Benefiting Veterans' Charities
Tour of Honor is a great reason to hit the open road, honor our nation's heroes, and contribute to a few good charities. The event is a season-long, self-directed ride to memorials and monuments around the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii. Beginning April 1, visit as many sites as you want, with any route you choose.
Something to share? Submit your tidbits.
TIRE PRESSURE: It is usually necessary to add pressure when the weather gets colder. This is the time of the year when it is important to check tire pressure on your Spyder frequently. I was reminded recently by my friendly tech that Kenda tires lose pressure rapidly when the weather changes. My front Kenda tires on the F3 had lost 40% of their pressure in just over 2 weeks. In contrast the Federal Evo tires on the front of my RT have not lost a pound in a month.... Tires wear rapidly and corner poorly when under inflated so please keep on top of this. - H Mette
BUG OFF: Beetle Juice! Lovebug Juice! Peroxide will take care of all of it. It can be purchased for under $2 in a spray bottle. Spray on the front of your ride (windshield and helmet included), let is sit for a few minutes and when you wash her down, it all wipes right off. It doesn't hurt the paint or the windshield. Gary keeps a small spray bottle in the back of his bike with a cloth to clean windshields and helmets as needed. When the spray bottle is empty, simply refill it from a regular bottle which is less than $1. - J Carter
FOOT WEAR: Gary informed me that if I was going to have my own Spyder than I had to wear the proper foot gear. I was dreading this because I was assuming whatever I got would be very hot and sweaty. As some of you know, I am a Nurse so one day I was in a uniform store. This particular store had a wall full of foot wear for emergency medical professionals (Design Lab in Tavares/Eustis). These are designed to be light and breathable so I tried on several different brands until I found one I liked. A couple weeks later we ordered the correct size online since I like a wide shoe. I ended up with Under Armour Valsetz RTS tactical boots which are light weight, water resistant, and they BREATHE. I have had them 6 weeks and have not had hot and/or sweaty feet yet. As a bonus, they were less than $130. - J Carter
Doug & Hal
Hal Mette and Doug Chasick will be driving 1,500+ miles in 36 hours to Canada in order to raise money for the Road Warrior Foundation. Donations for this great cause can be made at... https://www.crowdrise.com/2015RoadWarriorRide/fundraiser/
Once there they will ride back to Florida with the Road Warriors to show their support. This blog will contain daily updates and pictures for their trip.
JUN 2: Bun Burner 1500 Day One- The day started off with a glitch. Doug's gas cap would not come off in order to get the starting fuel. A couple panic calls to his Dealer GM resulted in a repair before they opened but still we got on the road at 9am instead of 7am as planned. The day was cloudy and temperature perfect for Spyder ryding. We blasted away the miles with no stop from Florida to Charlotte NC for anything but gas. We were so excited that we couldn't think about eating. Due to the delay we hit Charlotte at rush hour so decided to try Floyds Home cooking for supper to let the traffic clear up. Floyds was a treat of southern home cooking. While we ate it started raining and that hung with us for the rest of the day. As we got into the mountains in Northern NC and later Virginia the travel became tougher and tougher. The number of trucks traveling at night was ridiculous and each time they passed us we were deluged. Finally in Virginia about 80 miles short of our goal for the day we stopped at midnight because the weather was exhausting. The good news was that my new First Gear all weather outfit was comfortable and kept me completely dry.
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Doug & Hal
JUN 3: Bun Burner 1500 Day Two - We were on the road by 5:30am even though it was so foggy that it almost felt like rain. Fortunately as daylight appeared, the fog lifted and the day became perfect for riding. It was so sunny that as we approached New York and Canada I thought we were back in Florida. Enroute today we actually visited four states in just over an hour. The interstate route to the north using I77 , I81, and I87 has scenery to rival any backroads in America so we made serious speed but enjoyed our viewing as well. No question without good weather we would not have been successful. Of course we had Spyder admirers at every stop along the way but much to our surprise we only saw one Spyder during the whole trip. We arrived at the hotel in just under 35 hours having traveled 1610 miles. It should have only been 1567 but my Garmin gps went nuts once we entered Canada and kept trying to send me in the wrong direction. Unfortunately the first time I followed garmin instead of my recollection of the map. Our other little added adventure was that we arrived at the hotel only to find out that Road Warrior had changed to hotel to another one 40 miles away. We got another ride in 45 degree temps that we weren't exactly prepared for. At any rate we arrived in Sherbrooke and the Road Warriors and several out of state Spyder owners were already partying. Fortunately for us they were tired also because we were really ready for a good nights sleep. My ride partner, Doug Chasick also qualified for the Saddlesore 1000 enroute to our finishing the Bun Burner 1500. He was a great ryde partner. We achieved our goal and frankly we were surprised that we were not sore or overly tired.
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BRP Factory Tour
JUN 4: BRP Factory Tour - Got an early start today.. Breakfast with the Road Warriors and then an 8am ride from Sherbrooke to Valcourt with the Road Warrior. First thing we did was visit the dealership across the street from the factory. The Road Warriors were outfitted with jackets, hats, shirts, comm gear, rain gear, etc - the full deal. It was like watching kids in a candy store. We then followed them to the test/training area for their day of orientation and practice ryding. About 7 of us split off to go to BRP for a factory tour of the Spyder line. The plant manager conducted the tour himself. He told us that only 5% of the visitors to the plant actually get to see the Spyder area and only that is a recent event so we were quite privileged. BRP is extremely guarded with technology that is part of the Spyder line - technology that surpasses the entire industry. Every person into the plant has to be passkeyed in and out. I felt a little like I was accessing a military base rather than a manufacturing plant. We saw the Design center from the outside but no access. The plant manager said even he isn't allowed into that area where they are planning everything for 2016 to five years out for new Spyder product. They produce 13.5 Spyders every hour and the amount of automation and control function is exceeded only by the quality control.. They are down right fanatical about sending out a top quality product to the field. I am more certain than every now that most of the problems that owners experience are generated by poor dealer assembly and not by the manufacturing plant. A sizeable number of employees own and ryde Spyders so they have a vested interest in producing a product that can be safe and that can make them proud. I could see pride in the eyes and movements of the folks on the various parts of the assembly line. BRP took wonderful care of us and we all walked away feeling impressed and amazed. Plus if I had not felt secure riding the Spyder long distance before, I certainly do now.. The Road Warriors are all checked out now after a practice ryde this afternoon and the group is ready to Ryde in the morning.
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2015 Road Warriors
2015 Road Warriors
JUN 5: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day One - Valcourt to Concord, MA
The route will tour many of the best riding roads in NE, skirting the VT border down into NH. Route includes the Mt. Washington auto road (weather permitting) and the stunning Kancamagus Hwy.
This was day one of the official Road Warrior 2015 Ryde & Day four for the Bun Burner boys. We rode 285 miles today bringing our cumulative total to 2016. We rode from Sherbooke Quebec to Concord NH Hampshire with a pizza stop in Gorham NH. The ski areas in Vermont and the White Mountains in New Hampshire were absolutely stunning. This area would be great for a Spyder event. I think we got some great pictures. The send off in Sherbooke was quite a crowd including some senior executives from BRP/Spyder. The people from Valcourt showed up to wish us bon voyage and give us a great send off. The Road Warriors must have really paid attention to their training because they road in tight formation through challenging mountains roads. Even though they were all newbies with only an hour or two of Spyder ryding time, they rode better than most group ryders I know that have been ryding for a year or more. Lamount was riding the only F3 in the group and you could tell that all our RT s were holding him back. He really wanted to break out but was polite and stayed with the pack. We picked up extra riders for short stints along the way but there are just 5 of us the are really riding the distance. Before entering Concord NH for our evening rest (although the Road Warriors don't seem to sleep much) we stopped at the American Legion post in Penacock NH for a welcome party. The folks they were wonderful and fed us until we popped. They really appreciate the service of these young men and woman and made it quite apparent. Well I better get some rest if I am going to keep up with these fellows tomorrow.
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Bear Mountain Inn
2015 Road Warriors
Kim Benoit, Hal, & Kathy Champion
Kim Benoit, Doug, & Kathy Champion
JUN 6: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Two - Concord, MA to Bear Mountain, NY
The route will traverse NH, VT and NY through the Green Mountain National Forest bypassing the NY state capital to follow the Hudson River down to Bear Mountain near West Point.
Today was Day two for Road Warrior 2015 Ryde, Day Five for the Bun Burner boys.. 255 miles ridden today, 2279 cumulative for the trip. We rode from Concord, NH to Bear Mountain NY. We traveled back roads and mountain highways that would compete favorably with North Carolina & Tenn motorcycle ryding haunts. Seriously the scenery up here is breathtaking! Travel took us through New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and finally into New York. We had a snack stop mid morning at a famous Maple Sugar place, then stopped for lunch at Limerock Raceways in Limerock, Connecticut. There we saw drivers training at a racing school where they intentionally spin out on wet tracks, etc to test their driving skills and to prepare for competition. The track is owned by Spectra Oils who treated us to lunch. After lunch, more mountain ryding and then a long path right along the Hudson River coming into Bear Mountain NY after crossing a magnificent old bridge. Some Spyder owners dropped out during the day and others added on, so our core group of 16 bikes was usually about 25 or more. As we rolled into the Bear Mountain Inn we were greeted by a full Scottish band with bagpipes and kilts. The turnout to greet and thank the veterans was the largest yet. Northeastern University provided gifts and a Large BBQ, plus adequate beverage for the Ryders. It is wonderful to see that the sacrifices of these veteran are genuinely appreciated by folks at each stop. Tomorrow on to Pennsylvania.
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Sammy Lugo
June 7: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Three -Bear Mountain, NY to Hershey, PA
The route will depar the West Point area to the Northwest for Monticello NY, then dropping down into the Delaware State Forest enroute to the Poconos Mountains. Finally finishing up at the chocolate capital of the world, Hershey PA.
Support Vehicle
Support Vehicle
Last night the Road Warriors were partying hardy when a Black Bear ambled out of the woods looking for a beer. I thought the Road Warriors would be frightened but as it turned out the bear was scared and exited quickly. We rode just over 250 miles today, and the Bun Burner boys are 2510 for their total trip. The Road Warriors started today with a ride to the top of Bear Mountain. That was an exciting little trail because we shared it with bicyclist who were in remarkable shape. At the top of the mountain we could see Manhattan for the scenic viewing area, After that we launched to try to catch up for a late start. We were blazing along and the Road Warriors were becoming more comfortable with their Spyders with every passing mile. (I have heard at least three of them now say they plan to buy Spyders when this is over). By the time we reached Pennsylvania our caravan had increased to nearly 50 Spyders. We had never thought of Pennsylvania as a "motorcycle road riding state" but we were pleasantly surprised. If you ever get a chance ride highway 209 through the Delaware Water Shed down towards Harrisburg, PA. We found the ryde exciting or perhaps even exhilarating. The VFW in W Mechanicsburg PA had the largest crowd yet for our welcome. They welcomed us while a local reporter interviewed each of the Road Warriors and got their reactions to the trip. Hopefully this publicity will make it possible for even more young men and women to make the trip next year. The VFW hall was impressive to say the least, only exceeded by the hospitality of its members. We have enjoyed three days of flawless weather without any rain, but they may be coming to an end. Tomorrow we will have the rain gear handy.
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2015 Road Warriors
June 8: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Four - Hershey, PA to Roanoake, VA via Walter Reed
Today we will depart PA for Walter Reed Military Hospital in Bethesda, MD. Following our lunch event in Bethesda, we will be hitting the interstate in an effort to get us out to Roanoake so we can ride the Blueridge the following day!
Day four Road Warrior 2015/Day Seven Bun Burner boys. We rode 387 miles today with the Road Warriors and the Bun Burner boys are now at 2897 miles cumulative for this trip. We got out of Harrisburg with no rain in spite of a dreary forecast, and a similar bad forecast gave way to blazing sunshine at Walter Reed Hospital in the Washington DC area. Some of the Road Warriors have been to Walter Reed for from 5 months to 1.5 years but for those of us who had not seen it were surprised. It is more like a medical city than just a hospital. It seems to have everything you could imagine. We were treated to a great BBQ luncheon at the USO facility and then got back on the road at 1pm. It looked like we might have our fourth day in a row of beating the weather forecasts, but about 100 miles out of Roanoke we got hit with our first deluge and we put on rain gear and the Road Warriors got drenched several more times as we approached Roanoke. The bad weather clearly did not dispel the spirits of the local citizens. I believe we were greeted by nearly 100 people and lot of motorcycles upon our arrival. The mayor of the city even issued a proclamation & recognized the Road Warriors contributions and naming June 5 -12 - Road Warrior Foundation week in Roanoke, VA.. Pretty cool huh? Once again our reception and participation continues to grow. Other spyder and motorcycle owners have ridden into town to join us on The Blue Ridge Parkway to Asheville tomorrow
Patrick Wickens
Michael Paul & Michael Bennett with Doug and Hal
Phillip Vaughn
Bobby Withers
Roanoke VA
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June 9: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Five - Roanoke, VA to Asheville, NC via the Blueridge Pkwy
The route will tour arguably the most beautiful riding road in North America, the Blueridge Parkway. We start out in Roanoke, VA and high tail down the parkway into Asheville, NC
"Mr. Blog"
Jesus Vasquez Jr.
Today the Road Warriors tackled one of the premier motorcycle rydes in the country - 290 miles from Roanoke VA to Asheville NC via the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our weather was perfect again and the curves and swerves too numerous to count, have our Road Warriors perfecting their driving skills. The scenery is beautiful along this route no matter what direction you look. Occasionally some of us might get nervous from the sharp drop offs along the side of the road, but we continue error free. Other Spyder owners joined the caravan in Roanoke and at various points along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The support for the group continues to be tremendous. We made the day for a little restaurant along the Parkway route when we dropped in for lunch. They did more business today than they probably do in a week. In spite of the size of our group they provided good service. The Spyders continue to perform very well in the face of day after day ryding. I averaged 44 mpg down the Blue Ridge Parkway today with the 2014 RTL, that now has over 34000 miles on it. The Bun Burner Boys are up to 3213 miles for our trip thus far.
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June 10: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Six - Asheville, NC to Savannah, GA
This day brings us a beautiful trip through North Carolina into South Carolina and the Sumter National Forest with a break in Columbia. Post lunch we will drive on south into Georgia stopping for the day in Savannah.
Another great day for the Road Warriors - 325 miles ( you will note the mileage per day has increased as the trip progresses) We left Asheville with clear skies and moderate temperatures once again defying the rain forecast from the day before. We shot down the interstate about 40 miles to clear the clog of small towns that exist just south of Asheville, then we cut into the back roads and enjoyed them all the way to Columbia. In Columbia we were once again greeted by a cheering crowd and a line of American flags. Columbia Powersports provided us and all our well wishers with lunch and the proceeded to surprise the Road Warriors with gifted Can Am shirts. Thank you Columbia Powersports for being a fine host. From there we headed due south, on back roads again. We stopped to put on our rain gear and like so often in the south - the shower only lasted three minutes and never came back. We got situated at the Historic Holiday Inn Riverfront in Savannah and shuttles headed the group out to Wild Wings Cafe in Pooler, Ga for the evening dining and festivities.. Another near flawless day. Bun Burner Boys are getting a little tired and are over 3500 miles now for the trip
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Patrick Wickens & Family
June 11: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Seven - Savannah, GA to Kissimmee, FL
The route will rip through the south from Savannah into the sunshine state! Check out JAX for lunch and terminate for the day in Kissimmee hitting two separate Can-Am dealers for a fantastic day.
Ride Ambassador: Spence Batey Spence@roadwarrior.org
Kissimmee FL mayor, Craig Anders, & Steve Berger
Wow what a day - The Road Warriors blasted out of Savannah with a police escort so we made fantastic time. We took the scenic route i.e. highway 17 parallel to I95 but much prettier. When we approached the Florida State line we were picked up by the Florida Highway Patrol and Jacksonville Police and escorted right to the doorstep of Jacksonville Powersports. It is so nice to have those blue lights working for you rather than chasing you. The crowd at Jacksonville Powersports was Awesome. Folks were there from as far away from Orlando and Melbourne to join the Jacksonville Road Warrior Ryding Club members to support this event. Jacksonville Powersports put out a great spread for lunch (have you noticed that we ate well on this trip?) There were some door prizes for some to take home in addition to their full tummies. Also the World’s Largest Boombox, as Craig Anders deemed it was on hand to entertain us with great music. Once lunch settled the police put us back on the road again. Patrol officers escorted the group all the way to Central Florida Powersports in Kissimmee. Central Florida Powersports
had decorated their new service facility with an American Flag motif that probably took hours to prepare and they offered us the largest and most varied dining for supper of the entire trip. The welcoming crowd from multiple area ryding clubs and Central Florida employees greeted the ryders loudly as they arrived. It was a 358 miles day for the Road Warriors and the first Bun Burner boy dropped off to return home here after 3907 miles. The remaining Bun Burner will be back in the saddle tomorrow morning to escort the group to Key West. Saying good bye to this group of amazing people and now new friends was an emotional experience. I hope to see them all again in the coming days.
