2014/2015 RS versus ST?

[3wheel]

Hello, new member here and potential new Spyder owner who doesn't currently have access to a Can-Am dealer.

In the near future I'm considering purchasing a leftover 2014 model or current 2015 model RS or ST with either Auto or Manual transmission. On the Can-Am webpage I couldn't find a simple way to compare between the models, I simply read the specs and features between them. What I did read was that the ST adds to the RS; Touring seat, different headlight assembly, taller and adjustable windshield, ability to add a trailer hitch, different instrument cluster with left handle bar mounted menu selector, powered parking brake, adjustable passenger foot rest and drivers foot rest instead of foot pegs.

Anyone know what other differences which I didn't list above (or if I made any errors) exist between the ST and RT? Also if the difference between the two versions for the 2014 model year are the same as between the 2015 models? I'd appreciate to learn about any differences, even minor ones. I also would like to hear why members here choose the ST at the $4k+ price premium over the RS and from those who moved from an RS to an ST.

Apologies if this has been addressed in the past, if another thread exist please post a link thanks.

I look forward to reading your replies,
Thank you

 

[MRH]

You've asked a long and complicated question. I'd look around the boards here and come back once you've seen more of what these are about. The riding position, storage, engine, performance/handling, and aesthetics differ between all three models you are referencing.

 

[Dennis in Lodi]

test rides at Spyderfest this year

I bought a new 2015 RT-S, added a back rest and found it quite comfortable. When I test rode the F3 I loved everything different about it. But my old body quickly informed me I could not deal with the riding podsition for more than an hour. A little more info on your riding style and tolerance to saddle time.

In Wisconsin we have a dealer that really discount all models. They say shipping only adds $500 or so?

http://www.cedarcreekmotorsports.co...fr=xNewInventory&model=spyder®+rt+limited+se6


This is about $5K below list for new. My 2015 RT-S out the door $26,400 plus tax. That was about 2k less than I could find anywhere else.

 

[Sempyder]

Hello, new member here and potential new Spyder owner who doesn't currently have access to a Can-Am dealer.

In the near future I'm considering purchasing a leftover 2014 model or current 2015 model RS or ST with either Auto or Manual transmission. On the Can-Am webpage I couldn't find a simple way to compare between the models, I simply read the specs and features between them. What I did read was that the ST adds to the RS; Touring seat, different headlight assembly, taller and adjustable windshield, ability to add a trailer hitch, different instrument cluster with left handle bar mounted menu selector, powered parking brake, adjustable passenger foot rest and drivers foot rest instead of foot pegs.

Anyone know what other differences which I didn't list above (or if I made any errors) exist between the ST and RT? Also if the difference between the two versions for the 2014 model year are the same as between the 2015 models? I'd appreciate to learn about any differences, even minor ones. I also would like to hear why members here choose the ST at the $4k+ price premium over the RS and from those who moved from an RS to an ST.

Apologies if this has been addressed in the past, if another thread exist please post a link thanks.

I look forward to reading your replies,
Thank you

I think your about right with your thoughts comments and questions. I own a 2009 RS and have sat on a lot of the ST and RS 14/15 and the feel is different. One thing you left out was the audio and adjustable wind shield on the ST. Why pay the 4k plus, I don't believe you could mod your way from a RS to ST and make it look as good clean and functional for 6k if not more and even then it would not look like a ST. But I think someone on the RS GS board has a thread of doing exactly this turning a RS to ST. Any ways happy hunting.


Sempert out,

 

[ingramwc]

The biggest difference between the RS and ST models is the riding position. The RS is more "sport bike like", rider forward and rider pegs are up and back farther. The ST is more "cruiser like", rider more upright, feet more forward and the rider, on ST-S and Limited auto-tranny only have floorboards not foot pegs, passenger also has floorboards. The engine for the ST and RS are the same, a 998cc vtwin with 100 bhp. Both models have FOX Podium adjustable shocks (preload adjustable) on the front and rear shock is a SACHS monoshock. This is for 2014 and 2015 models. You can do a model comparison on the BRP website. I took this info from a 2015 BRP Spyder catalog, so it is good to go.
I have a 2013 ST-S SE5 (semi-automatic tranny) in Circuit Yellow. The only thing I have done to it so far was to add an Alaska Leather sheep skin seat pad to it. I rode mine 100 miles home after I picked it up and found the stock seat very comfortable. A BajaRon Sway Bar is being installed on Friday, that should hold me for a little while.
Good luck with your search! I hope you find a good deal too.:thumbup:

