• There were many reasons for the change of the site software, the biggest was security. The age of the old software also meant no server updates for certain programs. There are many benefits to the new software, one of the biggest is the mobile functionality. Ill fix up some stuff in the coming days, we'll also try to get some of the old addons back or the data imported back into the site like the garage. To create a thread or to reply with a post is basically the same as it was in the prior software. The default style of the site is light colored, but i temporarily added a darker colored style, to change you can find a link at the bottom of the site.

I really want to like this bike...

Stumpy6Guns said:
They loaned me a brand-new 2016 RTL with 3 miles on the clock for a couple of days. What a difference! It's more sensitive than mine, so it took some getting used to, but it handles like everyone says it should. The corners that gave me trouble before were easier to deal with, and I felt a lot more confident on this bike. I picked up some bad habits out of fear on my bike, and I had to work at riding correctly, but I'm glad it's my bike and not me!:clap:
Click to expand...
Now you know we weren't shi**** you! That's great! :yes:
 
:2thumbs: On finding the issue and :clap:for not giving up. I do have to warn you that after having the 16 to ride it will be hard to go back to the 12 ;)
 
Stumpy6Guns said:
They loaned me a brand-new 2016 RTL with 3 miles on the clock for a couple of days. What a difference! It's more sensitive than mine, so it took some getting used to, but it handles like everyone says it should. The corners that gave me trouble before were easier to deal with, and I felt a lot more confident on this bike. I picked up some bad habits out of fear on my bike, and I had to work at riding correctly, but I'm glad it's my bike and not me!:clap:
Click to expand...
That's the problem with the newer bikes. nojoke
Everything that you love about your current ride, is just as loveable on the new ones.
And the stuff that might have needed a bit of improvement: they knocked right out of the park! :clap: :2thumbs:

Face it :shocked:: the hook has been set, and you're doomed! :D
 
The price of the '16 is why I bought the '12! I just don't know how you guys can keep trading in for new rydes without going broke. The financial mechanics escape me!:dontknow:
 
I understand why...

It's the how that eludes me. These are not cheap rydes, and my pockets aren't deep. Let's say that I wanted to keep this one, after just buying the first one in May. It doesn't seem likely that the dealer will just take the trade and pay off the note without asking me to come up with more cash to cover the shortage or roll the difference into the new loan.

If the dealer could work it out so that between the two bikes, I didn't spend any more than if I had bought the '16 to start with, I'd probably go for it. Are you listening, Mr. Dealer?
 
I am sorry to hear you are struggling. I on the other hand cannot ride 2 wheels to save my soul.

That being said, when I bought mine new in 2012 I rode her home 90 miles with absolute confidence and comfort. I learned within a few miles not to man handle it. I ran between 60 and 70 mph all the way home. But, I had no preconceived notions about riding a Spyder. I let my machine guide me in how to rider her. In curves if I felt a pull, I leaned against it.

It sounds like you are comparing apples to oranges. Try to erase all negativity in your mind every time you go for a ride. Ride it like a snowmobile (if you ever have). Lighten that touch on the handle bars. No death grip! If she still pulls, then you may need an alignment. I never have had mine done though.

Don't lose hope. Maybe riding a new one will help, but the new ones are way different than the older ones so keep that in mind.

Good luck!

Blue
 
Great that you found the culprit. Once you get past the bill and getting it fixed you'll be on your way to miles of smiles and happiness.
 
Here is my take. I am happy you found the issue. Some may say that I am a little off the hinges. I have 2013 RTS Spyder with no suspension mods. I am not spending several hundred dollars on any steering issues unless it is absolutely necessary. I have ridden many bikes over many years. When I first test road the Spyder, I thought. This thing handles like crap. In ten minutes I thought. I love the comfort on this thing. It handles ok. I adjusted quickly. After owning and riding the the Spyder for over a year now I noticed more "twitchiness" in the steering. I tried something while riding on a straight stretch in a cross wind and turbulence from a tractor trailer. I have tried this several times now. I set the cruise control and gently let go of the bars. (No Hands). The Spyder held a straight line for some time. Maybe a quarter mile. It still tracked pretty well beyond that with little adjustment from just a touch of a finger. I believe the steering is fine. I have no issues with the steering. It takes curves very well. (Although two wheels are more responsive in the twisties.) I have not ridden a Spyder with a laser alignment. It probably would be a noticeable difference. But I am pretty satisfied with the stock set up. Just my opinion.
 
