Getting close to decision time. I need some input from those who have ridden an F3-L and RTL?

I have owned both the F3 limited, a 2020 & currently 2023 RT limited. I ryde 99% of the time 1 up. I liked the F3 sitting better than my RT, but also I am a foot shorter than you so keep that in mind. On a spyder "short reach bars" are an oxymoron in name. Short reach bars are for the vertically challenged because my reach is less than yours. They are taller and reach closer to the driver. Neither of my spyders had foot pegs and both had nice larger "running boards" which made foot placement great. Both had heated seats and heated grips which are fantastic in the cooler months of ryding. But here is the BIGGEST reason to consider an RT over the F3: which one the MRS. appreciates more. Check which is easier for her to get on and comfortable to ride on. Have her get on both bikes and get her opinion. My bride had difficulty getting on the F3 and very little problems with the RT. Keep peace in the family by checking which one lets her feel more comfortable on. Neither the F3 or RT had arm rests on them when I purchased them, but only hand grips for the passenger. The $500 bucks for the arm rests are well worth it for any passenger, especially the mrs. Installation time maybe a bit over an hour. The F3 let me feel more like I was ryding in the spyder whereas the RT I feel a little more like I am sitting on the spyder. I suspect the RT would let your legs feel a bit freer to move around (should you have running boards). Both bikes drive very close to one another and either one will keep a large grin on your face where you will not be disappointed with it. These bikes are not to bad to work on once one gets comfortable taking all the tupperware off and out of the way. You will save yourself big bucks by doing your own maintaince work yourself. Youtube is your friend here giving some tips on repair work. Make sure you read the entire manuel cover to cover. And DO NOT check your oil like a typical engine after sitting all night. NEVER. The manual reads something like drive 10 miles, come to a stop and let the engine idle for a few minutes, shut down engine and check the oil level within two minutes. (preferably within a couple of moments). These engines are a dry sump engine and the scavange the oil to a reservoir which is the oil level you are actually checking. After reading the manual a couple of times order a "factory" manual to help you working on the spyder, you will need it. The limited models have much more storage room the the "regular" spyders, so your overnight type stays you may prefer to have more storage, so be sure to check that out. Also with the newer models I read they use touch screens. Myself I am not a fan of touch screens so make sure they will work for you.

I would bet you will need to modify either machine to fit your size. Handlebar problem should be fixable with Heli-bars (or long reach bars). You'll likely need to replace the seat to push you back a bit. Floorboards can be added to the F3 for better leg positions.

I'm 6'0'' 190 and I prefer the RT over the F3.

Not quite your size, but I still consider myself on the bigger side (6'-2", 265 pounds). I have a 2021 RTL and a 2016 F3L. For taller riders I feel like the F3 series works better. For me, the fun factor of riding the sportier F3 also works better. As for windshields, there are many options to upgrade to. I have the stock windshield on 90% of the time, but switch out to the taller windshield for the colder winter months.

You state that you would be traveling with a passenger. That is where the RTL shines. It is much more comfortable for a passenger and has approx twice the storage. But you also stated that most of your travels would possibly be shorter and not long stays. With that in mind, the F3L has a 47L top box that can be dedicated for the wife's luggage (they normally take more). That would still probably allow you enough room for your items in the smaller frunk and one of the side cases. You will still have the other side case for tools and maybe a small cooler if needed.

Good luck with your choice.

If you don't try both Spyders and log some decent miles you may select the wrong vehicle for you and the pillion once you get to riding two up. Given your size and weight, you best confirm the maximum weight allowed for each type of Spyder.

You can mod both rides to fit you. I would try to find an F3 you can take out for a test drive, the footrests can be pushed out for your long legs, have them show you that U-fit feature - of course, they may not have a brake rod the right length to make the brake pedal right, but they can get one. It's important in my eyes that both you and the bride should see if the shoe fits both of you; you should both feel comfortable on it, or it will not be pleasant for both of you! Armrests for her, risers for you; at the end of the day makes both of you happy and safe! Good luck, stay in touch and let us know how you make out!!

Driverwanted said:

is there a seat for the rt that is back a little further ? i'll look at bar options

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One additional vote for the Helibars. They are expensive but truly very worth it to be able to adjust everything to your liking.

Yes, I have owned both models. Yes, I like the F3 over the RT. No, not as tall as you. Yes, both can be modified to meet your needs.

I like the feel of the F3 vs the RT. I sat on most styles and the RT reminded me of sitting on a 4 wheeler while the F3 Limited felt like sitting in a 2 wheel Motorcycle. I was able to make those comparisons at the dealership, since they had ATVs close by. The salesman said he never thought of that and tried it out himself. He looked at me and said now he has a new sales tip for people coming off a 2 wheeler and wanting the 3 wheeler. Just my 2 cents though. As said above, make sure the Mrs likes it and is comfortable.