 

[Sempyder]

Here is the thread I mentioned http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=80401


Sempert out,

 

[3wheel]

Thanks for the replies :thumbup:

Thank you for the correction that the base ST does not come with driver's foot boards (comes with pegs like the RS). Also I didn't realize that the ST comes with a radio (thought that was only on the ST-S and ST-LTD). One thing I haven't considered was the riding position between the RS and ST and I thank you all for bringing that issue up.

Reason for starting this thread:
I was looking at discounted 2014 RS-SM5 or RS-SE5 Spyders online, but then I saw some ST-SM5 and ST-SE5 for not much more money. I figured that the ST would have a better resale value as I may only keep it for a year or two (pending on how I like it) and would loose less money on the ST.


What I (think) I want:
I've admired the uniqueness of the Can-Am Spyder since when they first came out but haven't considered buying one until I saw some of the discounted prices on the 2014 models and think it would be fun to give one a try. At 6'2" I prefer a sit-up relaxed position as on a large dual-sport/ADV-Touring bike, though a little sporty position would be OK (don't want a legs-forward cruiser position). I intend to use the Spyder around town for grocery shopping trips etc. and the occasional local two-up ride with my wife. My wife has a motorcycle license (not used for nearly 20 years) and she may drive it by herself too with some training. I plan to ride it all year round (no snow on the ground) and go on a few solo long distant rides (600 miles each way) visiting family. I drive/ride at an easy going pace at the speed limits.

On paper the ST seems to fit my riding style better than the RS and I do like the powered windshield, comfort seat, and advance instrument cluster. OTOH, I could always put a taller windshield on the RS if needed and I have an Airhawk seat cushion and Alaskan leather wool seat cover I'd use on either. Options I'd like to add to either would be side cases (Givi PLX770 & V35 or OEM) and heated grips (either factory or aftermarket). I understand that the ST-Limited has these features and more, though prices seem to be around $5k more for ST-Limited over the base ST.

So to continue the discussion, I was wondering if there are any other options or features that the ST-SM5/ST-SE5 has over the RS-SM5/RS-SE5? For those who've ridden or owned each; How do you feel about the riding positions between each model? I would be especially interested to hear from taller riders. Unfortunately I'm unable to visit a Can-Am dealer to sit on them for myself at this time, so I'm relying on all of your experiences and opinions. :thumbup:

Thanks

 

[loisk]

sit on it

My comment is you really HAVE TO sit on both the RS/RSS and St, and take them for a ride. I've had an 09 RS and now a 13 ST and - although we had added handlebar risers and a host of other things to the RS to make it more comfortable - for me, the ST was and is ergonomically perfect. I understand about distances, but I urge you not to spend any $ until you have tried them out. Re the 'extras' we bought an ST Ltd (used) so got all the doodads - but still added a swaybar, air intake, topbox. I'm still amazed it's not 'bluetooth capable' only 'ready' for another AUD500. I'll bet that whatever you buy, you'll add something lol! Re resale values - to be honest, I'd buy based on what you like and what suits you, rather than worry too much about future resale, even if it is only a year in the future. Hope this helps.

 

[donkes]

You will enjoy the St better for long distance traveling. Hard to make a mistake so think about the type of riding you enjoy.

 

[ingramwc]

3wheel, the ST Limited is the only model ST that comes with a radio, it also has the hard bags on the side and heated rider hand grips. The LTD and the ST-S have electronic cruise control. Also worthy of note the ST models have an electrically activated Parking Brake, where the RS has a foot pedal near the left side rider foot peg. The ST riding position is feet forward, but not stretched out straight. If you want that type position you will need to add hiway pegs. Like some of the others here have said, you really need to sit on one and take a test ride.
Happy hunting!

Oops! I almost forgot, the ST Limited also comes with a Garmin 590 GPS system. OK, I think that's all.

 

[jwood4242]

RS/ST

Hello, new member here and potential new Spyder owner who doesn't currently have access to a Can-Am dealer.

