Suggested Spyder Model / Model Year

[mmitsch]

I want to buy a Can Am Spyder and don't really know anything about them other than liking the looks. I want buy a used one, and I suppose I would like a manual transmission. I will mostly ride this around town with some occasional trips.

I am hoping there are a LOT of experts ut on this forum who can tip me to what model year is best for a used Spyder (maybe all of them are the same) and what model(s) I should consider. I do not have unlimited funds and probably don't need all the features.

Anyway, as I said, I need your input and guidance. I am looking forward to getting my new toy.

Mike

P.S. - I've never driven one of these but have had motorcycles for years. I am assuming these are easy to ride -- is this correct?

[Eagle1]

Hi, we have the 2010 rt, it is great around town or long distance Ryde. I have the standard and have added many extras.

[mmitsch]

Hi, we have the 2010 rt, it is great around town or long distance Ryde. I have the standard and have added many extras.

Thanks for getting back with me so quickly! What is the "base model" for these. Is 2101 a good year? And do you know what I should expect to pay approx).

Thanks!

Mike

[bmccaffrey]

Probably not as easy to ride as u think especially coming from motorcycle. If u have riden 4 wheelers or snowmobiles it won't be to bad. Model depends on your riding style.
My suggestion is take them for a test ride. They are a blast

[PrairieSpyder]

One way to start is to consider your riding style. If you prefer sport bikes, look at the RS line. Otherwise go with the ST or RT lines. The newest model, F3, is a cruiser and has just been announced so you won't find any used yet.

[mmitsch]

One way to start is to consider your riding style. If you prefer sport bikes, look at the RS line. Otherwise go with the ST or RT lines. The newest model, F3, is a cruiser and has just been announced so you won't find any used yet.

Last bike I had was a 1999 Honda Magna. Is this what you would be calling a Sport Bike?

Mike

[mmitsch]

Probably not as easy to ride as u think especially coming from motorcycle. If u have riden 4 wheelers or snowmobiles it won't be to bad. Model depends on your riding style.
My suggestion is take them for a test ride. They are a blast

Thanks for the reply. I am trying to find a dealer nearby to take a test drive. I haven't really played around with 4 Wheelers or snowmobiles. Last bike I had was a 1999 Honda Magna 750.

Mike

[spydaman60]

Last bike I had was a 1999 Honda Magna. Is this what you would be calling a Sport Bike?

Mike

we have the 2012 rss and it seems to be a good year as far as problems are concerned. very much trouble free with over 18,000 miles on it. we just did a 500 mile weekend with it, and it has all the storage you need for a couple of weekend days of riding. we like the sportier look of the rs line. as far as learning to ride it, agree with above comments. about a five hundred mile learning curve. you'll love it!!

[PrairieSpyder]

Thanks for the reply. I am trying to find a dealer nearby to take a test drive. I haven't really played around with 4 Wheelers or snowmobiles. Last bike I had was a 1999 Honda Magna 750.

Mike

I had to look that up. It looks more like a cruiser, IMHO. By sport-bike, I'm thinking of the type you lean forward on with your knees tucked up and the pegs behind your butt. Like this: http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/motor...i-GSXR1000.htm

[SPYD3R]

i'd say the 'learning curve' is about 100 miles...
but that all depends on whether you are riding 'flat & straight' roads, or 'curvy up-n-down' roads... i got myself tuned-in on the curvies...
if you know you'll be riding 50% + of the time with a passenger: the RT is what you may want to consider... if 50% + alone, the RS may be a better choice...
i have a 2009 RS, SE5 with well over 40,000 trouble-free miles on it... i wouldn't trade it for the world... oh, let me take that back... i'd trade it for another RS if BRP would listen to a lot of us, and put the 1330cc in it...
you also need to consider what 'style' fits you best...
NOTE: the SE transmission is worlds ahead of the ME... IMHO....
Dan P
Easley, SC
SPYD3R

[bmccaffrey]

I agree with Dan. I also have an Rs. I have put considerably amount of money in it making it my own but with farkles the sky is the limit. I love it

If you have never ridden 4 wheeler or snowmobile you are in for a treat or scare. There is an adjustment time with them. Relax and enjoy

[ThreeWheels]

Your question is valid, but I'm afraid the question really starts with you and what kind of things you want to achieve.
Perhaps if you could give some information.
"Around town and some occasional trips"
Around town for what reason ? Around town to get to the movies ?
Or around town to go grocery shopping ?
Occasional trips an hour away to a friends house ?
Or occasional trips to FL for vacation.
Knowing as little as I do from your posts, I'd suggest you might be happiest with one of the new ST models.
Sport Touring. You have the sportier version of the Spyder with the more comfortable ergonomics of the big touring machine.
Sporty for around town, yet comfortable for long trips.
You can add removable storage bags, so if you just want to go out on a ride with friends, leave the bags home and you have the sportier version, but if you need to go to the grocery store, you can add the storage capacity. Or if you need it, you have the storage capacity for a long trip.

