ARtraveler
R.I.P. Dwayne
After spending a many weeks here reading both positive and negative posts and PMs(doing my homework), I come to the following conclusion: It absolutely makes no sense for me to go from my very low mileage '09 GW Trike to a '13 Limited. My reasoing:
a. there is at least a 50/50 chance of getting a 2013 RT-Limited with issues, of one kind or another. Seems like many RT owners prefer the 2012.
b. I have NO local dealer. The dealer in my state with the BEST reputation for both sales and service is 2 hours away by freeway. Expansion of a competent dealer network should be a BRP priority, as GaBK alluded too.
c. Seems like owners spend a signifigant amount of coin adding farkles that should be included as standard equipment, especially on a Limited branded model.
d. An average of 27-30 MPG for a touring machine is just too low. I know there are some that report 33-35 MPG; but they are a minority. Not to mention the preference for mid grade or premium fuel.
e. PMs telling me "Don't Do It", or "You Pay the Money, You Take the Chances" are not confidence inspiring that either BRP or the majority of dealers don't know what's it takes to build or service a reliable $30K trike.
I had really hoped that my desire to evolve to a RT-S SE5 or Limited would have come to a different conclusion. I am developing treatment neccessary OA in my thumbs(L>R) after 40 years of work. It sure would have been nice not to have to clutch and brake with my hands. This riding season will be a water shed year for me.. I will continue to monitor this great forum to see "if the wind changes".
Mike
You make some very valid points for someone viewing the site and trying to make a determination of to buy or not to buy.
I am one who has owned four Spyders since their inception. I got a later model 2008 and a premier edition of the 2010 RT-S of which many say has issues. I now have 32,000 miles on the 2010 RT-S and have not had any major problems with it. My total Spyder miles have now accumulated to 84,000 plus miles.
That said, I am fortunate to have a competent dealer when it comes to mechanics. They have been willing and able to fix any issues I have had. The other bonus, they are close to my home.
Problems with finding a competent dealer to work on the Spyder seems to be the paramount issue to me.