Super Beca Style!..haha

WHEN USF-Hicom launched the Can Am Spyder earlier this year, it took the motorcycle scene by storm, as it was nothing like what we had seen before.

Although it looks like a snowmobile on wheels and sits as wide as a car, it is categorised as a motorcycle because of its engine setting, riding position, and also how it is operated.

The model which we reviewed was the Can Am Spyder RT, which comes with an integrated audio system, rear and side storage compartments, an electronic adjustable windshield, mobile phone connectivity and improvised leather seats.

Looks wise, the RT will definitely get heads turning towards you. Over the two days when we were reviewing the RT, we had so many people approaching and asking numerous questions about the Spyder.

With the new bigger front lamps, the windshield, the screen on the dashboard and all the buttons on the handle bar, the RT looks like it is a vehicle from the future.

Made with touring in mind, the RT has a bulkier body than the RS, with plenty of luggage. The panniers and top box are fully integrated, while the suspension is softer than that of the RS version. Since it is heavier than the RS, it handles better too, and feels more planted than the former.

Riding the RT does take a little getting used to, mainly due to its dynamics. Although it feels like riding a motorcycle, the fact that it is as wide as a car took us a little longer than usual to familiarise ourselves.

The main difference between riding a motorcycle and riding the Spyder is that it doesn't lean like the latter. Although there is no risk of the rider falling down, there is a risk of the rider knocking into other vehicles or the curb if he or she is a little careless.

As advanced as it looks, operating the Spyder is quite easy actually. The fact that it comes with a semi-automatic transmission meant that we only had to upshift. When we slow down, the gear drops by itself, preventing the engine from stalling. There is no clutch as well.

Manoeuvring the Spyder was not as easy as we expected it to be, as we really had to work on the handle bars to squeeze into parking spots. In addition to just turning the handle bar towards which ever direction we wanted it to go, we had to push it and lean a little to make sure that the Spyder stayed on the cornering line.

Where the RT really stands out is on long, clear highways, where we could just gun it at high speed and relax. Thanks to the windshield, wind resistance was kept at a minimal. In fact, we could ride the Spyder while wearing an open-face helmet. The leather seats and upright riding position kept us comfortable too.

Unlike bikes, riding the Spyder felt very safe for a few reasons. Firstly, other motorists could hear and notice our presence quickly, thanks to the big, bright head lights and the loud exhaust pipe. Secondly, there was no risk of us losing balance, falling down or even skidding, thanks to the vehicle stability control feature.

Overall, the Can Am Spyder RT gives its riders the joy of riding a superbike while being stable and safe. For those who feel that two wheels are a bit too challenging, the Spyder might be what you are looking for. It might not be as practical as a bike, but it is just as fun, and gets you more attention than you can handle.

. See the Spyder RT and other Can Am machines at the COTY2U 2012 Autoshow at the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Centre in Jalan Duta, Kuala Lumpur from Nov 9 to 11.

Specifications of the Can Am Spyder RT

Engine: 998cc Rotax V-Twin
Max power: 95hp @ 7,500rpm
Max torque: 108Nm @ 5,000rpm
Transmission: 5-speed semi-automatic
Fuel tank capacity: 25 litres
Price (OTR with insurance): RM134,860.00