Thinking about a RT-S or Limited

[Litespeed]

So I will be a first time "street" rider if I get one. Always been kind of freaked out of street riding 2 wheeled bikes but have had dirt bikes and off road cars for almost 40 years. I think the Spyder is just what my wife and I need to enjoy some time together. First off I'd like you all to tell me how great the vehicle is and why I want one. This would be a great way to get us off the fence. In the world of texting and so many other extra curricular activities while driving I love the idea of the safer feel and safety features of the Spyders. I've read all the brochures and watched many of the videos online. I've sat on and kick tires many times......we are now getting serious. I read countless "2 wheel vs 3 wheel" debates and I'm 100% with this crowd. If I'm going to ride the Spyder will be the means.

So a couple questions would be,

Any words of wisdom for a new to street riding and new to Spyder rider?

I know I would do a 14 or newer with the larger engine but is there anything to look for if buying used?

I've seen a few cool accessories, what are the must haves?

My wife and I like to go for drives and think this could really be a fun way to spend time together. She also felt comfortable and secure on the back of the RT with the handles and back rest. Any encouragement of course while keeping it 100% honest would be greatly appreciated.

I'm in St. Charles Missouri so anyone close that would like to offer testimonial would be even that much cooler.

Thanks for reading my rambling and always enjoy the ride,

Tom

 

[POD KonB GA]

Once you get it, and you definitely should, take a MSF trike class. You really learn the feel of the Spyder. I went from two wheels to three and would never go back to two. Soooo much safer! Good luck and can't wait to see pictures!

 

[Pirate looks at --]

You will Love it

Most important advice I can give with regards to Ryding on the street. Always, always assume you are invisible! The other guy does not see you, even with the improved visibility of the Spyder. Always be aware of what is in front of you, behind you, and to the Side of you! Once you master that you can really enjoy the Ryde. Also invest in a Ryder to Ryder comm unit for your helmets that will allow you to communicate with your wife, and listen to music. Another nice benefit of this is with the press of the button you can turn off the volume from the governor on the back of the bike!:roflblack:
!

 

[Bob Denman]

:welcome: :2thumbs:
There's no doubt that an MSF course will help to get you on the right path... nojoke
If you look around in here a bit; you'll find that most of us have our own personalized lists of "Gottahaves".
I'd actually suggest that you put some miles on one, and let your own needs tell you what is needed.

 

[Pirate looks at --]

I have to add

Most importantly, this is a fabulous machine. My wife and I have so enjoyed driving roads that we have driven many times in a car, and it is so amazing how you become a part of the scenery, so much more so than in the car. The Spyder takes the worry of most road hazards out of the equation (except deer or cattle in the road) so you can enjoy the Ryde more. One hazard will be your wife will be so secure on the back, she may doze off from time to time. Pay attention that clunking sound on the back of your head is her helmet! My advice.......buy it as fast as you can! There is nothing but fun ahead!

 

[Chupaca]

Enough thinking...!!

You seem to have investigated a great deal. If your thinking 14/16 new or used you will have no problem. There are the do's and do nots here that will help. Having a dirt bike backround you should take a test drive and get a real feel...these machines are techy but ryding them you best forget techy...I don't even look at my gps when driving. As a dirt biker your main concern is whats in front of you. Here you need to be awere of whats all around you. Take that test ryde and on your way home on your new ryde you will see it all...:thumbup:

 

[Litespeed]

Wow.....what a great bunch of responses! Gets me more excited about the Spyder the more I read. I'll defiantly be getting a "mute" button if the ride becomes too long!

Ill have to to find a 3 wheel safety course, are these sponsored by Can Am? Anyone have a link to that? That would really finish driving this home.

Tom

 

[MRH]

A few thoughts:

There is a dealer with a great reputation who is active here and host's this site's yearly event in Missouri, Pitbull Powersports. I'm in Los Angeles, so I don't have any personal experience with them, but I've only heard good things about them here and they are the top Spyder dealer in the country.

The do's and don'ts read is a must:
http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/...t-Do-s-and-Do-Nots-quot-for-new-Spyder-owners

The BajaRon Anti-Sway Bar really improves the ride in many people's opinion, including mine. Search the many threads on that topic.

I've changed out my reflectors for LED lights, and added a brake light on the top of my trunk to be seen. There are at least two companies that make those, and Custom Dynamics made mine.

I suggest an extended warranty, especially on used. BRP sells them, and you can often get the best deal through Bert's Megamall (find the rep on this side by searching and he'll get you the best price).

As to your title, I own a 2014 RT-S and I'm still thinking about it all the time!

 

[OverHillAndDale]

All the advice here is valid. Here's some more

• I concur on the MSF class.
• I concur to think of yourself as invisible, and I would add to assume that everyone is trying to hunt you down.
• You asked about changes/additions. Remember that comfort is EVERYTHING on a long trip, so expect to lay down some cash for items like an upgraded seat and/or backrest, maybe new grips, rear armrests, different windshield, some luggage. In general you need to ride a few weeks to see what rubs you wrong (literally) and where you'll get the most bang for the buck.
• Be ready to buy the right clothing if you're going to take long trips. Rain gear, boots, multi-layer jackets, gloves.
• Join a local Spyder Ryders club - you'll get good advice and some planned activities. Ryding with a group is fun and normally they're staged by people who know what they're doing.

 

[Upstater]

Test drive, test drive, test drive...

Find a dealer that will allow you to test drive! I can't stress this enough. Any dealer worth their salt will allow this. If not, turn away and find one that will. A good long (30-45 minute) test drive will affirm what you are getting into. I GUARANTEE this will help finalize your decision.

The dealer should:
A) Give you a reasonable lesson/tutorial on ALL the controls and proper driving techniques.
B) Give you a mini-driving opportunity in the safety of a confined area/parking lot.
C) Venture out on the road with short interval stops to see how you are doing/feeling.
D) Gradually working up to an extended ride time (20-30 minutes).

There may be members here from your area that might offer assistance also. I have done this where I live to help prospective owners get a more relaxed and non-pressured experience. Meeting on a weekend in a school parking lot is a great way to begin. Best of luck in your quest. As always, return here often with any questions or concerns.

 

[MRH]

• Join a local Spyder Ryders club - you'll get good advice and some planned activities. Ryding with a group is fun and normally they're staged by people who know what they're doing.

I would say it's more a matter of joining a riding club of any kind. In my experience it just doesn't make much difference if the group you ride with is on Spyders, Goldwings or even Harley's; it's all about the people you are riding with.

 

[PrairieSpyder]

+1 about the MSF course; and another +1 about being invisible to cagers on the road with you.

There are lots of farkles you can add to a Spyder and if 100 people list their opinions about which are best, you'll get at least 150 opinions!

If you are going with the larger engine, you're looking at the RT or F3. If you want to do any touring - like to Spyderfest in Springfield - I'd recommend getting the RT.

If you look at used ones with the 998, and consider a '13 RT, make sure the heat issue has been resolved on the bike you consider.

Also :welcome:! I hope to hear you have your own very soon. :thumbup:

 

[JayBros]

Everyone to date has given you good advice, not an ounce of which I disagree with. Adding to the ride like you are invisible I would add expect every cage driver on the road to do the unexpected, because they will! Read the Do's and Do Not's sticky thread on the General Discussion forum. Test ride, test ride, test ride! Make your decision and have fun!

 

[markyodo]

It was a little over a year ago I was doing the same as you. The wife and I were both excited. It had been 12+ years since I owned a motorcycle.
1) I took the motor cycle safety course and when passing it automatically gave my my license. Extremely happy with this decision.
2) I am a defensive driver and never take for granted my safety or the safety of my passengers.
3) Invest in a great set of riding gear. Helmets, seasonal jackets, pants, gloves, etc. Don't skimp on this because it makes a huge difference in your comfort and security.
4) Start researching navigation (GPS) options. What do you use in your car right now? Would you use the Limited edition GPS?
4) Choose the Spyder that fit your needs and don't focus on the extras.
5) I chose the base RT and had the dealer build into my deal the items that mattered the most to me. (Bluetooth, trailer hitch, etc.)
6) I am taking the thousands $$ I saved and have added a custom trailer, arm rests, cup holders, cell phone brackets, used ipod, USB chargers, LED's, and soon aftermarket floor boards and backrest.

Looking back, the wife and I have done 7000+ miles of back road traveling on the Spyder since March and haven't looked back. It's now her favorite activity and something we plan on doing for quite a while.
Enjoy the ride.

 

[Cognac]

My wife and I like to go for drives and think this could really be a fun way to spend time together. She also felt comfortable and secure on the back of the RT with the handles and back rest. Any encouragement of course while keeping it 100% honest would be greatly appreciated.

Tom

I use to be afraid of motorcycles, but I love our Spyder. I feel very safe and relaxed as the passenger. It took a few rides to get me to let go of the death grip on the handles, but one day I just realized I washed going to fall off. So much more fun that being a tourist in a car. You can feel the air change when you drive into a forest and smell the flowers and the crops. It is easier to stop at scenic outlooks because you can park easily in small spaces. The only problem is that I have started driving it now and found I love that just as much. Now we have to share!

 

[MCML]

I, too, came to street riding later than most. I started riding at age 49. I am now 65.
I began by riding in the hills west of my home in Los Angeles. I ended up, once, at the Arctic Ocean.

IMHO, there is some very good advice here (above).
Take the MSF course. Ride like the others are intentionally trying to harm you. Wear all the gear all the time. Maximize your visibility to others.

I would add that you should read David Hough's book Street Strategies. His other books are also worthwhile reading.

Enjoy!

 

[RTJERRY]

You have a dealer in St. Charles but I would certainly check Pitbull in Springfield. May get a better deal and can get set up with BajaRon Ron sway bar and laser alignment out the door. You will want them soon enough anyway, ask almost anyone here, and may as well negotiate them as part of the deal. There is also a group in your area called the Mogang that can give a lot of good advice and rides. Go RT Limited.

 

[Bob Denman]

With the screen name "Litespeed"; I might have found a worthwhile avatar for you... :thumbup:

 

[OverHillAndDale]

And NO ONE knows his avatars like Bob!:clap:

 

[Bob Denman]