Laser Alignment - Please Explain the Need

[etaoin]

I'm a week-old Spyder newby and have spent lots of time on this wonderful forum trying to get quickly up to speed on the vagaries of this machine. I've read numerous posts about getting a laser alignment but that has generated this basic question I'd like to get input on. Do Spyders come from the factory inherently misaligned? Do they ship them out just "good enough" to pass inspection?

I presume a laser alignment narrows the window of perfection and provides some measurable benefit, most likely on tire life and handling. My previous 2-wheeler - a Victory Vision Tour - ran great, but many folks on the Victory forums recommended a dyno tune to make them run better. Is laser alignment in that realm of "perfection"? Should I be concerned and should I press my local dealer to have this done? Thanks.

 

[Dragonrider]

The "need" is directly proportional to the quality of your dealer at set up. Some Spyder's need nothing, and some should be running sideways - it's worth the investment to have it check out. I have the alignment on all my vehicles checked at tire change time....

 

[ARtraveler]

Attached is a link to a video which answers your question very well. See video #2 of post #1.

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/...Edge-Video-All-things-Can-Am-Spyder-Talk-Show

If you are going to purchase a new Spyder, dealing for a free laser alignment is sure within the realm of suggestions.

 

[Orange Spyder Man]

to your answer to : Do they ship them out just "good enough" to pass inspection? answer - YES !!

osm

 

[chuck gross]

My Wife had her RT laser aligned at Lifestyles yesterday after putting 25,000 miles on it the right front tire was starting to wear on the inside I followed her home on my STL and I could tell right away how much straighter it was tracking and she said that it took way less effort and fewer corrections to keep it going straight down the road HUGE IMPROVEMENT. So I would say yes it should be checked out right after purchase before it goes out the door ( if your dealer offers the laser alignment that is ) If they don't I would have it done as soon as you can

 

[Chupaca]

Methods....!!

Though many changes have been made laser is becoming the most accepted. Many have not or were not aligned this way. Many ryders have had the unfortunate oportunity to hit a pot hole bump a curb that could alter your alignment. If you did not have it done and get the chance to it is worth it and many who do this will not charge you if no adjustment is needed. Now if your not having any problems in handling or tire wear your good to go...:thumbup:

 

[Yazz]

Yup, methods....

BRP aligns the front wheels off the frame.

Aftermarket laser alignment factors off the rear wheel. All three wheels are aligned to point the same direction.

Someone chime in if I'm wrong...

 

[Gray Ghost]

If you do decide to get your alignment checked, you can see who does the ROLO alignments by going to www.spydercomfort.com/dealers. There is also a listing for the independent folks who do ROLO alignments. Most of them travel, and most will not charge to check your alignment.

 

[Utah Geezer]

Every cent

Had mine laser aligned right after buying it. She only had 10 miles on her when I had it done. Owned a 2011 for 15,000 miles before buying my 2014 and I could tell a difference. I spoke to my dealer mechanic and found that they only align them off of the frame. I was there watching when Squared Up in Vegas did my laser alignment and I couldn't believe how far off the dealer alignment was. I would recommend it. Its not that expensive to have done and it will save you the money in wear and tear on the machine and on you too.

 

[2dogs]

Am I to understand........

that if you get an alignment, then each time you get a new tire/s or have a belt adjustment you have to have another alignment done? :yikes: If that's true it kind'a sucks and it adds a couple of Franklins to the price of a tire/s or a belt adjustment. :banghead: Please say it ain't so. ray:

 

[MisterP]

that if you get an alignment, then each time you get a new tire/s or have a belt adjustment you have to have another alignment done? :yikes: If that's true it kind'a sucks and it adds a couple of Franklins to the price of a tire/s or a belt adjustment. :banghead: Please say it ain't so. ray:

not true, according to Central FL Powersports, who did mine.

 

[finless]

You should not need to get an alignment just changing the tires.
However a belt "tracking" adjust which changes the angle of the rear wheel axel, you "may" want to get it done again.

Bob

 

[Jeriatric]

Self explanitory

Once you have it done.