Differences

[Ron2andia]

I am new to this and as I have stated before will be getting a Spyder at some point. Maybe new or used. Can somebody break down the changes from year to year to help me make and informed choice? Both models. Did they improve each year and how?:shocked:

 

[wilfredopr]

RS and RS-S, seat cover, front wheels and uuhh... a sticker.

 

[Recluze]

The RS GS and RSS, which are just different names for the same machine, have stayed pretty much unchanged from year to year. I am on my second 2008 model because they never made enough improvements year to year to justify buying a newer one. The issues that were discovered on the early models, I had 610 and now have 104, can be fixed or were fixed on the older ones. The biggest issue I can remember was a defective power steering and they recalled and fixed all of them. Most issues can be taken care of with a software upgrade which are easy to come by at a dealer.

The RT is a two up road cruiser built on the same chassis as the RS. It has an engine that has been retuned for more torque and less horsepower. It is three hundred pounds heavier and has a lot of gismos. People, including me, note that it tends to wallow in turns, but I believe that with a new shock package it can be fixed. If you have a co-pilot to take along, you should look hard at the RT. Or if you intend to put in long days on the interstate.

There. I have now told you more than I know.

 

[Ron2andia]

Fantastic! Thanks!:thumbup:

 

[Spy+]

RS and RS-S, seat cover, front wheels and uuhh... a sticker.

FOX shocks

 

[pro10is]

I am new to this and as I have stated before will be getting a Spyder at some point. Maybe new or used. Can somebody break down the changes from year to year to help me make and informed choice? Both models. Did they improve each year and how?:shocked:

I don't think anyone has properly answered your question yet. I assume you're not asking for a direct comparison between the RS and RT but rather a year to year comparison of both model lines individually. I can give you a quick overview. If you need more details dig into this forum and you'll find everything you're looking for and then some.

2008-2012 GS/RS/RS-S:
The major basic components such as the engine, the body, safety systems, electronics, and the chassis are for the most part unchanged. The SE5 semi-automatic transmission was introduced in 2009. Each year BRP has also made numerous subtle changes to work out any problems. Issues with the front sprocket, the DPS, BUDS upgrades, fuel system, etc. have all been addressed and for the most part resolved making the RS line arguably the most reliable choice. Earlier years have received recalls to fix many but not all of the issues. There have been few changes since 2011 and there is some speculation BRP will have something new for 2013 but this is by no means confirmed yet. Mostly in this line the biggest changes year to year have been cosmetic with new color offerings each year as well as upgrades to the wheels, seat, handlebars, lower body parts, and graphics in the RS-S. The 2012 RS-S also features Fox high performance front shock absorbers. You can buy a new 2012 or try to find a better price on a used 2008-2011. The only thing I would mention is that the 2008 model year has had issues with fires which I don't feel BRP has properly addressed because they still seem to occur from time to time.

2010-2012 RT Series:
Again each year BRP has been addressing issues such as the DPS, throttle body problems, limp mode, BUDS upgrades, suspension improvements, etc. The RT line is not quite as mature as the RS line yet and arguably seems to have more reliability issues including some that have not yet been fully resolved. That said, for the most part the RT line seems to be very well received with its superior touring capabilities. Any model year can be chosen because recalls have addressed the major issues, and upgrades such as better shock absorbers and third party modifications can address what remains. Again the biggest changes year to year have been cosmetic and feature oriented. The major basic engine, body, electronic, and chassis components are the same. Any changes for 2013 are planned to be announced in September.

I hope this answers your question, if not this forum is an invaluable reference and historical record of virtually everything you'd ever need to know about all Spyders models.

 

[Bob Denman]

:agree: Good job! :firstplace:

 

[Ron2andia]

That is what I was looking for thanks. I was intrested in getting a premier edition but the info about the fires is enough to keep me looking for 2010 or higher. Thanks.

 

[ARtraveler]

Good information above. Nothing I can add to those. Good luck in your search. Let us know what you decide to do.

Previous owner of 2008, 2009 GS/RS and current owner of 2010 and 2011 RT-s and A & C.