Purchasing a Spyder

[RCB]

I am looking at purchasing a Spyder but after reading all the problems with some of the Spyders and dealer problems. I am trying to decide if it is really worth it. It seems the company out of Canada is not very organized on this new product line. The techs working on these Spyders in some cases are not that knowledgable. So any suggestions? It is either another motorcycle or a Spyder.
I am glad I found this forum as it made me think I better check a lot closer before purchasing. Also, the used Spyders are starting to appear for sale in more numbers with little mileage. These things have me concerned.

Thanks for your help.

 

[NancysToy]

I understand your concern. Reading about the Spyder here, or another motorcycle on a different board, will often leave a distorted impression. Even those of us who love the Spyder, and wouldn't be without it, will often discuss even the most minor problem or irritation like it was a major disaster. I still believe the percentage of major problems is very small. Another thing you will see expressed pretty freely is likes and dislikes. "I hate the seat." "I love the seat." "I can't stand the windshield." "How can you stand anything bigger than the stock windshield." These are personal preferences, and are not really issues with the vehicle itself. The bottom line for me is that few members here have actually got disgusted or discouraged, and sold their Spyders. I'll wager that you will find as many who were unhappy with Harleys or BMWs and sold them, too. Since the market is not flooded with any of them, we all have to be pretty satisfied. I know my wife and I are, and would own a second Spyder if we had the room for one. Your best bet is to take a demo ride or two, read these forums, but try to keep things in perspective as to how forums tend to operate. Satisfied riders seldom post, and tend to just ride and read. Unhappy riders may blow things out of proportion at times. It is like everything in life. Hope you are able to sort it out to your eventual satisfaction...either way.

 

[BRPjunkie]

I am looking at purchasing a Spyder but after reading all the problems with some of the Spyders and dealer problems. I am trying to decide if it is really worth it. It seems the company out of Canada is not very organized on this new product line. The techs working on these Spyders in some cases are not that knowledgable. So any suggestions? It is either another motorcycle or a Spyder.
I am glad I found this forum as it made me think I better check a lot closer before purchasing. Also, the used Spyders are starting to appear for sale in more numbers with little mileage. These things have me concerned.

Thanks for your help.

First year products, especially groundbreaking ones, are always a higher risk than proven models. This is a very unique, complicated and fun machine, but it will take some time for bugs to be worked out, dealers to get comfortable with it and techs to get well versed in repairing them. BRP has a history of groundbreaking designs that create whole new market segments, but that comes at a price. I have been through this twice with first model year Sea Doo and first model year jet boat from BRP, and I'm back in the BRP line again with the Spyder. If you are not comfortable with theh risks associated with a new product, buy something else, but some of us are willing to take that risk in return for getting in early on such a new and exciting product.

 

[BeRight]

I own a 2008 Spyder, had it since last Oct. about 3K miles on it now-I bought it used with 300 miles on it, and a 2003 Yamaha FZ1 with 7500 miles on it.

As you might expect the Yamaha has been bullet proof but surprisingly the Spyder has also been failure free and I ride it hard.

I find that I am no longer using the FZ1, so reluctantly it is up for sale.

The Spyder is the first world production reverse trike-so problems are to be expected but these problems still tend to be with the minority of owners.

People post problems on forums so that we all can help them resolve same, so naturally on any vehicle forum you will see problem postings.

I plan to continue Spydering along with a huge grin on my face:2thumbs:

 

[NewRider]

I agree with Scotty's views. I was in love with my Spyder, from the moment I first sat on it. Conversely, I'm well aware that, like all machines, it is built by humans. There may, or may not be a glitch or two...and like any new form of transport...there might be something occurring the factory did not anticipate. It's the nature of the critter.

I would offer this view: take a test ride first, and ask for other points of view. Keep this forum in mind, if you have more questions. Spyder riders are vocal about their machines...but won't give them up without a fight!

Welcome to our world!:thumbup:

 

[RCB]

This is helping

Any thoughts on how a dealer views you buying a used Spyder from a private party and then having a dealer work on it who did not sell it to you? I am not sure the local dealer here wants to work on a Spyder they did not sell. That is the feeling I am getting from them.

