I am new here, so I apologize for any stupid, or repetitive questions. I am thinking about getting getting a Spyder, so I am hopping to learn a few things.
How reliable are these machines?
If I were to buy a used one, what should I look out for?
What options are desirable and what can be done without?
Is the semi-auto transmission worth it?
What should I expect to pay for a used one?
Anything else anyone can suggest, or recommend would be highly appreciated.
The only stupid questions are the ones that aren't asked.
When looking at a used model, find out if there are any recalls for that year, and see if they have been performed. Also, if its a 2008, ask if the missing air dam and missing heat shield have been installed. They're very helpful in keeping the heat off of your right foot and leg as you go down the road. If not, they can be bought after-market. I did. just something you'll want to know.
As far as reliability, the only posts you'll find are complaints, though the people who are happy with their machines aren't bothering to complain, they're out riding, so these things are as reliable as the number you see on the roads. I've not had any difficulties with mine, not like some others have experienced.
I don't have the semi-automatic, so can't help you there.
I've found the mirror extensions to be extremely helpful, along with the heat fixes mentioned above.
Welcome to the forum!!!
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CONSUMER WARNING: Use of this Spyder may cause smiling, happiness, urge to ride, excessive wind in the face, desire to call in sick to work, or even extended vacations. Some riders have experienced double-takes, pointing, sudden camera flash, kids waving, and conversations with total strangers. Several instances of unplanned roadside visits with police officers have been reported, though are not common. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your Spyder forum to discuss.
Welcome to our little corner of the universe, Jinky!
Listen to Sass... she nailed it!
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2010 Blue RT Audio & Convenience model Se-5 transmision. Dealer-added foglights, accent LEDs and extra speakers. Some RTS chrome windshield, front spoiler and top trunk trim, RTS frunklight and frunk liner, Top Trunk liner, Chrome lower air deflector, fendertip LED bulbs and ISCI floorboards added by yours truly...
I'm thinking of getting a 2011 Spyder RT-S-SE5 and have dealer change out reflectors and add LED's along with the front fender lights.
Any other add-ons you folks have in mind that would help me enjoy the ride
would be appreciated.
Need to know if $24,481.18 plus TT&L is a good price for the bike alone.
The dealer cut a little over 2400 off MSRP
"RG" No sense in wasting any time setting the bike up!
Pricing... It's always important, but what I've found to be far more impoortant is the service that you get from the dealer. A salesman who cuts pricing to the bone and then turns you loose in a service department where they don't know "crap" from shinola is reallly not a good deal... I try to find a service department that I trust and am happy to pay whatever the bike costs for that knowledge over the long haul...
(That may be why I'm always broke...)
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2010 Blue RT Audio & Convenience model Se-5 transmision. Dealer-added foglights, accent LEDs and extra speakers. Some RTS chrome windshield, front spoiler and top trunk trim, RTS frunklight and frunk liner, Top Trunk liner, Chrome lower air deflector, fendertip LED bulbs and ISCI floorboards added by yours truly...
Bob's right - check out the service techs, see if they know what they're talking about on a Spyder. So few of them out there to choose from, its better to get that info up front.
I don't know about pricing - I bought mine used, and its an SM, so no help there.
As far as something else you might consider having the service guys do while they've got it is mirror extensions. When you sit on your Spyder and put your hands on the handlebars, can you see past your hands, or are you looking at your gloves? That was my first modification when I brought mine home. Mirror extensions. There are more than one style, as well, so consider what kind of windshield you've got on it now, and if you'll be looking for a different kind later before you choose the extensions. Some don't work with a touring windshield that has hand guards.
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CONSUMER WARNING: Use of this Spyder may cause smiling, happiness, urge to ride, excessive wind in the face, desire to call in sick to work, or even extended vacations. Some riders have experienced double-takes, pointing, sudden camera flash, kids waving, and conversations with total strangers. Several instances of unplanned roadside visits with police officers have been reported, though are not common. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your Spyder forum to discuss.
Bob, from what I'm told this dealer is one of the best.
The price, the 2012's are almost here and this dealer has a few 2011's still in stock.
I got the dealer close to me match another dealers price.
SASSAPNTS, I will check the mirror extentions out.
Thank you both for your input. I'll double check dealer again
The dealer may be highly respected; its the mechanic you'll want to be well versed on the Spyder once your purchase is complete.
You're welcome, and call me Sass. Everyone does!
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CONSUMER WARNING: Use of this Spyder may cause smiling, happiness, urge to ride, excessive wind in the face, desire to call in sick to work, or even extended vacations. Some riders have experienced double-takes, pointing, sudden camera flash, kids waving, and conversations with total strangers. Several instances of unplanned roadside visits with police officers have been reported, though are not common. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your Spyder forum to discuss.
Ok SASS
I called BRP today and asked about service Tec;s and was told that to service there bikes a Tec had to attend a week long hands on service school.
Only thing I can think of is to ask the Tec himself, I know this dealer only has 1 Tec to work on can am bikes, anyway enough on that.
If you or Bob can think of anything else that can make my riding experiance my enjoyable please pass it on.
One thing that stands out. When you're cornering, drop your hip down off of the inside of the seat, hang on with your knee, and the corners are much easier and more fun. Get centrifugal force out of the equation.
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CONSUMER WARNING: Use of this Spyder may cause smiling, happiness, urge to ride, excessive wind in the face, desire to call in sick to work, or even extended vacations. Some riders have experienced double-takes, pointing, sudden camera flash, kids waving, and conversations with total strangers. Several instances of unplanned roadside visits with police officers have been reported, though are not common. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your Spyder forum to discuss.