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2015 Road Warriors - Key West FL
June 12: Road Warrior 2015 Ryde Day Eight - Kissimmee, FL to Key West FL
The final leg of our route will drive out of the Kissimmee area, hopefully with 100 riders in tow, and lead us down south past Lake Okeechobee into the Homestead area for lunch. We will then press on to the Keys for the best part of the day and be on the beach by sunset!
The Road Warriors departed early from the magnificent Gaylord Palms Hotel in Kissimmee. The police escort made short work of traffic in getting them quickly underway. The morning was great but as the day progressed even the hardy Road Warriors seemed to feel the impact of the heat and humidity. A lunch stop at the American Legion Post in Homestead was a welcome break and the reception was warm and friendly as it has been from one end of this country to the other. Once underway again the Road Warriors were treated to the scenery of the Overseas Highway. They were also exposed to the delays of Florida Toll Roads and an open drawbridge (there must be some difficulties on any motorcycle trip). There was another stop for a photo op with the American Legion in Marathon. The group finally arrived in Beautiful Key West to a great hotel, interesting restaurants and watering holes. The hotel had special parking for the Road Warriors and again they received media coverage and another proclamation from the local mayor. What a trip! The only problem being this was the end — not really — it was the end of a motorcycle ryde but just the beginning of some friendships that should last a lifetime. By the way some of the Road Warriors didn’t want this to be the end of the ryde even so they are riding the Spyders back to Central Florida in the morning. Congratulations Road Warriors on a successful trip and an incredible journey!
Michael Paul & Michael Bennett
American Legion - Homestead FL
Mission Complete!
Hi everyone,
The Safety Camapaign for the 2013 Can-Am Spyder RT is now underway. If you are the owner of a 2013 Can-Am Spyder RT, regardless of country of operation, then it is subject to the safety recall.
The repair consists of a combination of multiples updates, including but not limited to a reworking of the vehicle's fuel system as well as improved, modified body panels.
BRP has requested that your dealer contact you, and we have also sent a letter to all known registered owners. However, we ask that you do not wait and call your dealer to schedule an appointment for this procedure.
In the meantime, you can keep using your Can-Am Spyder RT while taking the following precautions in hot riding conditions (ambient temperature of approximately 30 C/85 F and more):
Avoid idling or slow traffic riding for a long period of time.
Avoid parking in an enclosed area immediately after your ride; let your vehicle cool down first.
Avoid prolonged direct contact with body panels; wear appropriate riding gear as stated in the Operator’s Guide.
Steven M.
Customer Satisfaction, Social Media / Dealer Tech Support Team Lead
BRP
Submitted By L. Joiner
Thanks to the Motorcycle Legal Foundation for a great safety resource. See the animated version with more detailed descriptions on their website at: https://www.motorcyclelegalfoundation.com/motorcycle-hand-signals-chart/
Dear loyal Can-Am Spyder owners,
The Can-Am Spyder team would like to take a moment to thank you for all that you do. From rallying around the thrill of riding a Can-Am Spyder to giving back to communities and causes, we are fortunate every day to have you as part of the Can-Am Spyder brand. We would not be where we are without you, so thank you!
Please see below for updates on several key community and owner-driven activities.
We are planning a major owners’ event in Valcourt, Quebec, Canada, in 2017 for the Can-Am Spyder 10th Anniversary Celebration! Many of you have already made the voyage to the place where your Can-Am Spyder was born, and we hope to see you here again. Stay tuned for additional information.
In lieu of one North American owners’ event in 2015, BRP will sponsor seven separate Can-Am Spyder events. Each of the seven selected events will receive sponsorship dollars from BRP to help create even better experiences for attendees and reach more Spyder riders where they ride.
We need one simple thing from you – help us identify all of the events for consideration!
• Event organizers: please submit your event by CLICKING HERE and fill out the brief form.
Please submit no later than Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 12 pm ET.
If you are not an event organizer but want to make sure your event is considered, please reach out to your event organizer and urge them to submit! Based on submissions, BRP will then select the seven events.
03/09/2015 Update - As promised, here's the list of 7 selected partner 2015 BPR Owner Events:
We are pleased to announce the return of the “Spyder Ryder Feast and Fun” owners’ event at the Can-Am Spyder demo site at Daytona Bike Week on Saturday, March 14. BRP will treat attendees with a catered lunch, a commemorative event pin and a pass to ride on Daytona International Speedway. Registrations will open on Facebook Feb. 10. The event will be limited to the first 200 registrants.
We want to remind you of BRP’s exciting partnership with the Road Warrior Foundation (RWF). BRP and Can-Am Spyder are helping to raise funds via charity rides, and we want you to join! CLICK HERE to learn more or set up a ride. If you have any questions, please email Brian Manning at brian.manning@brp.com.
Cheers from the Can-Am Spyder team!
Ellen Parlapiano iVillage
Grand Canyon
Northwestern Arizona
Why you've got to go: Do we really need to convince you? It's only one of the most spectacular, iconic sites in America! This great gorge is 277 miles long and 6,000 feet deep in some spots, with rocks that are millions of years old.
What to do: Don't just stand there and stare! Bike along the South Rim (rent wheels from Bright Angel at the visitor center) or hike into the canyon on free ranger-led tours to spot fossils, lizards, and California Condors. For the ride of lifetime, explore by mule, but reserve your 3-hour excursion at least a year in advance.
