Deze handleiding kan beschikbaar zijn in uw taal. Vraag het aan uw dealer
of ga naar: www.operatorsguide.brp.com.
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forhandler eller gå til: www.operatorsguide.brp.com.
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concessionária ou visite o site: www.operatorsguide.brp.com.
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tai käy osoitteessa: www.operatorsguide.brp.com
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eller gå till: www.operatorsguide.brp.com.
®
Roadster. It is backed
bytheBombardierRecreational
Products Inc. (BRP) warranty and a
network of authorized dealers ready
to provide the parts, service or accessories you may require.
Your dealer is committed to your satisfaction. He has taken training to perform the initial set-up and inspection of
your roadster before you took possession.
At delivery, you were informed of the
warranty coverage and signed the
PREDELIVERY CHECK LIST
to ensure
your new vehicle was prepared to your
entire satisfaction.
Know Before you Go
For your safety and the safety of passengers and bystanders, read the following sections before you operate
the Spyder roadster:
–
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
–
VEHICLE INFO RMATION
–
SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
–
PRE-RIDE INSPECTION
.
Experienced motorcyclists should pay
special attention to the
WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SYPDER ROADSTER
subsection.
Safety Messages
The types of safety messages, what
they look like and how they are used in
this guide are explained as follows:
_______________
1
Page 4
FOREWORD
The safety alert symbolindicates
a potential injury hazard.
WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard, if not
avoided, could result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION Indicates a hazard
situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate
injury.
NOTICE
which, if not followed, could severely damage vehicle components
or other property.
About this Operator's
Guide
This Operator's Guide was written in
North America in a right-lane driving
environment. Please adapt your application of these maneuvers to your
jurisdiction and rules of the road.
In this Operator's Guide, the word
motorcycletypicallyreferstoa
two-wheeled motorcycle.
This Operator's Guide is for both the
SM6 (manual transmission) and the
SE6 (semi-automatictransmission)
Spyder roadster models. All text applies to both except for those items
specified as "SM6 Model" or "SE6
Model".
Keep this Operator's Guide in the front
storage compartment or under seat(s)
so that you can refer to it for things
such as maintenance, road side repairs
and instructing others.
If you want to view and/or print
an extra copy of your Operator's
Guide, simply visit the following website:www.operatorsguide.brp.com.
The informations contained in this document are correct at the time of publication. BRP, however, maintains a policy of continuous improvement of its
Indicates an instruction
products without imposing upon itself
any obligation to install them on products previously manufactured. Due
to late changes, some differenc es between the manufactured product and
the descriptions and/or specifications
in this guide may occur. BRP reserves
the right at any time to discontinue or
change specifications, designs, features, models or equipment without
incurring any obligation upon itself.
This Operator's Guide and the
DVD
video should remain with the ve-
hicle when it is sold.
SAFETY
Refer to Other Sources of
Information
In addition to reading this Operator's
Guide, you should read the Safety Card
on the vehicle and watch the
DVD
video.
If possible, take a training course
that is specifically designed for the
Spyder roadster. Check our website
at www.can-am.brp.com for more
information about upcoming training
course availability. If you cannot take
a training course specifically design e d
for theSpyder roadster, it is agood idea
to take a motorcycle training course,
since some of the skills required are
similar and information about managing risk on the road is taught and
similarly applies to riding your Spyder
roadster.
SAFETY
Acknowledgment
BRP wishes to thank the Motorcycle
Safety Foundation (MSF) for giving
permission to BRP to use their material related to street motorcycle s
found in this Operator's Guide.
The MSF is an internationally recog
nized not for profit foundation and
is supported by motorcycle manufacturers. It provides train
and partnerships to the motorcycle
safety community. Visit its website
at:www.msf-usa.org.
All engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, a deadly gas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause headaches,
dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, confusion and eventually death.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that m ay be present
even if you do not see or smell any engine exhaust. Deadly levels of carbon
monoxide can collect rapidly, and you
can quickly be overcome and unable
to save yourself. Also, deadly levels of
carbon monoxide can linger for hours
or days in enclosed or poorly ventilated
areas. If you experience any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning,
leave the area immediate ly, get fres h
air and seek medical treatment.
To prevent serious injury or death from
carbon monoxide:
– Never run the vehicle in poorly ven -
tilated or partially enclosed areas
such as garages, carports or barns.
Even if you try to ventilate engine
exhaust with fans or open windows
and doors, carbon monoxide can
rapidly reach dangerous levels.
– Never run the vehicle outdoors
where engineexhaust can be drawn
into a building through openings
such as windows and doors.
Avoid Gasoline Fires and
Other Hazards
Gasoline is extremely flammable and
highly explosive. Fuel vapors can
spread and be ignited by a spark or
flame many feet away from the engine. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, follow these instructions:
– Refuel outdoors in a well ventilated
area away from flames, sparks, lit
cigarettes and other sources of ignition.
– Never add fuel with engine running.
– Never top off the fuel tank. Leave
some room for the fuel to expand
with temperature changes.
– Wipe up any spilled fuel.
– Never start or operate the engine
with the fuel cap opened.
