View Poll Results: Which section of road do you usually ride your Spyder ??

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  • Left of center (middle of road goes under my right foot)

    19 28.79%
  • Right of center (middle of road goes under my left foot)

    14 21.21%
  • Right smack in the middle

    37 56.06%
Multiple Choice Poll.
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  1. #1
    Very Active Member Peacekeeper6's Avatar
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    Default Which section of road do you usually ride your Spyder ??

    Just got our RT-L last September and am trying to figure out where exactly is the best section of road to ryde on that decreases incidence of getting a flat tire.

    Here's what I do: On a two-lane road, I'm usually on the right (slow) lane. However, I tend to let the center of the road go under my left foot. My reasoning for doing this is that I believe that is where a lot of road debris tend to accumulate. Also, if I happen to jam on the binders, all 3 wheels will have the most traction available, since oil tends to settle in the middle of the road as well. It also helps that if a car on the left decides to cut me off (blind spot), I have some cushion to react.
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  2. #2
    Very Active Member RICZ's Avatar
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    I was taught it's best to ride to the left of your lane so that your lights are seen in both the rear view and side view mirrors of vehicles ahead. When there is no traffic ahead of me, I am all over the lane. On curvy roads, I'm picking off apexes.
    Ours is a red, black and chrome 2017 F3 Limited. Bought new in 2/2019. The avatar is my first bike back in 1952, a Simplex Servi-Cycle. Photo taken at the Barber Museum.
    2017 F3 Limited , Red, Black & Chrome

  3. #3
    Very Active Member PMK's Avatar
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    Kind of an intricate question to answer. Your own post has many reasons of its own.

    For us, #1 priority, assuming forward visibility around another vehicle or vehicles is good, I try and find the sweet spot of the roads crown in conjunction with worn in rutts. Simply prefer to have the Spyder neutral in steering effort to hold a line.

    #2 is avoiding the slippery groove if possible.

    The honest answer in my opinion, to your poll is it just depends on the road and conditions at the moment.

    I am careful to keep a reasonable distance to those in front of us since the Spyder is not the shortest vehicle in stopping distance and gets squirmy under hard braking as the front wheels toe out. At night even worse as the lights drop and decrease forward visibility.

    So, it just depends, easier to adapt constantly.

  4. #4
    Very Active Member ARtraveler's Avatar
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    For me, it varies with the condition of the road and the proximity of the road kills. We try to avoid them. Saw three road killed armadillos yesterday within a one mile stretch, and a dead vulture who probably got hit by an oncoming car also laying next to one.

    And yes, we apex the curves on the twisties.
    Last edited by ARtraveler; 05-11-2020 at 06:10 PM.

    Currently Owned: 2019 F3 Limited, 2020 F3 Limited: SOLD BOTH LIMITEDS in October of 2023.

    Previously : 2008 GS-SM5 (silver), 2009 RS-SE5 (red), 2010 RT-S Premier Editon #474 (black) 2011 RT A&C SE5 (magnesium) 2014 RTS-SE6 (yellow)

    MY FINAL TALLY: 7 Spyders, 15 years, 205,500 miles

    IT HAS BEEN A LONG, WONDERFUL, AND FUN RIDE.
    2020 F3L , Magma Red

  5. #5
    Very Active Member Mazo EMS2's Avatar
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    Here in WI we ride where the potholes haven't opened up just yet......near the center line for better visibility for all traffic
    2021 RT Limited

    2016 RTS , Pearl White

  6. #6
    Very Active Member JayBros's Avatar
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    Situational awareness and road strategy vary with every road I ride, every time I ride.
    Artillery lends dignity to what would
    otherwise be a vulgar brawl.
    ******************************
    Cognac 2014 RT-S

  7. #7
    Very Active Member Purple Guy's Avatar
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    If I'm riding alone I'm in the middle.
    If I'm riding with 2 wheelers I take the appropriate staggered lane position
    2014 RT-Ltd , Cognac

  8. #8
    Very Active Member Revalden's Avatar
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    I like to keep the center line under my left wheel on the left twisties and hang to the right on right twisties, but usually all over my lane. The only time I drive the twisties at or under the posted speed limit is when there's a Cruiser or cage I haven't been able to pass before the Twistie, or if I'm riding with the old folks club.
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  9. #9
    Very Active Member IdahoMtnSpyder's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by ARtraveler View Post
    Saw three road killed armadillos yesterday within a one mile stretch, and a dead vulture who probably got hit by an oncoming car also laying next to one.
    Why did the chicken cross the road? To prove to the armadillo that it can be done! Sorry, (not) for the momentary hijack!

    2014 Copper RTS

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    2014 RTS , Copper! (officially Cognac)

  10. #10
    Very Active Member pegasus1300's Avatar
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    You need a 4th option "all of the above". When on my own I don't worry too much about lane position. When with a group of two wheelers I ride the middle and don't stagger. They can stagger in front and re stagger behind me.

