Can Am Spyder update

[Vivo]

Oh come on Axy, with that big head I know it's you man!

      

[Mike Green]

Just got back from a 40 mile after work relaxation ride on the Spyder. Rode over to the Jasmine Hills/Emerald Mountain area that is nothing but twisting steep hills. I really tried to test the limits, (and mine) of this motorcycle and was really impressed. I remember when going down a steep long grade on the Xciting my only option was to apply the brakes. With this bike it will allow me to drop down in a lower gear and the clutch torque will slow it down. It also has a feature, VSS, Vehicle Stability System, when the sensors send configurations to the computer that you're approaching a curve outside of the safety parameters it will apply the ABS and slow you through the curve safely. I call it "Idiot Proofing" which I surely need. I am really starting to enjoy the Spyder as I ride it more. The only downside is the footbrake. I miss the levers. Someday when I have $1000 I will convert the footbrake to a hand lever. The handlebars are also too far away and cause neck pain. A handlebar riser kit is abour $200 and that's going to be my first mod. Thanks for allowing me to share and remain a part of this great forum. Ride Safe,
Mike

[Vivo]

WooooHoooo!!! Great Mike!! Now, I want a Spyder!!!   Those "safety features" are necessary when one reaches the age of..... I mean... guru age...

[Mike Green]

Vivo,
You're right and I've reached that age and will take all the "safety features" I can get. Turned 65 back in January and I guess "Guru" is just another name for "old fart"? I really miss the skills and thrills of riding a scooter, especially my Xciting 500. That was a really big bike for a novice and I dropped it several times. It became frustrating to see a beautiful new machine get scratches and scrapes on the fairing and sides.But I eventually learned to "trust my left side", (thank you for that advice by the way), and riding became such a pleasure. Maybe some day in the future I can get another one but that's going to take a lot of lobbying with Mrs. Green.
ATGATT,
Mike