Peacekeeper6
Member
I will attempt to document all of my modifications on our 2018 Spyder RT Limited, complete with difficulty level from a scale of 1-4 (1 being the easiest) and some tips that have helped me during installation.
1) Trunk Mounted Double Flag Holder Set
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - This was probably THE easiest mod I’ve ever done.
Notes: I really like this mod, because I thoroughly believe that every biker
should be patriotic and fly the Stars and Stripes. Since I served with
the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Ft. Campbell, KY, I’ve
decided to also fly the Screaming Eagle. I’m both proud and honored to
fly these colors on our bike.
2) Lamonster Magic Mirrors
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - Do NOT be afraid to knock the living crap out of your original mirrors.
Also, these magnets are STRONG. Do NOT let them hit each other
because the possibility of breaking them is very high.
Notes: This is A MUST mod. Anytime you perform an oil change, light
upgrade, etc, you WILL have to remove body panels, and the side
view mirrors are the first to be removed. Also, these magnets
significantly reduce vibrations and improves visibility. If you can
only afford one mod, make sure this is the one.
3) Next Gen LED Bumpskid
Difficulty Level - 2
Tips - Jack up the bike to provide some much-needed room. Use some
C-clamps to immobilize the front of the bumpskid for accurate hole
placements. Use SHARP drill bits, especially when drilling through
the metal frame for the rear bolts. BE CAREFUL you don’t hit any cooling
system components while drilling, so TAKE YOUR TIME.
Notes: While this isn’t a necessary mod, I feel that it’ll save body panels
in case I accidentally hit or run over objects. This was my first LED
component, and I was extremely impressed with the quality of its
light output. It has inspired me to upgrade my stock headlights and
fog lights.
4) Lamonster RT Spyder Cuff with Lamonster Approved Phone Holder
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - Use the “rubber band” for a more secure install. I installed it
on the right side because (1) I’m right handed, and (2) I feel that the
left side of the handlebar already has enough buttons and levers.
Notes: There is a reason why this is one of the most expensive cup/phone
holders in the market. The quality is second-to-none. In addition, this
was my first RAM mount, and didn’t realize how versatile and fully
customizable it makes your bike. This Lamonster product is very
well-made, and gives me confidence in purchasing other items from
them in the future.
5) Spyclops II LED Light
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - Measure the LED strip and cut it at the indicated line. Power can be
tapped on either side, so think about how you’re going to place it under the lip
of the front hood. Ensure it clears the front of the hood when opening and
and closing it.
Notes: The bumpskid LED caused me to purchase this item. I thought about
getting the ones that install on the A-arms, but I felt that that it would be over
the top and didn’t like the way it looks as compared to the Spyclops. Plus,
it looks cool, lol.
6) Lamonster Ultra Bright LED Headlights
Difficulty Level - 2
Tips - I didn’t have a sharp knife or a proper bit for my Dremel, so I drilled a
a hole ¼ inch from the edge with a bit that was the same width of the wire.
Then, I used a pair of tin-snips to cut the rest of the plastic off. Quick and easy.
Install the controller box OUTSIDE the cap because there’s no room inside. Use
strong Velcro to secure it AT THE BOTTOM half of the cap where it curves downward.
Notes: This mod is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it provides an added
safety feature that cannot be stressed enough. I haven’t tested it out at night
yet, but I’m quite sure it’s a definite improvement over stock. I like the fact that
it doesn’t have a fan that can fail, which is probably the reason why it’s more
expensive than other LED headlights. You get what you pay for, right ??
7) Lamonster Ultra Bright LED Fog Lights
Difficulty Level - 3
Tips - Start with the right side first to familiarize yourself in this bitch of a project.
Use a stubby flathead screwdriver to pop off the cap. It’s a straight install from
here on out. The LEFT side, however, is where it gets interesting. Popping
the cap is probably the easiest thing here. Again, unless you have dainty-
sized hands of a 5th grader, you’re gunna be cussing yourself and the BRP
engineers to no end. I must’ve spent about 2 hours trying all different ways to
install the cap back with no success. I decided to leave it off because I came
so, SO close to throwing the cap 98 mph out of my garage and onto the street.
I’ve decided to keep the cap and will reinstall it when I take the frunk off in the
future should I decide to upgrade to the Baja Ron Swaybars. If ANYBODY has
a tip in reinstalling this cap, please let me know.
Notes: This mod really wasn't THAT necessary, but it really bothered me when
the fogs were turned on, and it was the only yellow light shining through
a sea of white LEDs. It also bothered me that the black plastic cap was kicking
my ass, but I'm sure it'll find its rightful place once I take the frunk off. Oh well,
sometimes you win, and sometimes you lose.
