Finally got to ride one of the newer RT Limited bikes.

[blacklightning]

As the title says, I got a chance to ride my buddies 2020 RT Limited for about 45-50 miles this weekend in Maggie Valley. For a little history, I started on a 2014 RT SM6 and then purchased a 2012 RSS SE5 as a stall mate to it. I love them both. But in 2017 I finally test drove a left over 2016 F3T and was hooked. That is still my current ride and with 25k+ miles it is going strong. But after test riding this 2020 RT Limited, I have some soul searching to do. I miss the acceleration from the larger rear sprocket, but the bike is just so smooth and refined in every way. I especially love the looks and the removable rear trunk. I know it is supposed to be the luxury one, but with proper suspension tweeks and better acceleration, I feel like I could be faster in the twisties with this bike due to being able to move around in the seat. The F3 series keeps you planted and is harder to move around and hang off in the curves. But if I had to pick a downside, it would be the quality that I am seeing on the newer bikes compared to my older 2016. The fitment and cheapness of some of the parts is turning me off a little. Even things such as the reflectors and make of the front fenders is much cheaper than the older ones. But I might be making the move and see for myself which is better for me. I have asked some of my local friends to keep a list of their issues and we shall see if a change is in the works for me.

 

[Peteoz]

Best of luck in your decision, Blacklightning.

I moved from a 16 F3-L to a ‘21 RT-L. “Refined” is a good description. I reckon it handles, “stock”, every bit as well as my F3, which had Wilbers shocks, Ron’s bar and Kuhmos. Plus, the LED headlights, electronic screen, longer shock travel etc really make it a great long distance tourer (not that the F3 was bad……just that the RT is better).

I added a stabiliser bar to the RT as I prefer a flatter cornering experience, and I have upgraded the rear shock as the stock shock had a horrible squeal to it and I couldn’t get to the dealer due to Covid to get them to replace it. I don’t think I’ll change the front shocks, but that’s just me…….if I do change the front shocks, it will be to compensate a bit better on our dreadful potholed roads than anything else. I also swapped to Kenda Kanines.

I loved my F3-L, but the new RT is definitely a step up for me.

Pete

 

[RayBJ]

I have the '20 RT Base. You are correct in thinking the '20+ RTs can be made to tear up the curves. Same formula everyone here knows if 'spirited' is in their blood. Upgrade sway bar. tires, shocks, & wake up the engine for ~$2k and ride in comfort while you blow thru the corners.

 

[MONK]

I know where a sweet '21 RT is for sale. Just sayin'.

 

[Woodaddict]

I know where a sweet '21 RT is for sale. Just sayin'.

you got him,,,,,,,,,,,,,he put that sway bar on,,,,,,, knowing he was going to BUY it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Valkrocket]

Y'all want to bring that baby to life? Install a pedal commander. then hold on for your life. Installed one on my 21 RTL earlier this week and can't believe the difference. Immediate throttle response. Snap your head right off, ifin yer not ready for it. Gotta be one of my best add-ons and probably the easiest to install. :2thumbs:

 

[Pooch]

Took my 2021 RTL out of Eco mode for one trip…. PLENTY of head-snapping for me. Left tire marks on the driveway. Had a hard time NOT riding all over my ride-partner on his Venture trike and he is heavy-handed on that throttle. Went back to Eco as I am a sight-see-er driver and enjoy the higher mpg.

 

[MONK]

Y'all want to bring that baby to life? Install a pedal commander. then hold on for your life. Installed one on my 21 RTL earlier this week and can't believe the difference. Immediate throttle response. Snap your head right off, ifin yer not ready for it. Gotta be one of my best add-ons and probably the easiest to install. :2thumbs:

You aren't kidding! My bike came to life once I installed it on mine. Heck of a difference even if it didn't actually increase the hp.

 

[Nuttymopar]

I agree. Pedal Commander just wakes the bike up some. Sure, cruising down the highway, it isn't going to get up and fly any faster. But boy, that first few gears of just moving the throttle and it takes right off. Makes it a blast. Any you DON'T need to do it all the time, still get pretty good MPG if just taking it easy like normal. Then BLAM, decide to leave the line a little quicker this time....lol

 

[Revalden]

Y'all want to bring that baby to life? Install a pedal commander. then hold on for your life. Installed one on my 21 RTL earlier this week and can't believe the difference. Immediate throttle response. Snap your head right off, ifin yer not ready for it. Gotta be one of my best add-ons and probably the easiest to install. :2thumbs:

My Pedal Commander comes tomorrow :yes:. I'm still playing with my Dynojet Power Commander V and I'm pretty close to getting it dialed-in. Spydie should really come ALIVE now. The PCV already pumped it quite well, but, I'm U.S. Government Certified 100% Wacko already (Viet Nam). :yikes: