Tips on How to Buy a Used Can-Am Spyder

[@jasonemery8375]

Hi John. Watched your video and opted to buy used. I brought a 2011 RT limited here in the Uk. Although it cost £12995 I am more than pleased with my purchase. 21000 miles full history and she’s a dream. It great getting out there with the wife too. Thanks for your advise and keep the videos coming. Happy can am riding 😊

[@VerticalAvalanche]

lol the reading of the disclaimer was very funny. I love it!! Good video!!!

[@vrich3733]

I'm happy to say my wife and I just took delivery of a new 2020 Spyder RTL last saturday and love it! We are getting it all set up for our first trip to the finger lakes in upstate NY in 3 weeks!

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Well Contrats you guys. Upstate NY is one of the places we want to visit.

[@RetiredCHP13374]

Great video! I am considering a Spyder and doing my research. It seems that this community (Can Am owners) favor having the dealership do everything for them. Coming from the Harley Davidson world, I did all of my own services except for the major ones that required tools that I don't have. Also, owners of Can Ams appear to take many more steps before purchasing these machines, which is fine but I see alot of overthinking involved. Its a toy, a recreational vehicle to enjoy, its going to need to be service, its going to break down and so on. I appreciate your methodical approach to this process and you have provided a great service to those in the market. Having sold these back in 2017 after I retired, I mostly saw seat of the pants purchases where the customer really had no idea they would end up leaving that day owning a Spyder! Anyway, take care and ride safe!

[@MrTommyKimes]

Hi from KVRB! Just sold my Harley Road Glide and waiting for the transport company to pick it up. I have timed this based on last years Spyder rebates coming out in September. Jane & I took our 3 wheel certification course last weekend and are totally prepared to jump in with both feet with a 2020 red RTL. I must admit to not sleeping well because of the excitement and anticipation. Our prime riding season in Florida is approaching and we are excited to begin a new chapter! We watch all of your videos and respect your your opinions and advice. Thank you and Miriam for using your valuable time to share your experiences.

[@miriambryant1896]

How exciting for you! Did you see the video where I told the story of John leaving me in the parking lot because he was so excited to ride our rental spider for the first time in 2015? Hope you and your wife enjoy every minute of it.

[@tomfillmore9710]

Great video and advice thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience that was very helpful information take care have a great day

[@Ruleof2plus1]

Being the only company in the US that actively builds forward trike conversions my sales procedure has always been to recommend prospective buyers to try our many of the backwheel trikes and a CanAm. I have never lost a sale to a rear wheel trike but a few to CanAm and thats OK as CanAm builds a great product and I have good things to say about the Spyder. The more properly built trikes on the road the better.

[@frogmandave1]

Excellent video for any of us looking to buy a Spyder.

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

Your wife wrote a great C.Y.A. disclosure statement. Just bought a 2011 Spyder RT from Louisiana having it shipped to me in NJ. Even with shipping I still got a great deal! I'm posting in July 2021, Can Am is currently touring with the 2020 RTs' for demo ride days, check the website. I did a demo ride two weeks ago , definitely worth it if they're near you.

[@paulthorade6977]

I purchased my 2019 F3T from a Can-Am dealership, with only 2 miles on it. It was a Demo with only 2 miles, lol. A person needs to be careful if they buy used, from a private owner. Very low mileage, although that may seem like a very good thing, can be a problem if the Can-Am is a few years old and has just been sitting without any use. Because I bought the Demo I made sure the dealership did a once over, and also had my first maintenance done at no cost to myself. If you're not mechanically inclined like John (which I'm not), the maintenance on a Spyder is not cheap. I have now had my F3T for two months and now have 1760 miles on it, and I love every second I get to spend on her. An excellent video John, and I'm sure this will help many people looking into Can-Am ownership.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Paul, You are so on point about engine just setting. It needs to be ran up to operating temp at least every two weeks.