– Use only an approved red gasoline
container to store fuel.
– Do not carry gasoline containers in
the front storage compartment or
anywhere else on the vehicle.
Gasoline is poisonous and can cause
injury or death.
– Never siphon gasoline by mouth.
– If you swallow gasoline, get any in
your eye or inhale gasoline vapor,
see your doctor immediately.
If gasoline spills on yo u, wash with
soap and water and change your
clothes.
Avoid Burns from Hot Parts
The exhaust, oil, and cooling systems
and engin e become hot during operation. Avoid contact during and shortly
after operation to avoid burns.
Accessories and
Modifications
Do not make unauthorized modifications, or use attachments or accessories that are not approved by BRP.
Since these changes have not been
tested by BRP, they may increase the
risk of crashes on the road or injuries,
and they can mak e the vehicle illegal
for use on the road.
Unlike most motorcycles, the Spyder
roadster isequipped with aVehicle Stability System (VSS), which is calibrated
for the vehicle normal configuration.
VSS may not function properly if the
vehicle is m odified, such as changing
weight distribution, wheelbase, tires,
suspension, brakes or steering.
See your authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer for available accessories for
your vehicle.
_______________
7
Page 10
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
This page is
intentionally blank
_______________
8
Page 11
VEHICLE
INFORMATION
_______________
9
Page 12
PRIMARY CONTROLS
It is important to know the location and operation of all controls, and to develop and
practice smooth and coordinated use of them.
Handlebar andDriver footpegs can be adjusted to meet the driver needs. It is however important for the person drivingthe vehicle to be able to use and reach all controls adequately. For example, the brake pedal activation should be easily accessible, workable and go all the way through its function activation.
Adjustments mustbe made by an authorized Can-Am dealer to keepvehicle safety
integrity.
3
1
7
4
2
rmo2015-008-311_a
SM6 MODEL
1
2Throttle
3
4
6Brake Pedal
7
______________
10
1
6
Handlebar
Clutch Lever
Gearshift Lever
Parking Brake Switch
Page 13
PRIMARY CONTROLS
1
5
7
2
rmo2015-008-310_a
SE6 MODEL
1
2Throttle
5
6Brake Pedal
7
1) Handlebar
Grip the handlebar with both hands.
Steer the handlebar in the direction
you want to go.
2) Throttle
The throttle is the right handgrip,
controls engine speed. To increase engine speed, roll the throttle as shown
(lower your wrist).
and it
1
6
Handlebar
Gearshift Selector
Parking Brake Switch
rmo2014-003-004_g
TO INCREASE SPEED
To decrease engine speed, roll the
throttle as shown ( raise your wrist).
_______________
11
Page 14
PRIMARY CONTROLS
rmo2014-003-004_j
TO DECREASE SPEED
The throttleis spring loaded and should
return to idle when you rele ase your
grip.
NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with
an ETC (Electronic Throttle Control).
The throttle plates in the throttle body
are controlled electronically and can be
opened (The VSS can never accelerate the vehicle. All it can do is to open
the throttle slightly to decrease the
amount of engine braking on slippery
surfaces. This prevents the rear tire
from slipping because of engine braking or abrupt downshifts.) or closed
irrespective of the throttle twist grip
position when necess ary. It may happen that when you accelerate, the VSS
(Vehicle Stability System) preve nts engine acceleration in order to maintain
vehicle stability. Then, when the vehicle is stabilized, the engine RPM would
increase as requested if the th rottle
was maintained. This would be felt as
a "delayed" acceleration.
3) Clutch Lever
(SM6 Model)
The clutch lever is in front of the left
handgrip. The clutch controls the
transmission of power from the engine to the rear wheel. The lever is
squeezed in to disengage power and
eased out to engage power.
Clutch Lever Position Adjustment
The distance between the clutch lever
and handgrip can be adjusted from position 1(greatest distance) to position 4
(smallest distance).
1.Pushtheclutchleverforwardtorelease the adjuster dial. Hold in position.
2. Turn the adjuster dial to the desired
position aligning the dial num ber
with the dot on the lever.
3. Release the clutch lever.
rmo2015-008-312_a
TYPICAL - CLUTCH LEVER ADJUSTMENT
1. C l ut ch lever
2. Adjuster dial
3. Dot
4) Gearshift Lever
(SM6 Model)
The gearshift lever is in front of the left
footrest.
The gear pattern is:
Reverse-1- Neutral-2-3-4-5-6.
______________
12
rmo2015-008-204_b
TYPICAL
Page 15
PRIMARY CONTROLS
Lift up or press down fully to move sequentially from one gear to the next.
When the lever is released, it returns
to center where the mechanism resets
for the next shift up or down. Neutral
(N) is selected by either a half lift from
first gear or a half press from second
gear.
NOTE: To shift from neutral to firs t
gear, press the brake and shift to first
gear.
To shift into reverse, refer to the
ATING IN REVERSE
DURES
subsection fordetailed instruc-
in
BASIC PROCE-
OPER-
tions.
5) Gearshift Selector
(SE6 Model)
The gearshift selector is below the left
handgrip.
