Anyone left a Roadsmith for a Spyder RT?

[Poppy1144]

ray:I know that this is a long shot, but I'm very interested in selling my Goldwing Roadsmith Trike and buying a 2014-15 Spyder RT Touring. I haven't taken the big step yet and I'd love anyone's comments on the move. Actually I really liked the Roadsmith, but am looking forward to a change. Just afraid that I might be disappointed.
PLEASE, anyone with experience on the Roadsmith, I'd love to hear your .02 worth.

David

 

[cuznjohn]

i would say to find a dealer that rents spyders, than rent one for the day. up here in NY it is 200 a day and no millage, i did it b4 i sold my BMW for my rt

 

[Chupaca]

Agree..!!

:agree: its all in the test ryde. If you can't rent one you sure can test ryde one. We have those that have changed and hope they let you know but I know you won't be disappointed...:thumbup:

 

[ARtraveler]

:agree: A test ride will best answer your questions. We tend to be a bit biased here.

If you ask me, buy the RT. :yes::yes:

 

[Poppy1144]

Thanks for your quick response, however here is my problem with making a decision only on a test ride. Throughout this forum, members are discussing methods to improve the ride, ie: BajaRon Sway Bar with links, improved shocks, pitbull shock relocator and more. So how does one compare a Roadsmith trike that has all of the improvements to a spyder rental unit or demo which is probably "off the shelf?"

I was just hoping to find an experience Roadsmith rider who has gone through the same transition that I am anticipating.

Once again, thanks for any input.

David

 

[StanProff]

Thanks for your quick response, however here is my problem with making a decision only on a test ride. Throughout this forum, members are discussing methods to improve the ride, ie: BajaRon Sway Bar with links, improved shocks, pitbull shock relocator and more. So how does one compare a Roadsmith trike that has all of the improvements to a spyder rental unit or demo which is probably "off the shelf?"

I was just hoping to find an experience Roadsmith rider who has gone through the same transition that I am anticipating.

Once again, thanks for any input.

David

David, aftermarket "Goodies" are available for anything from cars, motorcycles, ATV's or anything else you want to check out. I am on my second Spyder after years of two wheelers. Still have 6 in my garage. I put thousands of miles on the first one without adding anything to it. You may find that a new RT might match your riding style without adding anything at all.
Spyders are engineered from the "ground up" to be what they are. They are not a "kit" as other Trikes are. The safety and stability cannot be matched. Don't worry about aftermarket items. Look at the Spyder on the showroom floor as compared to any other trike. Auto technology such as Stability control, anti lock brakes, traction control, Bosh electronics and Brembo brakes.
The gold wing trikes are great for what they are but I prefer the engineering and safety and stability of the Spyder design.
One work of advise though, if you want a cruiser type ride, don't buy the RT, Get the F3. If you want an RT (touring design) don't buy a RS or ST. Get what fits you for your riding style. A lot of people will buy one and try to turn it into something it is not.
There are a number of great aftermarket items that can improve your ride if you feel you need it. The bajaron sway bar and links are great for making the RT handle in the twisties. Stuff like this can come later as you see fit. You will be very pleased with the Spyder. The '14 or '15 RT with the 1330 three cylinder engine is great. Good luck with your choice.

 

[scott16119]

I have a friend who has a Goldwing Roadsmith. I'm not sure if they all have independent rear suspension, but his does. We have both ridden each others trikes. He wouldn't trade for a Spyder but I wouldn't trade for his Goldwing either. I would say the plushness of the ride is pretty equal with maybe a slight favor to the Goldwing. My 2012 RT-SE5 is a little quicker off the line than his 1800, but I'd bet he's a little faster on top end. The engines in the Spyders are continually evolving and I have no more than test ride experience with the three cylinder engines, but I'd have to give the Goldwing a huge plus with the more powerful and more refined six cylinder power plant. In the handling department and "fun factor" the Spyder wins hands down. The Spyder design just simply outperforms the Roadsmith design in the twistys.

 

[ARtraveler]

Thanks for your quick response, however here is my problem with making a decision only on a test ride. Throughout this forum, members are discussing methods to improve the ride, ie: BajaRon Sway Bar with links, improved shocks, pitbull shock relocator and more. So how does one compare a Roadsmith trike that has all of the improvements to a spyder rental unit or demo which is probably "off the shelf?"

I was just hoping to find an experience Roadsmith rider who has gone through the same transition that I am anticipating.

Once again, thanks for any input.

David

The :spyder2: comes out of the box pretty good to start with. There are always those who want to "improve" performance or handling.

You are not going to find black/white difference with any of the performance "enhancers," just somewhat better.

 

[Mad Mac]

Trikes,Trikes,and more Trikes.....

The GW trike and the SPYDER are very comparable in H.P. and torque. The diff. is how you ride each, the 2 wheels in the back w/ 1 in the front type you sit on it and steer(pretty effortless if you have the RAKE kit done to the front end). On the 2 wheels in front,1 in back type, the steering effort is alittle more,you have to be more "rider active". If you have riden a snowmobile or a quad for that matter, the SPYDER is comparable to either one.IMHO the SPYDER IS much more fun to ride and keeps you more engaged. Hope this helps and GOOD LUCK!!:spyder2:

 

[J48cruiser]

roadsmith

As far as recalls go the Honda GL 1800 has had their share in late 2002 and 2003 they had a FRAME RECALL SOME OWNERS HAD TO HAVE THE ENTIRE FRAME REPLACE. THEN THE DEALERS WANTED TO CHARGE TIME FOR FOR ACCESSORIES SAID AND INSTALL, SOME HAD TO HAVE THEM JUST WELDED AT STRESS POINTS. JUST THIS PAST FALL A BREAK RECALL. So a few minor problems with the cam am is no big deal