600 mile service-warning long message

[BeRight]

I had my 600 mile service done yesterday in Frederick, MD. Total tab: $314.87. The majority of which is labor: $100/hr 2.25hrs.

They were the only dealer in Maryland that would work on my Spyder while I waited.

The mechanic wanted to talk to me after work was complete (yeah I should have talked to him before he started-my shyness sucks sometimes). He seemed to be a very knowledgeable motorcycle mechanic and a really nice/honest person. He has not been trained by BRP on the Spyder but had no problem following their service requirements/check list. We went over the list and I was very pleased with his knowledge of the Spyder.

He was not made aware of BRP service bulletins-so even though I have some Spyder issues that are covered by the bulletins, this work was of course not done.

I have another more concerning issue with my Spyder but we agreed that this was not the time, due to gusting winds/rain/cold for a road test to help him better understand my issue.

He did provide me with a great tip for School Bus brake squeal - no he didn't put anti-squeal on back of pads/change pads- because he wasn't aware of service bulletin. Spray brake cleaner then compressed air to remove all brake dust/crud. Seems to work and is something easy that I can do myself without taking anything apart.

Nice, hard working people, very small dealer, very few Spyder sales, very little Spyder experience, zero experience dealing with BRP (warranty issues/technical issues).

Bottom Line-would I go back for next service or schedule another appointment on a better weather day to address heavy vibrations in 5th gear?-- I am not sure-probably. The other two alternatives in MD probably also have zero experience in dealing with BRP and the Spyder. One of which has sold a few and one which has sold zero! I'll give it more thought come spring for now I am going to ride more worry less, until winter stops me or the machine breaks.

Whatever I choose to do next it will require a great deal of my time, braking out of my shell and effort-which I should have anticipated since this is a new vehicle type and still very new to MD.

There is way to much on board computer control that is BRP proprietary making it improbable for a competent home mechanic to tackle repairs/issues and just have fun tinkering. Give me a break, one can't even bleed the brakes without going to a dealer because BRP does not give owner's access to software. Computer interface cable and diagnostic/fault reset software would go a long way for many of us.

We the few MD Spyder owner's, who don't communicate with each other ( a MD thing-I can say that being a native Marylander), need to communicate with each other, share our Spyder and MD dealer experiences and educate the few choices we have for service.

[wobbles]

I live in Frederick and bought my Spyder from the dealer here. Nothing but good things to say about them. They are very attentive and knowledgeable about the product. Athough, I learn so much from this site that I usually have new product info., recall, and problem issues, and tips and advice about the Spyder before they do. But they soon catch up. Also had my 600 mi service there and paid a smidge less probably because I bought it there. But not enough less to brag about---Hint: one free tank of gas. Recently got back from a trip from here to Atlantic City and back ( 3 1/2 hrs. one way ) and not a single problem or concern. Didn't do too bad there either so heading back tomorrow morning for one night to see if I can take more of their money. But really just to have some fun. We Marylanders do need to talk more. And the crazy part is -- other then at the dealership I have not seen one other Spyder on the road --Was that your silver SM5 there with the pegs and one inch riser? Sticker on back bumper? Would love to get together and ride before too cold. I will check back here when I get back Fri. after the kids go steal candy. Send me a message and maybe we could meet Sat. -- it's supposed to be a nice day. 30 yr. old SE5 red

[basicbusiness1]

I had my servicing done in VA and it was no cheaper... A friend who does harleys say, all motor cycle shops are HIGH, and most of the time it will be around 300.00 or better. Well no more for me I learned my lesson and will read the book and do myself.

Toy's Auto Detailing
571-436-5257

[bone crusher]

Talbots in Easton is a better dealership, IMHO...I bought mine there...not impressed with Frederick at all...they don't return phone calls and charge too much hourly (like 25.00 more per hour vs. Talbots)...

Take the ride over the Bay Bridge (great ride) and go to Talbots...they're really nice and will take care of you...

I've had them install some aftermarket mods. and they've been very fair with pricing...

[Don Stombaugh]

Bone Crusher,

I also bought mine 09 Spyder at Talbots in Easton because I was not impressed with the dealer on the 301 at all...they didn't return any of my phone calls when I was try to buy one, so with that said, how much fun would it have been trying to get it serviced after I bought it. So I when to Talbots in Easton and I'm very pleased.

I too will be riding over the Bay Bridge to get it serviced. However, I don't care because it is a reason to ride and as you said "what a great ride". If you have to take the bridge also to Talbots where do you live? I'm from Leonardtown and I'd like to go on a ride with another Spyder.

Don