This shifts sequentially from one gear
to the next. Release the selector after
shifting.
To shift through multiple gears, use the
selector multiple time s.
To shift into neutral from first gear or
reverse, briefly press or pull the gear
selector. A longer activation will shift
over neutral.
When the gearshift selector is released, the mechanism resets for the
next shift up or down.
If operator does not downshift when
slowing down and engine RPM drops
below a threshold value, the gearbox
will automatically downshift to the
next available gear.
If the engine is started with the gearbox in gea r, it will automatically shift to
neutral position.
6) Brake Pedal
The brake pedal is in front of the right
footrest. Press it down to operate.
This pedal brakes all three wheels.
rmo2015-008-011_a
TYPICAL
1. Gearshift selector
Press selector forward to upshift. Pull
selector toward you to downshift.
rmo2015-008-012_a
TYPICAL
1. Upshift
2. Downshift
_______________
rmo2015-008-030_a
1. Brake pedal
2. Footrest
NOTE: When riding, make sure not
to lean your foot on brake pedal. Otherwise, the engine management will
activatethelimphomemodetoprotect the braking system.
13
Page 16
PRIMARY CONTROLS
7) Parking Brake Switch
The parking brake switch is located
on the LH side handlebar. It allows to
engage or release the electric parking
brake.
There will be a 20 second beep sound
when stopping the engine while the
parking brake is not engaged.
rmo2015-008-040_d
1. Parking brake switch
NOTE: To apply or release the parking
brake, the ignition key must be turned
ON.
NOTE: The battery voltage must be at
10.5 V minimum to activate the parking
brake. If voltage is below 10.5 V, the
parking brake indicator lamp will turn
ON.
With the vehicle stopped, press the
parking brake switch to apply parking
brake. The brake indicator lamp will
flash.
NOTE: The parking brake cannot be
activated when the vehicle is above
10 km/h (6 MPH).
Check that the parking brake is fully engaged. Hold the clutch (on SM6 models) and rock the vehicle back and forth.
rmo2015-008-040_e
TYPICAL
1. Parking brake ON switch
To release parking brake, press and release switch and make sure brake indicator lamp turns OFF.
NOTE: A beeping sound will be heard
if torq ue is applied and the parking
brake is not released.
rmo2015-008-040_f
TYPICAL
1. Parking brake OFF switch
______________
14
Page 17
SECONDARY CONTROLS
10
6
7
9
8
rmo2015-008-013_b
1
Ignition switch6 Headlights switch
2 Engine start button
3 Engine stop switch8 Horn button
4
Hazard warning switch9
Cruise control switch (on
5
equipped models)
7
Turn signal button
RECC (Roadster Electronic Command Center)
10 Reverse button
4
3
5
2
1
1) Ignition Switch
rmo2015-008-039_a
IGNITION SWITCH
1. OFF
2. ON
3. Front storage compartment opening
4. Pa ssenger seat opening
5. Stee ring lock position
The ignition switch is located in the
center of the handlebar. It controls:
If the key does not turn
easily, do not force it. Pull it out and
reinsert.
_______________
15
Page 18
SECONDARY CONTROLS
WARNING
Ifyouturntheignitionswitchto
OFF, it shuts off the engine and all
the electrical systems including
the VSS and DPS. If you do this
while the vehicle is moving, you
could lose control and crash.
NOTE: You should receive two keys
with your vehicle. Each Spyder key
contains a computer chip specifically
pre- programmed that is read via radio frequency by the immobilizer system to allow starting the engine. The
Spyder keys do not contain batteries.
Do not take the key apart. If the immobilizer system cannot read th e key,
the engine will not start. For the conditions that can lead to the immobilizer
system failing to read the key, refer to
the
DIAGNOSTIC GUIDELINES
the spare key in a safe place beca us e
you must have your spare key to have
another one made by an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer.
Ignition Function
OFF
The key can be inserted or removed in
this position.
In the OFF position, the electrical system of the vehicle is disabled.
The engine is shut down by turning the
ignition switch to the OFF position.
ON
When the key is turned to this position,
the elec trical system of the vehicle is
activated.
The gauge should wake-up.
The vehicle lights are turned on.
The engine can be started.
2) Engine Start Button
The enginestart button is near the right
handgrip. When depressedand held, it
starts the engine.
. Store
3) Engine Stop Switch
The engine stop switch is near the
right handgrip. It has two positions and
must be set to the run position before
you can start the engine. It allows you
to stop the engine anytime without removing your hand from the handlebar.
4) Hazard Warning Switch
The hazard warning switch is near the
right handgrip. Push the button to turn
on the hazard warning lights.
5) Cruise Control Switch
(F3-S Models Only)
The cruise control switch is near the
right handgrip.
rmo2014-003-004_d
1. C ruise control switch
The switch is a multifunction switch.
It allows to activate, set and stop the
function of the cruise control.
When set, the cruise control allows to
maintain a steady speed while rid in g
the vehicle. It will increase or re duce
engine speed as necessary.
NOTE: The vehicle torque may vary
slightly depending on the road conditions such as the wind, going downhill
or uphill.