Thanks and keep your thoughts coming. :helpsmilie:

 

[Lamonster]

I have 40,000+ miles on my Spyder and the only real problem I've had is I spun a rear wheel bearing at 36,000. They covered it.

Every dealer is different. I didn't buy mine from the dealer here in TN because there were no dealers here when I bought mine. They seem to be happy to work on mine.

If I were looking for a new ride today I would buy the Spyder again in a heartbeat. I've had a lot of really cool bikes through the years but the Spyder is so different from anything I've owned that I like it better than them all.

 

[DannyS]

I bought (or traded a Harley) for a low mileage Spyder it turned out that his wife did not like riding on the back she was used to riding on the back of a Harley dresser or a Goldwing. I have had no problems with it or with the local dealer here. I have found there tech very knowledgeable. I spoke with one person who was selling his and he just liked his two wheeler better. I have also seen posts from several people who had to sell because in this economy they had lost work or were worried about work. And yes some have had problem after problem and sold because they had lost confidence in the Spyder. The majority (the silent majority) just ride and have fun. Forums are always full of problems that is what they are for to post your problem and see if someone has an answer for you. I have never regretted getting the Spyder:thumbup:

 

[Twodog185]

I agree with the "run to the forum" impression left on sites such as these. I belong to several generic "riding" sites and the attitude is quite different. The generic sites generally cover rides, dealers, eats, drinks, and about all bikes and manufacturers. Also, the generic sites generally have more mechanics they may prefer used bikes and swapmeets. I rarely see a post about a problem but see hundreds of "look what I just finished". Not being bike specific, generic riding sites will not provide the desired results when info is needed that is bike specific, we understand that.

This machine attracks riders from all walks of life, some would say, more than most motorcycles simply because of it's unique qualities. We get everybody from "take it apart and find out what makes it tick", to "I don't care if it's only adjust the throttle cable, it's under warranty and I'm taking it to the dealer". Unfortuntaley, the cable issue will be talked about ad nauseam on the forum and is very expensive to the dealer, and the manufacturer. Also, those posts affect people like you.

Take your time, and wait until Spyder 2.1 is released. You'll be pleasently surprised.

 

[RCB]

Keep it coming

When is the Spyder 2.1 release?

 

[wyliec]

Any thoughts on how a dealer views you buying a used Spyder from a private party and then having a dealer work on it who did not sell it to you? I am not sure the local dealer here wants to work on a Spyder they did not sell. That is the feeling I am getting from them.

Thanks and keep your thoughts coming. :helpsmilie:

Maybe you want to ask the local dealer their feelings about working on a bike not purchased there; there's nothing wrong with that.

Before you ask that question, you may want to ask their charge for a specific mileage service, if you think they are going to rip you because you purchased it somewhere else; then check with other dealers.

I travel over an hour to my dealer, even though there is one closer. I got a price for something from the closer dealership which was higher, so, I decided to stick with the dealer from where I made my purchase.

And, there is no guarantee that whatever you end up buying may not breakdown. By the way, did you follow Dudley's 10,000 mile trip with his spyder?

 

[BeRight]

I purchased a used Spyder and have not had any dealer refuse to work on it. Money is money-I have four to choose from within reasonable riding distance.

I have yet to find a dealer that I have returned to for service work on my car, truck or motorcycle, so I have even lower expectations on Spyder dealers. Spyder is a new beast and most motorcycle mechanics have no to little experience on them.

I do as much work on the Spyder as allowed under the warranty myself, which isn't much.

I would recommend starting with a high volume seller Spyder dealer, if there is such a thing in your area.

You might ask other Spyder owners in your area, for their experience and dealer recommendation.

 

[Capt John]

I am looking at purchasing a Spyder but after reading all the problems with some of the Spyders and dealer problems. I am trying to decide if it is really worth it. It seems the company out of Canada is not very organized on this new product line. The techs working on these Spyders in some cases are not that knowledgable. So any suggestions? It is either another motorcycle or a Spyder.
I am glad I found this forum as it made me think I better check a lot closer before purchasing. Also, the used Spyders are starting to appear for sale in more numbers with little mileage. These things have me concerned.

Thanks for your help.

