Unfortunately, the RS-S’s rear saddle grips are mounted too close to the passengers “base”, and require a good deal of effort from the passenger to remain on board when cornering at slightly aggressive speeds. By the way, the grips on the new Spyder RT are set much wider, and together with the Top Case backrest, provide an easier, more comfortable ride for the passenger.

Deflectors send warm air from the large radiator towards the rear, but some of it bleeds on to the rider’s right foot, enough to become uncomfortable on a warm day. The small windshield enhances the Spyder’s looks but offers little protection against the elements. Luckily, the rest of the front bodywork, much wider than on a motorcycle, deflects a large part of the wind from the rider.

Novel driving experience
The Spyder riding technique must be learned by every type of user. Compensating for lean in the corners, and the need to hang on to the machine, are new feelings for everyone, except for snowmobile or Quad riders who know they must lean inward at times to control their machines. Doing all this and still managing throttle, gearbox and brakes is definitely a skill that must be learned. The good news is that if you get yourself in a little bit of a bind, the VSS kicks in and quiets things down, handing you back a nice safe situation.

Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com

Urban behaviour remains safe and easy, making light work of heavy traffic and parking – hooray for power steering! On smooth highways, the Spyder continues this happy behaviour. Higher speeds, bumps, grooves and heavier traffic bring out unfortunate characteristics, such as turbulence for the rider shoulders and head, and a tendency to move around from left to right in the grooves. Under these conditions, you need to drive the Spyder as opposed to riding along, which requires almost constant attention and steering corrections to keep it where you want it.

And if you start pushing it on a twisty road, you will experience a thrill and a great workout, at least until you reach the programmed limits, where the VSS comes in and clips your wings before you get in over your head.

The manual transmission and clutch work effortlessly, as they did on the Aprilia and Buell. Clutch operation on the semi-automatic SE5 is flawless, biting at around 2,000 rpm from a standing start and releasing automatically at the next stop, while the transmission downshifts into first gear by itself. Be careful not to give a nervous throttle blip when stopped, as the machine will take off.

The suspension absorbs bumps effectively, thanks to rather soft damping and spring settings. The downside to this smoothness is too much roll in corners, especially if you push a little harder or need to tighten your trajectory.

Great fun for the target users – in a safe package
The Spyder RS-S is designed for those looking to discover or continue experiencing the joys of open-air riding on a stylish, comfortable and fun machine – other than a two wheeler. And that is reason enough for its existence.

Plus
Superb engine
Comfortable saddle and suspension
Safe and stable at normal speeds
Great upper body exercise

Minus
Excessive heat on right foot
Excessive turbulence in traffic at high speed