I have a 2009 SE5, almost 3,000 miles, no problems shifting. As far as maintenance, if your inclined to do it yourself, it shouldn't be a problem, but you will have to get OEM parts from the dealer, no aftermarkets available yet. I've had my spyder apart several times, most fasteners are either Torx head screws or Zeus fasteners, no problem to remove. As far as overheating, I had some initial problems, but after adding a cool air intake, any problems disappeared. These bikes do come standard with a 3 year warrenty. These really are good bikes and very easy to handle, my wife loves riding on this bike as a passenger, she's even considering getting her own license.