The cruise control is designed to be
used for prolonged drives on low traffic highways. Never ride the vehicle
with the cruise control activated
city streets, winding roads, in adverse
weather or in any circumstances when
you need the throttle control.
in
______________
16
Page 19
Cruise Control Limitations
The cruise control is not an automatic
pilot, it will not drive the vehicle.
The cruise control is not aware of what
isgoingontheroadanditdoesnot
steer or apply the brakes for you.
SECONDARY CONTROLS
WARNING
Improper use of the cruise control
canleadthevehicletoalossof
control.
Setting the Cruise Control
To use the cruise control, the vehicle
speed must be above approximately
40 km/h (25 MPH).
Turn the cruise control to ON by slidin g
the cruise control button to the right.
rmo2014-003-004_e
1. Slide button to the right
NOTE: The cruise control icon will
come on in the multifunction gauge.
Bring thevehicle at thespeed you want
to maintain then press the cruise button downward to SET the speed.
rmo2014-003-004_f
1. Push button downward to SET
NOTE: The cruise control SET indicator will come on in the multifunction
gauge.
You c an now release the throttle.
WARNING
Always keep both hands on the
handlebar while riding.Otherwise, this could cause a vehicle
loss of control.
NOTE: You can increase engine speed
using the throttle grip if you need to go
faster than the s et speed. Releasing
the throttle will allow the cruise control
to recover the set speed.
Once the cruise control has been set,
the speed setting may be increased
or reduced by pushing the button UP
or DOWN. Eac h press of the button
will change the speed setting by increments of 1.6 km/h (1 MPH). Holding
the button will change the speed setting until released or the operating limit
has been reached.
_______________
17
Page 20
SECONDARY CONTROLS
rmo2014-003-004_i
CRUISE CONTROL PREVIOUSLY SET
1. Push up button to increase the speed
setting
rmo2014-003-004_f
CRUISE CONTROL PREVIOUSLY SET
1. Push down button to reduce the speed
setting
Cancelling the Cruise Control
Any of the following event w ill cancel
the cruise control and give you back
the throttle control. It then can be resumed if desired.
– Pressing the brake pedal.
– Squeezing the clutch lever or if
clutch slippage occurs (SM6 mod-
els).
– Gear change (SE6 model).
– Any vehicle stability system inter-
vention.
NOTE: Wh en cancelling the cruise
control, you may activate the throttle lever up to the desired position to
make the transition smoother.
Resuming the Cruise Control
If the cruise control was cancelled and
the cruise control switc h is still at the
ON position, the cruise control operation can be resumed by pushing the
cruise control button up. The cruise
control will then recover the previous
set speed.
Stopping the Cruise Control
To completely stop the cruise control
operation, slide the cruise control buttontotheleft.
rmo2014-003-004_h
1. Slide button to OFF
NOTE: The cruise control SET indicator will disappear in the multifunction
gauge.
______________
18
rmo2014-003-004_i
CRUISE CO NTR OL PREVIOUSLY
CANCELLED
1. Push up button to RESUME
NOTE: The cruise control SET indicator will come on in the multifunction
gauge.
6) Headlights Switch
Headlights
Page 21
SECONDARY CONTROLS
The switch is near the left handgrip,
and is used to select high or low beam
for the headlight. The headlights automatically turn on when the engine
reaches 800 RPM.
To select high beams, pus h the switc h
to the front position. To select low
beams, push the switch to the back
position.
To flash the high beams, push the
switch down, then release it. The high
beams will stay on as long as you hold
down the switch.
rmo2015-008-040_a
1. High beams
2. Low beams
3. Flash high beams
7) Turn Signal Button
Left side turn signal
8) Horn Button
The horn button is located near the left
handgrip.
9) RECC
(Roadster Electronic
Command Center)
The RECC is located near the left handgrip.
rmo2015-008-040_c
1. RECC
The RECC is a multifunction switch.
The RECC allows the control of nu-
merous functions of the multifunction
gauge.
NOTE: Inputs given to the RECC may
be halted for a short delay as the vehicle electronic modules prioritize vehicle main functions. This should not be
considered a malfunction.
Right side turn signal
The turn signal button is located near
the left handgrip. It turns off auto
ically after a normal turn, but you may
have to turn it off manually after a shallow turn or lane change.
To turn the signal off, press the button
in.
Turn signals will automatic ally turn off
after 30 seconds while the veh
moving.
mat-
icle is
_______________
19
Page 22
SECONDARY CONTROLS
Navigate through screens
Select a secondary menu or a setting.
6) RIGHT Button
Move the screens arrows to the left to:
Navigate through screens
Select a secondary menu or a setting.
10) Reverse Button
rmo2010-001-021_a
RECC BUTTONS
1. ECO/MODE button
2. SET button
3. UP button
4. DOWN button
5. LEFT button
6. RIGHT button
WARNING
Using the RECC while driving can
distract the driver from operating
the vehicle. Always use buttons
with caution and always keep your
eyes on the road.
1) ECO/MODE Button
Hold this button for more than 2 seconds to activate or deactivate E CO
mode.
ECO MODE indicator lamp will be ON.
