Making the Spyder RT a better tourer...

[Kansas Spyder]

I'm going to be taking multiple 3-4 day trips this summer on my 2012 RT A&C. What should I consider for common sense additions or adjustments to make to the stock RT better suited for that type of touring? I travel light so I don't need a trailer

The top of my list is the BajaRon sway bar, Pitbull shock relocators, and maybe an oil pressure gauge and ammeter. What else should I be considering? Or for that matter, what shouldn't I do?

[den1953]

The limited fuel range could become an issue in some parts of the Western States. Maybe a plastic gas can or something like that if there was a safe way to carry it should your travel take you through long desert highways. Really it's not a modification to your machine, just a precaution if a trip is being planned in such a region. Another thing is maybe to switch to some automotive tires for better tread life. Some car tires are better in terms of wet road performance and resistance to hydroplaning. A tire plug kit and a 12 volt air compressor is another good idea that's not a mod.

[Bob Denman]

XM radio might give you access to more listening options as you travel...
A couple of Reda cans in the left saddlebag should extend your fuel range!
A backrest would help make you more comfortable on the long days in the saddle too!

[Pennyrick]

I'm going to be taking multiple 3-4 day trips this summer on my 2012 RT A&C. What should I consider for common sense additions or adjustments to make to the stock RT better suited for that type of touring? I travel light so I don't need a trailer

The top of my list is the BajaRon sway bar, Pitbull shock relocators, and maybe an oil pressure gauge and ammeter. What else should I be considering? Or for that matter, what shouldn't I do?

Look for a good deal and move to a '14.

i believe BRP anticipated your question.

[xcopnyc]

Get the front end aligned. I have 2012 RTL at 3500 I had it aligned and it made a big improvement.

[GloryRyders]

with the laser alignment and backrest! It will make long days more comfortable! Have a great trip!

[ARtraveler]

Comfort options are where I fall in. Aftermarket seat, backrest, gel/sheepskin pad, and seal floorboards.

[NancysToy]

The Spyder RT is an accomplished touring machine as delivered. If you want more comfort, performance, storage, visibility, etc., there are ways to accomplish them.....but they are not really necessary at all. I do recommend carrying a few extra tools and supplies, depending on your needs, itinerary, and capabilities. I highly recommend an extra quart of oil, funnel, shop towels, first aid kit, tire plugger and compressor, and spare fuel in a motorcycle-safe container. I also recommend spare gloves and socks, rainsuit, something to clean the windshield without scratching it, a spare key, and $100 tucked away someplacesafe and inconspicuous in case you need cash. ...and don't forget your credit card and cell phone. My personal list of "junk in the trunk" goes further still, but those are my own Boy Scout sort of preparedness. Yours may differ.

[SpyderAnn01]

For safety anywhere I think you need to add lights. The "3rd Brake Light" is a must and the lights that replace the reflectors on the front fenders too.

[MidTNDawg]

Look for a good deal and move to a '14.

i believe BRP anticipated your question.

question. I have been yelling tank range for 2 years which is when I got my Spyder. Thank goodness they have made a change. It is easier than some will believe to run out of range in the Western mountains. And before someone posts, I have bought the containers for the bags.

[vrodrjs]

I'm going to be taking multiple 3-4 day trips this summer on my 2012 RT A&C. What should I consider for common sense additions or adjustments to make to the stock RT better suited for that type of touring? I travel light so I don't need a trailer

The top of my list is the BajaRon sway bar, Pitbull shock relocators, and maybe an oil pressure gauge and ammeter. What else should I be considering? Or for that matter, what shouldn't I do?

Make a bunch of changes right before you leave on a 3 or 4 day trip. Even the simple stuff ought to be done so that you can put some close to home miles on the bike before you take off on an extended trip.

[Kansas Spyder]

Wow, thanks for the good ideas. Todays purchases included a small compressor and a tire kit, frog toggs, and an emergency space blanket. I'm going to continue adding items as funds permit. Who makes some safe fuel containers as traveling in Kansas refueling every chance you get is a survival must. I'm also a member of AAA and the AMA just in case of a breakdown.

Please keep the comments coming as I continue to expand my travel horizons.

[NancysToy]

Wow, thanks for the good ideas. Todays purchases included a small compressor and a tire kit, frog toggs, and an emergency space blanket. I'm going to continue adding items as funds permit. Who makes some safe fuel containers as traveling in Kansas refueling every chance you get is a survival must. I'm also a member of AAA and the AMA just in case of a breakdown.

Please keep the comments coming as I continue to expand my travel horizons.

I carry a space blanket, too. Glad to hear I am not the only one that thinks that way. The REDA and Rotopax cans are made for this kind of use. REDA will fit in the left saddlebag, and the flat Rotopax in the front trunk. There have been some leakage problems with the REDA, but mine work OK if tightened beyond the last part of the ratchet on the cap. Both have those darned regulatory safety nozzles that are a bear to use. I suggest buying the optional spout if you get the Rotopax can. Review your AAA membership. Not all of them cover motorcycles.

[PW2013STL]

As Scotty said check your AAA membership as AAA considers motorcycles (including Spyders) RV's. Found this out in the mountains years ago when I ran out of gas. I called AAA and they told me that I was not covered even though I had the gold card. They said sorry but you need the +RV So now that is what I carry.

I also carry cable ties, wire wrapped around a screwdriver handle, small roll of rubber style non-adhesive tape that sticks to itself, and a few extra tools. Used them all over the years and it takes up very little room.

[NancysToy]

As Scotty said check your AAA membership as AAA considers motorcycles (including Spyders) RV's. Found this out in the mountains years ago when I ran out of gas. I called AAA and they told me that I was not covered even though I had the gold card. They said sorry but you need the +RV So now that is what I carry.

I also carry cable ties, wire wrapped around a screwdriver handle, small roll of rubber style non-adhesive tape that sticks to itself, and a few extra tools. Used them all over the years and it takes up very little room.

...and Gorilla Tape.

[Yelhelp]

's to the rescue list

[MouthPiece]

Dealership list, cell phone with emergency numbers, insurance materials, I think AAA or the like was mentioned plus what everyone else has mentioned. As far as the ride, laser alignment, backrest, Ron's Sway Bar, Elkas and if there is a passenger, armrests for him/her.*

* (PC).

Chris

[MarkLawson]

All the answers above are excellent and deserve your thoughtful consideration.

There are two things I did that revolutionized my ability to stay in the saddle. The first was to get a Utopia backrest. The second was to install the Kewl Metal highway brackets and some Kury ISO Mini Wings. From the pics below, you can see how I chose to position those pegs allows me to actually stand on them and lean against the backrest. This relieves the discomfort in the butt, allowing blood and air to flow again. With my knees straight, there is little stress on the legs, allowing me to ride for miles in this position, steering with one or two hands. Also, because my legs aren't very long, I'm only about an inch or two higher, so it doesn't look or feel awkward.

Before these mods, I had to get out of the saddle every 45 minutes. Now I can ride tank to tank, tank after tank, day after day. I've made a couple of 4000 mile, ten day trips. In 2012, I rode 782 miles the first day on the rode coming home from the Owner's Event in Durango, CO. This works & I didn't have to spend $1000+ on a new custom saddle 'crapshoot'.

[Don in E Texas]

This check list may give you some ideas as well...

http://micapeak.com/checklists/mclist.html

Happy and safe travels

Don

[cuznjohn]

all of the above are great ideas but if it was a 13 i would also carry hot dogs and marshmallows in case it caught fire at least you could eat when waiting for the fire dept lol sorry i just had to say that

[Bob Denman]

John,
I'll bet you just a little bit more than a plugged nickel; that you fixed yours!
All we need; is some riding weather up here to find out.

[webweaver]

The Spyder RT is an accomplished touring machine as delivered. If you want more comfort, performance, storage, visibility, etc., there are ways to accomplish them.....but they are not really necessary at all. I do recommend carrying a few extra tools and supplies, depending on your needs, itinerary, and capabilities. I highly recommend an extra quart of oil, funnel, shop towels, first aid kit, tire plugger and compressor, and spare fuel in a motorcycle-safe container. I also recommend spare gloves and socks, rainsuit, something to clean the windshield without scratching it, a spare key, and $100 tucked away someplacesafe and inconspicuous in case you need cash. ...and don't forget your credit card and cell phone. My personal list of "junk in the trunk" goes further still, but those are my own Boy Scout sort of preparedness. Yours may differ.

Don't forget the chargers for those electronics you are taking. Penny

[Kansas Spyder]

Wow, keep it coming! I appreciate the help as I tend to be a minimalist and I have to learn to think beyond socks and underwear! Somebody in the Kansas Spyders suggested a RiderID bracelet. What a great idea as my wife won't let me wear my dogtags any longer. I checked with AAA too and they will cover me on the Spyder - now!

[bmwlarry]

I rode at 9,000 mile spydrrfest ride last year. My list would be!

• Floor boards
• Backrest
• two Reda gas cans
• Ride on in the tires
• Airhawk R seat cushion

[F4 Customs]

Kansas, I wonder if you have the air management that you want? If you eliminate buffeting and wind noise to a great extent, the ride becomes a more enjoyable, less fatiguing ride, meaning a safer ride. We can help accomplish that with the proper windshield and/or Baker Air Wings if you are not where you would like to be with it. Give us a call with any questions you might have. If we don't hear from you, have a wonderful trip and ride safe!

BTW, we have 10% off and free shipping to forum members until the end of January! Call 330-968-4644 to place your order!