Looking into the future of the RT

[Prense01]

1) provisions for a stock heated seat.

2) intercom and headset connections should have been factory installed. Intercom should not be built into the CB. The current setup is entirely too costly considering all of the aftermarket options.

3) rear trunk light. It is the little considerations that can truly matter.

4) front trunk light is entirely too feeble. I have seen incandescent flashlights with half dead batteries put out more visible light. The light should be LED and always hot...same with the rear trunk.

5) please let me listen to my stereo when I wash my bike! Or anytime I am sitting idle without the engine running.

6) cut the windshield down 2" and give it two more inches of travel on the top end. At 5'10" with a 30 inch inseam, I can see over the top of the wind shield, but barely and not sitting in my normal riding position. I have to "sit tall" to see above it. Additionally, a functional vent in the wind shield would be a nice touch to a luxury tourer.

7) I do not mind the fuel economy at all, but get the bike's range to 200 miles. The fuel indication system needs to be looked at for improved useful accuracy. At about half tank, my analog needle is into the red. Half tank appears to be around 75 miles. Red = get gas...unsat.

8) consider a rear tire that gets more life. 8k miles is a little on the light sid. I would be content with 12-15k miles. With such a large contact patch, does the tire have to have such a soft compound? I am basing expected tire life from what I have read here.

9) headlights need to be brighter...HIDs??


Think that's it...

Chris :spyder:

 

[VaughnCat]

:agree:Great review Lamont
:agree:with the additional comments by serious ryders!
and bonus points if they fix my pet peeve..... :gaah:

better button to cancel turn signals

 

[NancysToy]

1. Separate CB and comm system. No "hidden" harnesses to purchase, or systems that require an additional system installed...i.e. comm system does not require audio system, etc.

2. Front suspension improvements. More preload available for front shock, or optional springs available to fit rider preferences or heavier riders. Better front dampening, preferably adjustable. Stiffer sway bar.

3. Improved gauge package. Enable both digital and analog gauges at same time. Add oil pressure gauge and voltmeter. If you are going to include ambient temp readout, make it more accurate, and preferably adjustable.

4. Improved electrical output. 1,000-1,200 watt capacity for added accessories like heated gear. Alternator in place of magneto, for better low rpm charging.

5. Aerodynamics improvements. Recurved, wind-tunnel tested windshield, to reduce buffeting and backwash. This might allow a slightly shorter windshield, which more riders could see over. Spoiler or other aerodynamic device to "wash" rear end with air, reducing debris and moisture return to rider and passenger. Second the motion on adjustable wind deflectors or adjustable windshield vent(s).

6. Standard trailer connector/converter. Three wire is OK, but specialized connector and integral module do not readily allow use of non-BRP trailers which still meet weight restrictions, like tent campers. more versatility means increased sales to experienced touring riders.

7. Powerlet outlets. Replace cigarette style with Powerlets. Add forward Powerlet(s) and one near passenger.

8. Better brakes! More braking power is essential.

9. Increased fuel capacity. Cruising distance of 200 miles plus reserve would be best, 180 miles plus reserve would be a minimum. It should be calculated using average, realistic fuel mileage numbers, not inflated computer or dyno-derived figures.

10. Improve console storage. Separately lockable compartment door. Additional Aux/iPod input inside compartment.

11. GPS versatility. Available connections or optional harness for power and input connections to audio system/intercom. Mounts separately available for those with existing GPS units. Mounting adapters to fit a variety of brands/models would be a huge plus, If not, continue with Garmin. Prewiring to ease installation would also be a plus.

12. Increased power/torque. It may be just my RTS' engine difficulties, but power seems to be slightly lacking. A slight displacement increase (to 1,200-1,300 cc?) would be more comfortable, particularly when fully loaded and towing. A little excess may not be necessary, but it makes life easier. Just don't get carried away with 1,800-2,000 cc.

13. Adjustable controls/driver pegs. Ability to adjust shifter and brake pedal position slightly, to suit ride preferences. Perhaps also adjustable driver footpeg height.

