our decision: F3 Ltd. vs. RT Ltd
Back on 26 April, I asked essentially the same question while looking for advice on purchasing a new Spyder. I hadn't yet had a test ride, and it had been awhile since I had even ridden motorcycles. My lady and I are in our 70's, looking to have a bit of fun before getting too much older. I had visited a few dealerships, looking at unsold 2016's, checking out other low mileage used Spyders, etc. I only ever got as far as sitting on some models in showrooms; no one was quite ready for test rides, what with snow flakes and rain storms still present in our area. Every time I sat on an RT Ltd, the vertical position seemed to bother my hip joints (old age, sciatic pains). I felt stiff when getting off. The experience seemed to improve on an F3. However, I needed to know what others had experienced, especially since our plans are for 2-up day or weekend trips; not likely to be much extended touring. Lots of folks leaned toward the comfort of the RT, but my instinct was to opt for the new 2017 F3 Ltd, as it now included a top case/back rest and electronically adjustable rear end. I just finished writing up our decision in the "General Spyder Discussion" thread. Here it is, for what it's worth. In the end, it seems to really come down to personal preference - go with how your gut and butt feel. Our decision:
"Had our 2-up test ride of a 2017 RT Ltd. on Monday (two days ago). Very enjoyable, and we felt encouraged enough to continue with our consideration of purchasing a Can-Am Spyder. Yet, after dismounting back at the dealership, my hips felt sore from the RT's vertical riding position. There wasn't an F3 Ltd. readily set up and available for immediate comparison, and I was reluctant to go ahead without a similar test. Dealer offered to take a brand new F3 Ltd. out of its packing case, set it up, and be ready the next day or so. We went back this morning, Wed., for the second session. Found the F3 Ltd. was a much more comfortable ride for me; no sciatic pain, no soreness. Yes, it was 'breezier' and 'sportier'; far more reminiscent of earlier 2-wheel biking days in that 'airy' sense. Was almost expecting the girlfriend to be disappointed. Surprise, surprise!! She loved the F3 Ltd. Thought it was even more lively and enjoyable than the RT Ltd. She liked the higher passenger perch, looking over my head; didn't mind the breeze and thought it was a more fun ride. That did it. We rode back and signed the deal. We then spent an hour or so picking out new helmets, jackets, etc. Since neither of us has ridden much for several years, we no longer had any gear; we simply borrowed enough to do the test. So, in a few more days, after adding on some arm rests and GPS, we'll go back and pick up the new toy - a 2017 intense red pearl F3 Ltd. Not going to add a lot of farkle just yet; we'll put on some miles over the summer, then maybe personalize. Come fall, we'll leave Ontario and head south to Leesburg, FL, for the winter, dragging the Spyder behind us so we can continue the fun. Thanks to all who helped contribute to our decision with your knowledgeable and generous comments. As many suggested, the decision really comes down to personal preference and the ergonomics which work best. We found our answer, and hope others equally enjoy their choice, whatever it turns out to be. Hope to meet you on the road someday. Cheers."