[@HankHill757]

Great video John! I too live in VB and am also a retired FF/PM……..small world! Ive had my MC endorsement for 25 years but never knew Va requires the 3 wheel endorsement. I’m in the investigation phase to see if the Spyder is what I want to replace a Harley Roadglide. I’ll check into the classes and stop by the dealer in Chesapeake to see how I fit on the Spyder. Hope to see you around!

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Very good, Thanks

[@HankHill757]

@@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog Actually in Va if you already have your regular M motorcycle endorsement on your license, you’re covered for 2 or 3 wheels. I’m taking the course anyways to have a chance to test ride the Can Am’s, plus it’s just fun!

[@Brute750]

Wonderful information John. Thank you so much.

[@edjimenez2674]

Your blogs are valuable for this Novice and Amateur Rider!

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

That is why we do them,,,

[@jimjenkins3928]

Never have ridden a motorcycle but have always been interested in these spyders. Probably going to go new but used is definitely not off the table. Gotta do more checking on it but this video was very informative. Thank you. 👍

[@opichocal]

I bought my 2015 F3 on Craigslist. It had 7000 miles and mint condition. I have 30,000 now and love it! I also paid Half the cost of a new one

[@miriambryant1896]

Excellent!

[@Skeeter2021]

Did u buy another spyder I see two on the monitors behind you?

[@donaldross1077]

Thank you John. I retired last year from being a mechanic for 48 years. I have looked at the Spyder for the last couple of years and would love to get on the open road and travel. I was never a motorcycle guy. My understanding this is a plus. I currently own a 2016 Chev Cruze that gets around 49.8 MPG. Yes it is a turbocharged 1.4 liter 4 cyl. I have wondered why the Spyder does not get better gas milage? I will of course need the Spyder with Automatic transmission, Tire pressure sensors, and some kind of security system or alarm to let you know someone is messing with the Spyder. To me these seem to be basic requirements, but so far all I have found is the Automatic Transmission. I assume the engine is designed for colder climates and snowmobiles where it requires more gas? Enjoyed the Video. Don

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

I get about 35 mpg, and that's fully loaded with the trailer. As to climates: I have operated it between 30 and 98 and the engine temp stays the same.

[@davidmuth4571]

@@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog My Scion Xa gets the same mileage, but I think the Spyder would be way more fun. I will also be wanting a full touring package to include a trailer. What's the fuel capacity of the spyder?

[@johnogburn8639]

Another great video , I'm sure this information will help a lot of people looking to purchase a Spyder, Safe travels to you and the Mrs.

[@jeffstewart802]

Another great video, thanks!

[@contentofcharacter]

Here in SC, you only need a standard motor vehicle driver’s license to operate Rykers & Spyders. I still recommend getting some training if you are new to them though.

[@LeonardLayne]

Great information

[@edwardmilewski4361]

Got a 2012 for 7 grand delivered.....went into limp mode once and I myself figured it out it was the battery thank God....been fine since..luckily I have snowmobiles so I'm very handy ..and ironically enough my snowmobiles have Rotex motors in them..oh ya purchased 2 months ago....just for the record..lol

[@danmittendorff3155]

Great video, very detailed

[@michaelmorgan5714]

My wife and I took the sidecar course about 10 years ago right after Ocean City bike week. It was the first year that it had been offered three different times in northern Virginia, Loudoun co.Jr. college and made it possible for us to coordinate it with our vacation. My wife kept saying that she's not going to FLY THE SIDECAR. Guess what the picture on her endorsement is? WE were not required to do this maneuver but to this day I don't think I have ever seen a grin as wide as the one on her face. Two of the instructors owned Can-Am's and they brought one up from Richmond Virginia were they were based. It's quite amazing how maneuverable they are on wet pavement. We still don't own one but who knows what the future may be? Mike and Audrey from Bowie Maryland You have a great video

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Thank you Michael,

[@jimmedlock9923]

I was looking for specific things to look for that are problens specific to Spyders.

