Going for a demo day test ride, any things to look for?

[fratzba]

I've been thinking about getting a spyder for a couple of years, and am finally in a position where I could get one if I want.

There's going to be a demo day near here in the next couple of weeks, and I'm signed up.

Coming from a rather large 2-wheeler (Kawasaki Concours C14) -- I know, I know, it's not a motorcycle, but after a dozen years on one, I'm thinking that it's time for a change.

Anything in particular that I should look for? I'm leaning toward the RT-S SE6, so the Mrs. has a seat, and it seems like the best model for me. I'm definitely more of a sport-touring kinda guy than a cruiser.

What kind of a deal off MSRP should I expect? Any must-have accessories?

Thanks, -Fratz

 

[Centurion]

Welcome! From your background, i would think that you would find the RT model the most appealing. There are several trim levels within the RT model to suit your tastes. The 2014 and 2015 model years are essentially the same Spyder minus minor changes, most notably the color choices. I doubt that there will be any deep discounts on the 2015s but there may be some for the 2014s. I suggest your read the Do's and Don't's thread, particularly for riding tips as a Spyder handles differently than a two-wheeler.

 

[vided]

lean towards the rt-s, you'll love it :clap::clap:

 

[JayBros]

Centurion has covered the waterfront.

 

[MouthPiece]

I've been thinking about getting a spyder for a couple of years, and am finally in a position where I could get one if I want.

There's going to be a demo day near here in the next couple of weeks, and I'm signed up.

Coming from a rather large 2-wheeler (Kawasaki Concours C14) -- I know, I know, it's not a motorcycle, but after a dozen years on one, I'm thinking that it's time for a change.

Anything in particular that I should look for? I'm leaning toward the RT-S SE6, so the Mrs. has a seat, and it seems like the best model for me. I'm definitely more of a sport-touring kinda guy than a cruiser.

What kind of a deal off MSRP should I expect? Any must-have accessories?

Thanks, -Fratz

If the "Mrs." isn't real big on riding motorcycles, then follow your desires and get the sportier model spyder. The F-3 is ideal. At the sametime go and get you a covertible automobile (VW, MiniCooper, etc) to have her come along on those rides that you want the openess. She'll enjoy it more.

​Chris

 

[PrairieSpyder]

What to look out for?? Spending all your money one a new Spyder and then all the farkles!!!

Otherwise, others have covered the bases. Maybe see if your wife would like an ST!

 

[wiredgeorge]

Seems kind of silly to come to the Spyder board and in particular the RT forum and ask what to do... expecting someone to tell you to get a Triglide bwhahaha If you are here, you have the bug. The RT family is the only one that has touiring amenities and good passenger accommodation. Honestly, I ride two-up on my RT with my missus and had a Goldwing trike prior and before that a Goldwing and before that a Voyager XII and before that a Venture and ... well you get the picture... all for riding two-up. I have a variety of vintage Kawasaki KZs and a 2004 Bonneville America to keep my two wheel riding urges happy. I have found over the years that one bike/trike doesn't cover all the bases and as I get older, the heavier bikes seem too much work and overkill. The Triumph weighs about 500 lbs and has about 20 hp and doesn't misbehave handling-wise so suits me. Get The Spyder RT for 2-up and a bike you will enjoy solo that your missus wouldn't possibly want to get on. My Bonny doesn't have a rear seat or pegs bwhahaha

 

[Chupaca]

All I can say....

is look for your wallet...:roflblack: test rydes can be very convincing...:thumbup:

 

[wiredgeorge]

is look for your wallet...:roflblack: test rydes can be very convincing...:thumbup:

Also, a helmet for you and for your missus if she is going as well as proof of insurance and a license with motorcycle endoreement.

 

[Rottieluvr]

Yup, I went for a test ride of a RT-S(manual shift) and it followed me home. I was on a Goldwing trike but found the RT 'MUCH' easier to steer, softer ride, and QUICKER! The only thing I found is on corners it's oversteers a little. My trike wanted to straighten out all the time but the Spyder wants to dig (pull) into the corners. Another thing is if you have 2 FULL face helmets, storage is not enough. I can get 1 in the Frunk but not in the side and back storage. Enjoy the 'TEST' ride. AND wife says it is more comfy than Wing was.

 

[StanProff]

Match your needs.

Sounds like you are the RT touring/comfort style rider as I am. My wife wanted to be comfortable and have the sense of security the RT Spyder delivers.
The F3 is an awesome cruiser style Spyder for those who enjoy that type of riding and the riding position.
The RT has excellent weather protection with the electric Adjustable windshield, and wind deflection. Also you can adjust the passenger floor boards up or down to suit your wife's comfort level.
The RTS model will have on the fly adjustable rear air suspension to soften out the rough spots for the wife. The heated grips (driver and passenger) are great as well. Radio, ipod connection are also good.
I had a 5 speed manuel shift on my first Spyder and now have a 6 speed semi automatic. I have had motorcycles all my life from the time I was 13 years old. Didn't think I would enjoy the automatic as much as I do. I love it. Can't beat the 1330 3 cylinder engine in the '14 and '15 RT's.
I have been across the country from the Outer Banks of North Carolina to Wyoming and Colorado on Spyder RT's and it is an awesome ride.
Just remember when you do the test ride, Push Pull the handle bars to steer. You'll just fall off if you try to lean to make it turn. :roflblack: . Doesn't take that long to get used to the steering and handling. If you buy, give it 500 or 1000 miles and you will have confidence in it.
Stan

 

[ARtraveler]

I've been thinking about getting a spyder for a couple of years, and am finally in a position where I could get one if I want.

