How different will I sit on 2009 GS vs RT-L?

[beef56]

I have a 2012 RTL and am considering buying a 2009 GS SM5 with 5,800 miles. It has handle bar risers, My question is how much different will I set with this versus the RTL? I don't want to be bent over like a Ninja rider!

[Chupaca]

even with the stock bars you would not be bent like the crotch rocket folks. With the risers, depending on the size, you will be upright a bit more but not as straight up as the RT. Sit on a stool ( feet on the floor knees about 90°) put your palms on your knees and lean into them. Should be about it....

[ARtraveler]

If you have at least 3" risers, you will be sitting similar to the RT. If less, it will still handle and sit like a crotch rocket.

Been there, done that.

[beef56]

even with the stock bars you would not be bent like the crotch rocket folks. With the risers, depending on the size, you will be upright a bit more but not as straight up as the RT. Sit on a stool ( feet on the floor knees about 90°) put your palms on your knees and lean into them. Should be about it....

I don't know that my back would stand much bending over. I don't have a bad back but it would be tiring. The Spyder is about 200 miles away so I would like to have an idea before I make the trip.
Thanks for the information!

[Sarge707]

I have a 2012 RTL and am considering buying a 2009 GS SM5 with 5,800 miles. It has handle bar risers, My question is how much different will I set with this versus the RTL? I don't want to be bent over like a Ninja rider!

I Have a 2012 RT sm5 and I traded a 2009 GS in for my F3 with 33,000 miles. The RT is WAY More comfortable and turns better (With a Sway Bar) than the GS did. Even with the riser (Which I had) Your feet are in the Crotch rocket position. That's WHY I traded the GS for the F3.

[Skyraider]

I have a 2009 GS with floorboards I had built because wasn't comfortable riding in the 'crotch rocket' position. I'm not new to Spyderlovers but haven't been active in a long time so I'm not sure how to send you pictures and contact where I had them fabricated.
However, if you let me know your e-address I will share my info with you.

[r1100rider]

If you have at least 3" risers, you will be sitting similar to the RT. If less, it will still handle and sit like a crotch rocket.

Been there, done that.

An rs is not even close to what a ninja or gsxr is as far as crouched anyone that says that has never ridden a race bike crotch rocket , while it is less upright than an rt a small amount of forward lean has its + once you are at Highway speeds the slight cupping of your torso gives a lift in the wind which unweights you arms and seat some

[asp125]

Using the cycle ergo website:

RS with 3" riser & 1" pullback, vs stock RT.

Notice the torso position is basically similar, but the leg and feet on the RS is under you.
RS3inRiser.jpgRTL.jpg

[JerryB]

Hi 125,

Re: the leg and feet on the RS is under you.
RS3inRiser.jpgRTL.jpg

That is why I put floorboards on my GS:

Spyder-4.jpg


That short, turned back footpeg is where the factory footpeg is at. The floorboard(s) allow me to put my feet way farther forward. I occasionally even go so far as only having my heel on the front edge of the floorboard.

Works for me,

Jerry Baumchen

[ARtraveler]

An rs is not even close to what a ninja or gsxr is as far as crouched anyone that says that has never ridden a race bike crotch rocket , while it is less upright than an rt a small amount of forward lean has its + once you are at Highway speeds the slight cupping of your torso gives a lift in the wind which unweights you arms and seat some

Yes, the RS is not specifically a crotch rocket. I have owned two of them before going with the RT. For me, I could not stand the bending over. The risers were the first mod that I made to both.

Comfort level, the RT rides like a couch (which I like) compared to the rougher (crotch rocket) feel of the RS.

[beef56]

Thanks for all the information. What model would everyone recommend for comfort other than the RT?

[oldgoat]

I have had my '08 GS for 5 summers now. On day one of ownership I fitted KewlMetal 4.5" risers. The following summer I added the 1" or 2" BRP riser. I am at the limit of the cable travel now so can't do more in that area. I would like to.
With the risers installed (or maybe with the standard GS riding position as well) my knees are quite bent. I have fitted floorboards & highway pegs so I found relief that way.

Should have bought an RT but finances dictated a GS or nothing

I'm 77 & have bad knees, short arms & legs etc...etc.

[asp125]

Can't beat an RT for comfort, they are the easy chair Spyder. If you're looking for a more cruiser position, consider test sitting an F3. Most RS and ST models need some mods to get to RT comfort levels. Why are you switching, perhaps that's the first question.

If you're looking for sporty handling the RS/ST are the ones to go to, at the expense of more aggressive ergonomics. But that's part of the deal, you don't expect lazy boy sitting position while you attack corners. It's apples and oranges.

[beef56]

Can't beat an RT for comfort, they are the easy chair Spyder. If you're looking for a more cruiser position, consider test sitting an F3. Most RS and ST models need some mods to get to RT comfort levels. Why are you switching, perhaps that's the first question.

If you're looking for sporty handling the RS/ST are the ones to go to, at the expense of more aggressive ergonomics. But that's part of the deal, you don't expect lazy boy sitting position while you attack corners. It's apples and oranges.

I am not getting rid of the RT, I just want a second one. The wife wants to ride alone, not two up. I think I will wait to buy a used RT or maybe F3. I just don't think I would be happy with a GS.

[ARtraveler]

I am not getting rid of the RT, I just want a second one. The wife wants to ride alone, not two up. I think I will wait to buy a used RT or maybe F3. I just don't think I would be happy with a GS.

Sounds like a good decision. The Missus will claim the RT for sure. That will leave you with the GS or RS. GS was 08 and changed to RS in 09.

The F3 at least offers some leeway with the U-fit system. Pegs and handlebars are adjustable. Let us know when the decision is finally made.