[@7442Ruth]

We are so excited!! Going to buy a 2016 Spyder tomorrow... can't wait!!

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

WOW,, send us a photo, please

[@7442Ruth]

Well our deal fell through 😔 but we did end up buying a 2005 Goldwing 1800 trike and it came with a trailer. Very excited and have already put about 250 miles on it since yesterday 😁

[@joemichel4770]

Well done!!! John very helpful information. I 'm still researching data about the Spyder Can-Am Limited RT SE6 to make the best decision when purchase time comes.

[@anthonyschreiner9452]

Very helpful. Love the lawyer disclaimer!

[@marcomorissette7940]

Keep up the great work John!! Keep the support Miriam!👍🇨🇦

[@johnwalker4251]

These videos are super helpful and informative, thank you so much for taking the time to make these videos! For people like me looking to buy a Spyder and are trying to figure out all details, your videos are the best! Many happy miles to you and your Mrs.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

that is why we do them,,, I know It took a lot of research and time,, so I just wanted to pay it forward.

[@trinisailor2925]

Very informative video John, thank you! Loved "The Sound of Freedom" in your out takes!

[@theSMYRNAcowboy]

Great video John. I have it on my "Can-Am Research playlist" tab. Hope you and Miriam are doing well. I haven't made a final decision on New or Used as of yet but I have made one on the purchase date. My 62nd birthday, July 11th of 2021. Wish me luck.

[@miriambryant1896]

What a great plan!

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Just develop a plan and work the plan,,, remember, "Luck" is a point in time and space when opportunity and preparation meet.

[@Ahskdndhksh8766]

Good luck!

[@michaelsevens]

Hey John, loved your video. Also loved the outtake and the humor.😁 I have back problems. And I've researched quite a bit, and those I've come across with back pain have said this is definitely the right motorcycle to buy. So I'll be doing a test ride in a few weeks. It will be a Used Can-Am Spyder. I'm hoping the APR will be good. I will be buying it from a place that is reputable, and that is all they sell is Used Motorcycles. Appreciate your video. I'm also interested in good places to buy a helmet and motorcycle gear. Such as jacket, pants and boots. I'm hoping for a 2014 used Can-Am Spyder. And hopefully low mileage period of course garage kept and that it was kept up as it should have been. And I'm allowing plenty of time to do this and I'm not in any kind of rush.

[@Robert-ff9wf]

Thanks for the information! I am seriously considering getting one. I am looking for a used one to buy.

[@marcelovitoriano634]

Great video John..thanks from Brazil!

[@Nicholas211]

Hello from Oklahoma USA

[@earlsmithson4749]

John, took your suggestion. Thursday we drove over to Cape Charles and had a great Seafood lunch at Shanty’s . The tunnel Gods were good to me so the ride was quite pleasant. Thanks again for the recommendation. Was sorry to learn Watkins Hardware Store is permanently closed however.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Yes, we saw that also,,, sad, so much history..

[@Eli4Bill]

Great video John, and very thorough advice. Although I bought a new 2018 RT Limited in April of last year I was able to get a manufacture’s discount due to dealers wanting to sell that model as the 2019’s were out. Many of your points also equally apply to purchasing a new Spyder. And, yes I watched all your pre-purchase videos and how you planned it out. These were actually a deciding factor on us purchasing a Spyder! And, Happy Birthday Miriam (on Monday)!

[@miriambryant1896]

Thank you, Bill!

[@ronmorley1523]

Great information John. Thanks for putting that out. I was looking for a state (preferably Ohio) that offers a two day course and licensing at the completion. Why Ohio doesn’t offer this I can’t seem to find out. I have inquired a number of times and get no response or they push me off to the dealer who does not offer it. I wanted this route figuring it was the best way to learn and license all in one place. I’ve come up blank. Ohio, get with it. Future riders want this program.

[@miriambryant1896]

That’s horrible!

