Vibration at interstate speeds -- Input please - 2012 Spyder RT Limited - 4200 miles

[JJW SpyderRider]

Alignment could be the issue. The belt has been pretty snug up against the inside lip of the pulley on the back wheel. I asked the Tech and he said he tightened and re-aligned the belt. To me, still looks like it's riding pretty tight up against that inner lip...

Check the flange for shards of rubber. Mine was delivered with the belt against the flange and it would actually try to ride on top of the flange. When it came off it vibrated the whole trike. The flange had a 1/4 long shard of rubber at every tooth.

Another question -- with this vibration and riding, I'm getting 22 - 26 MPG -- is this normal. I'm not hot rodding this thing, just riding it. I did read to keep RPM's up -- does that really help MPG????

Mine got about this bad of MPG when new for normal driving. On the highway it still gets this bad when running over 70. Now normal cruising I'm up to about 34 MPG.

I can live with lower MPG issues, heat on my right foot (which I did install the upper radiator heat blocking plate and opened up the bottom with screen), and miscellaneous little anoyances, but this vibration thing may make me trade off this bike even though I bought in new in March 2013!! Would have never of thought that when I shelled out over $25K with trading in my Honda. We'll give it some TLC and adjustments, manybe a new dealer with new Tech, etc.

Again, anyone have the right belt tension spec. that doesn't create a vibration issue and what gauge do you use????

Thanks all...have a good weekend and Happy / Safe ridin'

Good luck finding the vibration issue.

 

[Marcus In Moose Lake]

Getting Better

Hello,

I too have a new 2012 RT-S. I noticed the vibration at speeds 70-75 when encountering a slight incline. If I throttled-back for a spilt second and then powered-up, it would go away. I immediately thought belt tension and have read our belts are one of the longest reaches in the industry.

I mentioned the issue when I took mine in for first service. My dealer (who is awesome) checked it all out and made the required adjustments per factory spec as part of the first service. He did tell me the vibration is present on many of the machines during break-in and some belts take 4000 miles or more to break-in. Perhaps your long highway cruise is slightly less than a more typical break-in period with a mix including some serious hard pulls of acceleration in town (Yee Haw!).

I am no expert or mechanic but I only have 2000 miles on my Spyder and the vibration does seem to be subsiding. Hopefully yours too will diminish with additional belt break-in.

Marcus

 

[Rotaxer]

Hello my spyderlover friends...

My RT is having vibrations -- specifically around 5300 - 6500 rpms about 70-80 mph...found this out the hard way on a 1200 mile trip using interstates with 75 mph limits - first time I had it at that speed on an extended basis. Vibrated on up hill grades, not down hill. I could accelerate out of it, but when it settled down again going up the grade, it would vibrate.

Anyway, the dealer had my bike a full week (Thurs - Thurs) - wow. They did fix my glove box so it locks now (cable was off at the switch area) - great!

The single most important issue I had told them was the vibration. It was so bad my wife could not put her feet on the passenger floorpads! We would go below 70 or exceed 80 in order to miss the vibration range (interstate in SD where speed limit is 75 mph) -- what a terrible way to ride a new bike (it had about 2600 miles at the start of this trip and we now have 4200 miles on it).

DO ALL RT'S HAVE THIS VIBRATION ISSUE??? That's what the Tech told me. He called BRP and they said at the 6200 rpm range, vibration "happens" - wow for a $25-30K motorcycle that you can't ride on the interstate comfortably?????

I would appreciate any suggestions. The Tech said he tightened the belt to the upper spec range and did some alignment - the vibration is still there! The Tech also informed me how much time he took on this (he did ride my bike 22 miles as I checked the odometer when I dropped it off and when I picked it up). No doubt he tried to do his best. He stated that this is normally an "owner" issue in terms of the tightness of the belt and alignment and I was fortunate that the dealership picked it up as BRP would not warranty it....I felt like I was getting a "talkin to" by this 30 something Tech ( I'm 58 with a Mechanical Engineering degree, retired and have worked as an auto mechanic in my earlier days) - I was nice and did not say much to him and just listened when I asked him questions. He finalized the conversation by saying he rode same model, same year and compared it -- they all do it!! WOW.

