the same experience at the Redwoods Rally. My wife said not again. The only friendly's seemed to be cptjam and SpyderAnn. Going to try Sonora next month.

[UtahPete]

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by Many brands http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1287515#post1287515) I personally - have found it VERY hard to "break into" the group. (Sacramento, ca.) Nice enough folks -- just felt I and my Wife were outsiders.

We had the same experience at the Redwoods Rally. My wife said not again. The only friendly's seemed to be cptjam and SpyderAnn. Going to try Sonora next month.

That's good to know. I'll bet the organizers don't realize that. Captain Joe and Ann are pretty special people in my estimation; I'm glad you had a good rapport with them.

[Firefly]

So which rallies do you REALLY like going to and why?

Spyderfest-- been to all 8.... I go to see the friends I've met through the years and get some good riding in. Don't care for where it is now, but still go.
Maggie Valley Spyder meet... not sure what they call it anymore. Same as above.. but the riding is amazing up in the Smokies.

Those two are ones I do every year. Smokies was off for a few years as it went downhill and now someone else is running it.

Also been to official BRP events in Durango, Chicago, Maggie Valley, Valcourt.

It's mostly about the people for me.... then the riding....

[Cruzr Joe]

I think that each event ought to have guest hosts at the major hotels to plan get togethers for New and Old members.


Cruzr Joe

[SpyderAnn01]

I'm not sure what you mean, Joe. Could you elaborate a little? Thanks.

At Spyderfest there are several "host hotels" and each one has a person designated as the official host. CruzrJoe is the host at the Best Western and he schedules stuff for the folks st his hotel. It probably isn't a big deal at most rallies since they are usually located at only one hotel.

[Indiana Ken]

Went to Spyderfest this year. Pulled the bike down on our trailer. 15 miles outside of Springfield, our trany bit the dust. Days latter and $3200, we got the vehicle back with new trany.

Good thing we had the bike for transportation. Oh ya, Springfield got one of the worst rains spelling ever. Diehard riders were still out, but please, it's dangerous to ride in pouring rain, and you can't convince me it's fun. Stayed in hotel.

Only good riding day, we got some lights put on by TricLED, and hit the road. Got 10 miles outside Branson and bike went into limp mode. Crawled back to Pitbull who took pity on us and thru it on a computer. Electrical codes, so back to the vendor village to TricLED. They took a look, and rewired what they had added in the morning then off we went for a long ride, with no problems.

Next day rain, rain, rain. Drive home - Rain, Rain and more rain.

So what do I want to see in a Spyder event.....

Less rain, but hey, who can control that. so..

Vendor Village inside to stay dry.
More technical and practical seminars.
Tire dealer with choice of top tires for sale.
In interesting location.
Hotels and camping available.
Sign up board so attendees who come from a same area can network easier with riders near them, that may continue when they get back home.

[UtahPete]

One main thing I've enjoyed is when the events are in SMALLER towns. Spyderfest was much better (IMO) when it was in the small town of Cuba. It just loses its appeal in a bigger city and no one likes riding in city traffic. Maggie Valley NC has also been a great place as was Durango. There's no need to try and be the biggest of the biggest, just have a nice rally in a smaller town with good rides, food and vendors and people will show up!

Good feedback. I didn't realize some of the rallies have been held in high-traffic areas. Thanks.

[UtahPete]

We live down south, and all the rallies are too far off! The one we get to go to is the Maggie Valley one! We like it! Down south, we have too few dealers (selling only 8 or 10 spyders per year) and no rallies.

Would a rally on the Gulf Coast in March or April be good do you think?

[Pirate looks at --]

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by Many brands http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1287515#post1287515) I personally - have found it VERY hard to "break into" the group. (Sacramento, ca.) Nice enough folks -- just felt I and my Wife were outsiders.