More info:nps.gov/grca
Yellowstone National Park
Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Why you've got to go: It's America's very first national park and has the highest concentration of geysers in the world!
What to do: See Old Faithful, which shoots steam sky-high every 90 minutes, and then move on to the other geysers, stinky mud pots and multi-colored hot springs within walking distance (check out the flower-shaped Morning Glory Pool). Yellowstone is also a great place to spot wildlife: Bison, elk, bears, wolves and Bighorn Sheep all hang out here.
More info:nps.gov/yell
Freedom Trail
Boston
Why you've got to go: Boston is the birthplace of the American Revolution! Kids will have so much such fun following this 2 ½-mile red-brick road, they won’t even realize it's "educational."
What to do: Pick up a self-guided map from any visitors center, and start the trail at Boston Commons (Redcoats camped here), passing Granary Burying Grounds (see graves of John Hancock, Sam Adams and Paul Revere), the Boston Massacre Site, and Paul Revere’s House. Tour at your own pace, stopping along the way for lunch at Quincy Market. And don’t be afraid to veer off the trail. At the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, kids can reenact the revolt by hurling tethered tea crates into Boston Harbor.
More info:bostonusa.com
The French Quarter
New Orleans
Why you've got to go: The Mardi Gras spirit lasts all year long in this surprisingly family-friendly city.
What to do: There's lots of free PG-rated fun in festive Jackson Square, where magicians, jugglers, mimes and jazz bands make the street their stage. Take in the lively scene from an outside table at Café du Monde, famous for its yummy beignets (warm French doughnuts smothered with powdered sugar). A quick stroll along the Mississippi River leads to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas (the reef tunnel is amazing) and the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium (creepy crawly thrills include bug-tasting). Hop the St Charles streetcar to the lovely Garden District and the Audubon Zoo (say hi to the rare white tiger).
More info: neworleansonline.com
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore
Northwestern Lower Michigan
Why you've got to go: You'll never see sand dunes like these anywhere else! Some are nearly 500 feet high, with jaw-dropping views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands from the top.
What to do: Climb the dunes, of course! But don't expect kids to walk. Running (or rolling) down these majestic sand mountains is part of the fun. Cool off with a swim at Esch Road Beach -- the pristine Lake Michigan water is brisk but refreshing. There's great kayaking and tubing on the warmer Platte River (gear up with canoemichigan.com).
More info:www.sleepingbeardunes.com
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Glen Rose, Texas
Why you've got to go: It has some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world! Need we say more?
What to do: Rangers lead track tours through the Paluxy riverbed, best in late summer when water is shallowest. (You will get wet, so wear bathing suits and water shoes). Wade right up to giant footprints made by duck-billed dinos, three-toed meat-eaters and brontosaurus types; then swim in the Blue Hole upstream, where more tracks line the ledge.
More info: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/dinosaur-valley
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland
Why you've got to go: From bayou blues to Beatlemania to heavy metal to hip hop, your budding Bieber or Taylor Swift wannabe will have a blast walking through the halls of rock history. This glass-walled museum is filled with fun memorabilia (view Michael Jackson’s sequined glove and a Lady Gaga dress), cool concert films (now playing U2 3D) and interactive exhibits (don headphones to hear interviews and performances). As long as you're all music lovers, there's something here for everyone.
More info:rockhall.com
National Civil Rights Museum
Memphis
Why you've got to go: Housed in the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum chronicles the civil rights movement—from slave times to present day. Board a replica of Rosa Parks' bus, see lunch counters where sit-ins were held, and view the room and balcony where Dr. King spent his final moments. The exhibitions and introductory film are enlightening and emotional, and guaranteed to spark family discussions about racism and intolerance.
More info:civilrightsmuseum.org
Sanibel & Captiva Islands
Southwest Florida
Why you've got to go: For the most amazing seashell experience you've ever had! Gazillions of them wash up on these Gulf coast barrier islands, which are equally famous for their wildlife. Plus, the water is shallow forever, so it's a great place for little guys!
What to do: Grab a bucket and start shell hunting (just be sure to throw any live ones back). Scout for burrowing ghost crabs -- if you're still enough, you might spot one digging its tunnel. Watch for dolphins right off shore, or see them close up on a Captiva nature cruise. Also visit Sanibel's J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, home to alligators, manatees and roseate spoonbills.
More info:www.fortmyers-sanibel.com
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monterey, California
Why you've got to go: It's located on one of the most gorgeous stretches of California coastline, and showcases local sea creatures and wildlife. Tanks are designed so kids can get this close to sharks, bat rays, sea turtles and more.
What to do: Play peek-a-boo with the adorable otters as they swim, swirl, and do back flips. Join the feeding frenzy as divers serve lunch to the amazing array of fish in the Open Sea and Kelp Forest tanks. Enter the Secret Lives of Seahorses; and get psychedelic at The Jellies Experience, where neon jellyfish float against a black light background. Outside on the deck overlooking the Pacific, you might spot humpbacks, orcas and grey or blue whales cruising by in the open waters.
More info:MontereyBayAquarium.org
Niagra Falls
New York & Ontario, Canada
Why you've got to go: This American landmark has a seriously jaw-dropping view, thanks to the six million cubic feet of water that thunders over the massive falls every minute.
What to do: Bring your passport, so you can view them from the Canadian and American sides; to visit both, just cross Rainbow Bridge. Board the Maid of the Mist (maidofthemist.com) boat from either shore to get right up to the raging water (they give you ponchos so you don't get drenched). By day you'll see rainbows; at night the falls are dramatically lit, and there are fireworks too!