Anyway....I love the Spyder in it's design and functionality. I can get around issues like the heat on the right foot, glove box issues, etc, but this vibration issue is a "deal breaker" if I intend to keep the spyder. I would hate to get rid of it, but I have riden many other bikes on interstates (such as a 2012 Gold Wing) and it's "smooth" and quiet.

So any thoughts you all have would be appreciated! I see there is a tension pulley for the bottom of the belt, but I'm concerned it just another add-on that may not work.

Safe and happy ridin' to all of you! :spyder2::2thumbs:

This is not normal, I have a slight vibration at that speed/RPM but is certainly bearable. Here is a procedure that will get you close and the tool needed. If after that you still have a bit then SmoothSpyder should make it perfect.

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/...al-and-belt-adjustment&highlight=belt+tension

http://www.smoothspyder.com/SmoothSpyder.com/Home.html

 

[johnwinslow]

This is My 2 cents. First order a smooth spyder, then when you get it, put your spyder up on a atv jack so all (3) wheels are off the floor and you have good access for drilling, after you drill and clean the mess, but before you install the idler, set your belt tracking and tension the old way then run the spyder in first gear on the lift, and watch for vibration of the belt, if it vibrates increase the tension a little chk again for vibration if it is still there, decrease the tension . the object is to minimize the vibration as much as possible before smooth spyder. then install smooth spyder. repeat this procedure adjusting the smooth spyder until you have no vibrations in the belt. I have over 12,000 miles after I installed the tensioner and have not had any trouble with tracking or vibration, note you do have to trim the belt guard give yourself a 1/2 to 3/4 inch clearance otherwise you may hear the tensioner pulley hit the belt guard. when you adjust tracking have the left side panel off, so you can see the location of the belt on the engine sprocket as well as well as the rear sprocket the ideal is to have it track in the center. Jim sends a gauge with his kit. the tension of your belt should be the least of your worries when out for a ride, accept maybe if you stopped at the Golden Coral :joke::roflblack:

 

[ARtraveler]

A couple flags here on second and third reads.

I recommend using the 5th gear for all highway driving 60-65 and above. Yes, shift down if you start lugging and need some help on inclines. There are some proponents that state that running the rpm's in the 7000 range all the time, is good--but, most recommend the 5000-5500 range.

Your mileage at 26 mpg average does seem about 5 mpg low compared to most that post. The 30-31 seems to be what most--including myself get. Very high revs MAY be contributing to this.

 

[Bob Ledford]

2011 RTL Vibration

I DO NOT have any vibration in the ranges you quoted.

 

[kepople]

This weekend I felt some vibration when at speed with 2 riders. Cruise on, 2 riders, climbing a hill at 60, when rpms dropped to 4500 on the hill, the motor seemed to be working hard, and vibrating... as we crested the hill, and rpms came back up, it was fine.

So it seems under heavy load I do have a little something going on.

 

[bobnaquin]

Hello my spyderlover friends...

My RT is having vibrations -- specifically around 5300 - 6500 rpms about 70-80 mph...found this out the hard way on a 1200 mile trip using interstates with 75 mph limits - first time I had it at that speed on an extended basis. Vibrated on up hill grades, not down hill. I could accelerate out of it, but when it settled down again going up the grade, it would vibrate.

Anyway, the dealer had my bike a full week (Thurs - Thurs) - wow. They did fix my glove box so it locks now (cable was off at the switch area) - great!

The single most important issue I had told them was the vibration. It was so bad my wife could not put her feet on the passenger floorpads! We would go below 70 or exceed 80 in order to miss the vibration range (interstate in SD where speed limit is 75 mph) -- what a terrible way to ride a new bike (it had about 2600 miles at the start of this trip and we now have 4200 miles on it).

