Figured I'd just dump this all here... I have finally completed all the modifications to my
2011 Spyder RT SE5 and figured I'd list the improvements from best to worst for others who may still be tinkering with their 998 models.
1. First and Foremost,
IF YOU HAVE A 998... Hunt down, steal, fight for part number 219800388! It is the Side Vent kit that Can Am released in 2013 to cure the overheating issues for the 998 models. My bike was incredibly hot in the summer rides because it lacked air circulation in and around the engine compartment. Yes, it requires sawing into your bike and some entry level to moderate mechanical knowhow but
DO IT. Now my temperature gauge never goes above 1/4, I have no heat in my crotch, no boiling gas in the tank... the bike is happiest when she can breath!
2. Spyderpops upper and lower radiator vent dams.
Yes, BOTH. Remove the floor panels under the radiator and oil pan to increase air circulation. This mod paired with the above vent kit keeps you bike happy and more importantly your right foot cool and comfortable.
3.
Ultimate Seat.
Get one with the gas cap door! This arguably is the best overall upgrade but because overheating is more concerning it fell to #3. I can ride all day with ZERO pain and my wife stays on the bike whenever I pop in for gas because of the gas cap access thru the seat. Oh and get the back rest for yourself! duh.
4. F4 custom windshield 2 inches taller and 4 inches wider than the stock windshield and it MUST have the center vent. Don't like wind beating you up on the highway? This sucker cures it. The center vent also produces a perfect air stream into your body or face (pending how you angle the vents while riding) and on warm days it's like controlling the AC vents in your car. It aint cheap but it's money WELL SPENT.
5. Rider Floor boards from spyderaccessories. WHY did I take so long to pull the trigger on these?! Sheesh. I can move my feet and reposition them whenever I want. It's a god send on longer rides vs. the stock peg that came with my bike.
6. Baja Ron's Air Intake System. If you work on your bike this is almost 'a must' because of how much more access into the engine compartment you will get! It also makes the bike sound better IMO. This should only be undertaken if you have moderate to good mechanical skills. Otherwise, leave it alone. For those who tinker - it's a god send!
7. Magic Mirrors from Lamonster Garage. Magnets > stock pins! If you tinker... you want these!
8. Cell phone holder - center of the steering pillar. You can run your gps, music, etc. front and center.
8(a) - coolstream bluetooth connection to the rear audio port in the trunk. So I can stream my music from my phone (or l wife's phone) and thru the speaker. Everyone needs to be able to jam.
9. USB charging port from spyder accessories. Charge your phone and your passengers while riding. Duh.
10. Cup holder(s). Front and rear. I like a cold water on a hot day... and my wife LOVES cold water on a hot day.
11. 2 ohm speakers all around. Even though the manufacture of the head unit claims the speakers should be 4 ohm I followed another members posts and swapped out the stock for kicker 2 ohms. Both myself and wifey can hear music clear as a whistle at any speeds.
12. BajaRons upgrade sway bar and links. Folks - I hate to say it... I could put this lower on the list...
13. Trunk Brake light and short antenna. Looks better. Can be seen better.
14. Tool kit from Lamonster Garage. It's an excellent start to the parts you'll want on the bike. I've added some additional pieces but the core tools are there.
15. Canister-ectomy. Look it up. PS - I ran my evaporator line to the front of the bike and kept it elevated.
16. Replace your Vacuum lines from the throttle body to the VAC sensor. There are two hoses. Cut them the EXACT same length as stock. Do this every couple years.
17. Rear arm rests. Wife is happy so I'm happy.
18. Frunk and Side Storage luggage liners. Makes our trips easier. Watching my wife open the frunk, grab her bag, and shuffle inside like she is taking in the groceries is great!
19. Floating Highway Pegs. If you get the floorboards above... then don't get these. Matter of fact I may put mine on market now.
20. Remove the center console's insulation piece. If you do the air scoop from item 1 then you don't need this piece anymore. You get more storage for larger items in your pockets.
21. Center console protector. Mine was scratched to death from use and this both covers the scratches and gives future scratch protection.
22. Replace the rear trunk shock and the seat shock once they get lazy. I used to just 'live' with the seat not staying up, as well as the trunk, but you'd be surprised how nice it is for them to function as designed.
23. Battery tender.
The bike is getting her new shoes today. Just in time for June 1's big 2000+ mile trip into the N.E. If anyone has questions or needs pics etc. I'm happy to assist. Stay safe friends!
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