The Can-Am company has evolved considerably since the arrival of the Spider in 2008. The aim is still to serve all classes of society with different products, some more affordable with less equipment, others more luxurious, allowing everyone to enjoy a very pleasant outdoor experience. 4Riders Magazine is delighted with the partnership established with the management of BRP’s On road division. It allows us to test many of their products and share our evaluations with you.
There’s no denying that Can-Am three-wheelers are very well established here in Quebec. It’s easy to see the ever-growing phenomenon across the province. And the addition of the Ryker division a few years ago certainly plays a very important role in this rise in popularity.
Our test vehicle
Our test machine, the Spyder F3 S, is categorized as the entry-level vehicle in the Spyder division. Entry-level means less equipped, but when it comes to safety and performance, this vehicle is identical to all Spyder F3 products. The more equipped versions retain the same engine and braking system. If you’re looking for a lower-priced vehicle, you’ll have to turn to Ryker products, which were introduced a few seasons ago. These are less expensive and feature very different technologies, enabling the company to reduce manufacturing costs. This marketing alignment has proved highly successful in the snowmobile world. Clearly, the company is striving to multiply the use of the same part in several segments. The use of the 900 Ace engine on snowmobiles and Rykers is a fine example, as is the 10.25-inch dial!
Motorization
The powertrain features the famous 1330 cm3 ACE engine introduced several seasons ago. This in-line three-cylinder with electronic fuel injection develops 115 horsepower at 7250 rpm. With 84 mm bore and 80 mm stroke, it delivers an attractive 96 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. This power is matched by a six-speed semi-automatic transmission with reverse. As in the past, shifting up to higher gears must be done by the rider; however, downshifting will take place automatically if you don’t.
What’s new for 2024?
The two main new features for the 2024 edition are the addition of the 10.25-inch Apple CarPlay-compatible touchscreen and front LED headlights. The arrival of better lighting has long been desired. These new LED headlamps offer greatly improved night vision compared with previous versions. This improved lighting adds to the safety of the vehicle’s occupants.
The addition of the new 10.25-inch screen propels us into the new technological zeitgeist. Fully touch-sensitive, it can be configured in a multitude of ways, offering excellent interaction with the driver. Of course, it provides information relevant to driving, such as speed, engine revolution, temperature and so on. But it also allows connection with your phone and use of the Apple CarPlay system. Unfortunately, those with Android phones will have to wait and see. It’s worth noting that to enable Apple CarPlay, you’ll absolutely need a communication system in your headset, Vibe, Sena or similar. Otherwise, Apple CarPlay won’t work. This requirement stems from the internal programming of the Apple system.
The F3S’s standard equipment is indeed a little simplistic. Only one trunk is at the user’s disposal, the one at the front. It offers a loading capacity of 24.4 liters.
It’s in this front trunk that we find the USB socket for connecting our smartphone. It comes as standard with the passenger seat, rear handles and footrests. Safety is always at the forefront, and this is true of all Spyder models. Stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes and speed-dependent adaptive power steering. And last but not least, the hill-start assist system, which ensures a smooth start-up without rolling backwards on a steep incline.
Driving impressions on the road
Our road test covered over 2000 km. During my many outings, I encountered mostly country roads, did a little highway driving and a few kilometers in town.
The absence of a windshield on this model exposes you to the elements, but the pressure absorbed by the upper body when riding is uniform and constant. The slight turbulence at helmet level caused by the windscreen on other models is simply absent. And let’s face it, it adds to the experience and the feeling of freedom!
The F3-S’s suspension is the only one in the range to feature a Sachs shock absorber at the rear. All other models feature self-leveling air suspension. Bump response is stiffer and less comfortable than that of its more expensive siblings, but remains very acceptable in virtually all conditions. The front end remains relatively supple, which is an asset over bumps, but leaves room for a little left-right sway when changing lanes on freeways, for example.
The mirrors are impeccably positioned, offering a perfect view of the rear of the vehicle.
Although the F3 S is considered entry-level, it’s still equipped with a large 10.25-inch screen that’s fully interactive, touch-sensitive and compatible with Apple CarPlay. However, there’s one small downside: you’ll absolutely need a helmet-level communication system to make it work.
Driver ergonomics are impeccable in terms of arm and leg position, thanks to the footrests.
However, as mentioned several times, the control buttons on the left-hand side are very small, requiring several kilometers to get used to. You’ll need to take your eyes off the road regularly to make sure you’re operating the right controls.
The performance of the 1330 cm3 engine is decent and well suited to the size of the vehicle. Although it’s not a high-performance vehicle, it’s possible to get a good feel for it if you feel like it. The most enjoyable part of the car is without doubt the feeling of freedom it gives you.
The absence of a windscreen encourages us to cruise the country roads while admiring the scenery. What’s more, the mix of gloss black, matte black and orange adds a slightly bad-boy look.
I had the chance to ride in the rain a few times, and the lower body protection is well taken care of by the front deflectors. However, the rear wheel allows water to flow back into the bike, wetting the back of your legs.
Highlights:
- Interesting looks
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
Points for improvement:
- Water backflow behind legs in the rain
- Front suspension lacks firmness
If you’re interested in the F3-S, even though its basic equipment is very limited, you can add a pannier, windscreen or any other interesting product available from your Can-Am dealer.
This concludes our test of the second three-wheeled vehicle for this summer. We’ve also confirmed that a Ryker will soon be available for review, to round off the summer season.
Have a great season!