DO ALL RT'S HAVE THIS VIBRATION ISSUE??? That's what the Tech told me. He called BRP and they said at the 6200 rpm range, vibration "happens" - wow for a $25-30K motorcycle that you can't ride on the interstate comfortably?????

I would appreciate any suggestions. The Tech said he tightened the belt to the upper spec range and did some alignment - the vibration is still there! The Tech also informed me how much time he took on this (he did ride my bike 22 miles as I checked the odometer when I dropped it off and when I picked it up). No doubt he tried to do his best. He stated that this is normally an "owner" issue in terms of the tightness of the belt and alignment and I was fortunate that the dealership picked it up as BRP would not warranty it....I felt like I was getting a "talkin to" by this 30 something Tech ( I'm 58 with a Mechanical Engineering degree, retired and have worked as an auto mechanic in my earlier days) - I was nice and did not say much to him and just listened when I asked him questions. He finalized the conversation by saying he rode same model, same year and compared it -- they all do it!! WOW.

Anyway....I love the Spyder in it's design and functionality. I can get around issues like the heat on the right foot, glove box issues, etc, but this vibration issue is a "deal breaker" if I intend to keep the spyder. I would hate to get rid of it, but I have riden many other bikes on interstates (such as a 2012 Gold Wing) and it's "smooth" and quiet.

So any thoughts you all have would be appreciated! I see there is a tension pulley for the bottom of the belt, but I'm concerned it just another add-on that may not work.

Safe and happy ridin' to all of you! :spyder2::2thumbs:

My experience with vibrations on a 2008 RS. ( a previous 2008 RS did not have the vibration problems by the way): 1) add a smoothspyder or some other belt idler. BRP reduced the belt tension on all bikes and it led to vibration at a certain RPM. 2) Spin balance your tires. Not all BRP dealers are capable of this and they won't necessarily tell you this unless you ask. 3) What finally fixed mine was taking the Ride On out of the tires. Ride On has a lot of fans in the motorbike world but apparently it can cause a problem in some cases. Good luck.

 

[TexGEOas]

Hello my spyderlover friends...

My RT is having vibrations -- specifically around 5300 - 6500 rpms about 70-80 mph...found this out the hard way on a 1200 mile trip using interstates with 75 mph limits - first time I had it at that speed on an extended basis. Vibrated on up hill grades, not down hill. I could accelerate out of it, but when it settled down again going up the grade, it would vibrate.

In all likelihood, the vibration is coming from your drive belt. Typical rpm vibration points are 4200, 5200 and up in the 6300 range. I have exactly what you are describing on my 2012 RTS Limited. One thing that helps is a pea sized glob of white lithium grease on the belt teeth, Yes... grease on the belt... but only white lithium. It helps... I'm hoping Can-Am will address this issue... it should not be this way.

Some have added belt tensioners to alleviate the problem.

TexGEOas
Argyle, TX
2012 RTS Ltd

 

[Air Wing Guy]

Guaranteed to STOP Belt Flap Vibration

Hello my spyderlover friends...

My RT is having vibrations -- specifically around 5300 - 6500 rpms about 70-80 mph...found this out the hard way on a 1200 mile trip using interstates with 75 mph limits - first time I had it at that speed on an extended basis. Vibrated on up hill grades, not down hill. I could accelerate out of it, but when it settled down again going up the grade, it would vibrate.

Anyway, the dealer had my bike a full week (Thurs - Thurs) - wow. They did fix my glove box so it locks now (cable was off at the switch area) - great!

The single most important issue I had told them was the vibration. It was so bad my wife could not put her feet on the passenger floorpads! We would go below 70 or exceed 80 in order to miss the vibration range (interstate in SD where speed limit is 75 mph) -- what a terrible way to ride a new bike (it had about 2600 miles at the start of this trip and we now have 4200 miles on it).

DO ALL RT'S HAVE THIS VIBRATION ISSUE??? That's what the Tech told me. He called BRP and they said at the 6200 rpm range, vibration "happens" - wow for a $25-30K motorcycle that you can't ride on the interstate comfortably?????