Stumpy6Guns said:
I've owned it for 5 1/2 weeks, and ridden it for 800 miles, and now I'm starting to wonder if it's me or the machine.
It just feels squirrely. I've read a bazillion posts, and I try to stay relaxed and do the things that you folks with much more experience have shared, but riding this thing is wearing me out. All I want is a nice, well-behaved machine that doesn't continually scare me like this one does.
It is very sensitive to roadway conditions and wind turbulence. Above 45 mph, I feel like I am fighting to stay in my lane as it darts about. Rain grooves and patched asphalt especially cause trouble, but smooth is not trouble-free.
I installed the Baja Ron swaybar and links, and I'm trying to be objective, but I can't say for sure that they helped. I've methodically changed the tire pressures in order to find the optimal settings and have settled into 18.5 psi in front and 28 psi in the rear.
I haven't had it aligned yet; wish someone in Escondido would buy the equipment so I don't have to drive 100 miles to get it done.
The drive belt starts slapping time at 5800 rpm, unless I'm going uphill and then it starts earlier. I checked the tension with the little click gauge, and it's at 160 lbs. A belt tensioner is needed.

Maybe it's fine. I don't have a frame of reference to compare it to; I should probably take a new one out for a ride to get my head calibrated.

I think my biggest fear (other than safety) is finding out that I bought someone else's problems and it's just worn out and will take a lot of $$ to make right.
Click to expand...



Have you looked at your front shocks?

I have the Baja Ron's sway bar, but I also put on his shock adjusters. Used a couple of turns and they really have helped.

Good luck.

BobS
 
Spyder down for a while...

Bobleach45 said:
Great that you found the culprit. Once you get past the bill and getting it fixed you'll be on your way to miles of smiles and happiness.
Click to expand...

Fortunately, I purchased an extended warranty that will cover the repairs. The sad part is that my Spyder will be in the shop for at least a couple of weeks; I'm having them fix a few other issues while they have it.

  • Ball joints
  • Install air scoops to cool down my foot and hind end
  • Fix drive belt vibration (@5800 RPM, it vibrates like a cricket on crack)
  • Glove box latches, but doesn't lock
 
Last edited:
Can't Hurt

You know the dealer maybe motivated to move units so you may as well ask the dealer, what cane you do for me? The worst thing that happens is that you have your Spyder fixed and you ryde off into the sunset!:yes:
 
I talked to the sales guys when I dropped off the loaner yesterday, but they weren't biting. They just smiled and said mine will ryde just like the '16 when it comes out of the shop. Who's playing whom here? Why can't they just shut up and take my money?:joke:
 
Getting used to the Spyder

I probably had close to 1000 miles before the Spyder ride smoothed out for me. Prior to that, I also felt the steering and handling was shaky. Once I made a conscious effort to gently steer with both hands, everything smoothed out and clicked into place. I agree with one comment where he said you should be able to steer with one finger. That is true once the early kinks are gone. And I can report lots of aggressive fun in the curves, now. I am keeping up with the big boys in my group and the Spyder feels great.
 
Since you bought this bike in May was there not a Safty insp done on it.Who ever did the safty should be responsible for the ball joints.Good luck on getting your ride back and sure hope you enjoy it.
Bill
 
3000 miles of what have i done!?

I was afraid to change radio stations,
Cruise control? What a joke, may never be able to use it etc.
Wandered allover the road. Skittish,
Had to slow way down for most any action.

And i am a life long rider of many machines.

But i knew in my gut it must be me

3 more thousand mi

Now i do not know where that bike went.-----

Oh wait its the same bike!
I found out how to ride it🚲

This machine is awesome and finally becoming second nature like all my other rides!

Embarrassing to even say these things as a 48 year rider but if it helps another i wi step up to the plate





I love R&R put another dime in the jukebox baby!
 
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