Newbie with questions on what model to buy

[sealfloorboards]

My 1st Spyder was a beautiful '09 RS SE5. I loved everything about it, including how fast it would go from 0 to 100 mph. My biggest issues were the windshield (put a 24" tall on), the handlebars ( put a 5" HeliBar riser on it) and the setting position with the foot pegs ( I designed the 1st ever Seal Floorboard for it). Loved everything about it after those Mods. I also wasn't taking any passengers on the back (not good for a single man's love life). Check out my "Yellow Jacket" on my website: seal floorboards.com. I'm now riding a 2014 basic RT SE6 DLX , which my new bride loves,(could't bring myself to pay $1,000. for BRP's tiny floorboards and luggage I didn't need. I've loved all three of my Spyders and hope for many more years of......Riding in Comfort.

 

[robmorg]

Haha, the problem wasn't with the Spyder but with the rider. We see that all the time people that don't ride the v-twin at the proper rpm. You will decrease the engine life by not revving the engine.

I was wondering where those folks in the cabin got such ridiculous off-the-wall information about the V-twin Spyders. Then I read your post and the light bulb when on.

OF COURSE, they were riding it with the RPM's too low.


Note to hollybry... The V-twin Spyder should be kept at around 5000 RPM's after first gear. The newer 1330 engine is comfortable at around 3000. A lot of V-twin owners took a LONG while to understand that because their dealers never told them, and they weren't on forums like this one.

 

[SPIDR1]

Well said!

I agree with you. Best thing to do is to test drive the various models to see which one would be the most comfortable and meets your needs. I am 74 and last year I picked up a very low mileage 13 RTL. This model has all the whistles that come with it and, of course, there are still more whistles that were added. Just take your time and do the testing. Good luck!

The 2008 and 2009 GS (2008 only)/RS (2009 and up) were the only models that BRP offered prior to the introduction of the RTS in 2010.

Both came equipped with the 990 Rotax engine. Choice was either a 5 speed manual or a 5 speed semi auto. The 990 Rotax engine likes to be driven at high rpm's. The sweet spot is 5000 - 5500. This is where the power band kicks in. For newer riders, its hard to get your head around driving the :ani29: in that range.

Top speed is over 100 and you can get a ticket easily even if you don't try. You will find that these are "crotch rocket" riding positions unless they have been modified (seats and risers on the handlebars). I had three inch risers on both mine.

They are mostly trouble free and no specific issues that I can mention. I had one of each.

The 2008 is the silver SM5 and the red is a SE5. Both have over $6K in accessories added. I like to think that BRP stole my ideas when they came out with the RTS in 2010.

 

[hollybry]

You have all been so very helpful! If I could swing that $7400 spyder right now, I would do it in a heartbeat. But, it isnt feasible right now.
Thanks for everyones replies and private messages. This seems like a great forum with alot of great information! Glad I found it!