Considering a Spyder - Can I Ask You Some Questions?

[Cobranut]

A very common solution which many find very accomodating. Though it can be embarrassing when the 2 wheel rider can't keep up with their wife...

I don't think I'd have a problem keeping up with any Spyder on a sportbike. LOL

 

[Mrmikey]

But I do remember on my last test ride on a Spyder that I felt like the bike was darting side to side while going down the highway

Yup, exactly how mine felt when I drove it home, to the point I was thinking to myself, what have I done! Trust me, it does get better and more natural after a bit. Still squirrely, but definitely better.
The feeling of not being able to drop the rig is a different sensation as well. That's what was making me nervous on my Kawi, not while driving it, as it felt as light as a feather then, but stopping and having to be extra diligent about foot placement. 69 year old bones and muscles aren't what they used to be. Heck... they never were what they used to be! LOL. I've picked up my Kawi a couple times from leaning over, with my foot in a hollow once, and my foot slipping out from under me while backing up. Embarrassment gave me the strength to pick it up, now I don't think even that would work.
As Rocketman alluded to above, slow country roads with lots of twisties, parking lots, etc.

 

[jarrett]

Yeah, I feel like I'll need a lot of parking lot time with this thing trying to figure out how to do slow speed maneuvers without a clutch lever.

 

[RogerC60]

Yeah, I feel like I'll need a lot of parking lot time with this thing trying to figure out how to do slow speed maneuvers without a clutch lever.

You might be over-thinking this. Slow-speed maneuvers on a 3-wheeled vehicle require pretty much none of the same skills needed on a 2-wheeler. Just easy on the throttle and turn the handlebar.

Or were you making a joke and it just flew right over my head?

 

[jarrett]

You might be over-thinking this. Slow-speed maneuvers on a 3-wheeled vehicle require pretty much none of the same skills needed on a 2-wheeler. Just easy on the throttle and turn the handlebar.

Or were you making a joke and it just flew right over my head?

No joke, just inexperience on Spyders talking. Hoping it is really easy to ride by comparison.

 

[Mandorallen]

Snowmobile on wheels... VERY easy ride.

 

[Mrmikey]

There's no 'friction zone' during low speed turns. Look where you want to go as you would on a bike, turn the bars, lean into the turn/brake/accelerate if necessary and you're good.

 

[Deanna777]

Thanks. I called one of them and asked about this class and they said if I already have an M endorsement on my license that much of it would be a waste of my time/money as it is prepping riders with zero experience for their restricted M endorsement. Interesting to learn that taking that class gets your a restricted M, meaning you can only ride a trike, but taking the 2 wheeled class will allow you to ride either.

HI Jarrett,

I have an "M" endorsement on my Drivers license (had it since 2012, when I got my first Spyder.) I went through the motorcycle class (test, theory and driving) and I got a "Special Restriction Card" saying that I am restricted to riding a Three Wheeled Motorcycle only. I have to carry this card with me at all times (this is in the State of Vermont).

As far as the Spyder models go, with 2014 Spyder models and up (because they'd done all of the major upgrades to the Spyders by then) you get a "1330 Ace high torque engine with a new fascia design, intensifying the Spyder's unique blend of elegance and power". They also improved heat management by doubling the radiator capacity and moving the radiators to the front of the 'A-arms' - away for the Driver and Passenger. The fans include a reverse mode that blows hot air away from the Rider when you're traveling at slower speeds. This ensures more comfort for both the Rider and Passenger. You get a 6 speed transmission, so you can cruise comfortably at 3,300 RPM's with the outstanding ride of the new 6 speed transmission. You get a smoother ride for you and your passenger, thanks to the long ratio sixth gear and the new hydraulic clutch activation system with electronic pressure control. There's ECO mode, a New 1200W alternator, a new comfort seat. On the 'RT' Spyder models, you sit more upright (your legs are more in-line with the rest of your body.) On the F3 Spyder models, you sit more stretchered out, in more of a relaxed position, and they also hug the corners more. I am on my 3rd Spyder, I had a 2012 RTS-SE5 (Sold/ Traded); a 2014 RTS-SE6 (Sold/Traded up); and my current Spyder is a 2023 F3 LTD SS.

I would suggest trying out either Spyder model (RT or F3, maybe both!) You can ride 2 up comfortably in both of them.

Ps: Also, for turning corners, you push through the corners, just like what Mandorallen said in post # 46.

And look at what the warranty is left on any used Spyder.

Deanna

 

[jarrett]

Thanks for all the help. The two we were going to ride just sold. So it may be a while before we get on one.

 

[Deanna777]

Thanks for all the help. The two we were going to ride just sold. So it may be a while before we get on one.

Jarrett,

Keep us posted on what you decide.
Deanna

 

[rjinaz86323]

My wife and I usually do a couple of 2 week trips per year on our 2018 F3L. No issue with storage if you are practical about your packing. I also do a 2 week trip with a group of guys every year. They are all on 2 wheels and I have no problem keeping up with them. We are usually in the mountains or in areas with a lot of curvy roads. Longest trips for us are usually under 4k miles. I started riding in the 60's, so I have done a lot of miles on 2 wheelers. It took me about 2-3 weeks of local riding to get used to being on 3 wheels.

 

[JWK70]

Snowmobile on wheels... VERY easy ride.

I’ve been calling mine a snowmobile on wheels since I bought it. Lol
As for slow speed manoeuvres, I find them easier on my 2019 RTL than I did on my 2 wheeler.