More info:www.niagara-usa.com; www.niagarafallstourism.com
Petrified Forest
Northwestern Arizona
Why you've got to go: You've never seen trees like these! Dating back to the Triassic period, these ancient hunks of trunks have turned to stone.
What to do: Meet up in the Rainbow Forest Museum visitor center for ranger walks along Giant Logs Trail to learn how they got fossilized in the first place. A nearby trail leads to Agate House, a pueblo of petrified wood, built by the Anasazi 1,000 years ago. Drive across the park to see Native American sand paintings (petroglyphs) at Newspaper Rock; then continue to the Painted Desert and its multi-colored striped boulders (especially spectacular at sunset).
More info:http://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm
Statue of Liberty
New York City
Why you’ve got to go: Lady Liberty is one of America’s most recognizable and enduring symbols of freedom, and Ellis Island was the gateway to a better life for millions of immigrants.
What to do: Ferry over to both for one price. (Purchase tickets online or at the Battery Park terminal). First stop: Liberty Island. Since the Statue is closed for renovations till late 2012, you can’t climb inside; but park rangers give free tours around the pedestal and are full of fun facts. Next up: Ellis Island. Walk through the Great Hall, as generations of newcomers did, and search for your ancestors on ship manifests in the American Family Immigration History Center. In the new interactive Ellis Kids exhibit, children explore what it meant to pack up, ship out and fit in.
More info: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Disney World
Orlando
Why you've got to go: You'll never, ever forget the first time your princess-loving little girl catches her first glimpse of the real Ariel or Belle (make sure that smartphone battery is charged!) or watches fireworks explode over Cinderella’s Castle. And let's face it: Disney is fun for Mom and Dad, too!
What to do: Spend the bulk of your time in Magic Kingdom, pausing in Town Square Theater for a Fast Pass to greet Mickey Mouse and the Princesses without a long line. Then hightail it to Fantasyland. Though its spiffy makeover is being unveiled in phases from 2012-2014, you can still ride classics, like Dumbo and It’s a Small World, along with a newly renovated kids’ coaster called The Great Goofini. For more Disney World touring strategies, read our Age-by-Age guide.
More info: disneyworld.disney.go.com
Climb Mt. Ranier
West Central Washington State
Why you’ve got to go: This 14,410-foot-high snow-covered peak has 25 major glaciers. And you don’t have to be a mountaineer to scale it.
What to do: In summer, hike on one of the lower gentle family trails that wind through forests and meadows of wildflowers, past waterfalls and glacial lakes. Best bets: Nisqually Vista Trail (in Paradise); Trail of the Shadows (in Longmire); and Grove of the Patriarchs (near Ohanapecosh). Or drive up to Sunrise, elevation 6,400 feet--the highest you can get by vehicle--for jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Cascades. In winter, rangers lead snow-shoe walks for children ages 8 and up.
More info:www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm
Pacific Coast Highway Drive
From San Francisco to Los Angeles
Why you've got to go: It's the mother of all road trips, with beyond-gorgeous scenery at every point along the way. Curvy Highway 1 winds along California's craggy coastal cliffs, high above the ocean.
What to do: Take it slow and make lots of stops—whether you conquer the whole thing (allow 4 days) or just tackle small portions. Kids will be wowed by the Santa Cruz Boardwalk (ride the wooden coaster!); Monterey (go kayaking and see the Aquarium); Carmel's Pt. Lobos State Natural Reserve (otters, seal lions and whales hang here); Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (great hiking and camping); Hearst Castle, in San Simeon, and the elephant seals on the beach just north of it.
More info:tourthecentralcoast.com
Ground Zero
New York City
Why you've got to go: Your kids have heard about 9/11, and probably learned about it in school. A visit to the ground zero is your chance to help them really connect to what they've been told about that tragic day.
What to do: Make advance reservations to get your free tickets to the 9/11 Memorial, which honors those who lost their lives that day. Twin reflecting pools with waterfalls sit in the footprints of the World Trade Center towers, and are surrounded by bronze panels etched with victims’ names. An accompanying museum is scheduled to open in September 2012. The memorial is close to Battery Park, where you can catch ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
More info:911memorial.org
Wisconsin Dells
South-Central Wisconsin
Why you've got to go: It's the waterpark capital of the world! With 18 indoor/outdoor options and more than 200 splishy splashy slides, your kids will get waterlogged long before they'll get bored.
What to do: Get a day pass for Noah's Ark Waterpark (America's largest) and race each other down the new 47-foot-high, 4-lane Quadzilla mat slide. Or book into one of the wet and wild resorts, like the African-themed Kalahari (the Sahara Sidewinders looping slides literally drop you through the roof) or Mt. Olympus (the Lost City of Atlantis water fortress has slides, geysers and monster dump buckets).
More info:www.wisdells.com
Redwood National & State Parks
Crescent City, California
Why you’ve got to go: They’re home to the tallest, most majestic trees on earth. Spoiler alert: You will feel small!
What to do: Stroll through the mile-long Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a mossy jungle of sky-high sequoias, some of them 2,000 years old (kids can crawl through the hollow ones). See if Roosevelt elk are grazing in Elk Meadow, then pick up the path to Trillium Falls and be on the lookout for yellow banana slugs along the way. There are coastal trails too: Take guided tide pool walks to discover anemones and sea stars.
More info: http://www.nps.gov/
Swim with Manatees
Crystal River, Florida
Why you’ve got to go: Just 90 minutes from Orlando and Tampa, this is the only place you can swim with manatees in the wild. Winter is the best time to see them, though they hang there all year long.
What to do: Snorkeling/diving outfitters like American Pro Diving Center take you to the warm springs where these gentle mammals congregate. Be patient and respectful: Let the manatees approach you.
