10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Can-Am Spyder
When it comes to recreation vehicles some prefer the old traditional types while others are intrigued by something that is new, innovative and sporty. The Can-Am Spyder is one of the most unique looking vehicles that the brand has produced to date. If you’re not familiar with the Spyder then you’re in the right place. Here are ten things that you didn’t know about the Can-Am Spyder.
1. It looks like the Batmobile except it’s a bike
Some riders have even nicknamed the Can-Am Spyder the Batmobike because of its unique appearance. When it flies down the road it has a distinct aesthetic that sets it apart from all the rest. It is definitely an eye-catching vehicle and while some find it to be extremely attractive, not everyone shares their enthusiasm.
2. People either love it or hate it
There doesn’t seem to be a lot of ambivalence about the Can-Am Spyder. Some people are truly delighted with its edgy aesthetics. These are the real enthusiasts and they tend to be people who are trendy and love the latest styles in fashion. Those who like to stick to the classics and prefer a more traditional performance and function in their recreation vehicles have shared some not-so-nice opinions about it. They’ve even likened it unto a “dim, dull variation” with reference to a motorcycle. The majority of objections have come from two-wheel motorcyclists.
3. The Spyder comes is a powerful sporty edition
For those of you who do like the looks of the Can-Am Spyder and crave a sportier bike, then you’ll probably want to check out their F3-S variant because it is the sportiest Spyder that the manufacturer has made to date. It features a three-cylinder, 1300cc Rotax engine and a fat, belt-driven 15 inch rear tire with 115 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque. It’s built to be the sexiest and sportiest version for those who desire these attributes.
4. The target audience is non-motorcyclists
Can-Am already secured its motorcycling crowd and their innovations made their two-wheel bikes a sure bet that has won their share of championship races in motocross and enduro track racing, but being the innovators that they are, the design team wasn’t through. They wanted to open up a brand new market for the company and that is precisely what they’ve done with the Can-Am Spyder. It appeals to people who are formerly non-motorcyclists. That’s why it doesn’t really bother them to hear the grumblings of traditional motorcyclists. The Spyder is easy to ride with the elimination of the left-hand clutch, the left foot shift levers and the right-hand front brake. It’s not intimidating for new riders, and it’s a lot of fun to ride.
5. The Spyder is a “naked bike”
The Can-Am Spyder is sold in its stock form without the addition of side bags because some may want them and some may not. It’s not intended to be a long-distance cruiser. Rather, it is intended to be cruising around town and to offer a stylish ride for shorter commutes.
6. Modified controls are sweet but you can up the ante
The Spyder is offered with an automatic transmission and a single right foot brake pedal that delivers braking to all three of its wheels. In essence, it’s built to operate as a car because this is more familiar and less intimidating for non-motorcycle riders. Can-Am also offers a manual version for those who prefer something a bit more standard.
7. California lets you skip the endorsements
Because the Can-Am Spyder is a three-wheeled vehicle, you don’t have to get an endorsement to purchase, register or ride on the public roads. It’s perfectly legal to ride on the streets if you have a regular driver’s license.
8. A quarter of Spyder owners are newbies
This is one of two fun facts we need to share about the Spyder. 25% of people who purchase Can-Am Spyders have had no prior experience riding them or other motorcycles on the road. In addition to this, 25% of all people who purchase them are women.
9. Can-Am Spyders aren’t cheap
The Spyder gives people a premium riding experience but it comes with a premium price tag. The line of new Spyders beginning with the RS model starts at $15,000. If you want to go with the sportiest version, the F3-S is going to cost around $21,000.
10. Can-Am is manufactured by a Canadian company
BRP is a Canadian Powersports company and they are the parent company of the division that produces the Can-Am Spyder lines. There has been a surge in interest in three-wheel bikes throughout North America in the last few years and BRP has surpassed the hundred thousand mark in sales of the Spyder.