Think of changing from Freewheeler - is the Spyder any easier &/or safer?

[GrayRyder]

I have very limited experience with a new RTL, but I can tell you that riding one is very much like riding a 4-wheeler atv as opposed to a motorcycle.

[Snoking1127]

Gang - In '21, my balance left me, resulting in a total of one of my Road Kings - as well as scaring the crap out of me. Doc says no more two wheelers after 50 years, always Harleys. So, I went to a Freewheeler in '23. Took it around the Lake Superior Circle Tour with no problem after getting used to it.

Here's the thing. Steering is a herculean effort. Back wheels want to drive the bike forward in a straight line with me pushing/pulling the front wheel into the turns. This, in turn, makes me uneasy, especially in long curves where the back tries to throw me off the road.

So, does the Spyder configuration make this any easier and/or safer? And, yes, I understand that any three wheeled set up will have some of this. I'd be looking into the F or R series only.

Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Out on the open road you glide the Spyder, try to man handle steer it and it will be all over the place. A well setup Spyder will go straight down the highway, and only requires a slight pressure on the offside handlebar to turn or make a correction. Yesterday I did a test ride on my second (new to me 2018 RTL) after installing a BajaRon sway bar. This machine came to me with Alka shocks on the front and I put my PPA wheels with Vredestein Quatrac S tires on the front and it goes as straight as an arrow on the road. Got behind a semi and the wind was buffeting me around while the trike was going dead straight down the road. I normally run on cruise control a lot and just rest my hands on the handlebars. TWO THUMB DRIVING! Left thumb shifts up and right thumb controls the cruise control.

Get in the twisties and you drive it more like a snowmobile shifting you weight to the inside on corners if you want to take them really fast. The Spyder has really nice power steering and there is never a point that one has to muscle it around.

[safecracker]

Hope your search is going well.

[Big F]

I would suggest you go to a Spyder dealer and ask to take one around the block.. You won't be sorry as they are a peach to drive.. take your checkbook with ya. LOL
BIG F