More info: http://www.visitcitrus.com/
San Diego Zoo
Balboa Park, San Diego, California
Why you’ve got to go: It’s one of the world’s best zoos--and one of the few places in the U.S. to see giant pandas, rare sun bears, and Australia’s adorable koalas.
What to do: Visit Panda Trek first or last in the day, when crowds are lightest, to see the zoo’s black and white superstars, as well as red pandas. Don’t miss: Elephant Odyssey, where the pachyderms often have pool parties; and Northern Frontier, to watch polar bears swimming underwater. Summer “Nighttime Zoo” hours mean you can stay till 9 pm for special shows and animal encounters. Want to camp out overnight? Check out the Family Sleepovers, available on select dates.
More info:sandiegozoo.org
Plimouth Plantation
Plymouth, Massachusetts
Why you’ve got to go: It’s like stepping back in time to the 1620s, when the pilgrims arrived here from England on the Mayflower.
What to do: Get a look at Plymouth Rock, where colonists first set foot on American soil—you won’t believe how tiny it is. Then board the Mayflower II, a full-size replica of the original. Costumed actors recreate what it was like on the crossing and in the settlement. As you roam through the 17th century village, you’ll encounter farmers, cooks, blacksmiths and other residents, and hear their stories about life in the New World. Meet actual Native Americans at the Wampanoag Homesite, and learn about their cooking, crafts and culture.
More info:www.plimoth.org/
The Colorado Rockies
Snowmass, Vail & Beaver Creek, Colorado
Why you’ve got to go: The snow is soft and powdery, the ski and boarding instruction is first-rate and there’s a winter wonderland of family activities both on and off the slopes.
What to do: If you’re traveling with very young kids, head to Snowmass. It offers the widest range of children’s programs at Treehouse Adventure Center: Childcare for kids 8 weeks and up; and ski lessons starting at age 2 1/2. There’s even Beginner Magic ski instruction for novice adults. At Vail, check out Ski Girls Rock, small group lessons specially designed by Olympian Lindsey Vonn for girls ages 5-15; and Adventure Ridge, an enormous snow park at the top of the gondola, with tubing, ski biking and mini-snowmobiles. At Beaver Creek, join ski parades, family ice skating nights and snowshoe tours.
More info:www.ski.com
Cedar Point
Sandusky, Ohio
Why you’ve got to go: No other amusement park on the planet has as many roller coasters -- at last count, 17 thrilling rides.
What to do: Ride them all, if you dare. Choose from wooden classics (Blue Streak and Mean Streak); steel screamers (the monstrous 310-foot Millennium Force is rated one of the best steel coasters around), suspension coasters (your feet dangle from the floorless Raptor), and ultra-scary models (you ride Mantis standing up, and flip upside down 4 times).
More info:www.cedarpoint.com
Kennedy Space Center
Cape Canaveral, Florida
Why you’ve got to go: Where else do you get to be an astronaut for a day? It's a total blast -- and just an hour from Orlando.
What to do: Though the real space shuttles have flown their final missions, you can feel what it's like to rocket into the stratosphere on the Shuttle Launch Experience flight simulator. Also take mission control tours; have lunch with an astronaut; and even train with one in family Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) programs, preparing for g-forces and a mock journey to the International Space Station.
More info:kennedyspacecenter.com
Fort De Soto Park
St. Petersburg, Florida
Why you’ve got to go: Its North Beach has been rated the top in America for families.
What to do: Splash in the calm, crystal-clear Gulf water -- a sandbar creates a shallow lagoon that's perfect for young swimmers. Go shell hunting and build castles in the powder-soft white sand or blow off steam in the pirate-ship playground. There are bike trails and a historic fort to explore as well.
More info: visitstpeteclearwater.com
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Island
Why you've got to go: Two massive volcanoes are here, including Kilauea, one of the world's most active. Trails take you past smokin' steam vents, black lava rock, and enormous craters.
What to do: Stop at the Kilauea Visitor Center first: Pick up maps, check current conditions, and learn how the volcano came to be in the movie "Born of Fire, Born of Sea." Ask if rangers are leading walks, or set out on your own, always sticking to the suggested paths. An easy hike for families is along the Earthquake Trail (Waldron Ledge), with great views of the Kilauea Caldera. Don't miss the Thurston Lava Tube, an underground tunnel where the hot stuff once flowed. (Drive there, then hike in, through a mossy fern forest.) Return to the park at night to see the gorgeous glow from the Halema'uma'u Crater. (Best viewing spot: The Jaggar Museum overlook.)
More info: www.nps.gov/havo
Mesa Verde
Southwestern Colorado
Why you’ve got to go: Some of the best-preserved ancient Pueblo dwellings (some dating waaay back to 550 AD!) are tucked beneath the sandstone cliffs, waiting to be explored.
What to do: Park rangers lead you up several narrow wooden ladders into Cliff Palace (with more than 150 rooms), Long House (kids will grind corn and peek into ancient ovens called Kivas), and Balcony House (with the steepest climb and a tunnel to crawl through). Purchase house tour tickets at Far View Visitor Center. Explore Spruce Tree House and Step House on your own -- no ladders (or tickets) required.
More info:visitmesaverde.com
Ride Cable Cars in San Francisco
San Francisco, California
Why you've got to go: They're San Francisco's signature thrill ride! Hang on tight as the historic vehicles chug up and down the nearly vertical hills, with brakes lurching and bells clanging.
What to do: Hop on at the main station on Powell & Market Streets (right near Union Square), where both the Powell-Mason and Powell-Hyde lines shuttle you across the city and down to the Bay. Stay on till the end and take in the spectacular views of the water, skyline and Victorian homes en route. Powell-Mason drops you 2 blocks from Fisherman's Wharf. (Check out the sea lions and book a tour boat to Alcatraz). The Powell-Hyde line ends a few blocks away in Ghirardelli Square. (Go ahead and fuel up on some chocolate. You know you want to!)