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  11. #11
    Very Active Member Lew L's Avatar
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    Sarcasm alert-----------

    I ryde where all three wheels touch the road ( most of the time). When on the V-Max---- I'm fly'ng low.
    Kaos----- Gone but not forgotten.

    2014 RTS in Circuit Yellow, farkle-ing addiction down to once every few months. ECU FLASH IS GREAT.
    2014 RTS , Circuit Yellow

  12. #12
    Very Active Member ARtraveler's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Revalden View Post
    I like to keep the center line under my left wheel on the left twisties and hang to the right on right twisties, but usually all over my lane. The only time I drive the twisties at or under the posted speed limit is when there's a Cruiser or cage I haven't been able to pass before the Twistie, or if I'm riding with the old folks club.
    Yes on the twisties. I am very comfortable with posted plus 10 on most of the twisties. I have found a couple sets marked 15 mph and 10 mph that really mean it though.

    Currently Owned: 2019 F3 Limited, 2020 F3 Limited: SOLD BOTH LIMITEDS in October of 2023.

    Previously : 2008 GS-SM5 (silver), 2009 RS-SE5 (red), 2010 RT-S Premier Editon #474 (black) 2011 RT A&C SE5 (magnesium) 2014 RTS-SE6 (yellow)

    MY FINAL TALLY: 7 Spyders, 15 years, 205,500 miles

    IT HAS BEEN A LONG, WONDERFUL, AND FUN RIDE.
    2020 F3L , Magma Red

  13. #13
    Active Member fjray's Avatar
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    The roads around here are so rutted from chains,studs and heavy trucks in the winter It is a challenge at times just to keep it between the lines. When I had the Spyder I just let it wander within reason. With the wing it's a bit easier to keep a line and its usually left.

  14. #14
    Very Active Member AeroPilot's Avatar
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    When I'm by myself, I'm wherever the road is smoothest and fitting the line through the curves. When leading ahead of my wife or others, I usually favor the right side of the lane so the spyder behind can see past me for oncoming traffic and hazards, and so that cars that may be wanting to turn left can see the bike behind me and wait 'til clear.

    Plus by being offset, our lights and width present a larger and wider appearance to side roads or approaching traffic. The worst in my opinion is to trail directly behind the rider in front of you...
    07 Shadows, Aero, Spirit gone but not forgotten
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  15. #15
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    Since I've only had mine a couple of weeks still trying to stay on my side of the road.

  16. #16
    Very Active Member Revalden's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by ARtraveler View Post
    Yes on the twisties. I am very comfortable with posted plus 10 on most of the twisties. I have found a couple sets marked 15 mph and 10 mph that really mean it though.
    Try to find AR185.Take the TWISTIES WIDE Up top in the gift shop(might be open only on weekends these days) you hafta buy the sticker/patch "I Survived 185".
    2015 RTS SE6 Special Series Red/Black w/Magnesium front fenders(bought in Nov. 2018 w/9,400 miles)
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    Magnetic Mirror Mounts, Air Innovations Seat Cushion
    Red Chrome pin striping on Black hood
    Federal Formoza AZ01 front tires (they're GREAT)
    Kumho Ecsta AST KU25 All-Season Tire - 225/50R15 91H
    LED bars above radiator inlets
    LED brake/running/turn signals on license plate frame
    Tag-Along trailer
    LED headlights LED fog lights (WOW)
    2" x 2" Road Lights inside front fenders
    7' x 10' Cargo trailer
    Garmin 396 LM GPS
    RLS Cat-delete resonator with China Akropovic muffler
    New Banshee AGM
    M3 TPMS on front tires
    Remote Control for Heated Jacket and Heated Riding Pants
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    2015 RT-S Special Series , Stock Spark Plugs Brake Pedal Extension Cherry Red/Black

  17. #17
    Very Active Member Revalden's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by IdahoMtnSpyder View Post
    Why did the chicken cross the road? To prove to the armadillo that it can be done! Sorry, (not) for the momentary hijack!
    Around here, "It' to show the possum that it can be done"
    2015 RTS SE6 Special Series Red/Black w/Magnesium front fenders(bought in Nov. 2018 w/9,400 miles)
    Dynojet Power Commander V, Power Commander POD-300 Display, PCV Map Switch, Pedal Commander (WOW)
    Passenger Arm Rests, Windshield Air Wing
    Baja Ron's Sway Bar & Spring Adjusters
    Air Scoops, LaMonster's Hiway Pegs
    Magnetic Mirror Mounts, Air Innovations Seat Cushion
    Red Chrome pin striping on Black hood
    Federal Formoza AZ01 front tires (they're GREAT)
    Kumho Ecsta AST KU25 All-Season Tire - 225/50R15 91H
    LED bars above radiator inlets
    LED brake/running/turn signals on license plate frame
    Tag-Along trailer
    LED headlights LED fog lights (WOW)
    2" x 2" Road Lights inside front fenders
    7' x 10' Cargo trailer
    Garmin 396 LM GPS
    RLS Cat-delete resonator with China Akropovic muffler
    New Banshee AGM
    M3 TPMS on front tires
    Remote Control for Heated Jacket and Heated Riding Pants
    Analog Clock and Analog Volt Meter
    Loose Nut Behind Handlebars
    2015 RT-S Special Series , Stock Spark Plugs Brake Pedal Extension Cherry Red/Black

