Spyder Rt, or ST

[blacklightning]

I have been casually looking at the spyder for about a year now. I do not own one yet, but it is definately in my future. Although I will probably be keeping one of my bikes, I am trying to decide on whether I should get a RT or ST. If I go for a RT, I will probably be waiting until next year and attempt to get a left over 2014RT, or possibly purchase a used 2014 Rt. But on the other hand, I am coming across some good deals on used and left over 2013 ST's. I like the riding position of both, but I was mainly leaning towards the RT for when I can get the wife to ride along. Are there many other drawbacks from the ST besides passenger comfort? I currently ride a M109R and a zzr1200 to let you know my riding style. Thanks for your help.

 

[Bob Denman]

Well...
How will you be riding it? :dontknow:
Are you a "short-hop, and tear it into the twisties" kind of rider?
Or are you looking for a long-haul rider?
Will you be using it for daily routines, where carrying capacity is important?
Or is it you and a credit card?

 

[ChasCS]

Looks wise

It's pretty hard to compete with the awesome appearance of a stock ST.

Chas

 

[blacklightning]

Well...
How will you be riding it? :dontknow:
Are you a "short-hop, and tear it into the twisties" kind of rider?
Or are you looking for a long-haul rider?
Will you be using it for daily routines, where carrying capacity is important?
Or is it you and a credit card?

I don't do many long rides, except for once a year we do a trip to the N.C. mountains for about 5 days. Typically I would probably be using the spyder for longer rides, but they would still be mostly under 200 miles. I do like to turn it up a little on the twisty roads, but that is also why I plan on holding onto one of the bikes. I do like some storage, especially in the winters so that I can carry extra gear. This is the way I have my bikes set up, but I usually remove the bags and fairing from the M109 for the summer months.

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[NZSpyderRyder]

ST all the way

Sounds like an ST Limited would be the ideal spyder for you, if you do decide to purchase a left over 2013 model make sure they fit the 2014 panels for you before you make the purchase. Add a backrest and your good to go.

 

[PrairieSpyder]

I have been casually looking at the spyder for about a year now. I do not own one yet, but it is definately in my future. Although I will probably be keeping one of my bikes, I am trying to decide on whether I should get a RT or ST. If I go for a RT, I will probably be waiting until next year and attempt to get a left over 2014RT, or possibly purchase a used 2014 Rt. But on the other hand, I am coming across some good deals on used and left over 2013 ST's. I like the riding position of both, but I was mainly leaning towards the RT for when I can get the wife to ride along. Are there many other drawbacks from the ST besides passenger comfort? I currently ride a M109R and a zzr1200 to let you know my riding style. Thanks for your help.

Another option is to see what the 2015 ST will be like. If it's basically the same as the 2014, then go back to you other selection criteria. Looks like, either way, wait till the '15s are out. Have ve you seen the reports on the new model, F3? You may want to add that to the mix.

I can't wait to see what you end up with. Keep us in the loop.

 

[ARtraveler]

Sounds like an ST would be appropriate. There are some real good deals on 2013's, but I recommend reading some of the threads on the 2013 before making a final decision.


Here is a current one with both pros and cons.

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?71797-Would-you-Buy-2013-RT-(new)

 

[Bob Denman]

:agree: And I really like your taste in bikes and roads!! :2thumbs:
The ST Limited will give you the removeable bags; you can strip it down to a battle-ready configuration in no time flat! :thumbup:

 

[blacklightning]

Thanks for all the responses guys. I do think I will need to take a spyder ST out for a test drive. I rode a 2013 RT at a demo day, and a good friend of mine (a member here) has a 2014 RT that I drove for about 30 miles. I couldn't stop smiling the entire time, but I wondered if it was too close to my convertible that I used to have. Since I do like a spirited ride every now and then, I will give the ST a try. I really like the lower RPM's that the 3 cylinder motor cruises at, but we will have to see. Speaking of which, is there much (if any) vibration in the bars or seat of the 2 cylinder with the higher rpms that they operate at? I noticed that someone mentioned getting the 2013 panels upgraded to 2014? I must have missed that issue, I thought the heating issues were mainly on the 2013 RT, and the ST was the same for both years. An earlier model RT is not out of the question, but with all things considered, it would probably have to be a deal like you would not believe (cheaper than a ST).

 

[Bob Denman]

For 2014; the ST series got a new set of side panels that help to funnel more airflow down beneath the bodywork... :thumbup:
A lot of 2013 owners are adding the new panels to their bikes, and we've pretty much had nothing but VERY positive reports about their effectiveness. :thumbup:
If you like the sound of an engine running up through the gears; the 998 might be the song that you want to hear...
But the torque of the 1330 is also undeniable...

 

[Dragonrider]

NOW, you have to consider the F3 too - forward controls to boot.

 

[blacklightning]

NOW, you have to consider the F3 too - forward controls to boot.

Not really feeling the F3, but maybe it will help the pricing on the other models. For that feet forward, cruising position, I prefer my M109. I will definately be taking a ST out for a test ride. I prefer a lower reving engine for the highway. That is the real attraction for the 2014 RT, but we will see.

 

[Bob Denman]

Happy Shopping! :2thumbs: