2020 RT Center of Gravity

[Snowhawg]

The Can AM website says the 2020 RT's have a lower center of gravity than previous models. That interests me a lot. Does anyone know how much lower the center of gravity is? I couldn't find that answer on their website.

 

[canamjhb]

The seat height is seven-tenths of an inch lower than previous RTs. Don't know if that's the entire reason to state "lower COG". But, I guess that is what they are referring to..... Jim

 

[JayBros]

I would think that unless one is racing it or loading it to the 494 lb limit with a pillion and "stuff" the 0.7" is inconsequential. The marketeers had to add a few more words for buzz.

 

[Snowhawg]

It is possible that they have done other things in the new design that would lower the CG more than just the lower seat height height.

 

[CopperSpyder]

The center of gravity is more then just seat height, the RT has changed so things (motor trans etc,) are probably a little lower and the RT is a touch longer so that might make a big difference. RT is now more like the F3 with more plastic. Will need to test drive one to see the difference between what we have now and the new 2020 model.

 

[Snowhawg]

Thanks Copper. I agree. I'm going to test drive one as soon as my dealer has one.

 

[canamjhb]

My response (post #2) was meant to be a "tongue in cheek" response. I hate it when dealers/manufactures make claims and then don't, won't or can't provide facts to back up their claims. I think that lowering the seat height .7 inch is enough to claim a lower COG but absent any other data/facts I think that is all they want you to know..... Jim

 

[blacklightning]

Keep in mind that on the RT without the top case, the CG has instantly been lowered. Therefore, their statement of a lower center of gravity would be definitely true, even if they changed nothing else.

 

[KX5062]

By all appearances the new RT is using the F3 chassis with BRP "junking" the old chassis from the original RT. The F3 ride position is definitely a more sit in design rather than the RT sit on top of design, which could account for the claim of a lower CG.

 

[JP58]

The seat height on the new RT is still 3 inches higher than the F3L. So in can't have the same frame.

 

[KX5062]

Maybe. However, the difference could be exclusively in the fuel tank placement. The RT retains that under seat fueling while the F3 has the fuel located on top and in front of the rider in a traditional motorcycle position.

BRP isn't known for doing things the expensive way, but is known for cheaping out at times.

It would make financial sense for BRP to make a single frame and then change the swingarm and/or subframe to accommodate the differing fuel tank and stretched ergos. I suspect this is what BRP did. Single frame design, carry over the original RT fuel tank, then a lengthened swingarm and/or rear subframe. Changing plastic components is cheaply done and makes a huge difference in the look and feel, while being strictly cosmetic.

No proof mind you, just a suspicion.