There's going to be a demo day near here in the next couple of weeks, and I'm signed up.

Coming from a rather large 2-wheeler (Kawasaki Concours C14) -- I know, I know, it's not a motorcycle, but after a dozen years on one, I'm thinking that it's time for a change.

Anything in particular that I should look for? I'm leaning toward the RT-S SE6, so the Mrs. has a seat, and it seems like the best model for me. I'm definitely more of a sport-touring kinda guy than a cruiser.

What kind of a deal off MSRP should I expect? Any must-have accessories?

Thanks, -Fratz

Don't forget to bring the checkbook--or--have financing in place so you can use that as a dicker point when you buy it.

RT-S SE6 is a very good choice. Recommend no additional accessories for the first thousand miles or so. A trunk light bar is good from the get-go though. The RT-S comes pretty well equipped out of the box. If you go for a 2014 instead of a 2015 you may save some bucks. A little early in the year for bargain prices on 2015's.

Have fun and enjoy the experience. :welcome:

 

[fratzba]

Thank you all for your comments, they've been very helpful, and reinforces the thought that the RT-S seems like a good fit for me.

Seems kind of silly to come to the Spyder board and in particular the RT forum and ask what to do...

Well, I'm certainly not looking to get talked out of it here, but more of what to look for and expect, and must-have accessories. If I wanted to get talked out of it, I'd be asking this question on the C14 forum :banghead:

I'll post a follow-up here when I get back from the demo (and who knows, maybe the new owner thread...

-Fratz

 

[PrairieSpyder]

Yup, I went for a test ride of a RT-S(manual shift) and it followed me home. I was on a Goldwing trike but found the RT 'MUCH' easier to steer, softer ride, and QUICKER! The only thing I found is on corners it's oversteers a little. My trike wanted to straighten out all the time but the Spyder wants to dig (pull) into the corners. Another thing is if you have 2 FULL face helmets, storage is not enough. I can get 1 in the Frunk but not in the side and back storage. Enjoy the 'TEST' ride. AND wife says it is more comfy than Wing was.

:congrats: on your new Spyder!!

 

[TravelNMan]

We traded our GL 1800 for a 2014 RT Limited earlier this year and love it. No regret. Love the semi-automatic transmission and large floorboards. On my demo ride I kept reaching for the missing clutch and break levers :shocked:.

Take it easy on the turns until you get used to it. Don't have a death grip on the handlebar or you will have a very jerky ride. If you wife rides with you tell her to use the hand grips on the turns and NOT YOU.

if you're looking at 2015 models the dealer may not budge much on price so see what else he may offer with the deal. We got a good discount on the Sena Bluetooth headsets and SM10 dongle. This may be the only time they offer good discounts on accessories.

The only after-market purchase I recommend getting ASAP is the BumpSkid to protect to bottom of the front trunk (Frunk).

The best place to find information on the Spyder is right here at Spyderlovers.com. :welcome:

 

[Spyder RTL]

I'm an odd ball

I went from 2 wheels to a 2014 RT Limited without a test ride. When I took delivery of the RTL, I remember driving off the lot and I hated the ride. All the way home, I was thinking that I had made a huge mistake. But then the more I rode and after having BajaRon's anti-sway bar installed, my opinion of the ride is the complete opposite. I love the RTL and the wife loves riding on the back. If I had taken a test ride, I am certain that I would not have made the purchase.

But that's me. You may enjoy your ride. And if you don't, think about my story before you make your final decision. And that's why I am sharing my story. I would hate for your test ride to be the last nail in the Spyder coffin.

Dave

 

[rgscms]

Welcome

I think you are probably going to the demo day on the 19th at Pro Caliber Vancouver. If so, plan on spending some time on each of the models. The staff there is top notch and not high pressure. Also look for members of the Spyder Riders of America Columbia River Chapter that can offer you unbiased owners answers to your questions. They will usually have their SRA patches on their vests and will gladly spend time with you. Hope to see you there, my wife and I will be on our 2014 RTs, hers is the S model and mine is an LTD, both are Cognac (Orange).
Bob and Chris

 

[fratzba]

FYI, I took the plunge and bought a 2015 RT-S after the demo ride.

Thanks to Bob and Chris for all of the helpful info! I'll be picking it up tomorrow, and will post the obligatory picture.

-Fratz