That's my advice. As always, my free advice comes with a double your money back guarantee.
Good luck and keep us posted so we can welcome you properly when you get your Spyder.

[Supernam]

P.S. - I've never driven one of these but have had motorcycles for years. I am assuming these are easy to ride -- is this correct?

They are very easy to ride, it just takes getting used to that's all. I would suggest an RS if you like an aggressive seating postion, don't buy a 2013 used though.

[bscrive]

A 1999 Magna is not a sport bike. It is a middleweight cruiser. I would suggest that you try a ST model. They have the same type of seating position as the Magna. The RS is more of a lean forward type of bike like a VFR. I found that a lot of my weight was on my hands when I drove my wife's old 2009 RS and I put a riser on it to sit more upright. The RT is a touring machine. Ultimately, though, you will have to make that decision based upon some test rides. The best prices will be on the RS because they have been out the longest.

[Mcubed45]

If you find a '13 with a cat bypass, you'd be good to go. The only issue with the '13s is the heat issue. If you get the cat bypass from Pitbull you'll be fine.

[ARtraveler]

I want to buy a Can Am Spyder and don't really know anything about them other than liking the looks. I want buy a used one, and I suppose I would like a manual transmission. I will mostly ride this around town with some occasional trips.

I am hoping there are a LOT of experts ut on this forum who can tip me to what model year is best for a used Spyder (maybe all of them are the same) and what model(s) I should consider. I do not have unlimited funds and probably don't need all the features.

Anyway, as I said, I need your input and guidance. I am looking forward to getting my new toy.

Mike

P.S. - I've never driven one of these but have had motorcycles for years. I am assuming these are easy to ride -- is this correct?

Are you interested in the RS, ST, or RT models?

You won't hear much bad about the RS models any year.

ST and 2013 seem to have the most issues mentioned.

RT--2012 is said to be the best year for the model with the 998 Rotax. Most recommend staying away from 2013. The 2014 is the new ACE 1330 engine. It is a very good machine.

[Questions]

i just recently bought a 2011 spyder rt, have put about 2200 miles on it !!!!! i had ridden motorcycles since 1961, they are different but, not that much, leaning does not turn or even help turn, no front brake lever ? all three wheel brakes are on the foot pedal, i really love my spyder , i paid 18,000 out the door [ included sales tax, plates , registration and title ] !!!!! i can tell you in my area northeast, there are not a l;ot of used spyders, i have been looking for a trike [ differenht than a can am or spyder ] for 5 - 6 months ! you may find more selection in Indiana ! i don't think the year is important but, certainly the dealer is !!!!! hope you have good luck !!!!! all models are available in manual or semi-automatic [ actually i drove the semi auto just the other day and it is not much different than the manual just no clutch - a lever shifts up and the opposte way shifts down and, it shifted very smooth !!!!! if you have any questions please feel free to reply !!!!!

I want to buy a Can Am Spyder and don't really know anything about them other than liking the looks. I want buy a used one, and I suppose I would like a manual transmission. I will mostly ride this around town with some occasional trips.

I am hoping there are a LOT of experts ut on this forum who can tip me to what model year is best for a used Spyder (maybe all of them are the same) and what model(s) I should consider. I do not have unlimited funds and probably don't need all the features.

Anyway, as I said, I need your input and guidance. I am looking forward to getting my new toy.

Mike

P.S. - I've never driven one of these but have had motorcycles for years. I am assuming these are easy to ride -- is this correct?

[reissooz]

Last bike I had was a 1999 Honda Magna. Is this what you would be calling a Sport Bike?

Mike

Hi Mike - the Honda Magna was a V-4 cruiser with shaft drive. I had 1985/6 700 Magna - I think it was the only year with 700 vs 750 if I remember right. Also had liquid cooling. If the style of bike you are comfortable riding, the ST or F3 might work for you.
Sue

[KeithInAurora]

I want to buy a Can Am Spyder and don't really know anything about them other than liking the looks. I want buy a used one, and I suppose I would like a manual transmission. I will mostly ride this around town with some occasional trips.

I am hoping there are a LOT of experts ut on this forum who can tip me to what model year is best for a used Spyder (maybe all of them are the same) and what model(s) I should consider. I do not have unlimited funds and probably don't need all the features.

Anyway, as I said, I need your input and guidance. I am looking forward to getting my new toy.

Mike

P.S. - I've never driven one of these but have had motorcycles for years. I am assuming these are easy to ride -- is this correct?

My advice would be to determine what riding position you like. The RS will give you the most forward riding position and is most like a sport bike (though in all honesty, you can't really compare any of the Spyders with a sport bike). The RT is an upright riding position and more comfortable for longer rides. The ST falls in between.

I am a new rider myself, having purchased my 2010 RT w/Audio & Convenience last summer (purchased used from Craigs List) and I've really liked it. Having ridden all 3 styles, I'm still happy I went with the RT.

If you're good with the 990 Rotax engine, you should find them to be the most economical way to get into your first Spyder. However, it sounds like the new ACE 1330 is a really nice platform. The only downside there, is that the ACE 1330 was new for 2014, so anyone selling theirs already will still be asking a premium price.

My only other advice would be to read and pay attention to AKSpyderman's post below. There has been a lot of discussion around heat issues with the 2013's and that was enough to keep me from considering one.

Good luck with your decision and I hope you love your new Spyder!

[ChasCS]

I want to buy a Can Am Spyder and don't really know anything about them other than liking the looks. I want buy a used one, and I suppose I would like a manual transmission. I will mostly ride this around town with some occasional trips.

I am hoping there are a LOT of experts up on this forum who can tip me to what model year is best for a used Spyder (maybe all of them are the same) and what model(s) I should consider. I do not have unlimited funds and probably don't need all the features.

Anyway, as I said, I need your input and guidance. I am looking forward to getting my new toy.

Mike

P.S. - I've never driven one of these but have had motorcycles for years. I am assuming these are easy to ride -- is this correct?

Hi,
Big welcome to thee fun forum and soon to being, a member of the vast SpYder family.

First, things first, while they are a heck of a lot of fun, these are not toys. ;-) yes?
Find those in a RC hobby shop. Hahaha j/k

Choosing Your Best:
Please leaf through the online or paper catalog, and see which style of the various SpYder models most appeals to your senses/taste. Looks wise, the three older models haven't changed much, but you can also do SpYder model searches on Yahoo.
Including for example: Model Type, Colors, and the various Years you might consider.
http://www.brp.ca/spyder/

There are numerous motorcycle websites to look at and also to read experienced reviews. Ah as well, YouTube can be your friend during this awesome time of SpYder Shopping.

Enjoy the time spent here and while in search of, looking forward to riding that new bike.


Please post pics once you have decided on the one you love, second most... ;-)

Chas

[blacklightning]

I just purchased a 2014 spyder RT. I consider myself new to the riding game. I have been riding motorcycles for 8 years, and owned 10 different bikes in that time. My first experience with a spyder was a 3 mile test ride on a 2013 RT. I was impressed, but not ready to buy. They my good friend purchased a 2014 RT and let me ride it for about 30 miles. I was a little nervous for about the first 5 miles, because I was gripping too tight. After I learned to relax, I was spoiled, and in love. Once I decided to purchased, I considered the ST, being that most of my riding would be single. I like the looks, but it had my feet in a more ackward position. I seemed to be a lot more comfortable on the RT, so I decided to purchase it for the better (to me) riding position. I also chose the RT, with hopes that I can convince the wife to ride with me and enjoy the sport that I enjoys so much. I will let you know if that comes to pass.
PS, I also chose the RT since i am slowing down and don't drive as agressively as I used too. If I decide to do some more of that type of riding, I will purchase another 2 wheeled beast.

[n1njazx7]

I have a 2013 RT Limited. I have right at 4000 miles on it so far with zero problems. Wife and I would like to go in a different direction. I would sell it for $18,000. I have added a luggage rack and highway pegs. I not that far from you as I live in Louisville, Ky.

[Bob Denman]

I must be getting cranky in my Old Age..
This almost sounds like someone trying to "stir the pot", with ignorance...
I HOPE that I'm wrong.
If I am; I'll apologize right now to the O.P.
You didn't give us much to work with, and you asked a lot of questions, that are pretty dependent upon us having more information...

[PrairieSpyder]

I just purchased a 2014 spyder RT. I consider myself new to the riding game. I have been riding motorcycles for 8 years, and owned 10 different bikes in that time. My first experience with a spyder was a 3 mile test ride on a 2013 RT. I was impressed, but not ready to buy. They my good friend purchased a 2014 RT and let me ride it for about 30 miles. I was a little nervous for about the first 5 miles, because I was gripping too tight. After I learned to relax, I was spoiled, and in love. Once I decided to purchased, I considered the ST, being that most of my riding would be single. I like the looks, but it had my feet in a more ackward position. I seemed to be a lot more comfortable on the RT, so I decided to purchase it for the better (to me) riding position. I also chose the RT, with hopes that I can convince the wife to ride with me and enjoy the sport that I enjoys so much. I will let you know if that comes to pass.
PS, I also chose the RT since i am slowing down and don't drive as agressively as I used too. If I decide to do some more of that type of riding, I will purchase another 2 wheeled beast.

[WackyDan]

Depends on if you are looking for used or new.

There are a lot of well sorted out 08/09/10 GS/RS models out there with aftermarket comfort and bags added that have a good maintenance history and decent mileage.

First you have to determine whether you want an RS/ST/RT/ or F3 in order to narrow your search down.

*My GS might be for sale soon.