Some Questions from a Potential New Buyer

[jarrett]

Hello, I'm new here and considering buying a Spyder. I don't come from a motocycle background at all, but rather a hi performance jet ski (BRP/SeaDoo) background. For me this would be purely a recreational vehicle. At this point, I wouldn't foresee myself doing any real long trips, daily commutes or even riding in populated areas for that matter. I live a good ways out in the country where there are back roads that you can drive for miles without seeing another vehicle.

My intended use would just be the occasional cruise around my area for fun and maybe to take the back roads over to a nearby town for lunch or something. I have a few questions about these if you don't mind fielding them.

First up, are these any safer than motorcycles? It seems like it solves the problem of laying the bike down, the bike slipping out from under you, things like that, but I wonder if it introduces any new safety issues inherent to the design like flipping over in turns?

Secondly, are they reliable? I've owned three 3 BRP SeaDoos and they were reliable for the most part, but there were always minor issues here and there. That recall that came out this past Friday for the Spyder requiring a software update sounds familiar from my days of riding SeaDoos. Next, are these recommended for people that have no motorcycle experience?

Also, are there any safety related modifications that you would recommend to a new buyer? Different tires, larger mirrors, etc? Any other tips that you would offer a complete newbie? Thanks in advance.

Oh, also any recommendations for dealers in the North central Texas area would be great as well. I'm familiar with Cowtown Power Sports in Ft. Worth, but other recommendations would be great. Thanks again.

 

[Smylinacha]

My intended use would just be the occasional cruise around my area for fun and maybe to take the back roads over to a nearby town for lunch or something. I have a few questions about these if you don't mind fielding them.

:roflblack::roflblack::roflblack: You're so funny! Once you get one you won't wanna get off it
welcome

 

[jarrett]

Oh and also, do you recommend the manual or semi-auto transmission for newbs?

 

[BajaRon]

I don't come from a motocycle background at all, .

Not necessary, actually can be an advantage (initally) on the Spyder.

I wouldn't foresee myself doing any real long trips, daily commutes or even riding in populated areas for that matter.

This will pass...

My intended use would just be the occasional cruise around my area for fun and maybe to take the back roads over to a nearby town for lunch or something.

This list will expand greatly...

First up, are these any safer than motorcycles?

Absolutely! Much safer in almost all situations.

It seems like it solves the problem of laying the bike down, the bike slipping out from under you, things like that,

Yes, yes and yes!

but I wonder if it introduces any new safety issues inherent to the design

Yes (see below)

like flipping over in turns?

Not realistically. To flip one of these over you would have to REALLY work hard at it. And if you add the heavy duty sway bar this very unlikely event is reduced even more.

The only down side (safety wise) that I see with the design of the Spyder is that with 3 wheels there isn't much of the pavement that you aren't using.

On 2 wheels if there is something in the road you can usually ride around it without leaving your lane.

With 4 wheels you may be able to straddle it.

The Spyder's 3 wheels limits your options. If an object in the road is very big you're either going to hit it with at least 1 wheel or you'll have to at least move out of your lane a bit to get around it.

On the other hand, if you hit anything of any consequence on a motorcycle at highway speeds you're looking at major, body altering issues.

On the Spyder, the most you should expect is some vehicle damage. It would take something quite major to give you really big safety problems.

Secondly, are they reliable?

You may get some argument on this one but my opinion (after just doing 5500 miles from East Tennessee and back, going to Valcort, Canada and back last year, as well as here to Daytona Beach with no issues), is that the Spyder is as reliable as anything else I've ever owned.

I did have steering issues when it was brand new but that has been addressed. No big deal.

The recent software upgrade is also a non-issue in my opinion. It simply means BRP is trying to stay on top or ahead of any problems. They are paying attention and working hard to make the Spyder a great ride.

Next, are these recommended for people that have no motorcycle experience?

As per my 1st statement. I think that no MC Experience can actually shorten the learning curve on the Spyder. There are MC habbits that must be re-learned.