In the near future I'm considering purchasing a leftover 2014 model or current 2015 model RS or ST with either Auto or Manual transmission. On the Can-Am webpage I couldn't find a simple way to compare between the models, I simply read the specs and features between them. What I did read was that the ST adds to the RS; Touring seat, different headlight assembly, taller and adjustable windshield, ability to add a trailer hitch, different instrument cluster with left handle bar mounted menu selector, powered parking brake, adjustable passenger foot rest and drivers foot rest instead of foot pegs.

Anyone know what other differences which I didn't list above (or if I made any errors) exist between the ST and RT? Also if the difference between the two versions for the 2014 model year are the same as between the 2015 models? I'd appreciate to learn about any differences, even minor ones. I also would like to hear why members here choose the ST at the $4k+ price premium over the RS and from those who moved from an RS to an ST.

Apologies if this has been addressed in the past, if another thread exist please post a link thanks.

I look forward to reading your replies,
Thank you

I own a 2014 RS sm5 and have ridden a 2012 ST sm5. They are quite different in handling, comfort,and power. The ST is considerably more comfortable and has a more soft cushy ride yet seems a little sluggish on handling and power. The RS I find comfortable in a different way. You sit much more as a part of the bike and the suspension is more rigid. I have more a feel for the road with the RS. It is quite a bit more responsive to the throttle and feels faster although I have no way of backing that up and don't wish to start a fight with anyone. I recently rode my RS on a 2300 mile trip in 5 traveling days and did fine. Was it the most comfortable "no" but it was far from uncomfortable and so much fun to ride! Depends on which feel you want. Two up I'm sure your passenger would appreciate the ST. For me the price was also a determining factor. New 2014 RS for $12,600. Added handlebar risers, windshield, and backrest added about $1,100. Couldn't come close to that for the ST.

 

[MRH]

At 6'2" I prefer a sit-up relaxed position as on a large dual-sport/ADV-Touring bike, though a little sporty position would be OK (don't want a legs-forward cruiser position). I intend to use the Spyder around town for grocery shopping trips etc. and the occasional local two-up ride with my wife. My wife has a motorcycle license (not used for nearly 20 years) and she may drive it by herself too with some training. I plan to ride it all year round (no snow on the ground) and go on a few solo long distant rides (600 miles each way) visiting family. I drive/ride at an easy going pace at the speed limits.

Based on this description, and RT really sounds like the best fit. Storage, long rides, riding two up, and a sit-up relaxed position. It might very well be worth the extra money for you. In any event, ride all three any way you can before you invest in one.

 

[Bob Denman]

The biggest difference between the RS and ST models is the riding positio

:agree:

 

[3wheel]

Thanks for the replies :thumbup:

loisk & MRH: I think your suggestions to at least sit on each and even better to test drive each is spot on.

jwood4242: Maybe the difference you experienced was related more than the year (?) as the 2014 RS/ST are now mechanically the same regarding engine performance and suspension components (?). $12,600 for new 2014 RS is a great deal :thumbup:.

Bob Denman: Thanks for the visual comparison of the seating position.


It is the low price of the 2014 RS-SM5/RS-SE5 model that has piked my interest and made me think I'd like to try a Spyder. While looking at RS's I noticed a few base ST models for around a $1,000 or so more than the sale priced RS. That's a big savings on the ST and I figure I'd lose less money on the ST if I ended up selling after a year or so.

So for now taking all of your advice, I think I'm leaning towards a heavily discounted 2014 ST, a sit and drive test would confirm. It won't be until late in the year before I will have a chance to buy one so hopefully there will be a few still available, if not then a 2014 new RS will do .

 

[Bob Denman]

Happy Hunting, and Good Luck! :thumbup:

 

[WA5VHU]

Where Are You?

3Wheel, where in Mary Land are you? There are Can-Am dealers in Baltimore and also Hanover, PA, down towards the Eastern Shore and other areas.

There is also a group of us that ryde and you could come to one of our meets and sit on a few:
http://www.meetup.com/MarylandSpyderWeb/

We have an RT and may also have a RS by the end of today.

Charles

 

[jwood4242]

RS/ST

Good luck with your purchase. I hope you enjoy your Spyder as much as I am enjoying mine