[@richardlinn5512]

Sound of Freedom :)

[@MrBobby52162]

I was subscribed and I wasn’t getting nothing from y’all so I resubscribed I love you Chan

[@SupremeFamilyGarden]

Great video my brother

[@24631]

I love your video's, thank's from Quebec Canada 🙂

[@miriambryant1896]

Quebec...the birthplace of the Spyder! Thank you for watching.

[@evanlyons8627]

Purchasing from a dealership has many more advantages. Taxes, title and fees can be paid up front with a temp. tag or plate issued. An inspection report should be available to review. You can also arrange financing if needed. I always meet at public places. I don’t want strangers coming to my house and I don’t want to go to strangers homes. I happen to meet buyers or sellers at the local police department lot. They actually encourage it and have cameras set up for it. If they don’t want to meet me there. No deal.

[@miriambryant1896]

That’s a good tip. Our PD encourages that too.

[@FreeBeerandChicken]

Thank you for your very informative videos. lol @ lawyer text! HA! Great job, man!

[@Itdontmatter69]

This is the video I’ve been looking for. Ahh thank you

[@chillaxing12]

"VERY" informative. Thank you SOO much for sharing! My wife & I will be planning to buy one soon.

[@jimhunt2178]

Have you tried magnetic mirrors and if so what are your thoughts Thanks

[@Buck1954]

I would add, if you prefer to do your own maintenance, take a look at how many body panels this trike has. I was shocked at all the stuff that has to be removed before I can change or fix anything.

[@samnatha5]

Awesome information to consider thanks for all the tips very helpful 👍🏻

[@bobvandick2546]

Thanks for the info John, appreciate it. 😊👍🏻

[@davidmuth4571]

If I buy used, it would have to be local within 75 miles. It would also need to be be taken to a dealer for a complete check before buying.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I God Am thinking 2 days of looking into issue, that there needs to b a 4 wheel spider model. IE 2 infront & 2 inline. This way 3ppl safe carrying is poss but not ideal. Or 3rd rear seat can b converted to storage. A tailed spider if u will not hard fixed to main prt of bike but actuated trailing behind. This will give u more braking nice but will mean bigger engine for sure. This model if it had airbag up front & seat belts & automatic or paddle shift would b weighty enough to b relatively safe. A slightly wider front stance seems reasonable as well & definitely air adjustable to wt of riders shock package.

[@deonh20]

Great video

[@thegrumpyolgringo]

Another great video. Very informative and filled with a lot of useful info. I think the hardest part of any large investment, is being unemotionally unattached, but like you said, probably one of the most important. Also good advice about Craigslist and private buying options. Thankfully, the lawyer "showed up" to make your video, safe for veiwing. Lol. 😀. Btw, liked the thumbnail. Stay Alert. Ryde Safe in a fun way. Thanks for sharing. Keep on Spydering. 😎. P. S. Having a lot of gray hairs, is better than having a larger forehead. Lol.😁.

[@williamgregory6684]

Having a lot of gray hairs is better than residing ina casket!!

[@stephensmith60]

There are a lot of really good 'used' motorcycles out there, my H.D. Roadglide, Ultra being one of them. Mine was only three years old when I sold it. It had been in for every service requirement, and had many costly upgrades. When I sold it I was motivated. I'm sure that someone, who ended up with my bike, got a Great bike for the money of a used bike. Besides - with a new bike a new owner might have the costs of upgrades to the bike, which they ALL require. Normally what you buy as brand new is a basic bike. P.S. - you can also order all the maintenance records through the dealer who been performing the maintenance.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Thanks, I was lucky. The seller had the records for me, but it only had 8900 on it at the time. Take care, J & M

[@sarge2480]

Thank you for this very informative video. Much appreciated from Kanata, Ontario, Canada. I am looking to get a Spyder. I have always ridden a motorcycle, however in 2012 my wife had a fall off of her bike and broke her leg. She has never felt comfortable on a bike since, and no longer rides. I have recently started giving thought to a Can-Am Spyder since two friends I know who are long tike Bikers as well recently switched to riding Spyders for health reasons. This got me to thinking of getting one so my wife could at least try riding on the back with me, and who knows, may even start riding again herself. I suppose I could just get a convertible, but it's not the same, plus we already have two cars and a truck. One more car and I may as well put up Car Dealer Flags and one of those inflatable wiggly man (One Legged Air Dancer).