We had the same experience at the Redwoods Rally. My wife said not again. The only friendly's seemed to be cptjam and SpyderAnn. Going to try Sonora next month.
Sorry if anyone has felt not a part of the group as we never want anyone to feel that way. My wife and I will be leading rydes to Ebbets Pass and Sonora Pass during the Nor-Cal Spyder Rally. Make sure you introduce yourself as we are always excited to find new people to ryde with. :yes::yes::yes:

[UtahPete]

Sorry if anyone has felt not a part of the group as we never want anyone to feel that way. My wife and I will be leading rydes to Ebbets Pass and Sonora Pass during the Nor-Cal Spyder Rally. Make sure you introduce yourself as we are always excited to find new people to ryde with. :yes::yes::yes:

You know, I just realized one of the things that is missing for me about the typical rally is the lack of information about who (the team) is organizing and running it. Along with pictures and a bio and maybe a quick friendly blurb about the team philosophy. I think that would go a long way to making people part of the event before they even get there.

Never done Ebbets Pass, but did Sonora Pass on my two-wheeler about 6 years ago. Spectacular.

[Pirate looks at --]

You know, I just realized one of the things that is missing for me about the typical rally is the lack of information about who (the team) is organizing and running it. Along with pictures and a bio and maybe a quick friendly blurb about the team philosophy. I think that would go a long way to making people part of the event before they even get there.

Never done Ebbets Pass, but did Sonora Pass on my two-wheeler about 6 years ago. Spectacular.
This is actually a great suggestion and we will see if we can get it added in time for the Rally in September. Ebbets is an awesome ryde, much longer and the road is stunning!:yes:

[UtahPete]

This is actually a great suggestion and we will see if we can get it added in time for the Rally in September. Ebbets is an awesome ryde, much longer and the road is stunning!

I did a google search - is this the website for SITR? It seems out of date ... http://spydersintheredwoods.weebly.com/ Same for the FB page that came up in the search.

BTW, it looks like 2015 rally had Fred Rau there as a special guest; I guess he is an official ambassador for Spyder now. I have been reading his columns for years; really would like to meet him.

[Pirate looks at --]

I did a google search - is this the website for SITR? It seems out of date ... http://spydersintheredwoods.weebly.com/ Same for the FB page that came up in the search.

BTW, it looks like 2015 rally had Fred Rau there as a special guest; I guess he is an official ambassador for Spyder now. I have been reading his columns for years; really would like to meet him.
Spyder in the Redwoods is no more it was relocated to the Redrocks Spyder Rally in St George Utah. We are now holding The Nor-Cal Spyder Rally which this year will be in Toulumne California at the BlackOak Casino. The new site is:https://sites.google.com/site/norcalspyderrally/home.

[UtahPete]

Spyder in the Redwoods is no more it was relocated to the Redrocks Spyder Rally in St George Utah. We are now holding The Nor-Cal Spyder Rally which this year will be in Toulumne California at the BlackOak Casino. The new site is:https://sites.google.com/site/norcalspyderrally/home.


Announcing the
2017 Nor Cal Spyder Rally!

September 12-14, 2017

Boy, that's good to know. Have you asked Katlyn to remove that old website and FB page? It's pretty confusing.

Is this the FB page? https://www.facebook.com/groups/1067880999899285/

[jcthorne]

Our biggest peeve with most rallys is the lack of preparedness and safety for the group rides. We pretty much avoid the group rides as they often get lost, don't know the way and most do not even have a proper safety briefing on how the group is going to ride. No hand signals, no mention of order, tap outs, staggering, lane change or signaling.

We generally form a smaller group of our own and ride the route with friends we know and have a short safety discussion before hand. Have seen far to many problems and near misses on the disorganized group rides. Lots of room for improvement.

[Copperman]

Would a rally on the Gulf Coast in March or April be good do you think?

Spyders on the Bayou is held in March in Houma, LA. I've been there twice and it's a very nice event.

[newbert]

I'll be attending my first event in about a month (Spyderquest), so have no experience so far.

But, one thing I'd like to see is an informal workshop on just basic maintenance - how to access all the panels and battery etc.

[Pirate looks at --]

Our biggest peeve with most rallys is the lack of preparedness and safety for the group rides. We pretty much avoid the group rides as they often get lost, don't know the way and most do not even have a proper safety briefing on how the group is going to ride. No hand signals, no mention of order, tap outs, staggering, lane change or signaling.

