Is the RT Limited worth the $8000 more from the Base RT?

[rworell]

So I'm at a Dealer today having my alignment done on the 08 GS. and I started to talk to a sales guy about buying an RT. I told him I would be fine with the Base model and he looks me straight in the eye and says, "No you wouldn't" I say.... really, why? He says, weill you don't get all the gages that you get on the High models, or the suspension adjustment, and it doesn't have rear speakers... So I tell him, ok... well. if it doesn't have the dial gauges, it still will have the electronic ones on the display, why do I need two, and I'm riding an 08 Roadster, I think this suspension would be like driving on a pillow compared to mine, and lastly, I can purchase a set of speakers for about $100 bucks and whuala.... Rear speakers, I just saved myself about $8000. "lol"

My point is I was disappointed he was so admit that I purchase a model I truly did not want. He before that conversation appreciated that I'm a spyder owner and that I had a very good knowledge base and understanding of the machines... He lost a sale today, cause if he played it right I might have done it!!! :banghead:

Lastly to all the 14 RT owners coming from an older RT, is it that big of a difference? Good deals on the 13 leftovers..

Thanks,
Rich

 

[mastertek2000]

i got the RTS SM5 all i wanted was the heated grips front and rear fog lights and air ride all ready had GPS same one the limited comes with

 

[rworell]

I couldn't agree more...

i got the RTS SM5 all i wanted was the heated grips front and rear fog lights and air ride all ready had GPS same one the limited comes with

 

[PrairieSpyder]

So I'm at a Dealer today having my alignment done on the 08 GS. and I started to talk to a sales guy about buying an RT. I told him I would be fine with the Base model and he looks me straight in the eye and says, "No you wouldn't" I say.... really, why? He says, weill you don't get all the gages that you get on the High models, or the suspension adjustment, and it doesn't have rear speakers... So I tell him, ok... well. if it doesn't have the dial gauges, it still will have the electronic ones on the display, why do I need two, and I'm riding an 08 Roadster, I think this suspension would be like driving on a pillow compared to mine, and lastly, I can purchase a set of speakers for about $100 bucks and whuala.... Rear speakers, I just saved myself about $8000. "lol"

My point is I was disappointed he was so admit that I purchase a model I truly did not want. He before that conversation appreciated that I'm a spyder owner and that I had a very good knowledge base and understanding of the machines... He lost a sale today, cause if he played it right I might have done it!!! :banghead:

Lastly to all the 14 RT owners coming from an older RT, is it that big of a difference? Good deals on the 13 leftovers..

Thanks,
Rich

:agree: I know what you mean.

When you said you'd be happy with a base RT, he should have said "Which color do you want? I'll begin writing it up." By going all hard-sell, he lost a sale.

I have a '14 RTS and came from an '11 RTS which I had bought used. It was worth it to me to get a totally new machine, comparable model features (S-model) and the newest engine and technology. But if someone doesn't want the S-model features, he shouldn't feel pressured to buy them.

 

[bgame]

I test drove a 2010 spyder in 2010 and liked it.... Drove a 2014 RTS in 2014 and bought it on the spot....

 

[Bob Denman]

They're only worth the extra money to you; if you decide to go ahead and pull the trigger! :thumbup:
I started out with a 2010 A&C; which I took three years to transform into an RT-S... :shocked:
I ain't going through that again... :banghead:
This time; I wanted the onboard GPS system. Since I didn't care for the RT-S Black trim, I popped for the Limited...
...And I ived happily ever after! :dg1:

 

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

SPEAKERS

So I'm at a Dealer today having my alignment done on the 08 GS. and I started to talk to a sales guy about buying an RT. I told him I would be fine with the Base model and he looks me straight in the eye and says, "No you wouldn't" I say.... really, why? He says, weill you don't get all the gages that you get on the High models, or the suspension adjustment, and it doesn't have rear speakers... So I tell him, ok... well. if it doesn't have the dial gauges, it still will have the electronic ones on the display, why do I need two, and I'm riding an 08 Roadster, I think this suspension would be like driving on a pillow compared to mine, and lastly, I can purchase a set of speakers for about $100 bucks and whuala.... Rear speakers, I just saved myself about $8000. "lol"

My point is I was disappointed he was so admit that I purchase a model I truly did not want. He before that conversation appreciated that I'm a spyder owner and that I had a very good knowledge base and understanding of the machines... He lost a sale today, cause if he played it right I might have done it!!! :banghead:

Lastly to all the 14 RT owners coming from an older RT, is it that big of a difference? Good deals on the 13 leftovers..

Thanks,
Rich

:gaah:....You were lucky, the salesman didn't have a clue what He was selling .......I just bought a Base RT and it sure as H*ll has rear speakers....and as far as $ 100 for two...........That's what I just Paid for ...4... Yes 4 JBL's ...a pr. of GTO 528's & a pr. of GTO 428's...........and these speakers ROCK....I have had them before and they are waterproof etc. etc...................And if you are serious about buying a BASIC RT pm me :thumbup:

 

[Chupaca]

Choices choices..!!

but in the end...is it worth it to you. If you add up the differences, is it that much..how many of the extras do you want..how many can you add yourself..I have an RS and love it as does my wife. The major advantage for us is there is very little that can go wrong with it. The more bells and whistles the more there is that can fail. But again it's what you want and the sales guy should respect that and mention extras...:thumbup:

 

[warp10]

They're only worth the extra money to you; if you decide to go ahead and pull the trigger! :thumbup:
I started out with a 2010 A&C; which I took three years to transform into an RT-S... :shocked:
I ain't going through that again... :banghead:
This time; I wanted the onboard GPS system. Since I didn't care for the RT-S Black trim, I popped for the Limited...
...And I ived happily ever after! :dg1:

I did the same with my first 2012 RT, started with the A/C, traded for the RTS, this time Cognac 2014 RT Limited. Do I need all the chrome, no, but it does look very sharp. It is worth what it you want and are willing to pay. That said I am very happy.

 

[CentralCoastCA]

From an "08 GS to a base '14 RT

I went from a GS to a base '14 RT last month and I don't regret it. I am still perfecting the shifting techniques from an SM5 to an SE6, but I really am glad my hubby talked me into the SE. The riding position and increased comfort level are well worth the upgrade.

Since I don't carry a passenger 95% of the time, I didn't see the need for the adjustable suspension (more on that in a moment though). I didn't care about the speakers or radio because I bluetooth music from my iPhone to my Sena, hubby can install the fog lights and the nifty looking front fenders whenever I want and still spend less than an RTS/L. I did not want driver floorboards because of the position of the footbrake (you have to lift you foot up quite a bit to apply the brake) and I like foot pegs better anyway. Adding Tri Axis handlebars costs you no matter what unit you buy either. By purchasing the base model and hubby adding the other farkles as I get them, we saved about $2-3k over the S model - I never priced out a Limited.

About the manual rear shock - when it was checked during my alignment with Squared Away, it was discovered that it had zero air in it. I had complained about the arm and shoulder strength needed to maneuver through the twists but had attributed that to the increased weight of the RT vs the GS. After installing a BajaRon sway bar, getting my alignment (my RT was barely out but I decided to have it done anyway) and putting air in the rear shock (not sure if it leaked or not filled at factory or during setup), really improved the handling during the 450 mile ride back home. So far the shock has remained at 55 psi and is super easy to check (under the seat).

The color choice is limited on the base model, you only get black or white, but I must say the pearl white is quite nice and great in hot weather. Just be sure to get what you want and then enjoy your ryde!!!

 

[Jbiancolli]

Interesting, mine too had 0 psi when i brought it home. I checked with the dealer and was told they do not put air in the rdear bag. They leave it up to the drivers discretion.

 

[jerpinoy]

Everybody have different preference.

