A fellow from Canada named Smitty recently commented on another post that one thing to be concerned about the Can-Am Spyder is the fact that it is so new, and different. And being a new type of vehicle, not just in model but in concept, there are likely to be a few bugs to work out. From personal experience I can tell you that the dealers I have visited have been asking test riders to fill out a survey upon completion of their test ride, and to include complaints as well as comments. One dealer I spoke with said many of the issues I expressed after my test ride were pretty common complaints, and named off a few fixes he was aware of. No word on when those fixes might be applied.
For the record, listed below are the issues I personally had with the Spyder. Valcourt, are you listening?
The seat seemed a bit wide when I sat on it. It may just be my motorcycle background, but one the first try my leg cramped up a bit. A variety of seat options would be a great fix.
It was a bit difficult to move on the seat to make turning more comfortable. See suggestion above.
When I shifted my right foot back on the peg, the heat from the exhaust was noticable to the point on discomfort. Perhaps a better heat shield?
When doing the same with my left foot, my boot rubbed up against some plastic cowling. I would add a larger foot guard here as well.
The left handlebar control assembly wasa rotated too far forward. Every time I went to turn on the turn signals I inadvertantly pressed the horn.
I wish it had a hand brake lever, even if it was only a duplicate function of the foot lever.
I’m concerned about tire choice and availablilty. Are the tires universal sizes, or specific and unique to the Spyder?
It doesn’t lean. Okay, I had to throw that in there. One, I come from a motorcycling background, and two, if I didn’t say it, those that left comments would. They probably will anyways.
Well, there you have it, my initial complaints with the Spyder. Now, let’s here what you think. did I miss anything. Do you particularly agree or disagree with the list above. Let us know by leaving a comment below.
My major gripe was with the placemant of the foot brake pedal. It was mounted too high. I had to make sure my foot was not riding the brake at all times while driving the Spyder. This caused a cramp in my right ankle. I also noted that while making a lock to lock turn (at slow speed) the handlebar grip would become uncomfortable to reach and really cause arm stretch. Other than that, I’m anxiously awaiting delivery of my silver Spyder.
Richard,
Good points. Now that you mention it, I believe I made the same comment about the brake lever to the dealer. Most people had complained about the reach to the bars, but since I ride a motorcycle with low handlebars already, I was use to that. However, to compensate for the position move, I had to lower my brake lever. Perhaps lowering the brake lever would be a quick fix for all the complaints about the long reach? It could also help with the long throw to the outside handle bar at full lock.
Richard,
I have it on good authority that Can Am is seriously considering raising the handle bars two inches. It will be interesting to see, if true, how that addresses both of your issues.
I am glad to hear about the handle bars. I sat on a Spyder the other day in Madison. Before sitting on it I was already to go inside and place my order. I don’t have a liscence yet so I could not go on a test ride. Unfortunately I broke my hip 10 years ago and busted up my knees in a car accident. When I sat down and put my feet on the pegs it was very painful. I could sit back farther and higher up on the seat but then I could not reach the handlebars. The dealer said the seat is an easy fix but the handlebars would be a chaalenge. He told me they were gathering info from people who test drove one.
Like I said I didn’t test drive one, I would love to own one. I could careless if Motorcycle people shun it. My wife is afraid of 2 wheelers she had a friend killed on one a week after she was married. So the Spyder is something she agreed I could own and that she would ride. I just hope they come out with a model that is geared more for touring and commuting. The Spyder as it looks now is great I hope to hear about the new models soon. I really want one but I will have to wait til it is more comfortable for me to sit on.
On my things to do list.
Add a front brake lever that is linked to the rear brake peddle. That shouldn’t be that big of a deal, I have that now on my Honda 4runner.
Fab. a 4 lug hub so I can use automotive type wheels on the front. This will open up the doors to custom wheels at a automotive price. Just think of all the choices you would have.
Body and fender kits. I have a friend who has a large fab. shop that works with fiberglass and produces some pretty cool products now for motorcycles. Theyt can’t wait to get there hands on a Spyder to do some body style changes.
I really do think that there is a three wheel revolution in the works and the Spyder will be a big player in it. I can’t wait to see what Harley and Leeman comes up with.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Revolutionary_Harley_Trike_Has_2_Front_Wheels_That_Lean