8) High Mount Brake/Run/Turn Taillights with Plug-n-Play Harness
Difficulty Level - 2.5
Tips - Measure twice (thrice, quadruple), drill once. Once you get over the fact
you’re gunna be drilling a hole in your $25k bike, the rest of the install is pretty
easy. Tons of parts to take off and reassemble, but it’s pretty fun because I feel
like our Spyder is like LEGO for adults, LOL.
Notes: Really, BRP should have designed something similar from the factory.
This mod is one of my favorites because, as stated above, it was fun taking
apart the rear end of the bike for the first time and putting it back together
WITHOUT any issues. No tools were thrown from my garage !! Plus, the level
of the lights is just right for the vehicles in the back, a DEFINITE safety
feature. The Lamonster wiring harness made this install quick, easy and painless,
so if you absolutely HATE wiring, the added price is worth it.
9) Diamond R Passenger WEB Armrest
Difficulty Level - 1.5
Tips - Prior to removing the seat, put a piece of cloth on top of the dreaded Black
Hole in the back to prevent accidentally dropping a nut or bolt into it and never
seeing it again.
Note: It was a toss-up between these armrests and the BRP ones. I like these a
touch better because it's longer, which offers more comfort. I spoke to the owner
of Diamond R when I was ordering it, and he was REALLY nice. The armrest and
baseplate are robust, and the chrome pieces adds some class to our bike.
Disclaimer: If you are wondering about my mechanical skills, I can safely assure you
that I am NOT a mechanic by trade. I own a variety of cars/trucks, and am able to do
simple DIY projects like oil and oil/air/cabin/fuel filter changes. I own a 1/2-ton Silverado, and have
replaced the radiator, alternator and in-tank fuel pump. I also own a 3-Series BMW
and have replaced window regulators (4 times !!), radiator (once), thermostat/water pump/
expansion tank (twice), brake pads/rotors (twice), in-tank fuel pump (twice). My BMW,
while it's been a GREAT car to drive, is NOTORIOUS for weak window regulators and cooling
system. It has given me a good reason to learn to DIY many projects and have saved
time and money by doing the jobs myself.
Also, I'd like to thank the many Spyder DIYers who have documented their work on YouTube.
Without your help and guidance, owners like me would have a very difficult time in many
of our mods and DIY projects.
1) Trunk Mounted Double Flag Holder Set
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - This was probably THE easiest mod I’ve ever done.
Notes: I really like this mod, because I thoroughly believe that every biker
should be patriotic and fly the Stars and Stripes. Since I served with
the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Ft. Campbell, KY, I’ve
decided to also fly the Screaming Eagle. I’m both proud and honored to
fly these colors on our bike.
2) Lamonster Magic Mirrors
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - Do NOT be afraid to knock the living crap out of your original mirrors.
Also, these magnets are STRONG. Do NOT let them hit each other
because the possibility of breaking them is very high.
Notes: This is A MUST mod. Anytime you perform an oil change, light
upgrade, etc, you WILL have to remove body panels, and the side
view mirrors are the first to be removed. Also, these magnets
significantly reduce vibrations and improves visibility. If you can
only afford one mod, make sure this is the one.
3) Next Gen LED Bumpskid
Difficulty Level - 2
Tips - Jack up the bike to provide some much-needed room. Use some
C-clamps to immobilize the front of the bumpskid for accurate hole
placements. Use SHARP drill bits, especially when drilling through
the metal frame for the rear bolts. BE CAREFUL you don’t hit any cooling
system components while drilling, so TAKE YOUR TIME.
Notes: While this isn’t a necessary mod, I feel that it’ll save body panels
in case I accidentally hit or run over objects. This was my first LED
component, and I was extremely impressed with the quality of its
light output. It has inspired me to upgrade my stock headlights and
fog lights.
4) Lamonster RT Spyder Cuff with Lamonster Approved Phone Holder
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - Use the “rubber band” for a more secure install. I installed it
on the right side because (1) I’m right handed, and (2) I feel that the
left side of the handlebar already has enough buttons and levers.
Notes: There is a reason why this is one of the most expensive cup/phone
holders in the market. The quality is second-to-none. In addition, this
was my first RAM mount, and didn’t realize how versatile and fully
customizable it makes your bike. This Lamonster product is very
well-made, and gives me confidence in purchasing other items from
them in the future.
5) Spyclops II LED Light
Difficulty Level - 1
Tips - Measure the LED strip and cut it at the indicated line. Power can be
tapped on either side, so think about how you’re going to place it under the lip
of the front hood. Ensure it clears the front of the hood when opening and
and closing it.