 

[Cruzr Joe]

So I'm at a Dealer today having my alignment done on the 08 GS. and I started to talk to a sales guy about buying an RT. I told him I would be fine with the Base model and he looks me straight in the eye and says, "No you wouldn't" I say.... really, why? He says, weill you don't get all the gages that you get on the High models, or the suspension adjustment, and it doesn't have rear speakers... So I tell him, ok... well. if it doesn't have the dial gauges, it still will have the electronic ones on the display, why do I need two, and I'm riding an 08 Roadster, I think this suspension would be like driving on a pillow compared to mine, and lastly, I can purchase a set of speakers for about $100 bucks and whuala.... Rear speakers, I just saved myself about $8000. "lol"

My point is I was disappointed he was so admit that I purchase a model I truly did not want. He before that conversation appreciated that I'm a spyder owner and that I had a very good knowledge base and understanding of the machines... He lost a sale today, cause if he played it right I might have done it!!! :banghead:

Lastly to all the 14 RT owners coming from an older RT, is it that big of a difference? Good deals on the 13 leftovers..

Thanks,
Rich

yes it is that big of a difference, and worth it to go to the 14 (not necessarily the limited, i went with the RT-S and am very pleased.)
Cruzr Joe

 

[bcoulter19]

:gaah:....You were lucky, the salesman didn't have a clue what He was selling .......I just bought a Base RT and it sure as H*ll has rear speakers....and as far as $ 100 for two...........That's what I just Paid for ...4... Yes 4 JBL's ...a pr. of GTO 528's & a pr. of GTO 428's...........and these speakers ROCK....I have had them before and they are waterproof etc. etc...................And if you are serious about buying a BASIC RT pm me :thumbup:

Did you replace your factory speakers? And where did you get these.

 

[ARtraveler]

So I'm at a Dealer today having my alignment done on the 08 GS. and I started to talk to a sales guy about buying an RT. I told him I would be fine with the Base model and he looks me straight in the eye and says, "No you wouldn't" I say.... really, why? He says, weill you don't get all the gages that you get on the High models, or the suspension adjustment, and it doesn't have rear speakers... So I tell him, ok... well. if it doesn't have the dial gauges, it still will have the electronic ones on the display, why do I need two, and I'm riding an 08 Roadster, I think this suspension would be like driving on a pillow compared to mine, and lastly, I can purchase a set of speakers for about $100 bucks and whuala.... Rear speakers, I just saved myself about $8000. "lol"

My point is I was disappointed he was so admit that I purchase a model I truly did not want. He before that conversation appreciated that I'm a spyder owner and that I had a very good knowledge base and understanding of the machines... He lost a sale today, cause if he played it right I might have done it!!! :banghead:

Lastly to all the 14 RT owners coming from an older RT, is it that big of a difference? Good deals on the 13 leftovers..

Thanks,
Rich

RE: old RT vs. 2014 RT. Traded 2010 RTS (the original RT premier edition) for the 2014 RT-S version. The difference is night and day in my opinion. I like a few farkles so the RT-S was just fine for me. Did not need the Garmin or the real chrome pieces that are found on the RTL.

I believe a test drive may be in order for you--just so you know what everyone is cheering about.

 

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

Yes this is Flagrant Bragging

Did you replace your factory speakers? And where did you get these.

:2excited:...Well almost....they won't arrive until Mon. the 9 th,..........But then they are going in..............I got them here ----SONICELECTRONIX.COM -------I have been buying all my associated gear from them for decades , there prices are generally lower than anyone else's , the shipping is free on just about everything......and they play fair and honest............I won't deal with any one else...........Mike :thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:.............................and like I said earlier if you are serious about buying a NEW RT......PM me........Mike :thumbup:

 

[rworell]

PM sent

:2excited:...Well almost....they won't arrive until Mon. the 9 th,..........But then they are going in..............I got them here ----SONICELECTRONIX.COM -------I have been buying all my associated gear from them for decades , there prices are generally lower than anyone else's , the shipping is free on just about everything......and they play fair and honest............I won't deal with any one else...........Mike :thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:.............................and like I said earlier if you are serious about buying a NEW RT......PM me........Mike :thumbup:

 

[IdahoMtnSpyder]

Here's some of my thought process before I bought my '13 base RT, used with only 600 miles on it for $15000 including shipping.