I had to give the Spyder a chance. Once I got used to it I loved it. But I hated it for about 200 miles. That is what surprised me the most about my Spyder. How much I did not like it to begin with and how much I like it now. Amazing!

Also, are there any safety related modifications that you would recommend to a new buyer? Different tires, larger mirrors, etc?

I think the Spyder is plenty safe right out of the box. A very well thought out machine.

Stock tires are great but I'd run more air in them than what the book calls for.

MIrrors are fine but the stalks are too short. Add Kewl Metal extensions to fix this. It is more annoying than and actual safety issue though.

NMN lighting is a great upgrade but that is not to say the stock lighting is unsafe in any way. Just a lot better with NMN stuff. It really works great!

Oh and also, do you recommend the manual or semi-auto transmission for newbs?

I really don't think the Auto/Manual option is all that important to the learning curve, though I have not ridden the auto. My opinion is get the one you like the most. Some like shifting, some don't. I think you'll love either one.

 

[NancysToy]

I think Ron has hit the nail squarely on the head. I heartily agree! BTW, my wife was a beginner, and took to it like a duck to water. She practiced in a large parking lot first, which is recommended, but you may be able to do just as well on your empty back roads. The manual has a great series of orientation exercises, also shown in the video and available online.
-Scotty

 

[DannyS]

You are More visible on the Spyder than a Motorcycle but still not as visible as in a car or truck. I opt for lots of lights and a louder horn (I put the stablus air horn on mine). One thing to remember is that everyone out there is bigger than you even it is their fault you loose. The ABS brakes are fantastic and the VSS will keep you on all three unless you do something real stupid.I know it gets hot down there but get a well ventilated helmet and some good gloves with knuckle protection. I have taken a rock to many times off the hand and it really numbs your hand you can't use it for a while and you might need it. I think the SM5 is the most reliable since there is less to go wrong but many people like the SE5 and have had no problems with it. If you feel you want to go that way I would not worry. There are many Spyders down in Texas mine came from there so you can get together with them and everyone on SpyderLovers will always give good if contradictory information. We love helping new riders. You will love the Spyder most people get hooked after a short time in the saddle.:2thumbs:

 

[ntxYguy2009]

Hi Jarrett,

For me, it started as a goal. Learn how to ride a motorcycle (at 45). Back in November of 2008, I purchased a V-Star 650 and practiced every night. I passed the MSF course and obtained my endorsement. I was so proud of my accomplishment, but I was always concerned about where the next curve was. I finally decided that I would never overcome not feeling safe.

I saw the :spyder2: at my local dealership and determined that it was made for me! Semi-automatic, ABS, and all the other goodies made it an easy choice. After riding it the first time I knew that it was the right choice for me. I can even let my boys ride on it with me and not have to worry about falling over!

Does the :spyder2: have issues? With all product specific forums, you are going to see problems exposed. To me, this is a great source of information. It helps to become a smart buyer, but don't be like my brother and read too many forums and get so scared that you never buy a product that you would like to try. You will always find someone in a group that will tell you to stay away from product "X" because it is a piece of junk. Well I am hear to say that I proud owner of a 2009 SE5 :spyder2:.

The only negative issues that I think everyone would agree on is the following:

Motorcycle maintenance costs are high when compared to cars. Yes, you can do your own if you are mechanically inclined; but if you are not, you will need a knowledgeable dealer nearby. Discuss this with your dealer prior to making a purchase and make sure that your budget allows for it.

You WILL want to add accessories to your new :spyder2:! :yes:

If you choose to proceed with the purchase of a :spyder2:, I think that you will find that it will exceed your expectations just like mine did.

