Five years after production of Can-Am’s “Y-factor” Spyder roadsters began, the Canadian company has made significant changes to the model lineup as well as to the chassis and suspensions of its three-wheelers.
Most attention among those interested in the three-wheeler world is focused on the new “ST” (Sport Touring) model, slotted midway between the turn-key-touring RT and the sportier (and much lighter) RS.
But for 2013, all Spyders benefit from larger wheels and tires and new, stiffened chassis. According to Can-Am, the result is better handling for all Spyders, compared with previous models. Considering that the long-term 2010 Spyder RT-S Cycle World tested delivered handling performance in slalom and skid-pad tests that are more in the minivan zone than the motorcycle or sports-car zones, improvements were clearly in order.
The new ST model, which has a more comfortable riding position than the RS, along with touring features and wind/weather protection midway between the RS and RT, indicates that Can-Am knows that a substantial number of would-be buyers wanted something between the luxury-touring RT and the relatively lean and mean RS.
Rumors continue to circulate of new competition for Can-Am in the road-going three-wheeler market. If those rumors are based in facts, BRP had additional reasons to give its Spyders better handling. We will test an ST soon to determine just how much better than the 2010 RT-S it might be dynamically.
Prices for the 2013 Spyders range from a low of $16,999 for the RS to $18,899 for the ST and $29,899 for the RT Limited.