2) SET Button
Quick press then release: Navigates
through the main digital display.
Pressing and holding button: Enters
the unit setting in the men u display.
Reverse button
R
The reverse button is located near the
left handgrip.
rmo2015-008-040_b
1. Reverse button
Pushandholdthereversebuttontoallow shifting into reverse. Refer
ATING IN REVERSE
DURES
subsection fordetailed instruc-
in
BASIC PROCE-
OPER-
tions.
The vehicle backup light will turn ON
when the vehicle is in reverse.
3) UP Button
Usethisbuttontoincreasethevalue.
4) DOWN Button
Usethisbuttontodecreasethevalue.
Press and hold to reset a value.
5) LEFT Button
Move the screens arrows to the left to:
______________
20
Page 23
MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER
The multifunction gauge cluster includes gauges (speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature, fuel level), indicator lamps and a user selectable digital display.
Description
1
3
rmo2015-008-075_a
1) Analog Speedometer
Measures vehicle speed in kilometers
or miles per hour. To change units, refer to
UNIT
.
2) Analog Tachometer (RPM)
Measures enginerevolutions per
minute (RPM). Multiply by 10 00 to obtain actual revolutions.
8
SETTING METRIC/IMPERIAL
10
9
567
3) Indicator Lamps
Indicator lamps will inform you of various conditions or problems (see
4
SAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE
in
ROAD SIDE REPAIRS
section.
2
3
MES-
_______________
21
Page 24
MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER
INDICATOR LAMPS (NORMAL OPERATION)
INDICATOR LAMP(S)
All indicator
lamps
!
On
FlashingPARK BRAKEP arking brake engaged.
Flashing +
Beeper
MAIN DIGITAL
DISPLAY
None
None
DESCRIPTION
All indicator lamps are activated
when ignition switch is set
to ON and the engine is not
started.
SE6 model: The ignition switch
is OFF and the parking brake is
not engaged. Always engage
the parking brake when parking
the vehicle.
N
R
On
FlashingNone
On
FlashingNone
FlashingNone
On
4) Main Digital Display
Displays useful real-time information
to the rider.
For display function informations, refer
to
DIGITAL DISPLAY INFORMATION
5) Fuel Level
Bar gauge that continuously indicates
the amount of fuel left in the fuel tank.
None
None
None
Gearbox in neutral position.
Gearbox in reverse position.
Headlights in the HIGH beam
position.
VSS intervention occurs.
Turn signal or hazard warning
lights flashing.
ECO mode is activated.
6) Secondary Digital Display
Displays useful real time information
to the rider. For display function informations, refer to
INFORMATION
.
DIGITAL DISPLAY
.
7) Gearbox Position
Displays the selected gearbox position.
______________
22
Page 25
MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER
8) Engine Temperature
Bar gauge that continuously indicates
the engine coolant temperature.
9) Digital Speedometer
Inadditionoftheanalogtype
speedometer,vehiclespeed can
also be indicated via this display.
Speedcanbedisplayedinkilometers
(Km/h) or miles per hour (MPH). To
change units, refer to
RIC/IMPERIAL UNITS
SETTING MET-
.
10) Cruise Control Indicator
Displays activation and setting of
cruise control.
Startup and Shutdown
Any time the ignition switch is set to
ON after having been in the OFF position for five minutes or more, the main
digital display will scroll the following
message:
– BEFOREOPERATINGREAD
SAFETY CARD UNDER LH SERVICE PANEL THEN PRESS MODE
BUTTON.
NOTE: Acknowledge this message to
allow engine starting.
Digital Display
Information
WARNING
Do not adjust the display while riding. You could lose control.
Main Display Functions
Pressing the SET button on the RECC
will scroll through the different functions.
FUNCTION
SEQUENCE
Outside
temperature
Tachometer
(revolutions per
minutes)
INFORMATION
DISPLAYED
XX °C (Celsius)
XX °F (Fahrenheit)
XXXX RPM
Secondary Display Functions
Pressing the LEFT or RIGHT arrow buttons on the RECC will scroll through
the different functions.
FUNCTION
SEQUENCE
Clock
Cumulative
distance
odometer
Trip distance
—odometerA
(TRIP A)
Trip distance
—odometerB
(TRIP B)
Trip t i me
chronometer
(HrTRIP)
Engine time
chronometer (Hr)
Date (Month -
Day)
INFORMATION
DISPLAYED
XX:XX (24:00
time base)
XX:XX A or P (12:00
AM/PM time base)
XXXXX.X Km or mi
XXXXX.X Km or mi
XXXXX.X Km or mi
XXXXX.X
XXXXX.X
XX-XX Month and
Day
To reset any trip functions, push and
hold the DOWN arrow button for three
seconds.
Display Settings
Setting Metric/Imperial Units
1. Push and hold SET button on the
RECC for three seconds.
_______________
23
Page 26
MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER
2. Push _down arrow_ to select KM,
push up arrow to select MI.
Setting Clock
1. Press LEFT or RIGHT arrow button
to select clock display.
2. Push and hold D OWN arrow button
for three seconds.