[@dannysdailys]

Interesting video. Yeah, I wouldn't wire money either so we bought a trailer and hauled it 300 miles to look at a mint condition 2013 (which has since been traded in on a 19) and indeed, it looked like brand new and the guy and his best friend were the absolute nicest people. He was selling it because of a bad back that had him pretty much disabled. He sure didn't want to sell it and I felt so bad for him. The Spider R/T Limited was so nice, the dealer I bought my new 19 from, gave me more than I paid for it two years later. It was a good deal, but the 13 was trying to burn my feet off and I wanted the triple. Well, I did keep it up, of course. But I just remember how bad I felt. I felt like I was stealing it even though I wasn't and gave him what he was asking. So, one day I could finally afford my favorite sports car. And I ran into it with an owner who was wheel chair bound and couldn't even get into it. He wanted a boat load of money for it and I had no guilt buying it. Even though it was his baby. And he won it at a raffle; of all things. But now it's my baby and worth quite a bit more than I paid for it. Hurray for our side. Anyway, you made me think of this. And you are correct, NEVER send a stranger money. If they won't hold it until you can get there, than pass on it. But, you can't haggle price if he holds it for you. An overnight? Leave and be there the next day and take the chance he sold it. The man who sold me my Can Am said he would hold it for a week if I paid his price. And I looked it up and he was selling it cheaper than book. And the thing was like brand new. Hurray for our side again. He took a bank check.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Hay Daniel, I first got my real estate lic in 1985, I have studied and practiced the art of finance negotiations,,,, one could write books on the subject.

[@troy9er]

Thanks for the tips! 👍🏻

[@bruceclark9472]

Thanks John very informative

[@gillgjr]

Thanks for your insight

[@artsencraffs3263]

What is considered high mileage for a spyder? I am looking to buy used.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

I know of other who have put 80K on theirs with no down time,,, so I do not have a firm number. Sorry

[@roywalls5595]

I just like to test out Can-Am & take there class I already own 3 wheels motorbike!

[@traceyholland957]

Great advise thank you

[@j8ke937]

There is a can am school in Walton,KY. Fee is $99.00,they provide everything.

[@juans3728]

Whether Dealer or Private seller it's my responsibility to ask for the Title of the vehicle now i want to know am i doing the right thing by involving my bank so they can do the transaction to the other bank and suppose i want the bike shipped to my address should the Title be with the bike upon receipt or is it better to mail the Title to me special delivery at my expense and finally do i pay full price before receiving or pay half and then the rest when delivery is complete for the transaction bank to bank. I always wanted a bike but with my limitation i'll be happy with the trike.

[@TheSinfuldragone]

My wife and I just bought a 2011 can am rt with 7,600 miles on it

[@miriambryant1896]

Fantastic!

[@danielrehm5008]

What did you pay for it if i could ask?

[@denniscarver7681]

A lot of bike mechanics freak if you have old barn find no miles. Reason being they did not get rode enough to keep moving parts from failing. Not a buzz kill good luck. Just stating a fact. Happy rydes to you.

[@carlthornton3076]

Very Good!

[@emmanuelgutierrez8616]

More general info on how to buy a used something, than rather the specific Can am. I was expecting comparison between the years. you did confirm the 2014 upgrade for me at least. But not really helpful as a guide to choose which Can am and the difference in model years.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

That is a great video idea... Thank you.

[@joeg9810]

Must live near Oceana or Langley :)

[@ronaldruffier8353]

Great! Thanks.

