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Good afternoon SpyderRyders. I am interested in hearing from other experienced motorcyclists on their impressions of the Spyder. I am looking at the Spyder as a potential sport-touring machine when it comes time to replace my current ride (1999 Kawasaki Concours) in the next year or two. I have been riding pretty well constantly for 37 years (first obtained my m/c permit in 1970) and have owned several Triumphs, a couple of Yamahas, a Harley Davidson Electra-Glide, a BMW R100RS, and my current machine, the Concours. I have had two opportunities to test-ride the Spyder, the second one a long (one hour) ride two-up with my wife.
My own observations are that it took a little while to become accustomed to the steering/handling of the Spyder, since it is completely unlike a motorcycle in its ride characteristics. I found that the slightest input into the bars resulted in very quick movement of the front end, unlike a single-track vehicle. I also found it difficult to escape the feeling on turns that the inside front wheel was going to lift, although I think that is a very unlikely event, given the sophisticated traction and stability control systems built into the Spyder. Therefore, I found it took a little while to become really smooth on turns and in the curves. I suspect if I had some sled or ATV experience, this would have been a more seamless transition.
At the end of it all, though, I found that I had a grin I just couldn't wipe off my face. I really enjoyed riding this thing. Lots of power, great sound, very smooth, really comfortable saddle. I truly felt this was a machine I could ride all day in comfort.
I realize from BRP's marketing strategy that the Spyder is targeted more at those who don't have a lot of motorcycle experience, or feel intimidated by regular motorcycles, so I wondered if those who have a motorcycle background (and I think there are probably a number of you on this forum) might want to share their thoughts and experiences with the Spyder.
Cheers,
Director
My own observations are that it took a little while to become accustomed to the steering/handling of the Spyder, since it is completely unlike a motorcycle in its ride characteristics. I found that the slightest input into the bars resulted in very quick movement of the front end, unlike a single-track vehicle. I also found it difficult to escape the feeling on turns that the inside front wheel was going to lift, although I think that is a very unlikely event, given the sophisticated traction and stability control systems built into the Spyder. Therefore, I found it took a little while to become really smooth on turns and in the curves. I suspect if I had some sled or ATV experience, this would have been a more seamless transition.
At the end of it all, though, I found that I had a grin I just couldn't wipe off my face. I really enjoyed riding this thing. Lots of power, great sound, very smooth, really comfortable saddle. I truly felt this was a machine I could ride all day in comfort.
I realize from BRP's marketing strategy that the Spyder is targeted more at those who don't have a lot of motorcycle experience, or feel intimidated by regular motorcycles, so I wondered if those who have a motorcycle background (and I think there are probably a number of you on this forum) might want to share their thoughts and experiences with the Spyder.
Cheers,
Director