3. Press down arrow to select 12:00
AM PM or up arrow to select 24:00
time base.
4. If 12:00 AM PM time base is selected, AM PM is displayed in upper
LCD.Press up or down arrow to select A (AM) or P (PM).
5. Press on the right arrow to display
Hr in upper LCD. The hour number
flashes in the lower LCD. Press up
or down arrow to select the applicable hour value.
6. Press on the right arrow to display
Min in upper LCD. The minute number flashes in the lower LCD. Press
up or down arrow to select the applicable minute value.
NOTE: For each up or down arrow
press, the unit value will change by
1. Pressing the down arrow while the
number indicated is 0 will start the list
from the highest value applicable for
this function.
7. When completed, press the right arrow to exit the menu.
NOTE: You can always return to previous selection using the left arrow.
Setting Language
The gauge display language can be
changed.Refer to an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer for language
availability and setup the gaug
preference.
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24
etoyour
Page 27
EQUIPMENT
Customer Accessory
Circuits
The vehicle has power and ground
wires for installing acce ssories.
Open harness at indicated locations.
1. Behind front storage compartment.
rmr2015-128-010_a
DC12 - FRONT CUSTOMER ACCESSORY
CIRCUIT - BEHIND STORAGE
COMPARTMENT
2. Behind lateral service cover.
rmr2015-128-012_a
DC56 - REAR CUSTOMER ACCESSORY
CIRCUIT - UNDER PASSENGER SEAT
Adjustable Handlebar and
Driver Footpegs
Handlebar and Driver footpegs can be
adjusted to meet the driver needs. It
is however important for the person
drivingthevehicletobeabletouse
and reach all controls adequately. For
example, the brake pedal activation
should be easily accessible, workable
and go all the way through its function
activation.
Adjustmentsshouldbemadebyanauthorized Can-Am d ea ler to keep vehicle
safety integrity.
rmr2015-128-011_a
DC34 - MIDDLE CUSTOMER ACCESSORY
CIRCUIT - BEHIND LEFT LATERAL SERVICE
PAN EL
3. Under passenger seat.
_______________
WARNING
Controls should be properly and
fully accessible to the driver at all
times.
25
Page 28
EQUIPMENT
Locking the Handlebar
To lock the steering mechanism:
1. Insert key in ignition switch.
2. Rotate the handlebar all the way to
the right or to the left.
3. Turn the key 1/4 turn counterclockwise to the steering lock position
then remove key.
rmo2015-008-039_b
KEY POSITION TO LOCK HANDLEBAR
Front Storage
Compartment
rmo2015-008-215_a
EXAMPLES OF HANDLEBAR AND FOOTPEG
POSITIONS
Mirrors
Adjusting Mirrors
Press the mirror at the points shown
below to adjust its position in the four
directions.
rmo2008-001-081_a
MIRROR ADJUSTMENT POINTS
______________
26
Opening the Front Storage
Compartment
1. Insert key in ignition switch.
2. Push and turn the key 1/4 turn counterclockwise to the front storage
compartment position and hold
while lifting cover.
NOTE: It is possible to open the front
storage compartment with the engine
running.
rmo2015-008-039_d
KEY POSITION TO OPEN FRO NT STORAGE
COMPARTMENT
Page 29
EQUIPMENT
rmo2015-008-009_a
FRONT STORAGE COMPARTMENT OPENED
Tool Kit
Tool Kit Location
The tool kit is located under passenger
seat.
rmo2015-008-017_a
TYPICAL
1. Operator' s guide
2. Tool kit
Remove
SAFETY DVD
video from bag
and store in house or in anothersafe location.
Keep
OPERATOR'S G UIDE
inside ve-
hicle.
Seat
Opening the Passenger Seat
1. Insert key in ignition switch.
2. Push and turn the key 1/4 turn clock-
wise to the seat opening position
and hold while lifting passenger
seat.
rmo2015-008-039_c
KEY POSITION TO OPEN SEAT
Operator's Guide
The operator's guide is located with
the
SAFETY DVD
video under passen-
ger seat.
rmo2015-008-017_a
TYPICAL
1. Operator' s guide
2. Tool kit
_______________
rmo2015-008-032_a
LIFTING PASSENGER SEAT TO REMOVE IT
1. Passenger seat
3. Detach seat tether cord from retain-
ing clip.
27
Page 30
EQUIPMENT
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1. Tether cord
2. Retaining clip
Lateral Service Cover
WARNING
Part detachment could result in a
road hazard. To avoid a potential
road hazard, always attach tether
cordtothepartthatcoversthis
compartment.
Body Panels
The b od y panels on the vehicle can be
removed for maintenance.
rmo2015-008-025_a
TYPICAL - RIGHT HAND SIDE PANELS
1. Side panel
2. Lateral service covers
3. Front service cover
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LATERAL SERVICE COVERS
Removal
1. Rotate lock counterclockwise (RH
service co ve r) or clockwise (LH service cover).
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RH SERVICE COVER SHOWN
2. Pull out service cover
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28
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Page 31
EQUIPMENT
Installation
1. Install lateral service cover in place
takingcaretoaligntabsproperly.