 

[BumbleBee]

I too am a newbie in the motorcycle field. Never been on a ATV or Jet Ski! I went with the semi-autiomatic. I did do the practise orientations in the manual, that was a big help (build up my confidence). Drove around the neighborhood, and slowly built up my distances. Bought my SE5 yellow spyder on June 12th, passed the written test on the 17th, and now am going to do my driver's test on July 21st (if it doesn't rain), all in a little over in 5 weeks time period. I am amazed how easy it is to ride the spyder. Reliable very much so. Safety mods: risers, extended mirrors, longer windschield, and padded gloves, would be my choice! If I can do it, so can you. welcome:congrats: Rain in the forecast, all day......frustrating!!!

 

[Bersquack]

Yeah, what Ron said! :doorag:

 

[jeuchler]

I've owned three 3 BRP SeaDoos and they were reliable for the most part, but there were always minor issues here and there. That recall that came out this past Friday for the Spyder requiring a software update sounds familiar from my days of riding SeaDoos.[/quote]


It's always tough to judge when reading/hearing about people's anecdotes.
(How many similar stories exist for each one you hear?)

Hello, I'm new here and considering buying a Spyder.

welcome

I don't come from a motocycle background at all, but rather a hi performance jet ski (BRP/SeaDoo) background. For me this would be purely a recreational vehicle. At this point, I wouldn't foresee myself doing any real long trips, daily commutes or even riding in populated areas for that matter. I live a good ways out in the country where there are back roads that you can drive for miles without seeing another vehicle.

My intended use would just be the occasional cruise around my area for fun and maybe to take the back roads over to a nearby town for lunch or something. I have a few questions about these if you don't mind fielding them.

First up, are these any safer than motorcycles?

Yes.

It seems like it solves the problem of laying the bike down, the bike slipping out from under you, things like that, but I wonder if it introduces any new safety issues inherent to the design like flipping over in turns?

No. But that's like saying "do these new hiking boots introduce any safety issues." You break em in, you practice, you read. Rinse, and repeat.

Secondly, are they reliable?

Yes. See above.
I have had very good fortune with our Spyder in a year and a half, driving not as far as other folks here, but through a lot of bad weather.

Next, are these recommended for people that have no motorcycle experience?

Yes.

Also, are there any safety related modifications that you would recommend to a new buyer? Different tires, larger mirrors, etc?

Pilot:
Mirror extensions.
4" Handlebar risers.
Highway pegs.
A good windshield.
Seat skin or cover (cheaper) or new seat ($$$) only because the stock seat seems to not tolerate gentle scuffing and wear, and because many of us felt it was too tacky (sticky) especially in hot weather.

Passenger:
backrest and passenger peg extensions.

Any other tips that you would offer a complete newbie? Thanks in advance.

Trunk light.

Oh, also any recommendations for dealers in the North central Texas area would be great as well. I'm familiar with Cowtown Power Sports in Ft. Worth, but other recommendations would be great. Thanks again.

Western Massachusetts is considered Northern Texas by few, so I can't help there much.

Good luck! :thumbup:

 

[jeuchler]

OK, I just read BajaRon's post and I should've just wrote

"Yeah. I agree."

 

[jimclarkf1]

YES YES YES

Ron said it all, new rider here also at 57, The more i ride it, the more fun, Sat I went to my grandsons ball game, then stopped at the:spyder2: dealer to see whats new, (LEISIRE LIFE SPORTS) Sunday went to a BIG CHEVY car show. I had a lot of lookers at my :spyder2:, today, and tommorow rain and thuderstroms (NUTS):gaah:GO FOR IT, you only live once:lecturef_smilie:

 

[ntxYguy2009]

Sorry,

Forgot to mention that Richardson Motorsports (www.richardsonmotorsports.com) in Richardson, Texas is a great Spyder dealer. Located in Richardson, TX on US 75 just south of Beltline Rd (southbound side). For sales, ask for David. Parts - Bobby. Service - Gary.

 

[FANG]

Ron nailed it shut - very well stated.

welcome just wait you think it will just be for recreation. but you will find more and more ways to recreate - driving to work , the doctor, the dentist... you name it and you will want to ryde to it after you get one.

My cage sits in my driveway now most days - only time I drive it anymore is really oful weather days and when I have to take more than 1 passenger. In fact if it involves moree than 1 person I usually tel them I will meet them and I ryde my :spyder:. :clap: hyea:

 

[irish2themax]

One thing to remember is that everyone out there is bigger than you even it is their fault you loose.

When I taught Midshipmen blue water sailing at the Naval Academy there was one lesson on Rules of the Road. I used to add one that I called the Rule of Gross Tonnage. It doesn't matter if you have the legal right of way, if they are bigger than you, then they win!!

 

[BajaRon]

My cage sits in my driveway now most days - only time I drive it anymore is really oful weather days and when I have to take more than 1 passenger. In fact if it involves more than 1 person I usually tel them I will meet them and I ryde my :spyder:. :clap: hyea:

Ain't it the truth!
hyea:hyea:hyea:hyea:

 

[Smylinacha]

Oh and also, do you recommend the manual or semi-auto transmission for newbs?

Well I have the SM model. Clutch isn't bad and shifting is easy. SE you push a button I think. I don't see what difference it makes - you gotta learn to shift it one way or the other.

 

[Smylinacha]

I've owned three 3 BRP SeaDoos and they were reliable for the most part, but there were always minor issues here and there. That recall that came out this past Friday for the Spyder requiring a software update sounds familiar from my days of riding SeaDoos.

It's always tough to judge when reading/hearing about people's anecdotes.
(How many similar stories exist for each one you hear?)



welcome




Yes.




No. But that's like saying "do these new hiking boots introduce any safety issues." You break em in, you practice, you read. Rinse, and repeat.




Yes. See above.
I have had very good fortune with our Spyder in a year and a half, driving not as far as other folks here, but through a lot of bad weather.






Yes.




Pilot:
Mirror extensions.
4" Handlebar risers.
Highway pegs.
A good windshield.
Seat skin or cover (cheaper) or new seat ($$$) only because the stock seat seems to not tolerate gentle scuffing and wear, and because many of us felt it was too tacky (sticky) especially in hot weather.

Passenger:
backrest and passenger peg extensions.



Trunk light.



Western Massachusetts is considered Northern Texas by few, so I can't help there much.

Good luck! :thumbup:[/quote]

Hey - we got lost in North Hampton yesterday - pretty ride!

 

[jarrett]

Thanks for all the good info so far. Everyone I know is working hard to try to talk me out of buying one of these. Despite explaining the safety features to them, they ensure me that a car will not see me and run over me or pull out in front off me at high speed. I also just talked to one dealer who doesn't allow test rides. If I can't get on one of these before I buy it, there is no chance. This dealer said they did the SE5 at $16,700 OTD. Is that a decent price for one of these?

 

[BajaRon]

Thanks for all the good info so far. Everyone I know is working hard to try to talk me out of buying one of these. Despite explaining the safety features to them, they ensure me that a car will not see me and run over me or pull out in front off me at high speed. I also just talked to one dealer who doesn't allow test rides. If I can't get on one of these before I buy it, there is no chance. This dealer said they did the SE5 at $16,700 OTD. Is that a decent price for one of these?

So all this great advice is coming from owner/riders?

I've owned motorcycles for more years than I want to admit. They are dangerous and you will get run over, run down, run into and basically disrespected every time you get on the road.

If you ride with this in mind it isn't all that bad.

I get much better visibility and notice from car drivers with my Spyder than I ever did with any motorcycle I've ever ridden. Does that make it safe?

No, I still ride like everyone is trying to kill me. I make it safe rather than depending on others to do that.

I had a guy run into me while I was driving a fire truck. He said he didn't see me. Sometimes it just doesn't matter.

If you want a Spyder get one. You will not be sorry. I bought one having never even seen one except in pictures (Lamont made me do it).

There is always a reason not to. You have to overcome to enjoy.