I would appreciate any suggestions. The Tech said he tightened the belt to the upper spec range and did some alignment - the vibration is still there! The Tech also informed me how much time he took on this (he did ride my bike 22 miles as I checked the odometer when I dropped it off and when I picked it up). No doubt he tried to do his best. He stated that this is normally an "owner" issue in terms of the tightness of the belt and alignment and I was fortunate that the dealership picked it up as BRP would not warranty it....I felt like I was getting a "talkin to" by this 30 something Tech ( I'm 58 with a Mechanical Engineering degree, retired and have worked as an auto mechanic in my earlier days) - I was nice and did not say much to him and just listened when I asked him questions. He finalized the conversation by saying he rode same model, same year and compared it -- they all do it!! WOW.

Anyway....I love the Spyder in it's design and functionality. I can get around issues like the heat on the right foot, glove box issues, etc, but this vibration issue is a "deal breaker" if I intend to keep the spyder. I would hate to get rid of it, but I have riden many other bikes on interstates (such as a 2012 Gold Wing) and it's "smooth" and quiet.

So any thoughts you all have would be appreciated! I see there is a tension pulley for the bottom of the belt, but I'm concerned it just another add-on that may not work.

Safe and happy ridin' to all of you! :spyder2::2thumbs:

Hi, I am Bruce Baker from Baker Built Air Wings. We recently developed a new Belt Stabilizer that is guaranteed to solve your Vibration Problem or you can return it for a full refund. It sells for $195.00 and can be installed in about 5-10 minutes I recently installed one in under 3 minutes. All Baker Built Air Wing Products come with a 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee and a 1 year warranty on all parts & labor.
Sincerely, Bruce L Baker

 

[porterb123]

First post. I just picked up a 2012 RT Limited and rode it from the dealer in AR, home to Houston. Around town it was surprisingly smooth. Got onto the interstate and in 5th gear, going 70 to 80mph and when going up a small incline it felt like an instant on rock crusher had started! I was shocked and thought maybe a motor mount had given out. Giving more or less throttle made it go away, but any constant speed with a load and it would reappear.
Good to know it is not just me and have some info when I take this to the dealer. May have to go the belt tensioner route.
Thanks for the information!!

 

[Dan_Ashley]

My 2012 RT is perfect

It is perfect in 4th or 5th at 60, 70, 80, and 87. I've never gone faster than 87--At least, I don't think I have!

so, in my non engineer and non mechanic opinion--I'm a retired government bureaucrat by trade-- in my uneducated opinion, your dealer did a lousy job at setting it up. Get everything checked: tire balance, wheel alignment, belt tension, belt alignment, motor and transmission alignment. Tire pressure 18 front 28 back. Also get rid of Ride On, and/or alignment beads.
Then change the oil--make sure you have the right stuff in there. If your desler messed up other stuff, don't trust that either. ...and while you're at it, get the brakes checked for smooth operation. Could you have a defective rotor?


Just some ideas from someone who'se ride is perfect...and hopes it stays that way.

Dan

 

[ParDuff]

Similar Vibration Fixed

My 2011 RT Limited (around 13,500 miles) also had a vibration the last several months. It was most felt by my left foot but I could feel it in the seat and other foot. I finally was able to determine that it was usually just as I was backing off the throttle or holding speed at around 4500 rpm. I had Pitbull tighten the belt and the vibration is now gone. It rides much smoother at all speeds. Our speed limits max out at 70 mph, so I don't get up to 75-80 mph much, only when I'm passing someone.

