Motorized two-wheelers are universal symbols of freedom, fun, rebellion, and badassery. Few things in life compare to the feeling of the wind blowing in our faces as we navigate a tight and twisty road or lane-split on the highway. The adrenaline rush combined with the feeling of freedom is addictive. It's no wonder some bikers can never go back to being stuck in a cage (car) on a daily basis, even if they are safer and easier to drive.
Updated April 2021: If you're looking for information on the Can-Am Spyder F3 and Ryker, or just have a general interest in 3-wheelers, you'll be happy to know we've updated this article with the latest information available to make it more accurate.
So, now that we have established that four wheels move the body and two wheels move the soul, where does that put the three-wheelers?
Can-Am is arguably the most famous player in the three-wheeler market. The brand offers a wide range of options for those who want the rush of a motorbike, but without the fear of low-siding it in a corner and sliding across the tarmac.
Let's compare the muscular Can-Am Spyder F3 with the base model Can-Am Ryker to see where each one excels, and where they may falter.
Facts And Features
Since the Spyder is a higher-end model than the entry-level Ryker, it's not a huge surprise that, when it comes to numbers, the Spyder has the Ryker beat in most areas. Whereas the base-trim-level Ryker comes with a 2-cylinder 600cc engine that puffs out around 47 horsepower, the Spyder is fitted with a 1,300cc 3-cylinder engine that produces 105 horsepower. Due to its thirstier, larger engine, the Spyder also has a bigger gas tank; 6.5 gallons compared to the 5.2 gallons found on the Ryker. It's not just the engine and gas tank either, the Spyder is visibly bigger than the Ryker.
One key difference that doesn't have anything to do with numbers is the transmissions on offer. The Ryker only has one option, a "Twist and Go" automatic. While there is a sport mode, you won't get that feeling of accomplishment as you shift your own gears and set it up for a corner... like you would on the Spyder. Fitted with a 6-speed transmission, the Spyder lets the rider choose whether to cruise around in semi-automatic mode, using your thumb and index finger to shift up or down (though the Spyder will downshift for you), or the manual mode, which shifts just like your typical motorcycle.
Both the Ryker and the Spyder come with Eco modes, which aim to save you gas when you're not hammering it on your favorite road. The Can-Am Spyder boasts a range of around 252 miles per tank, which is seriously impressive for an engine of that size. It's especially impressive when you compare it to the Ryker, which manages a decent 32mpg, but can only squeeze out around 171 miles from its smaller tank.
A Wide Range Of Trims And Options
If the regular old Ryker or Spyder don't tickle your fancy, that's alright. Can-Am provides a vast range of trims for you to choose from. While the Spyder has more available trims, it should be noted that the trim levels on the Ryker and the Spyder serve very different purposes.
The Ryker is available in two trim levels. There's the regular trim we've talked about above, and there's the Rally Edition. Those looking for something more reminiscent of an ATV may prefer this option, with stronger rims and off-road tires, an upgraded suspension system that'll tackle the dirt, and a rally mode for drifting on loose surfaces (as well as the sport mode for drifting on paved surfaces).
Unlike the Spyder, the Ryker has two different engine choices: the 600cc we mentioned previously, as well as a 3-cylinder 900cc engine that adds an extra 30 horsepower, bringing the total to 77. Sure, it's not exactly a monster, but it serves as a healthy middle ground between the tiny 2-cylinder and the 1,300cc found in the Spyder.
The Spyder does have more packages available, five to be exact, each fixated on improving the performance and utility of the vehicle. The next trim up from the Spyder, the F3-S, adds an extra 10 horsepower, along with the sport mode that comes in the Ryker as standard (with extra styling features added on in the Special Edition package).
And then there's the F3-T trim, which we assume stands for touring due to the added features. There are more comfort-oriented options installed, like adjustable suspension, and practical features, such as a tow hitch that can haul up to 400lbs, and 21 gallons of storage space scattered around the saddlebags and the glove boxes. Though you can bump that up to 36.5 gallons of storage space if you go all in and purchase the top-of-the-line F3 Limited Edition. All that, along with an integrated passenger's seat, heated handlebars, and a 6-speaker sound system, make the Limited Edition the ideal choice for long road trips.
The Price
It's not hard to deduce that the Ryker is half the trike the Spyder is, so it makes sense that the Ryker is half the cost. A base model Ryker will cost you only $8,799, while a base model Spyder will run you $15,999. But if you're a big spender who wants to go all-in, pull out all the stops, and pack in all the options, the Limited Edition Spyder F3 will run you $24,499. A lofty price tag, especially since you could get a car with a lot of those features for the same money. In fact, that's almost the same as a base-model Chevy Camaro.
Luckily, there is a ray of hope for the penny-pinchers out there; Both the Ryker and the Spyder are fully customizable on the Can-Am website, with the ability to personalize how it looks, what tires it rides on, the engine (if you're buying the Ryker), and other onboard equipment. So really, the price isn't firm. Pay for the things that you want, and nothing you don't, and as an added bonus, this truly makes your new Can-Am your own and unique.