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NOTICE
Make sure lateral service cover does not overlap on side
panel.
Front Service Cover
rmo2015-008-005_a
1. Front service cover
Front Service Cover Removal
1. Lift front o f service cover to clear
grommets
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LIFTING SERVICE COVER
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OVERLAPPING INSTALLATION
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CORRECT INSTALLATION
2. Remove service cover from vehicle
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REMOVING SERVICE COVER
Front Service Cover Installation
1. Slide front service cover back in
place.
_______________
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Page 32
EQUIPMENT
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SLIDING SERVICE COVER IN POSITION
NOTE: Make sure front service cover
tab are positioned properly on vehicle.
rmr2015-141-010_a
ALIGNING TABS IN CORRECT
INSTALLATI ON LOCATION
Side Panel
rmo2015-008-026_a
1. Side panel
2. Clip
3. Plastic rivets
4. Retaining screws
2. Lift side panel to remove it.
rmr2015-141-013_a
Side Panel Installation
1. Slide the inner side panel back in position.
NOTE: Takecaretoalignsidepanelretaining screw tab to air scoop retaining
screw tab.
rmr2015-141-011
Side Panel Removal
1. Remove screws and plastic rivets
securing side panel to vehicle.
______________
30
rmr2015-141-014_a
ALIGNING PANELS PROPERLY
2. Install plastic rivets a
Torx screw.
nd screw in
Page 33
EQUIPMENT
NOTICE
deformation on the panel around
the screw is an indication that it
is too tight. You may damage the
panel.
Do not overtorque. Any
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Page 34
BASIC PROCEDURES
Starting and Stopping the
Engine
Starting the Engine
NOTE: At start-up, engine RPM will
slightly increase by itself before running its normal rotation.
WARNING
Exhaust gas contains poisonous
carbon monoxide that can rapidly
accumulate in an enclosed or
poorly ventilated area. If inhaled,
it can cause serious injury or
death.
Only run the engine in an unenclosed, w ell ventilated area. See
AVOID CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
SM6 Model
1. Push down and hold the brake
pedal.
2. Turn the key to ON.
NOTICE
while electrical system is initializing.
3. Refer to the Safety Card as needed
to prepare yourself, your passenger and the vehicle, then press the
MODE button to enable the starter.
4. Set the engine stop switch to the
RUN/ON position.
5. Pull in and hold the clutch lever.
6. Shift into NEUTRAL. Check the mul
tifunction gauge cluster to be sure
you are in neutral.
7. Press and hold the engine start button until the engine starts. Do not
hold the start button for mor
15 seconds. If it does not start, release the button and wait 30 seconds to let the starter c
before trying again.
NOTICE
while starting the engine.
.
Do notapply throttle
ethan
ool down
Do notapply throttle
8. Check the display for problems and
to ensure that the oil light turns off.
9. Release the parking brake. Make
sure the parking brake indicator on
the m ultifunction gauge cluster is
off.
NOTICE
fully released before operating the
vehicle, brake pads will drag while
you are moving. This can damage
the brake system.
If the parking brake is not
SE6 Model
NOTE: The SE6 model can be started
in any gear with the brake pedal depressed. The transmission automatically shifts to neutral when the engine
started.
1. Push down and hold the brake
pedal.
2. Turn the key to ON.
NOTICE
while electrical system is initializing.
3. Refer to the Safety Card as needed
to prepare yourself, your passenger and the vehicle, then press the
MODE button to enable the starter.
4. Set the engine stop switch to the
RUN/ON position.
5. Press and hold the engine start button until the engine starts. Do not
hold the start button for more than
15 seconds. If it does not start, re-
-
lease the button and wait 30 seconds to let the starter cool down
before trying again.
NOTICE
while starting the engine.
6. Check the display for problems and
to ensure that the oil light turns off.
7. Release the parking brake. Make
sure the parking brake indicator on
the m ultifunction gauge cluster is
off.
Do notapply throttle
Do notapply throttle
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Page 35
BASIC PROCEDURES
NOTICE
fully released before operating the
vehicle, brake pads will drag while
you are moving. This can damage
the brake system.
Stopping the Engine
If the parking brake is not
SM6 Model
1. Shift into first gear.
2. SettheenginestopswitchtoOFF.
3. Engage the parking brake. The
brake locks in the depressed position, and a scrolling message PARK
BRAKE will appear on the display.
4. Turn the key to OFF.
5. Before dismounting, check that the
parking brake is fully engaged. Ho ld
theclutchandrockthevehicleback
and forth.
WARNING
Always engage the parking brake.
The vehicle can roll if the parking
brake isnot engaged and the transmission is in neutral.
SE6 Model
1. Shift into neutral.
2. SettheenginestopswitchtoOFF.
3. Engage the parking brake. The
brake locks in the depressed position, and a scrolling message PARK
BRAKE will appear on the display.
4. Turn the key to OFF.
NOTE: If the parking brake is not engaged while the key is OFF, the park
brake indicator light will flash and a
beeper will sound.
5. Before dismounting, check that the
parking brake is fully engaged. Rock
the vehicle back and forth.
