Tanshanomi
New member
SZ-Spydie and I both test rode '14 RT-Limiteds with the BRP road show at Spyderfest.
A few random impressions:
- The triple really is remarkably smooth and torque-y right from idle. No more need to keep it over 4 grand.
- On the other hand, it doesn't sound nearly as nice as the v-twin. In fact, I thought it whined rather annoyingly at higher engine speeds. Over 5 grand, I think I prefer the sound and feel of the twin.
- With all that motor, the 6-speed transmission is nearly overkill. The power curve is so flat that they easily could have simply raised the top gear ratio and spaced out 5 ratios with no complaints. After revving through first, second, and third, I usually found myself already at cruising speed, then just shifted all the way up to sixth gear. 4th & 5th were redundant.
- We both have SM5s, and as nicely as the SE6 shifts, we still didn't enjoy it as much as a manual clutch. There is something about being fully connected and in control of the driveline I enjoy. I also think the manual disguises most of the V990's weaknesses.
- The cognac and satin platinum/burgundy color schemes are some of the prettiest BRP has come up with.
Now, a few general thoughts about Spyders that the ride prompted:
- The one thing you do get with the SE over the manual is very nice floorboards. I've never really minded footpegs, but I had to admit those OE boards are really comfortable.
- We both thought the adjustable suspension on the Limited (though not a new feature for '14) was really neat. It does make a noticeable difference in the ride. On the other hand, everyone we talked to who has it says they eventually found a sweet spot somewhere in the middle and just leave it there.
- My wife really regretted not getting an audio system in her '12, until she had a chance to hear what it really sounds like out on the highway. She quickly realized that a 60 MPH wind blast does not create an ideal auditory environment. Bluetooth helmet speakers are fine.
- I'm again convinced that I did the right thing in buying an RS-S. After decades of riding motorcycles sans fairings, I just can't get used to a windshield in front of me. I haven't been on SZ-Spydie's RT in a while, and on a few longer trips lately I've wondered if I would enjoy a real windshield better than the RS's token sport shield. The test drive reminded me how much I prefer a straight blast of wind than little eddies of turbulence constantly pushing my head around.
A few random impressions:
- The triple really is remarkably smooth and torque-y right from idle. No more need to keep it over 4 grand.
- On the other hand, it doesn't sound nearly as nice as the v-twin. In fact, I thought it whined rather annoyingly at higher engine speeds. Over 5 grand, I think I prefer the sound and feel of the twin.
- With all that motor, the 6-speed transmission is nearly overkill. The power curve is so flat that they easily could have simply raised the top gear ratio and spaced out 5 ratios with no complaints. After revving through first, second, and third, I usually found myself already at cruising speed, then just shifted all the way up to sixth gear. 4th & 5th were redundant.
- We both have SM5s, and as nicely as the SE6 shifts, we still didn't enjoy it as much as a manual clutch. There is something about being fully connected and in control of the driveline I enjoy. I also think the manual disguises most of the V990's weaknesses.
- The cognac and satin platinum/burgundy color schemes are some of the prettiest BRP has come up with.
Now, a few general thoughts about Spyders that the ride prompted:
- The one thing you do get with the SE over the manual is very nice floorboards. I've never really minded footpegs, but I had to admit those OE boards are really comfortable.
- We both thought the adjustable suspension on the Limited (though not a new feature for '14) was really neat. It does make a noticeable difference in the ride. On the other hand, everyone we talked to who has it says they eventually found a sweet spot somewhere in the middle and just leave it there.
- My wife really regretted not getting an audio system in her '12, until she had a chance to hear what it really sounds like out on the highway. She quickly realized that a 60 MPH wind blast does not create an ideal auditory environment. Bluetooth helmet speakers are fine.
- I'm again convinced that I did the right thing in buying an RS-S. After decades of riding motorcycles sans fairings, I just can't get used to a windshield in front of me. I haven't been on SZ-Spydie's RT in a while, and on a few longer trips lately I've wondered if I would enjoy a real windshield better than the RS's token sport shield. The test drive reminded me how much I prefer a straight blast of wind than little eddies of turbulence constantly pushing my head around.
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