DONE! Deposit on Spyder. - Charlotte

[WackyDan]

EDIT MAY 24th 2010. I added an update below all the other comments. It has been just over one year since I first came here looking for input on Spyders and wrote this thread. Look at me now!


Well, thanks to many of you answering some questions about the spyders and finding a decent dealer who was willing to deal - I put a deposit down today.

It's a leftover 08 SM5 silver still in the crate and I got it for a nice discount under the 2009.

I'm outfitting it at time of sale with the Givi Monokey side cases and Givi top case with matching panels and they are installing the fog lights and 12volt outlet. I could have done all that myself, but they didn't "charge" installation, and I just want to get my hands on it and enjoy it.

They are going to upgrade the brake pads to the 09 spec so I don't have to worry about squeal, and do the parking brake upgrade.

Oh... and Lake Norman Power Sports is the dealer. They beat every other dealers price on the 09's and just happened to have the 08 there so I jumped on it. They seem to be straight up people and actually became a Givi dealer in order to get my purchase.

The Fort Mill dealer also gave me an excellent price, and was very helpful, but they didn't have an 08 leftover with a deal like the one I bought from.

My local dealer, who are 2 miles from my house didn't want to work with me. They high balled me on price from day one. When I told them how much higher they were, they only dropped the price by $1000. They'll call every few days to see if I'm still interested, and I've told them they were still high. The lake Norman dealer beat them by over $1000 on the 09. They must not need the business. I'll withhold the dealer name from here. Nice people, but not hungry enough I suppose. I just hope their service work is good.

Now I have some more questions.....and I know searching this board will find me some of the answers...but...

- I need a helmet. I ditched my riding gear with my last accident in 02. I prefer full face helmets, but given that I'm buying the spyder as a touring bike (and run about), I'm curious as to the full face helmet's limitations in use with an intercom for the wife and I. Shoud I get a looser fitting helmet to ensure I'll be able to squeeze an ear piece up in there?

It's coming with the stock windshield. I plan on replacing it. I've seen the givi, and I've noted that many here like it. I also see people here talking about a CHAD windsheild?> What the heck is that? Anyway... I'm 6'2" if that helps anyone recommend a windshield.

We're going to take some short trips up into the mountains with it to get used to it, or down to the beach. My concern there is the stock seat and comfort level for my wife... She's a tall 5' 9" but very thin... I've seen the notes on the Corbin, but I wonder if there are other quality, cheaper alternatives??

Painting.... Eventually, I'd love to add blue flames... or just paint it grabber blue. Are the panels easy enough to take off so I can just drop them at some guy's spray booth?

Here's the other odd question... Do you ever catch people sitting on your spyder un-invited? I sense the typical idiot out there that has never seen one now and then has to seing their leg over and up onto it. THat really pisses me off with a regular bike as I baby my vehicles...

Insurance - I'm with State Farm now on the house, life, and both car and truck. They gave me a terrible quote today. Progressive did quite well in comparison. Do you have any recommendations on insurers?

I look forward to hooking up with some of the other Charlotte area spyder owners and comparing notes and cruising around. Let me know you are out there!

WackyDan

 

[NancysToy]

Well, thanks to many of you answering some questions about the spyders and finding a decent dealer who was willing to deal - I put a deposit down today.

It's a leftover 08 SM5 silver still in the crate and I got it for a nice discount under the 2009.

I'm outfitting it at time of sale with the Givi Monokey side cases and Givi top case with matching panels and they are installing the fog lights and 12volt outlet. I could have done all that myself, but they didn't "charge" installation, and I just want to get my hands on it and enjoy it. Sounds great! We had our dealer install some accessories, too, but they charged us. Sounds like you found a real gem of a dealer.

They are going to upgrade the brake pads to the 09 spec so I don't have to worry about squeal, and do the parking brake upgrade.

Oh... and Lake Norman Power Sports is the dealer. They beat every other dealers price on the 09's and just happened to have the 08 there so I jumped on it. They seem to be straight up people and actually became a Givi dealer in order to get my purchase.

The Fort Mill dealer also gave me an excellent price, and was very helpful, but they didn't have an 08 leftover with a deal like the one I bought from.

My local dealer, who are 2 miles from my house didn't want to work with me. They high balled me on price from day one. When I told them how much higher they were, they only dropped the price by $1000. They'll call every few days to see if I'm still interested, and I've told them they were still high. The lake Norman dealer beat them by over $1000 on the 09. They must not need the business. I'll withhold the dealer name from here. Nice people, but not hungry enough I suppose. I just hope their service work is good. That was real nice of you not to slam the dealer who wasn't able to meet your best deal. Just because they are not the cheapest, does not mean they are bad.