14. Improved passenger heated grips. Either increase output or delete the option altogether. Also change the control to work conventionally, like the rider control.

I might add that while I understand the preferences for other changes that were listed previously, I disagree with some. Seats are such a personal thing that I feel differences should be left in the hands of experienced aftermarket suppliers like Corbin and Russell Day-Long. What fits one well will not fit another, and the stock seat is the most comfortable I ever rode, yet may be less adequate to other riders. I also prefer the side loading bags and integral topcase. I would not have considered this purchase if these had not been available. I also would not have found driver footboards, a heel-toe shifter, or more forward foot position acceptable. If these are desirable to others, I would prefer to see a "cruiser" model released. This was designed as a touring machine, and fits that mold well, ergonomically.

 

[glynnk]

Agree with what Lamont and Scotty have posted, but one thing that I'd like to see is a bigger digital screen. Reading the time and other features across the top along with items on the bottom while riding is a real pain...generally have to wait until I stop to see the info.....

Glynnk

 

[NancysToy]

Agree with what Lamont and Scotty have posted, but one thing that I'd like to see is a bigger digital screen. Reading the time and other features across the top along with items on the bottom while riding is a real pain...generally have to wait until I stop to see the info.....

Glynnk

Forgot that one... :agree: ...or maybe free bifocals with every purchase.

 

[bikeguy]

I might add that while I understand the preferences for other changes that were listed previously, I disagree with some. Seats are such a personal thing that I feel differences should be left in the hands of experienced aftermarket suppliers like Corbin and Russell Day-Long. What fits one well will not fit another, and the stock seat is the most comfortable I ever rode, yet may be less adequate to other riders. I also prefer the side loading bags and integral topcase. I would not have considered this purchase if these had not been available. I also would not have found driver footboards, a heel-toe shifter, or more forward foot position acceptable. If these are desirable to others, I would prefer to see a "cruiser" model released. This was designed as a touring machine, and fits that mold well, ergonomically.

I absolutely agree with everything Scotty says here. These things are largely personal preference and might be better served by after market suppliers or by another Spyder model.

Cotton

 

[MarkLawson]

14. Improved rider heated grips. Either increase output or delete the option altogether. Also change the control to work conventionally, like the rider control.

Scotty, were you talking about the rider's heated grips or passenger's heated grips? I believe the rider's heated grips are more than hot enough, but the passenger's heated grips are pretty feeble.

Thanks,

 

[IWN2RYD]

Wanted to add one more item....

I very well could be lacking in information.... But I have to say.... The amount of time it takes to remove the paneling necessary to do regular maintenance on these is excessive. My concern is folks will end up putting off the needed maintenance. Wither it be from the cost of the dealer or time it takes an individual to get it done.

This could have a negative impact on the re-sale value....

And lets be honest.... These or not bikes made for teenagers or cost $5-10k a piece. These are the Cadillac of the open wheel road...

In my past... I have torn down and built back up (seals - mounts and all) about five vehicles, from jeeps to trucks...

And to be frank.... The amount of time it takes to properly remove all the panels to do even just a quick look through before a trip, is to long.

 

[Lamonster]

Wanted to add one more item....

I very well could be lacking in information.... But I have to say.... The amount of time it takes to remove the paneling necessary to do regular maintenance on these is excessive. My concern is folks will end up putting off the needed maintenance. Wither it be from the cost of the dealer or time it takes an individual to get it done.

This could have a negative impact on the re-sale value....

And lets be honest.... These or not bikes made for teenagers or cost $5-10k a piece. These are the Cadillac of the open wheel road...

In my past... I have torn down and built back up (seals - mounts and all) about five vehicles, from jeeps to trucks...

And to be frank.... The amount of time it takes to properly remove all the panels to do even just a quick look through before a trip, is to long.

How long would you say it takes to remove the panels for inspection? What are you looking to inspect?