We generally form a smaller group of our own and ride the route with friends we know and have a short safety discussion before hand. Have seen far to many problems and near misses on the disorganized group rides. Lots of room for improvement.

JC at the Nor-Cal Spyder Rally all group rydes are conducted bu "Trained Road Captains." All Road Captains have gone through a training session so they are aware of the following:

The Route: we require that all routes have been pre-Ryden within the week so that we know about construction and other road conditions before we take a group out on the ryde.

All rydes are led by a trained Road Captain, and there is a trained Road Cpatain serving as a Sweep to assist with any mechanical or physical issues that occur within the group. In most cases these two Road Captains are also in direct communication with each other. With very large groups we split them up and put 4 Road Captains with the groups as lead and sweep.

We always conduct a safety session before before each ryde including the route, the destination, the stops along the way and Turn Signals. When I lead a ryde I signal every turn with turn indicators and hand signals. I comminicate with my sweep to make sure they are seeing all of the signals make it back to the back, and we reinforce the need for this when we have a fuel stop.

We also explain a concept called "bread crumbs". We tell all ryders that if they are with the group and we are making a turn, if they can't see the motorcycle behind them, they should stop at that turn in a safe place where they can be seen by the following members of the group. Our groups never make a turn without leaving this bread crumb behind. It has only rarely been an issue, but is very reassuring if some one has had to fall behind for whatever reason, and we have never lost a Ryder. Of course we discuss proper formation and staggering. On occasion if we have someone who is not conducting themselves in a safe manner we will excuse them from the group. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol on our rydes.

So JC come join us in Nor-Cal so we can compare notes.

[Pirate looks at --]

Good deal. I'll have a chance to check it out next month. I usually avoid group rides also for reasons mentioned but I'm willing to give it a go and see if my experience this time is better than in the past.
Look forward to meeting you Pete!

[ABQSpyder]

I personally - have found it VERY hard to "break into" the group. (Sacramento, ca.) Nice enough folks -- just felt I and my Wife were outsiders.

Yes I know what you mean. Had this happen to me more than once start talking with someone bannering back and forth someone walks up Hey ? And your yesterday's news walk away and don't even acknowledge your alive or introduce you. So they walked away talking to there long lost friend! On a positive note Meet a couple in Springfield couple years ago in a Wal-Mart parking lot. We must have talked for a hour or more best experience at a Rally I've had to date Sad :( I know some people have been going to these Rally's for years and made great friends but I have to imagine there are a lot of people who go once and never go back!

[Deanna777]

Likes:

Meeting other spyder owners, going on rides in area, visiting venders, catching up with other spyder owners that we have met at other spyder events or various rides, enjoying the scenic country rides, seeing what other spyder owners added for upgrades/farkles.


Deanna

[Pirate looks at --]

Yes I know what you mean. Had this happen to me more than once start talking with someone bannering back and forth someone walks up Hey ? And your yesterday's news walk away and don't even acknowledge when they walked away talking to there long lost friend! Meet a couple in Springfield couple years ago in a Wal-Mart parking lot. We must have talked for a hour or more best experience at a Rally. I know some people have been going to these Rally's for years and made great friends but I have to imagine there are a lot of people who go once and never go back!
ABQ, come on up and we will do our best to change your mind! But you have to be willing to come out and ryde with us and take time to meet as many of us as you can, oh and come bowling with us and the Team from BRP!

[Pirate looks at --]

Bowling 🎳

[Big F]

My dealer is building a huge new building to house Dr Powersports. The owner wants to turn it into a destination for Spyders.The pictures attached are the new building.
1) what do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ?
2) do you travels to dealers to see what accessories they have?

Thank you you in advance, I want to know your thoughts

where are you located in Iowa?????? we are NISR "nicer" (Nebraska Iowa Spyder Ryders) and always looking for new ride routes. are you aware of the Spyderfever rally coming up in Council Bluffs??? go to our website or find us on Facebook.
BIG F - Founding member of NISR

[jcthorne]

Thanks for the feedback. How many different Spyder rallies have you been to and is there a difference between the for-profit and the non-profit club-sponsored rallies in this regard, do you think?