  18. #18
    Very Active Member Bfromla's Avatar
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    wherever the holes are not do hug the left line when in town (especially on two wheels),
    hopefully helps be seen as people exit parking lots or whatever leads them to my lane Interstate however usually dead center. Dodging holes & road kill as always
    Thanks to all local roadworks it's all Zig ~ Zag~*SWERVE currently.

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  19. #19
    Active Member JCWeatherman's Avatar
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    Dodging buggies and horse poop is a hazard in Lancaster County, PA. Motorcycles are often seen swerving to avoid these common obstacles.
    All the best,
    John

    2022 RT Limited

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  20. #20
    Very Active Member Gwolf's Avatar
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    I try to ride on the part of the road that no other vehicles or critters are currently using.
    2019 F3-S , Black & Silver

  21. #21
    Very Active Member ARtraveler's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Revalden View Post
    Try to find AR185.Take the TWISTIES WIDE Up top in the gift shop(might be open only on weekends these days) you hafta buy the sticker/patch "I Survived 185".
    How about a clue? the AR MC ride guide is not giving it up??? A computer search turned up the highway# but no information. The town of Lexa is mentioned but no maps show 185??
    Last edited by ARtraveler; 05-13-2020 at 06:08 PM.

    Currently Owned: 2019 F3 Limited, 2020 F3 Limited: SOLD BOTH LIMITEDS in October of 2023.

    Previously : 2008 GS-SM5 (silver), 2009 RS-SE5 (red), 2010 RT-S Premier Editon #474 (black) 2011 RT A&C SE5 (magnesium) 2014 RTS-SE6 (yellow)

    MY FINAL TALLY: 7 Spyders, 15 years, 205,500 miles

    IT HAS BEEN A LONG, WONDERFUL, AND FUN RIDE.
    2020 F3L , Magma Red

  22. #22
    Very Active Member BLUEKNIGHT911's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by ARtraveler View Post
    How about a clue? the AR MC ride guide is not giving it up??? A computer search turned up the highwayt # but no information. The town of Lexa is mentioned but no maps show 185??
    Try google maps ..... I often use that to determine how Twisty a particular road is ..... I found Highway " H " in lower Mo. near Branson using this method .... It's the best Twistie's I have ever been on in MO. ( and that's quite a few roads ) .....PS it's an off-shoot of Rt. 125 that's a popular way to get to Peel's Ferry ...... which connects to Arkansas ...... Mike

  23. #23
    Very Active Member ARtraveler's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by BLUEKNIGHT911 View Post
    Try google maps ..... I often use that to determine how Twisty a particular road is ..... I found Highway " H " in lower Mo. near Branson using this method .... It's the best Twistie's I have ever been on in MO. ( and that's quite a few roads ) .....PS it's an off-shoot of Rt. 125 that's a popular way to get to Peel's Ferry ...... which connects to Arkansas ...... Mike
    I am familiar with #125. Was on it today.

    Currently Owned: 2019 F3 Limited, 2020 F3 Limited: SOLD BOTH LIMITEDS in October of 2023.

    Previously : 2008 GS-SM5 (silver), 2009 RS-SE5 (red), 2010 RT-S Premier Editon #474 (black) 2011 RT A&C SE5 (magnesium) 2014 RTS-SE6 (yellow)

    MY FINAL TALLY: 7 Spyders, 15 years, 205,500 miles

    IT HAS BEEN A LONG, WONDERFUL, AND FUN RIDE.
    2020 F3L , Magma Red

  24. #24
    Very Active Member BLUEKNIGHT911's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by ARtraveler View Post
    I am familiar with #125. Was on it today.
    Great ..... Google map Peel's Ferry Rt125 ..... follow it north to the Mark Twain forest ..... " H " goes thru the forest ... it's paved and Extremely twistie ..... good luck .... Mike ...........PS how far are you from Peel's Ferry ???? .....

  25. #25
    Active Member Catalyst105's Avatar
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    I adjust my position as needed. To the left of the lane with oncoming traffic to be seen. When going in the same direction as traffic with multiple lanes, I ride to the side of the lane as the vehicle as I am passing or closest to so they can see you in their mirrors.

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