The reason I ask is I've had all the panels off many times and I can get them off faster than I can on my RS. I may do a video of it just to show how long it takes.

One thing you can do after your first oil change is leave the splash pan off the bottom. This way you can do an oil change without needing any tools to remove the panels, just pop off the left side panel.

 

[Prense01]

Wanted to add one more item....

I very well could be lacking in information.... But I have to say.... The amount of time it takes to remove the paneling necessary to do regular maintenance on these is excessive. My concern is folks will end up putting off the needed maintenance. Wither it be from the cost of the dealer or time it takes an individual to get it done.

This could have a negative impact on the re-sale value....

And lets be honest.... These or not bikes made for teenagers or cost $5-10k a piece. These are the Cadillac of the open wheel road...

In my past... I have torn down and built back up (seals - mounts and all) about five vehicles, from jeeps to trucks...

And to be frank.... The amount of time it takes to properly remove all the panels to do even just a quick look through before a trip, is to long.

You should get more efficient with it each time you do it. The panel arrangement on this bike from a maintenance stand point is fairy good in my opinion.


Chris :spyder:

 

[IWN2RYD]

Great idea on the pan! We like checking the air-filter before a long trip for example... Checking the oil is a snap :2thumbs:

I bring this up as it is a personal concern... Especially when my dealer tells me their standard time is double what they anticipated and charge accordingly. For example... They are charging $250 for an oil change. Really!!!! They claim the time it take in labor is the issue. I am a do it your self kind of guy, so it is no big deal. But to many folks are not. That is the reason for my thoughts on it....

 

[Lamonster]

Great idea on the pan! We like checking the air-filter before a long trip for example... Checking the oil is a snap :2thumbs:

I would rather check the air filter on a RT than a RS nojoke Neither of them are easy to get to but the RT is much better.

 

[NancysToy]

Scotty, were you talking about the rider's heated grips or passenger's heated grips? I believe the rider's heated grips are more than hot enough, but the passenger's heated grips are pretty feeble.

Thanks,

Sorry, my error in typing. Sometimes I think faster than these two fingers can keep up. I have corrected my post.

I see it the same way you do. The passenger grips are weak, possibly due to the thicker grips, and the continuously variable (rheostat-type) control is difficult to judge or turn to the desired setting. The front grips are actually too warm for me. I have to cycle them on and off...and have never used (or dared use) the high setting.

 

[Vordak]

After owning a Goldwing and needing 3 hours to do an air filter, the RT seems very easy to me.

:chat:

V.

 

[IWN2RYD]

Well I guess I am the extreme minority in this case. I was only adding to what I feel personally. There are many wonderful Autos that had been a PITA to work on, and they did not last long.

In the fast paced world of today, I do not see that many folks taking the time and it will lead to lack of proper maintenance. Will the majority that use this forum do it regardless... Heck yes...

I am a small business owner, and lets just say that I think about half of the cars on the road today actually get serviced when they should be. The rest... well they end up in the shops eventually.

To me it is more about making things easy and safe. This encourages folks to not over look their responsibility, while getting more and more of these on the road.

After all... We bought ours to ride... Not spend three hours to change the oil or one hour to check the air-filter :thumbup: I will do it of course. But my honey do list is still a tall one. And an hour saved in one place is an hour spent on another project. :2thumbs:

 

[Vordak]

There are many wonderful Autos that had been a PITA to work on, and they did not last long.

While I agree that the RT requires a bit of time to work on, it is nothing compared to the Honda Goldwing or Victory Vision. Even the average Sports bike is more labour intense. Anyone ever done a valve adjustment on a VStrom? Ouch!

The Goldwing has been around, in its current version, since 2001, and yet it stills sells well. The fact that plastic needs to be removed to work on something will not affect the RT's sales. Heck, Ford has been selling the Econoline for DECADES, yet, have you ever tried to do the back plugs on one of them? :gaah:

The RT is near perfect. Here are my ideas:

Cruise Control: Perfect, don't change it.

Sound System: I'm pretty sure the production models have better speakers than the prototypes, the sound is great.