Now I have some more questions.....and I know searching this board will find me some of the answers...but...

- I need a helmet. I ditched my riding gear with my last accident in 02. I prefer full face helmets, but given that I'm buying the spyder as a touring bike (and run about), I'm curious as to the full face helmet's limitations in use with an intercom for the wife and I. Shoud I get a looser fitting helmet to ensure I'll be able to squeeze an ear piece up in there?
Many types of comm systems available that will fit full face helmets. I agree that you should look for one with ear pockets to make the job easier. Don't get one that is too large. Your safety depends on a helmet that fits properly! This will feel too tight at first. Go to the Arai site or Jay Leno's Garage to see what they say about fitting a helmet. Try on various brands until you find one that fits well and is comfortable.

It's coming with the stock windshield. I plan on replacing it. I've seen the givi, and I've noted that many here like it. I also see people here talking about a CHAD windsheild?> What the heck is that? Anyway... I'm 6'2" if that helps anyone recommend a windshield. The Industries7 CHAD is a great touring shield, IMO. Available from No Magic Neon. See their ad on the home page.

We're going to take some short trips up into the mountains with it to get used to it, or down to the beach. My concern there is the stock seat and comfort level for my wife... She's a tall 5' 9" but very thin... I've seen the notes on the Corbin, but I wonder if there are other quality, cheaper alternatives?? Seats are a very personal issue. Everyone's anatomy is different. I think the stock seat is one of the most comfortable I have ever ridden. Others hate it. I can't stand a Corbin, but many swear by them. Ride a while, and see what your needs are. If not, a Corbin, Russell Day-Long, Rick Mayer, the new BRP touring seat, or another custom unit may be to your liking.

Painting.... Eventually, I'd love to add blue flames... or just paint it grabber blue. Are the panels easy enough to take off so I can just drop them at some guy's spray booth?

Here's the other odd question... Do you ever catch people sitting on your spyder un-invited? I sense the typical idiot out there that has never seen one now and then has to seing their leg over and up onto it. THat really pisses me off with a regular bike as I baby my vehicles...

Insurance - I'm with State Farm now on the house, life, and both car and truck. They gave me a terrible quote today. Progressive did quite well in comparison. Do you have any recommendations on insurers?

I look forward to hooking up with some of the other Charlotte area spyder owners and comparing notes and cruising around. Let me know you are out there!

WackyDan

Enjoy the Ryde!
-Scotty

 

[Roaddog2]

Congrats Wackydan hyea:welcome

 

[pphantom538]

Congrats, you'll love it

 

[jeuchler]

welcome

...
- I need a helmet. I ditched my riding gear with my last accident in 02. I prefer full face helmets, but given that I'm buying the spyder as a touring bike (and run about), I'm curious as to the full face helmet's limitations in use with an intercom for the wife and I. Shoud I get a looser fitting helmet to ensure I'll be able to squeeze an ear piece up in there?

I have Shoei helmets which I like very much (like seats, a bit personal in preference) but next helmet I buy would definitely be a modular full face. Especially ryding the Spyder with so many people asking questions, it'd be nice to flip it up and speak to people without yelling which I have to do now.

It's coming with the stock windshield. I plan on replacing it. I've seen the givi, and I've noted that many here like it. I also see people here talking about a CHAD windsheild?> What the heck is that? Anyway... I'm 6'2" if that helps anyone recommend a windshield.

Add one to the CHAD recommendation. It's my third shield, and last, I'm sure. I am 6'2". A lot of folks--myself included--get very concerned about appearance of a shield. You stop caring when you ride with a decent shield through bad weather, which I seem to do all the time lately...Go take a look at the CHAD.

We're going to take some short trips up into the mountains with it to get used to it, or down to the beach. My concern there is the stock seat and comfort level for my wife... She's a tall 5' 9" but very thin... I've seen the notes on the Corbin, but I wonder if there are other quality, cheaper alternatives??

Even if you have the $, I'd say wait a while on the seat. It's been over a year for me and all I got was an AirHawk pad, which is far cheaper than a new seat or reupholstery.

Painting.... Eventually, I'd love to add blue flames... or just paint it grabber blue. Are the panels easy enough to take off so I can just drop them at some guy's spray booth?

Yup. Easier if you add Dzus fasteners.