 

[rickcc54]

My 2011 RT Limited (around 13,500 miles) also had a vibration the last several months. It was most felt by my left foot but I could feel it in the seat and other foot. I finally was able to determine that it was usually just as I was backing off the throttle or holding speed at around 4500 rpm. I had Pitbull tighten the belt and the vibration is now gone. It rides much smoother at all speeds. Our speed limits max out at 70 mph, so I don't get up to 75-80 mph much, only when I'm passing someone.

had the same trouble with my 2112 rt froze up engin at 4500 with bad vibration from the moter and trany any time it was in a pull after 1500 more miles with a new moter and trany and a worse vibration and bad shifting broblem it in again for a new moter and trany 18 days and waiting

 

[REDLINE]

Vibration

Hi,
I'm new to the Spyder and this forum but will share what I can and gather what I can in hopes of keeping my Spyder rather than seeking a buyback. Forgive me if someone has replied in kind and i missed it, but what you are describing sounds like a harmonic vibration from the belt because of the distance between sprockets. Common issue that many have, many have and are not bothered by or don't notice it, and is considered normal by BRP from what I've been told. Unfortunately, this vibration like any other, will take it's toll over time. There are tensioned idlers available from the aftermarket that many swear by, but I have heard it may void the warranty if noted by the dealer. BRP's answer is to vary the rpm up or down when the vibration starts. Really? I have a hard time buying "normal" as that implies they all do it. I rented one before I bought mine and it did not do it @ 10k. Mine did not do it until around 400 miles. The dealers are limited as to what they can do and the best you can hope for is that you get the correct belt adjustment. I plan to try an idler when I get mine back from the dealer.
My wife and I really like our Spyder except for this issue that can be extremely uncomfortable and annoying, at times feeling unsafe. We have had it 3 months and just got back from a 2000 mile trip to Colorado which brought about a few other issues that hopefully can be resolved. If this vibration can't be fixed or at best, minimized...............bye bye Spyder. Wish you the best of luck.
Russ

 

[Spyderific]

Our 2012 RT LTD has the same vibration issues even with the Smoothspyder installed and set correctly.

 

[Biosafena]

I have he SmoothSpyder installed and feel the same vibration that you describe. It is so bad I can understand wanting to sell the Spyder. My belt tension has been set several times by different dealers and it still does it. I will be dropping it off at the dealer for an extended period of time when it gets cold here and he said he will see what he can do. I am fearful that BRP will just stand by their line of "being normal" and not authorize any work even tough I am still under warranty. I REALLY dislike riding my Spyder on the freeway (especially when 2-up) because the vibration ruins the experience. I have ridden a 2013 RT and the vibration was not present, so I know it is not normal. I pray for a solution or I too may have to haul out the old 'for sale' sign.


Sent from the corner of walk and don't walk....

 

[MarCarl]

Got some new info. Talked to a Gates rep,,,, yep a man from Gates Rubber, told him about the vibration issue and he chuckled. Said BRP decided to use a China belt, mine is chinese, and also told me that if we were to use a Gates belt it would resolve the issue. Somehow I tend to believe him.
My vibrations have been minimized but using a more relaxed belt tension, (krikit 200 to 240lbs) and using a belt tensioner. I'm not sure how much pressure I have on the tensioner, I just kept making it tighter until the vibration stopped.

 

[joeam]

anything new?

Got some new info. Talked to a Gates rep,,,, yep a man from Gates Rubber, told him about the vibration issue and he chuckled. Said BRP decided to use a China belt, mine is chinese, and also told me that if we were to use a Gates belt it would resolve the issue. Somehow I tend to believe him.
My vibrations have been minimized but using a more relaxed belt tension, (krikit 200 to 240lbs) and using a belt tensioner. I'm not sure how much pressure I have on the tensioner, I just kept making it tighter until the vibration stopped.

How do you get a gates belt for these spyders? any new info on what else to do for this vibration? 2012 RT SE5 with 1600 miles on it second owner we bought it with 1052 miles on it a few months ago

 

[SPYD3R]

640

i just did 640 miles of NO smiles :cus: :gaah:, one shot, 13 hours ride from Florida to my home in SoCar....
left Stuart, FL on US95 North to US26 in SoCar to Rt.385 and home...
what i did notice is while at 70 mph with cruise control ON... when going down a grade, i felt the vibrations you speak about.... on FLAT or UP a grade, NO VIBRATIONS....
Dan P
SPYD3R