Fog lights - OEM are incandescent bulbs and are $500 to add on. I went with bullet style high power LEDs fog/daytime running lights mounted on the fenders. I think they work as good or better than OEM as far as other drivers seeing me and cost only $100 for the pair.

Adjustable suspension - dealer agreed that if you don't go back and forth between one up and two up, once you find the setting you like, it'll probably stay there so adjustable suspension is of limited value.

Gauges - lot of reports that analog gauges aren't as accurate as the digital on the cluster, and with analog installed the digital doesn't show. So, no loss there by going base.

GPS - the wiring and mount to install your own GPS isn't a whole of money, and by doing your own you can use any GPS you want. I use a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7" tablet with a GPS app. It feeds into the audio the same as the OEM. No real benefit in that area, other than with the S and Ltd it's already there, for about $1000. My setup, with tablet included, was somewhere around $300 to $400.

If you use a wired helmet, or Bluetooth, built-in speaker quality is of secondary importance. Besides, I don't see how anyone can really hear speakers when you're going 70 down the highway.

Frunk light - you can add a lot better one than the OEM like I did, for not much money.

Frunk liner - nice, but necessary? Your preference. Plus, if you really want it you can order it as an accessory or replacement part I'm sure.

If you're into pretty and bling, well, the base doesn't give you as much. But the functionality is there, plus the cost savings.

Now as to '14 vs the '13, taking into consideration the rebate on the '13s and the price increase, that step up will cost somewhere around $4000 I think it is. If the 4 grand isn't an issue, then go with the '14. For me it was a big issue. I was looking at something like $7000 grand to go to the '14. But I do have the heat issue to fix, which from what I read here has been pretty well taken care of on the '14s.

 

[BaldEagle]

They're only worth the extra money to you; if you decide to go ahead and pull the trigger! :thumbup:
I started out with a 2010 A&C; which I took three years to transform into an RT-S... :shocked:
I ain't going through that again... :banghead:
This time; I wanted the onboard GPS system. Since I didn't care for the RT-S Black trim, I popped for the Limited...
...And I ived happily ever after! :dg1:

Amen Bob.

 

[rworell]

WasWinger, thanks so much for your insite. Its exactly how I was viewing this and I've done my homwork and I'm also a tinkerer and have a solid mechanical backround to be able to do most things. I've driven the new 14 and all I can say is I'm speechless! Wonderful machine!!!

Here's some of my thought process before I bought my '13 base RT, used with only 600 miles on it for $15000 including shipping.

Fog lights - OEM are incandescent bulbs and are $500 to add on. I went with bullet style high power LEDs fog/daytime running lights mounted on the fenders. I think they work as good or better than OEM as far as other drivers seeing me and cost only $100 for the pair.

Adjustable suspension - dealer agreed that if you don't go back and forth between one up and two up, once you find the setting you like, it'll probably stay there so adjustable suspension is of limited value.

Gauges - lot of reports that analog gauges aren't as accurate as the digital on the cluster, and with analog installed the digital doesn't show. So, no loss there by going base.

GPS - the wiring and mount to install your own GPS isn't a whole of money, and by doing your own you can use any GPS you want. I use a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7" tablet with a GPS app. It feeds into the audio the same as the OEM. No real benefit in that area, other than with the S and Ltd it's already there, for about $1000. My setup, with tablet included, was somewhere around $300 to $400.

If you use a wired helmet, or Bluetooth, built-in speaker quality is of secondary importance. Besides, I don't see how anyone can really hear speakers when you're going 70 down the highway.

Frunk light - you can add a lot better one than the OEM like I did, for not much money.

Frunk liner - nice, but necessary? Your preference. Plus, if you really want it you can order it as an accessory or replacement part I'm sure.

If you're into pretty and bling, well, the base doesn't give you as much. But the functionality is there, plus the cost savings.

Now as to '14 vs the '13, taking into consideration the rebate on the '13s and the price increase, that step up will cost somewhere around $4000 I think it is. If the 4 grand isn't an issue, then go with the '14. For me it was a big issue. I was looking at something like $7000 grand to go to the '14. But I do have the heat issue to fix, which from what I read here has been pretty well taken care of on the '14s.