Here's the other odd question... Do you ever catch people sitting on your spyder un-invited? I sense the typical idiot out there that has never seen one now and then has to seing their leg over and up onto it. THat really pisses me off with a regular bike as I baby my vehicles...

Not to me. Others here have had that happen. Less concern for a person falling off or knocking over a bike. Decide how to handle it if it would happen. :dontknow:

Insurance - I'm with State Farm now on the house, life, and both car and truck. They gave me a terrible quote today. Progressive did quite well in comparison. Do you have any recommendations on insurers?

You don't want recommendations from a Massachusetts driver...

I look forward to hooking up with some of the other Charlotte area spyder owners and comparing notes and cruising around. Let me know you are out there!

WackyDan

Again, welcome!

 

[Lamonster]

:congrats:and welcome

 

[Smylinacha]

:congrats::thumbup::doorag:

 

[Bersquack]

:congrats: and welcome

I use Foremost for insurance.

 

[jima1153]

I just got my Ins with Pekin an Illinois co for $106.00 / yr but I have my home and auto with them also.

I'm 6'8" and the chad works pretty good for me. I'm still tweeking the correct angle I like the best. welcome:congrats:

 

[jeuchler]

I'm 6'8" and the chad works pretty good for me. I'm still tweeking the correct angle I like the best...

jima, to you the CHAD must feel like an ultrasport shield! :joke:

 

[8LEGS]

:congrats::clap::clap:

 

[Spydr in KS]

welcome:2thumbs::yes:

 

[dltang]

welcome



I have Shoei helmets which I like very much (like seats, a bit personal in preference) but next helmet I buy would definitely be a modular full face. Especially ryding the Spyder with so many people asking questions, it'd be nice to flip it up and speak to people without yelling which I have to do now.
Yeah but we didn't mind your yelling at breakfast, oh wait you weren't wearing a helmet then.

Add one to the CHAD recommendation. It's my third shield, and last, I'm sure. I am 6'2". Are you sure you are 6'2", you sound a little iffy.A lot of folks--myself included--get very concerned about appearance of a shield. You stop caring when you ride with a decent shield through bad weather, which I seem to do all the time lately...Go take a look at the CHAD.


Even if you have the $, I'd say wait a while on the seat. It's been over a year for me and all I got was an AirHawk pad, which is far cheaper than a new seat or reupholstery. Yeah but your skinny butt doesn't count as a real butt


Yup. Easier if you add Dzus fasteners.



Not to me. Others here have had that happen. Less concern for a person falling off or knocking over a bike. Decide how to handle it if it would happen. :dontknow:



You don't want recommendations from a Massachusetts driver...


Again, welcome!

oh yeah, so as to not hijack this thread welcome

 

[DynamoBT]

:2thumbs::congrats:welcome:clap:

 

[MSGTDOC]

welcome:2thumbs::2thumbs::2thumbs::congrats:

 

[jeuchler]

Originally Posted by jeuchler ...it'd be nice to flip it up and speak to people without yelling which I have to do now.
Yeah but we didn't mind your yelling at breakfast, oh wait you weren't wearing a helmet then.

... I am 6'2". Are you sure you are 6'2", you sound a little iffy.



Even if you have the $, I'd say wait a while on the seat. It's been over a year for me and all I got was an AirHawk pad, which is far cheaper than a new seat or reupholstery. Yeah but your skinny butt doesn't count as a real butt

Wow.

Too mean, Deb.

(What, are bjt, HDX, and RoadDog all out riding so they can't be mean to me--You're filling in? That's OK. It's good the new folks learn how it is around here....)

oh yeah, so as to not hijack this thread welcome

Too late.

RoadDog="Hijacker." dltang="Hijacker-who-is-mean-to-people-who-get-her-chocolate-suicide-dessert."

I'm going to go put my fullface helmet on, sit on my AirHawk, slouch behind my CHAD and cry.

 

[WackyDan]

UPDATE

Well gang...I've now had the Spyder for over a year.

It has changed riding for me forever. My previous bikes were all toys that existed to be taken out, flogged, and with luck get 30 or 40 miles on them a week. I never anticipated my Spyder becoming my primary transportation. I bought it as I wanted to dive into motorcycle touring and the Spyder seemed like it could carry more than anything else out there without a trailer.

I bought it for what I felt was a safer bike. A year down the road I can say not only am I a more mature and safer rider, but do believe the Spyder is safer than any two wheeler. It is seen easier by cagers and I've ridden it in some serious rain with confidence. I've flogged it up and down Tail of the Dragon and loved every mile of it.