Windshield: No issues here. BRP could benefit by selling a longer/shorter version, as an accessory.

Storage: Awesome.

Factory Trailer: Near perfect, the carpeting needs better glue. Access and the way it trailers is great.

Seat: Very good. Factory backrest as an accessory would be nice.

Intercom: I have the Scala Cardo Teamset Bluetooth system and would NEVER go back to an old-fashioned wired system. Don't need it.

LCD display: Too much glare and too small.

Turn signal switch: Needs re-design. Too flimsy and cancel is hard to find.

Horn: Listen to the Goldwing's horn and make the RT the same.

Suspension: I have no issues here. For a factory setup, it's good.

Engine: Good design, great sound. Needs more power, but not much. 1100-1200cc's would be nice. More would be overkill.

Fuel range: Bigger tank or more efficient engine. Fix it.
Passenger audio controls: Was it really necessary to let my wife change the track/song?! :shemademe_smilie:
Heated seat: Not needed. The RT has enough wind protection.

Heated Grips: Good.

iPod integration: Works well, but you should have a spot to put the iPod in the trunk. I use Velcro tape, but shouldn't have to.

12V outlet: Another outlet in the front fairing is needed.

Magneto: Put in a real alternator. 1000w minimum.

Belt drive: Perfect.

Lights: No problems here. HID's as standard equipment is a personal preference and shouldn't be OEM.

SE5: By far, one the best features of the Spyders.

VSS/ABS/Traction Control nanny: No changes required.

DPS: Works well on mine.

Lockable glove box: Should lock separately from steering.

Saddlebags/trunk: Should lock/unlock with key FOB.

TPMS: Should have one (Tire pressure monitoring system).

Brakes: A little spongy, but they work ok. Love the pedal. Don't need handbrake. One less hydraulic line to worry about.

Fly by wire: FINALLY! After 21 years of lubing/changing cables for brakes and throttles, yay!

Lighted controls at night: Well done!

Colour: Blue is the fastest! More colour choices would be nice.

Frunk Light: Good idea, now make it brighter.

Included cover: Great! Nobody else gives you a cover. No complaints here.

:2thumbs:

 

[Lamonster]

Great ideas keep them coming. I just want to say that my list is just that, you don't have to agree or disagree with my list, just create your own list like many of you have. I'm sure future RT's will have some of what everyone is asking for and the more the same need or issue comes up the more likely the engineers will take a hard look at it. It's a given that the aftermarket will fill some of these needs but a bigger motor, better range and better storage will have to be done at the factory as the return on investment will be too great for the aftermarket to go after these things. :doorag:

 

[Lamonster]

Added a couple more to my list. :doorag:

• More power on take off.
  This thing is a dog on take off, you give it throttle and nothing happens till the computer is happy. They really need to at least give us the same throttle response as the RS
• Bluetooth interface.
  Everything is wireless now days so why have a cord to tether us to the RT? At least make Bluetooth a option.

 

[Dukester]

RT

I waited to purshase the RT, I test drove it and loved it and so did my wife. I thought, give it a year or so for improvements, the thing I'm concerned about is how much is the cost going to go up with all these production line improvements. I agree with most of the improvements that have been stated, I saw some of those things when I test drove the bike. Hope BRP can do these without killing the pocket book. I think it's priced at a good range, just would hate to see it get into the 30+ range. before tax and tags. I think the Spyders are awesome and my 2008 had some issues, but it just keeps getting better. Thanks for everyone on this site for their thoughts and ideas, you've helped me a lot. Thanks Lamont for everything you do for this great site.

 

[DietitianBill]

I like most would like more performance and better brakes. Suspension would be nice too but then you're talking big $$$. Ducati makes some high end models with upgraded Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes and it's usually a big difference in price. It would be nice if they made a hyper sport model with better power, suspension and brakes but I don't see that happening. The question I have is that if they came out with a bike that had everything we wanted, wanted you get bored having nothing to mod? LOL