Notes: The bumpskid LED caused me to purchase this item. I thought about
getting the ones that install on the A-arms, but I felt that that it would be over
the top and didn’t like the way it looks as compared to the Spyclops. Plus,
it looks cool, lol.
6) Lamonster Ultra Bright LED Headlights
Difficulty Level - 2
Tips - I didn’t have a sharp knife or a proper bit for my Dremel, so I drilled a
a hole ¼ inch from the edge with a bit that was the same width of the wire.
Then, I used a pair of tin-snips to cut the rest of the plastic off. Quick and easy.
Install the controller box OUTSIDE the cap because there’s no room inside. Use
strong Velcro to secure it AT THE BOTTOM half of the cap where it curves downward.
Notes: This mod is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it provides an added
safety feature that cannot be stressed enough. I haven’t tested it out at night
yet, but I’m quite sure it’s a definite improvement over stock. I like the fact that
it doesn’t have a fan that can fail, which is probably the reason why it’s more
expensive than other LED headlights. You get what you pay for, right ??
7) Lamonster Ultra Bright LED Fog Lights
Difficulty Level - 3
Tips - Start with the right side first to familiarize yourself in this bitch of a project.
Use a stubby flathead screwdriver to pop off the cap. It’s a straight install from
here on out. The LEFT side, however, is where it gets interesting. Popping
the cap is probably the easiest thing here. Again, unless you have dainty-
sized hands of a 5th grader, you’re gunna be cussing yourself and the BRP
engineers to no end. I must’ve spent about 2 hours trying all different ways to
install the cap back with no success. I decided to leave it off because I came
so, SO close to throwing the cap 98 mph out of my garage and onto the street.
I’ve decided to keep the cap and will reinstall it when I take the frunk off in the
future should I decide to upgrade to the Baja Ron Swaybars. If ANYBODY has
a tip in reinstalling this cap, please let me know.
Notes: This mod really wasn't THAT necessary, but it really bothered me when
the fogs were turned on, and it was the only yellow light shining through
a sea of white LEDs. It also bothered me that the black plastic cap was kicking
my ass, but I'm sure it'll find its rightful place once I take the frunk off. Oh well,
sometimes you win, and sometimes you lose.
8) High Mount Brake/Run/Turn Taillights with Plug-n-Play Harness
Difficulty Level - 2.5
Tips - Measure twice (thrice, quadruple), drill once. Once you get over the fact
you’re gunna be drilling a hole in your $25k bike, the rest of the install is pretty
easy. Tons of parts to take off and reassemble, but it’s pretty fun because I feel
like our Spyder is like LEGO for adults, LOL.
Notes: Really, BRP should have designed something similar from the factory.
This mod is one of my favorites because, as stated above, it was fun taking
apart the rear end of the bike for the first time and putting it back together
WITHOUT any issues. No tools were thrown from my garage !! Plus, the level
of the lights is just right for the vehicles in the back, a DEFINITE safety
feature. The Lamonster wiring harness made this install quick, easy and painless,
so if you absolutely HATE wiring, the added price is worth it.
9) Diamond R Passenger WEB Armrest
Difficulty Level - 1.5
Tips - Prior to removing the seat, put a piece of cloth on top of the dreaded Black
Hole in the back to prevent accidentally dropping a nut or bolt into it and never
seeing it again.
Note: It was a toss-up between these armrests and the BRP ones. I like these a
touch better because it's longer, which offers more comfort. I spoke to the owner
of Diamond R when I was ordering it, and he was REALLY nice. The armrest and
baseplate are robust, and the chrome pieces adds some class to our bike.
Disclaimer: If you are wondering about my mechanical skills, I can safely assure you
that I am NOT a mechanic by trade. I own a variety of cars/trucks, and am able to do
simple DIY projects like oil and oil/air/cabin/fuel filter changes. I own a 1/2-ton Silverado, and have
replaced the radiator, alternator and in-tank fuel pump. I also own a 3-Series BMW
and have replaced window regulators (4 times !!), radiator (once), thermostat/water pump/
expansion tank (twice), brake pads/rotors (twice), in-tank fuel pump (twice). My BMW,
while it's been a GREAT car to drive, is NOTORIOUS for weak window regulators and cooling
system. It has given me a good reason to learn to DIY many projects and have saved
time and money by doing the jobs myself.
Also, I'd like to thank the many Spyder DIYers who have documented their work on YouTube.
Without your help and guidance, owners like me would have a very difficult time in many
of our mods and DIY projects.
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