More info:www.OnlyInSanFrancisco.com
Waikiki Beach
Oahu, Hawaii
Why you've got to go: Hang ten, dudes—surfing was born here! And Waikiki's gentle rolling waves are perfect for beginners (i.e., your kids).
What to do: Sign up for a lesson at one of the Beach Boys stands, located on the sand in front of the statue of Duke Kahanamoku. (This Hawaiian hero is considered the father of modern surfing). Or try one of the local surf schools, like Big Wave Dave and Girls Who Surf, where instruction is pricier but more personalized. Want to watch pros conquer monster Hawaii Five-0-like waves? Drive up to Oahu’s laid-back North Shore: In the winter and spring, the breakers at Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline can exceed 30 feet!
More info:www.gohawaii.com/oahu
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Cooperstown, New York
Why you've got to go: This shrine to our national pastime scores big with any sports-loving family.
What to do: Pick up a Discovery Tour scavenger hunt as you enter: Kids solve clues as they work their way through the interactive exhibits and artifacts, and get a small gift for turning it in. Have a seat in the Grandstand Theater for "The Baseball Experience," a fun multi-media show about the game's history; and see if you can guess how many baseball cards line the walls. (Spoiler alert: 135,000!) The Sandlot Kids Clubhouse, is designed for younger children, ages 2 -8, and has hands-on experiences and a literacy corner with videos of Hall-of-Famers reading books like Curious George Plays Baseball.
More info:www.baseballhall.org
Yosemite
Yosemite
Why you've got to go: This national park is a scenic superstar: Think thundering waterfalls (best in spring and early summer) and seriously steep granite cliffs (world-class rock climbers scale these beauties).
What to do: Get acclimated by taking the free park shuttle round Yosemite Valley, home to famous sights like Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls; hopping on and off as you please. Feeling adventurous? Set aside a half day to hike the Mist Trail alongside majestic Vernal Falls, climbing 600 granite steps to the tippy top. (Pack a waterproof poncho—you will get wet!) If floating down a lazy river is more your speed, go tubing down the calm Merced (rentals at Curry Village).
More info:www.YosemitePark.com
Millenium Park
Chicago
Why you've got to go: It's an amazing green gathering place, with music, dance, art, family festivals, and wide open spaces for playing—all a walk or el ride from other top Chicago tourist attractions.
What to do: Strike a pose in the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as the Bean)—it's like a giant funhouse mirror. Splash around in the cheeky, animated Crown Fountain, which literally makes faces at you. Join one of the free activities on the big lawn (anyone for family yoga?) or plop down and have a picnic.
More info:www.millenniumpark.org
Submitted By L. Joiner
For front tires:
For rear tire:
OTHERS;
REAR - Toyo Proxes 4, Michelin HydroEdge 215/60R15, Falken ZE912, Kumho Sabji.
FRONT - COOPER CS3 185/60 R 14,
F3S - First 8 Days 1000 miles
Sumitted by: Hal Mette
UPDATE 1600 MILES - extra tidbits
A Spyderlover suggested I was off base when I mentioned all the buffeting I was feeling with the little windshield. He said he used a full face helmet and didn't experience that effect. I tried the full face helmet and sure enough most of the buffeting vanished. Apparently it was the wind trying to lift the 3/4 open face helmet off my head that I was feeling.
I got the driver and passenger backrests installed - surprise, surprise - the BRP backrests are adjustable with a simple allen wrench this year unlike 2014. The backrests are removable in about two minutes by someone who has no mechanical skills whatsoever (I qualify) and the backseat cover has a safety cord attached to it so if you don't reinstall it correctly and it flies off, it won't go far. I guess BRP learned from the flying panels of the oil change on the earlier model bikes. I also mounted my Nelson Riggs tail bag to the passenger backrest. Now I can install or remove it in less than a minute as well.
When I rode the test bike 424 miles the foot pegs were set at 4 and the handlebars one notch further forward. With the handlebars back and the pegs set at 3, the bike fit me perfectly and the quality of the ryde improved enormously. Clearly the proper fit to the machine makes all the difference in how much you will enjoy the ryde. If possible, when you go for a test ride you should sit on different bikes until you find the one that feels most comfortable to you.
At first the buffeting from the wind was irritating compared to the RT, but as I rode more and the weather became hotter, I actually found the wind relaxing and part of the experience. F4 tells me they will have an alternate windshield within 3 months so I may still explore that option at least for cold weather ryding.
I am surprised to note that once I add a couple Nelson Riggs saddlebags (I already have the large Nelson Riggs Tail Bag), I would feel comfortable taking the F3S on a ryde of any distance. Originally I had thought of it more as a local hot rod toy but clearly it can be much more. I find the seating position for the ride for the F3 in the standard seat to be more comfortable than my RT limited. That was another surprise since I expected if it was going to be “more motorcycle” that would mean less comfort, but not the case.
The acceleration is a blast! Sure my Ducati PSE 1000 would blow this away but as Spyders go the F3 is hot. In some of the written reviews I saw mention of a criticism of the nanny kicking in to keep you from enjoying the corners. I am here to tell you that I have cornered at speeds I did not think were humanly possible for a spyder (well over twice the posted speed limit) without ever seeing any sign of the nanny — and I was trying to bring her out. With the low center of gravity of this bike cornering is oh so much more fun than with the other Spyders.
It is a little nuisance to not have a glove box for garage door openers, gate openers, toll pass, and other things you need to access quickly and use frequently. I started with a fanny pack but quickly changed to an ICON mesh water vest with lots of pockets in front & back for my storage. It will be interesting to see how everyone else solves this issue.
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