No difference really. Some a bit better than others but none great and I will not call out the really bad ones.

[jcthorne]

JC at the Nor-Cal Spyder Rally all group rydes are conducted bu "Trained Road Captains." All Road Captains have gone through a training session so they are aware of the following:

The Route: we require that all routes have been pre-Ryden within the week so that we know about construction and other road conditions before we take a group out on the ryde.

All rydes are led by a trained Road Captain, and there is a trained Road Cpatain serving as a Sweep to assist with any mechanical or physical issues that occur within the group. In most cases these two Road Captains are also in direct communication with each other. With very large groups we split them up and put 4 Road Captains with the groups as lead and sweep.

We always conduct a safety session before before each ryde including the route, the destination, the stops along the way and Turn Signals. When I lead a ryde I signal every turn with turn indicators and hand signals. I comminicate with my sweep to make sure they are seeing all of the signals make it back to the back, and we reinforce the need for this when we have a fuel stop.

We also explain a concept called "bread crumbs". We tell all ryders that if they are with the group and we are making a turn, if they can't see the motorcycle behind them, they should stop at that turn in a safe place where they can be seen by the following members of the group. Our groups never make a turn without leaving this bread crumb behind. It has only rarely been an issue, but is very reassuring if some one has had to fall behind for whatever reason, and we have never lost a Ryder. Of course we discuss proper formation and staggering. On occasion if we have someone who is not conducting themselves in a safe manner we will excuse them from the group. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol on our rydes.

So JC come join us in Nor-Cal so we can compare notes.

Would dearly love to attend the Nor-Cal rally as it sounds like an amazing event. Unfortunately for us working stiffs, its way too far to attend until I retire. Just cannot take enough weeks off to make a trip of that length enjoyable. Red Rocks and Deadwood were big stretches for us and only really happened as I was laid off for a period last year.

[SpyderAnn01]

where are you located in Iowa?????? we are NISR "nicer" (Nebraska Iowa Spyder Ryders) and always looking for new ride routes. are you aware of the Spyderfever rally coming up in Council Bluffs??? go to our website or find us on Facebook.
BIG F - Founding member of NISR

He is in Waterloo

[Pirate looks at --]

Would dearly love to attend the Nor-Cal rally as it sounds like an amazing event. Unfortunately for us working stiffs, its way too far to attend until I retire. Just cannot take enough weeks off to make a trip of that length enjoyable. Red Rocks and Deadwood were big stretches for us and only really happened as I was laid off for a period last year.
Working stiff here too. I wouldn't be able to go either if it weren't in my own backyard!:banghead:

[ARtraveler]

I hear you. Fortunately I have survived my working years with enough mental and physical health left to enjoy retirement! I couldn't enjoy motorcycling enough before so I'm trying to make up for lost time. Is that ever possible? :ohyea:

The short answer is No. If you come up with better, please let me know. I am in the same boat. :bowdown::bowdown:

[Road-Kill]

I've never been to a Spyder event but have been to other biker events.

I hate long lines
bad food
rain
rude grumpy old people
poorly organized staff
staff who treats you like you should know where everything is even though its your first time there
staff who could care less if you ever come back
vendors who don't show up or show up late

and above all....diarrhea. I either get diarrhea or constipation because my diet turns to crap on these trips. :yikes:

See everyone at SpyderQuest 2017 Lake George NY GEL. :yes:

[Firefly]

Group Rides:

I've done them, don't care for them. They always end up too big, getting broken up, etc.

If you're going to do group rides, keep the groups SMALL... like 5-6 people max.

Have maps in printed and versions that can load into a Garmin, googlemaps, etc.

Still won't catch me on one. I usually get together with a few buds at Spyderfest and go out and tear things up... but it's not really an organized group ride and we keep it to 4 maximum.

[PrairieSpyder]

I've never been to a Spyder event but have been to other biker events.