[@challenger0126]

Great Video Thank You 🙏🏻

[@aaroncordoba3491]

Quiero comprarme una moto Can-Am de esas pero acá en Panamá no hay de esa clase de motos

[@miriambryant1896]

Perhaps a Can-An dealer could be of assistance. That’s a shame that there is no class available.

[@spartansnyder]

I wouldn’t say it is a red flag to meet someone in a public place instead of their home or business. When I meet people to sell things I always meet in a public place for fear of being robbed, having my house broken into later, or for someone stalking me at work.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Good thoughts, I just recommend the police station over a Walmart lot.

[@spartansnyder]

@@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog agreed

[@davepike1220]

Can you indicate what insurance coverage is for a spyder? Just a rough figure?

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Each policy is different based on driving record, insurance company and value of the vehicle insured. about the same as I would pay for a car of equal value.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

This will b the rental option ppl will learn on b4 they bothered to get motor cycle license just to find out they don't like riding. My world my rules, ideally will ring in around 1000lbs no plastic really chrome or steel powder coated or aluminum, for strength & safety again. This has enough frame to hve future hybrid drive option wt carrying ability.

[@ianaustin8364]

Hi John, Great video, thank you! I've heard horror stories about older Spyders with super low miles, and I've never seen one for sale over 50k miles. Dk they just routinely wear out by then, hazard of a 2 cylinder motor? Please advise, cause I really do want one. Thanks

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

Hay Ian, Our Spyder has the 3 cylinder 1330, we are at 27K and running fine. BRP reports a 100k useful life. Will take it in for service in before spring for service and new rubber for our spring trip. I guess the only way to find out how long one will last is to run it till it dies...I will let you know.

[@dannysdailys]

No, these things are good for at least 100,000 miles and my dealer regularly services one with over 200 on it with original rings. It's like a contest with them to see how far it will go. That's pretty amazing, but they do run on synthetic oil and really should never wear out if you stay up on the oil changes and use good oil. Everything over 2014 is a triple cylinder in the R/T line, but the twins hold up as well. This also applies to the transmission as well as it shares the oil with the engine. On oil change, if you don't see any shavings on the drain plug magnets, you're good. I had my 13 two years and didn't put one thing in it. Nothing broke at all. It was rock solid reliable. But it had it's own problems inherent to the 13 breed, and that's the only reason I got rid of it. But know this; I'm describing an R/T, not an F3 or Ryker, which are the cheaper models. They both have belt drive transmissions, like a snowmobile, and that will wear out and isn't cheap. Again, inherent in the breed and will last as long as the tires and no longer. The R/T uses a liquid clutch (very nice) and has no such surprises.

[@duanebreiten1133]

6whats the cost on a used one

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

I have found used RT's for about 12,000

[@yoyohooyo]

It only took a few days for the spider to scare me off with all the electronic BS, That stuff fails on every type of vehicle made and I think fixing it will put me in the poor house. This video didn't help me to want one. I was ready to buy one this week until I started learning about the problems. I would like to have one without the electronic crap causing me problems and financial ruin. I think Can-Am spiders are for rich people. People that can afford to pay outrageous prices for parts, like $350 plus tax and shipping for a new front drive pully. I gather the splines wear out causing the belt not to track true, starts rubbing and screeching. It would be easy to change but I'm guessing the labor charges would be shocking. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYG6fmprjrx1bLM

[@haroldcharlesson5261]

Another stinking ad in the middle of the video.

[@JohnMiriamsTravelVlog]

KZbin gives me no control on add placement. Sorry

[@jamesdspaderf2883]

why haven't people yet figured out AdBlock - been around long enough, Harold!

[@ahah8797]

Best advice: don't. You'll be better with a baby carriage sized up.

[@TheHomeExpert5]

Huh? Why do you say that?

[@ynptrip]

Tip 1, don't. End of advice.

[@Chyanne45]

Boring