The wife loves it and it was a new favorite activity for us to ride together.

I love my Spyder. More importantly...

I love all of you. I've met some of the most outgoing, generous, and interesting people since buying my Spyder and joining spyderlovers.com.

I've only met Lamont briefly, but you don't need to spend too much time around him in person to feel you know how good a guy he is.

Doc is a treat to ride with and relax by the beach with.

Forest is one of the nicest people I've met here. I owe him some chow.

DocRiverside and his wife just called me today to personally congratulate me on my wife's pregnancy.

The list goes on.. Tom in Beaufort, Chuck and Julie in Dallas. Firefly and Someguy. To think I've only met a small part of this community pains me.

Without my Spyder I would not be in the happy place I find myself these days. It is by far the best purchase/investment I made.

 

[ynot]

EDIT MAY 24th 2010. I added an update below all the other comments.


Well, thanks to many of you answering some questions about the spyders and finding a decent dealer who was willing to deal - I put a deposit down today.

It's a leftover 08 SM5 silver still in the crate and I got it for a nice discount under the 2009.

I'm outfitting it at time of sale with the Givi Monokey side cases and Givi top case with matching panels and they are installing the fog lights and 12volt outlet. I could have done all that myself, but they didn't "charge" installation, and I just want to get my hands on it and enjoy it.

They are going to upgrade the brake pads to the 09 spec so I don't have to worry about squeal, and do the parking brake upgrade.

Oh... and Lake Norman Power Sports is the dealer. They beat every other dealers price on the 09's and just happened to have the 08 there so I jumped on it. They seem to be straight up people and actually became a Givi dealer in order to get my purchase.

The Fort Mill dealer also gave me an excellent price, and was very helpful, but they didn't have an 08 leftover with a deal like the one I bought from.

My local dealer, who are 2 miles from my house didn't want to work with me. They high balled me on price from day one. When I told them how much higher they were, they only dropped the price by $1000. They'll call every few days to see if I'm still interested, and I've told them they were still high. The lake Norman dealer beat them by over $1000 on the 09. They must not need the business. I'll withhold the dealer name from here. Nice people, but not hungry enough I suppose. I just hope their service work is good.

Now I have some more questions.....and I know searching this board will find me some of the answers...but...

- I need a helmet. I ditched my riding gear with my last accident in 02. I prefer full face helmets, but given that I'm buying the spyder as a touring bike (and run about), I'm curious as to the full face helmet's limitations in use with an intercom for the wife and I. Shoud I get a looser fitting helmet to ensure I'll be able to squeeze an ear piece up in there?

It's coming with the stock windshield. I plan on replacing it. I've seen the givi, and I've noted that many here like it. I also see people here talking about a CHAD windsheild?> What the heck is that? Anyway... I'm 6'2" if that helps anyone recommend a windshield.

We're going to take some short trips up into the mountains with it to get used to it, or down to the beach. My concern there is the stock seat and comfort level for my wife... She's a tall 5' 9" but very thin... I've seen the notes on the Corbin, but I wonder if there are other quality, cheaper alternatives??

Painting.... Eventually, I'd love to add blue flames... or just paint it grabber blue. Are the panels easy enough to take off so I can just drop them at some guy's spray booth?

Here's the other odd question... Do you ever catch people sitting on your spyder un-invited? I sense the typical idiot out there that has never seen one now and then has to seing their leg over and up onto it. THat really pisses me off with a regular bike as I baby my vehicles...

Insurance - I'm with State Farm now on the house, life, and both car and truck. They gave me a terrible quote today. Progressive did quite well in comparison. Do you have any recommendations on insurers?

I look forward to hooking up with some of the other Charlotte area spyder owners and comparing notes and cruising around. Let me know you are out there!

WackyDan

be sure to get your pre delivery check list, they faxed ours several day after we took delivery, (post delivery check list) had everything checked. funny not much of their checked stuff was ever gone over. hope your customer service is better than ours. make sure your tool kit is in the trunk, and good luck dealing with these fine folks. the sales experience was fine, after that just a bummer.

 

[bone crusher]

be sure to get your pre delivery check list, they faxed ours several day after we took delivery, (post delivery check list) had everything checked. funny not much of their checked stuff was ever gone over. hope your customer service is better than ours. make sure your tool kit is in the trunk, and good luck dealing with these fine folks. the sales experience was fine, after that just a bummer.

Dude,

Did you follow the thread and his comment regarding a follow-up??

 

[SpyderWolf]

:2thumbs: Happy Spyder Anniversary Dan! :clap: