hevnbound
New member
Danimal said:
;D I wasn't ratting on you, Danimal !! Didn't even mention your name! I'm just wanting to be sure we all understand exactly what the Spyder can and can't do. Lamont has graciously agreed to help me install my front peg brackets and I hope to head up that way soon. I will look forward to riding some of the great roads in his area and we will do a physical test of the systems - which is always the best "proof in the pudding"!! 8)
Although I am sure the Lamonster can handle a two-wheeler (and now a three-wheeler) I have been known to hang out in front of the pack myself. You are so right about perspectives differeing. It tickles me to see some of the squid wannabees at Deals Gap with the hot bikes and dressed like a Moto GP racer barely making it around a curve because they are going so slow!! On the other hand, I've seen some ratty dressed guys on a Gold Wing outrunning most all of the sportbikes up there!! There use to be a guy called Yellow Wolf that hung around the Gap video taping people for a fee - he could outrun almost everyone up there!!
Here are the definitions from BRP's web site of the various systems that make up the VSS of the Spyder. Notice that nothing happens until the Spyder experiences some type of loss of traction. Until that happens, the systems do not cut in. If you can execute the curve without any of this happening you will not experience the pulsing, etc. associated with the VSS. I can tell you from experience that this is true. I think my weight (305) actually helps me in this situation as I move as far up toward the front as I can while leaning on the pedal as hard as I can.
The Y-architecture enables the Can-Am Spyder Roadster to host an innovative stability system. Developed in conjunction with Bosch, the VSS reduces the risk of losing control. It immediately detects any loss of traction and quickly takes steps to correct it. Integrated in VSS are the functions of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) and Stability Control System (SCS).
Stability Control System (SCS). Assists in maintaining control in emergency avoidance maneuvers. SCS continuously analyzes motion and forces as they relate to the vehicle's stability, and will intervene to assist the rider in keeping the Can-Am Spyder Roadster under control. The SCS compares the rider's intended direction via the handlebar and determines the vehicle's appropriate response, via lateral acceleration, rotation (yaw) and individual wheel speed sensors. The system then individually brakes the wheels and/or reduces excess engine torque, until control is regained.
Traction Control System (TCS). Optimizes rear wheel traction to help keep the vehicle on its intended trajectory. To prevent excessive rear wheel spin when the rider accelerates, the rear wheel speed sensor continuously transmits the rear wheel speed to the TCS control unit. Every time the wheel shows a tendency to spin excessively, with its grip breaking loose from the road surface, the TCS reduces the engine torque for a moment, by regulating engine ignition and fuel injection. This allows the rear wheel to remain within the limit of the grip between the tire and road surface. This enables the Can-Am Spyder Roadster to accelerate with minimal corrective control input from the rider.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Helps maintain steering control while braking. To help prevent the loss of steering control, sensors monitor the rotation of all three wheels, enabling the ABS control unit to detect any variation in wheel rotation. If any of the wheels are at risk of locking, the ABS briefly reduces brake pressure on it, preventing wheel lock from occurring. This intervention is repeated in rapid succession and can be performed independently on each wheel. This ensures that all wheels maintain uniform rotational speed. So, wheels remain available for steering control force in response to the rider's input.