This is coming from someone who has had limited MC experience. I was looking at a Harley when I found out about the :spyder2:. I decided to get it instead. I have never regretted that decision. I have had only one issue with my :spyder2: and that was self-inflicted. There has been a few reported problems which is understandable with a 1st generation production model.

Many of the post on this site deal with mods and the overall maintenance of our beloved :spyder2:'s. Most of us have a wish list of the things we have and want to change on our :spyder2:'s, not that anything is wrong with it being stock, but for safety, convenience, comfort and individuality. We are a unique group of individuals with different taste and ryding styles. There is no shortage of opinions from members on this site. I have found very generous members who come to the aid of others when dealing with anything from the :spyder2: to personal issues. Being a member of this site is just one of the many positive benefits. I have experienced since purchasing my :spyder2:.

I hope you get one for yourself and join in on all the fun! :yes::yes::yes:

 

[DynamoBT]

I was already talking price with several local dealers when the used Spyder that I bought popped up. I've had no problems going to the dealer for service. This particular dealer knew that they were my #1 choice if I bought new. I've just made it very clear that I will be loyal to them for service.

Not being a wrench myself, this dealer has also said they would have no problem installing aftermarket accessories.

Let's face it. As time goes by, just like with any other bike, more and more used Spyders will be showing up on the market. Some owners may trade up to the Second Generation Spyder (whenever they come out). People are fickle. They just want something else. So more and more owners will have bought used. No dealer in their right mind should refuse service or treat these owners any different from those who bought new. Business is business afterall. I think service is where dealers make most of their money anyway.

Keep reading here. But definitely get on a Spyder and ride one. Ride both types, the SE5 and the SM5. Do a BRP Corporate Demo Day if possible. They really take you out for a vigorous demo ride! I rode twice in three days at a local Demo Day before I bought my Spyder.

Many people say it takes riding about 600 miles to really adjust to the Spyder differences. But once you do, you don't give riding the Spyder a second thought. As people have said, those of us happy with their Spyders are out riding them not on the forum complaining about them.

Hope to see you here as an owner eventually!!!

 

[BumbleBee]

"RCB" welcome

I have no MC experience. This is the first for me. Would do it again. Love ryding the spyder, and no regrets. I have had no issues.

Would I buy it again? You bet I would...:f_spider:

This an excellent site for info. You need help, so many good advice you get from others here.

 

[Spyder2780]

I myself was questioning the Spyder purchase earlier in the Spring. After I did alot of research on recalls, problems & owners experiences I finally bit the bullet and purchased a used 08 Silver Moon model. Once it was purchased I dropped it off at my local dealer(Rt3a Motorsports) for its scheduled routine service & I had them run the VIN# for any recalls. They were more than happy to work on my Spyder & I was able to get it back the same day. As far as my personal experience I do regret that I waited so long to purchase one. As you all know, the summers here in NewEngland are short enough as it is. Every chance I get, I ride it & love it. Feedback from other drivers on the road is mixed,some love it and think its awesome and others think its ugly, silly and want to know why I would buy one of them. Ultimately its my purchase and if they don't like it, oh well. They don't know what they're missing. I had a V-star custom last year and my Spyder is far and away a better experience to enjoy the open road for me.....Hurry up and go buy one!! you'll love it. The good news is that if you don't like it, the reale of a used Spyder is pretty good so you won't lose your shirt like you would with other bikes....See ya on the open road!!

 

[WackyDan]

Eh... 1400 miles since April 30th when my Spyder was new.

I've really had no problems other than oil in the airbox and gas fume smell. We are all concerned when another Spyder owner has an issue that we ultimately might see ourselves.

BUY ONE.

 

[j45p3r]

Just do it is the best advice I have. This is my first MC and I've already put on 2000 miles in one month. No issues!

 

[SLO RYDER]

Go for it!!! :yes:
You will have a BLAST. My two wheelers have gotten little use since getting the Spyder

 

[RCB]

Thanks!

This has been great and I am visiting the dealer on Tuesday to see what they say about servicing.
There are plenty of used one for sale in Colroado and pricing is competitive and low. So I have that going for me. Right now they are killing the dealer on the 2008's he is selling by about $2,000.00 or more.