I hate long lines
bad food
rain
rude grumpy old people
poorly organized staff
staff who treats you like you should know where everything is even though its your first time there
staff who could care less if you ever come back
vendors who don't show up or show up late

and above all....diarrhea. I either get diarrhea or constipation because my diet turns to crap on these trips. :yikes:

See everyone at SpyderQuest 2017 Lake George NY GEL. :yes:


I don't think the rally organizer/staff can help you with that last one! :lecturef_smilie:

[JayD]

I don't think the rally organizer/staff can help you with that last one! :lecturef_smilie:

I have been to four in the last two years. I like one of the previous comments seemed to be ignored. It was like if you were not part of the group you were ignored. A couple of other people I have met felt the same way. This may be just perception, but perception is reality. Don't get me wrong I still like to go for the vendors and exploring new areas. Love the Maggie Valley event.

[Lew L]

You know, I just realized one of the things that is missing for me about the typical rally is the lack of information about who (the team) is organizing and running it. Along with pictures and a bio and maybe a quick friendly blurb about the team philosophy. I think that would go a long way to making people part of the event before they even get there.

Never done Ebbets Pass, but did Sonora Pass on my two-wheeler about 6 years ago. Spectacular.



You'll just love Ebbets Pass. Especially on one of the many narrow hairpin turns when you meet with a motorhome that NEVER should have taken Hwy 4. It is also a spectacular rydenojoke. Used to have a cabin out of Arnold and skied Bear Valley ALOT.

A 45' motorhome on a steep downhill, tight hair pin turn will cause-------------------- Kaos

[UtahPete]

Maybe it's time to revive this thread?

[Big F]

Hey KREDAB, how are you doing??? where is this dealership located? interesting questions you have. but in today's techy world, it seems most people shop for accessories and small stuff on-line as opposed going to a dealership.. just my thoughts.
BIG F

[CopperSpyder]

My dealer is building a huge new building to house Dr Powersports. The owner wants to turn it into a destination for Spyders.The pictures attached are the new building.
1) what do you like or dislike about Spyder Events ?
2) do you travels to dealers to see what accessories they have?

Thank you you in advance, I want to know your thoughts

Hey Big F your right on point with your post but the op is two years old.

[UtahPete]

Our biggest peeve with most rallys is the lack of preparedness and safety for the group rides. We pretty much avoid the group rides as they often get lost, don't know the way and most do not even have a proper safety briefing on how the group is going to ride. No hand signals, no mention of order, tap outs, staggering, lane change or signaling.

We generally form a smaller group of our own and ride the route with friends we know and have a short safety discussion before hand. Have seen far to many problems and near misses on the disorganized group rides. Lots of room for improvement.

Do you still feel this is so?

[UtahPete]

I'll be attending my first event in about a month (Spyderquest), so have no experience so far.

But, one thing I'd like to see is an informal workshop on just basic maintenance - how to access all the panels and battery etc.

We do a workshop at Sierra Cycles whenever the Ryde-In is at Tombstone or Sierra Vista, AZ. You were the inspiration for it.

[CMA Cowboy]

I believe a successful rally is dependent on a dedicated group of volunteers working with the host dealership in planning and working the rally.

[Big F]

Hi Kredab. the size of that building is huge! I know you are one of the attendees at our annual Spyderfever in Council Bluffs. we wish we had a local dealer that we could team up with during our rally. Is this a new dealer or one that is expanding? does the dealer and/or area Spyder owners planning any rallies in that area? we are in the early stages of planning Spyderfever 2020. It's always a huge challenge to make each rally better than the last one?? I trust you enjoyed Spyderfever 2019. BIG F (co-founder of NISR)

[Lew L]

The NorCal event was great, we had a wonderful time but didn't win any raffle prizes but we did quite well last year.
Group rides are too big. We were on the freeway for about 15 miles and a group of 35 -40 :spyder2:s causes difficulty for merging semi trucks. ( Especially when there were 2 of these groups together). Yes, I know that it's hard to get ride leaders and sweeps but long impenetrable :joke: lines of :spyder2:s is dangerous. Also if the road cap. isn't smooth--- the accordion effect is really a pain.

Overall the NorCal rally was well organized and very friendly event.

Lew L