We are still very new to Spyder-ing, so cannot comment on the basis of vast experience. However, we do have some thoughts, having just gone through wrestling with the choice of model to buy. We took our brief test rides, two up, on a newer (2016) RT Ltd. and (2017) F-3 Ltd. I think the truest comparison really exists only between the 2017 F-3 Ltd., because of the added top case and especially the up-grade BRP has made with the addition of automated electronic rear suspension. When we eventually decided on the 2017 F-3 Ltd., we added a GPS and arm rests. Price-wise, the difference came down to only a few hundred $$. So, our decision was really based only on personal comfort. Or, at least how we believed our butts and guts felt.
Both bikes were fun rides. My lady instinctively felt the RT was 'bigger' and perhaps not as reassuring as she wished. My biggest issue was that I felt my right leg was in an awkward or slightly cramped position when it came to braking. Also, my sciatic nerves ached when I sat on it - soreness in my hips. On the F-3 Ltd, I felt far more comfortable, and my extended right leg was much more free when applying the brake - kind of essential since there is no hand brake. Her ladyship enjoyed sitting on the pillion perch of the F-3 better; suspension was no problem since it was automatically adjusted without my intervention. Storage space is now almost equal between the models (RT has a bigger frunk, but two helmets fit easily into the F-3 top case). The F-3 is certainly breezier; I may consider going to an F4 windscreen. My gal likes the F-3 ride, its feel, even the wind; she also says she can look over my head instead of around the side of it, on the RT. My buying choice was made easier by her leanings to the F-3 Ltd. I should add that we plan to do mostly day trips, not extended, multi-day touring; that could impact a proper decision.
As the experienced ryders say: it's your butt; do your own thing. We're happy. We have only had the F-3 two whole weeks. There has been so damn much rain and poor weather, we've only managed about 4 rydes while two-up. Went about 35 miles, round-trip, for an ice cream, and another 55 miles for a fish and chip dinner. Yesterday was the first extended outing - 300 miles to visit friends for a birthday party. 4-1/2 hours there and the same back, with a couple of butt breaks along the way. Lots of back roads, big hills, flat farm land. No rain. A good day of fun, and lots to learn. Got close to 600 miles now, and will do the first check-up shortly. So far, so good. No complaints. Trying to keep the revs up and feeling out where the shift changes are most comfortable, without necessarily trying to go through the horn button as an intermediate step. Also learning where many of the other functions are - even though I have been through the manual, there's nothing like some road experience. Love the feel of the F-3; don't at all mind the 'twitchy' tendencies. To me, that's just the feel of the road. Let's me know that the bike and I are both alive to our surroundings, and that I'm not falling asleep.
Got to say a big 'Thanks' to all those who post on these Forum chats. Being a newbie, you have all added greatly to my pre-Spyder education. I try to read comments everyday. I often learn something new, and am fore-warned about issues I might not otherwise have thought about. Great informative site. Thanks to all.
Cheers.
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