Question about F3 versus RT acceleration

[JP58]

I am the OP. I asked the question because I rode an older RT (2010) and it seemed sluggish. The tension in the throttle was much more than my F6B or the Ninja 1000 that I still own. It was not fun to ride. I know it has the smaller engine, and it may just have been this particular bike, but I wanted to know in general if the F3 is more spirited.

First brp changed the throttle tension in later models. Much lighter. The 1330 is not sluggish. Its fairly quick. The F3 I think is a more spirited ride. I've had both. But comfort should be your main goal. Ride both and choose.

 

[grumpyoldretiredcop]

I am the OP. I asked the question because I rode an older RT (2010) and it seemed sluggish. The tension in the throttle was much more than my F6B or the Ninja 1000 that I still own. It was not fun to ride. I know it has the smaller engine, and it may just have been this particular bike, but I wanted to know in general if the F3 is more spirited.

I'd have to say that the difference in center of gravity and seating position makes the comparison pretty tough from a rider's seat point of view. In straightline acceleration I couldn't tell any difference. I feel a lot less outside roll in turns/corners from the F3T than I did the RT which means that I don't have a problem turning the F3T a lot harder than I did the RT right from the beginning. That makes the F3T feel more "spirited" to me. I don't recall any significant difference in throttle tension. My two wheeled background is mostly touring bikes (Victory Cross Country, GL1800, a couple of Electra Glides, Kawi Vaquero, Yamaha 2nd Gen Venture, GL1500, Kawi 1st Gen Concours)for the last 20 years but a mix of street bikes and a couple of dirt bikes before that, if it helps you see what experience my replies are based on.

 

[PMK]

I am the OP. I asked the question because I rode an older RT (2010) and it seemed sluggish. The tension in the throttle was much more than my F6B or the Ninja 1000 that I still own. It was not fun to ride. I know it has the smaller engine, and it may just have been this particular bike, but I wanted to know in general if the F3 is more spirited.

Not to sound like a jerk about this, but that comparison is not a good one. Typically, many that are into the V twin Spyders enjoy them for the higher rpm antics compared to the triple 1330. Those with the twins, tend to know they like to be wound up to really run, compared to the 1330 which is, in stock tuning, very smooth and mellow down low with a good pull, but also must move a lot more weight.

Saying that, you should truly compare a 2014 or newer or better still same year RT vs a F3.

Each models offered currently, has its own perks. Essentially, the power on the F3 and RT series is similar but the RT carries more weight. However, the RT is no slouch stock, and can improved upon. Same with the F3 or even an earlier twin.

Your deciding criteria should likely focus more on howthe vehicle appearance catches your eye, comfort, and ability to carry stuff. The v twin will get worse fuel mileage, but can be contended with if you chose that route.

 

[jcthorne]

Now I understand. You were riding an RT with a 998. They are actually a bit faster than the 1330 RTs IF YOU RUN THE RPMS up where they make power. 6000 and up is where they really shine. Much less low end torque than the 1330. An F3S will beat either of them. Especially if tuned.

 

[Bob Denman]

I never found that to be true: the 1330 always had the power to run and hide from my 998.

It was all about a torque curve that made the power much more useable.
My 998 would get to 95 quickly, and then just crawl up to 100
The 1330 was just as quick to 95, but then kept right on truckin'! :thumbup:

I never saw anything more than 101 mph on the 998's speedometer.
The 1330 showed my 109 on the GPS display (114 on the speedo...)
The distance to speed in each case was pretty similar.

 

[dondje]

I agree. Part of the Tupperware on the F3 sticks out right where my knees are and it would be very uncomfortable in a ride of more than a few minutes. This may only affect tall people (I have a 34" inseam).

My inseam is just a little longer. Had the same problem with stock #3 U-Fit. Changed to #5 U-Fit and problem solved. Also added the Ultimate Floorboards and made it even better.

Regards,

Don

 

[308gunner]

The f3 is faster than the rt...but be aware...if you want faster acceleration..make sure to choose the f3 SPORT OR the F3 TOURING.. they have the larger rear wheel sprocket...more torque and top end speed.

 

[AY4B]

I agree. Part of the Tupperware on the F3 sticks out right where my knees are and it would be very uncomfortable in a ride of more than a few minutes. This may only affect tall people (I have a 34" inseam).

As for acceleration, why is it even important that the F3 may be a little faster than an RT? It's the ride that's fun, not the statistics. My bone-stock RT easily outpaces all the cars at intersections without even trying. On the highway, I can drop down a gear or two and pass easily. I can cruise easily at 80 and if I went much faster, I'd just get a speeding ticket. Sooooo ... what difference would a second or two of additional acceleration really make? Both the RT and F3 are great. Forget the statistics and buy whichever model fits you better and is more enjoyable in normal riding ... like Chupaca said, it's mostly about comfort, storage and distance.

If that is the case the problem is not the F3, You have to move the floorboard or pegs forward to fit. You and I have the same inseam at 34". You just need to move up to the # 5 position., When you sit on one at a dealer, they are at the #3 position which is very uncomfortable for a taller person.
That is probably why I never liked an RT position. I feel very cramped on an RT because they are set up for a smaller person.