getting close to decision time....need some input for those who have driven an F3-L and RTL

[Driverwanted]

New to the forms , and motorcycles/3wheelers too. Got my license about 2 months ago in preparation, some info about me..... did my test on a ryker and didn't like the lack of power steering so i've figured my choice is an F3 or RT.... the canyon is out because i'm 6'6" about 280lbs and the foot pegs and position are just very uncomfortable too far back and there aren't a lot of off road trails where i'm at. *(i am one of those guys that likes the look though lol). I'll mostly be going day tripping with my buddy who has an ST1300 Honda , maybe the occasional Airbnb with the wife but i doubt I'll be doing a lot of 2up driving until I'm comfortable - it will be nice to have the option. I'm very mechanically inclined *have rebuild cars from the frame up , wiring , motor , transmission , and have worked on a few friends bikes too (did a clutch on a goldwing a couple months back).

I suspect i will be driving mostly old highways, country roads , coast hugging and because of my newness not sure I'll be doing too many really long highway trips for a bit certainly less highway 100KM/H+ or 60MPH+ roads. I've sat on both , the F3 seems like its a more comfortable position for me being tall, the RT , I'll need a long reach handlebar and maybe a riser as the handlebars hit my thighs when i do a tight turn. i like all the features of the RT (Heated Seat, power windscreen, foot boards and bags) i feel like if the F3 came with those as options it would make the decision easier but i know you can get them aftermarket and/or as options respectively. I've test driven an RT but not an F3 yet i do plan on it though.... I'm waiting to see what deals can am puts out on the 25/26 model years and have to sell a 2nd property for the down payment.

for those who have driven both , and given my size and other situational aspects - any advice you would share as to the decision making ? thanks for your input in advance. (also i read the new rider/owner thread - very helpful ty)

 

[Redbeard]

I have owned both the F3 limited, a 2020 & currently 2023 RT limited. I ryde 99% of the time 1 up. I liked the F3 sitting better than my RT, but also I am a foot shorter than you so keep that in mind. On a spyder "short reach bars" are an oxymoron in name. Short reach bars are for the vertically challenged because my reach is less than yours. They are taller and reach closer to the driver. Neither of my spyders had foot pegs and both had nice larger "running boards" which made foot placement great. Both had heated seats and heated grips which are fantastic in the cooler months of ryding. But here is the BIGGEST reason to consider an RT over the F3: which one the MRS. appreciates more. Check which is easier for her to get on and comfortable to ride on. Have her get on both bikes and get her opinion. My bride had difficulty getting on the F3 and very little problems with the RT. Keep peace in the family by checking which one lets her feel more comfortable on. Neither the F3 or RT had arm rests on them when I purchased them, but only hand grips for the passenger. The $500 bucks for the arm rests are well worth it for any passenger, especially the mrs. Installation time maybe a bit over an hour. The F3 let me feel more like I was ryding in the spyder whereas the RT I feel a little more like I am sitting on the spyder. I suspect the RT would let your legs feel a bit freer to move around (should you have running boards). Both bikes drive very close to one another and either one will keep a large grin on your face where you will not be disappointed with it. These bikes are not to bad to work on once one gets comfortable taking all the tupperware off and out of the way. You will save yourself big bucks by doing your own maintaince work yourself. Youtube is your friend here giving some tips on repair work. Make sure you read the entire manuel cover to cover. And DO NOT check your oil like a typical engine after sitting all night. NEVER. The manual reads something like drive 10 miles, come to a stop and let the engine idle for a few minutes, shut down engine and check the oil level within two minutes. (preferably within a couple of moments). These engines are a dry sump engine and the scavange the oil to a reservoir which is the oil level you are actually checking. After reading the manual a couple of times order a "factory" manual to help you working on the spyder, you will need it. The limited models have much more storage room the the "regular" spyders, so your overnight type stays you may prefer to have more storage, so be sure to check that out. Also with the newer models I read they use touch screens. Myself I am not a fan of touch screens so make sure they will work for you.

 

[RayBJ]

I would bet you will need to modify either machine to fit your size. Handlebar problem should be fixable with Heli-bars (or long reach bars). You'll likely need to replace the seat to push you back a bit. Floorboards can be added to the F3 for better leg positions.

I'm 6'0'' 190 and I prefer the RT over the F3.

 

[blacklightning]

Not quite your size, but I still consider myself on the bigger side (6'-2", 265 pounds). I have a 2021 RTL and a 2016 F3L. For taller riders I feel like the F3series works better. For me, the fun factor of riding the sportier F3 also works better. As for windshields, there are many options to upgrade to. I have the stock one on 90% of the time, but Switch out to the taller one for the colder winter months. You state that you would be traveling with a passenger. That is where the RTL shines. It is much more comfortable for a passenger and has approx twice the storage. But you also stated that most of you travels would possibly be shorter and not long stays. With that in mind, the F3L has a 47L top box and that can be dedicated for the wife's luggage (they normally take more). That would still probably allow you enough room for your items in the smaller frunk and one of the side cases. You will still have the other side case for tools and maybe a small cooler if needed. Good luck with your choice.

 

[JayBros]

If you don't try both Spyders and log some decent miles you may select the wrong vehicle for you and the pillion once you get to riding two up. Given your size and weight you best confirm the maximum weight allowed for each type of Spyder.

 

[Mikey]

You can mod both rides to fit you. I would try to find a F3 you can take out for a test drive, the footrests can be pushed out for your long legs, have them show you that feature, of course they may not have a brake rod the right length to make the brake pedal right, but they can get one. It's important in my eye's that both you and the bride should see if the shoe fit's both of you, you should both feel comfortable on it, or it will not be pleasant for both of you! Armrests for her risers for you at the end of the day makes both of you happy and safe! Good luck, stay in touch and let us know how you make out!!

 

[Driverwanted]

If you don't try both Spyders and log some decent miles you may select the wrong vehicle for you and the pillion once you get to riding two up. Given your size and weight you best confirm the maximum weight allowed for each type of Spyder.

494lbs.... we're close to that and could both stand to lose a few pounds anyways good flag ty!!

 

[Driverwanted]

I would bet you will need to modify either machine to fit your size. Handlebar problem should be fixable with Heli-bars (or long reach bars). You'll likely need to replace the seat to push you back a bit. Floorboards can be added to the F3 for better leg positions.

I'm 6'0'' 190 and I prefer the RT over the F3.

is there a seat for the rt that is back a little further ? i'll look at bar options

 

[kbirdsong]

is there a seat for the rt that is back a little further ? i'll look at bar options

One additional vote for the Helibars. They are expensive but truly very worth it to be able to adjust everything to your liking.

 

[baxter]

Yes have owned both models, yes like the F3 over the RT, no not as tall as you, yes both can be modified to meet you needs.