WARNING
Always engage the parking brake.
The vehicle can roll if the parking
brake is not engaged, regardless
of what gear it is in. The clutch is
always disengaged when the vehicle is stopped, so the transmission
will not hold the vehicle in place.
Pushing the Vehicle
CAUTION Avoid pushing the
vehicle on a slope. If you must push
the vehicle on a slope, take extra
care to stay within reach of the brake
pedal in case the vehicle starts to
roll.
To move the vehicle a short distance
without starting the engine:
1. While seated on the vehicle, push
down and hold the brake pedal.
2. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL (SM6 model).
3. Disengage the parking brake.
4. Dismount on the right side of thevehicle, keeping your foot on the brake
pedal.
5. Push the vehicle, using the brake as
needed.
CAUTION Only push from the
right side, soyou can reach the brake
pedal. Stay clear of the hot exhaust
pipe.
When pulling the vehicle backward,
be careful that the front wheel does
not roll over your feet.
6. Remount the vehicle and park as
specified above.
Operating in Reverse
For safe operation in reverse, refer to
SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
section.
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33
Page 36
BASIC PROCEDURES
Shifting Into Reverse (SM6 Model)
1. With engine running, shift into first
gear.
2. Hold in th e clutch lever.
3. Press and hold the reverse button.
4. Step down on the shift lever one
stroke.
5. Release the reverse button and
check that the letter "R" flashes on
the multifunction gauge cluster .
Shifting Into Reverse (SE6 Model)
1. With engine running. the roadster
stopped, and the brake depressed,
shift into first gear or neutral.
2. Press and hold the reverse button.
3. Pull the gearshift selector toward
you to downshift to reverse.
Driving in Reverse
Check that the area behind you is clear
and continue to look backwards while
youoperateinreverse. Keepyour
speed low and do not back up for long
distances.
Shifting Out of Reverse
SM6 Model
To shift out of reverse, hold in the
clutch and lift the shift lever once t o
shift into first. You do not need to use
the reverse button — it resets automatically.
SE6 Model
To shift out of reverse, stop vehicle and
push on upshiftselector quickly toshift
into neutral and longer to shift in first
gear.
WARNING
New brakes and tires do not operate at their maximum efficiency
until their break-in is completed.
Braking, steering and VSS performance may be reduced, so use
extra caution.
Brakes and tires take about 300 km
(200 mi) of riding with frequent
braking and steering to break-in.
For riding with infrequent braking
and steering, allow extra time to
break-in the brakes and tires.
During the first 1 000 km (600 mi):
– Avoid full throttle acceleration.
– Avoid prolonged riding.
– If the cooling fan operates continu-
ously during stop and go traffic, pull
over and s hut off the engine to let it
cool off or speed up to let air cool off
the engine.
After the break-in period, your vehicleshouldbeinspectedbyanauthorized Can-Am roadster dealer as per
the
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Fueling
Fuel Requirements
NOTICE
line. Gasoline will oxidize; the result is loss of octane, volatile compounds, and the production of gum
and varnish deposits which can
damage the fuel system.
Always use fresh gaso-
.
Operating During Break-In
A break-in period of 1 000 km (600 mi)
is required for the vehicle.
During the first 300 km (200 mi), avoi
hard braking.
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34
d
Page 37
BASIC PROCEDURES
Alcohol fuel blending varies by country and region. Your vehicle has been
designed t o operate using the recom mended fuels, however, be aware of
the following:
– Use of fuel containing alcohol above
the percentage specified by government regulations is not recommended and can result in the following problems in the fuel system
components:
• Starting and operating difficulties.
• Deterioration of rubber or plastic
parts.
• Corrosion of metal parts.
• Damage to internal engine parts.
– Inspect frequently for the presence
of fuel leaks or other fuel system
abnormalities if you suspect the
presence of alcohol in gasoline exceeds the current government regulations.
– Alcohol blended fuels attract and
hold moisture which may lead to
fuel phase separation and can result
in engine performance problems or
engine damage.
Recommended Fuel
Use premium unleaded gasoline with
an AKI (RON+MON)/2 octane ra ting of
91, or an RON octane rating of 95.
NOTICE
other fuels. Engine or fuel system
damages may occur with the use of
an inadequate fuel.
Never experiment with
Refueling Procedure
WARNING
Gasoline is extremely fla mmable
and highly explosive. Follow the
refueling procedure to reduce
the risk of fire or explosion. See
AVOID GASOLINE FIRES AND
OTHER HAZARDS
To refuel the vehicle:
1. Park outdoors in a well ventilated
area away from flames, sparks, anyone smoking and other sources of
ignition.
2. Stop the engine.
3. Lift fuel cap key cover.
rmo2015-008-022_a
1. Fuel cap
2. F uel cap key cover
4. Insert key in fuel cap and rotate 1/4
turn clockwise to unlock and remove cap.
.
NOTICE
pumps labeled E85.
Use of fuel labeled E15 is prohibited by
U.S. EPA Regulations.
Do NOT use fuelfrom fuel
_______________
rmo2015-008-209_a
1. Fuel cap keyhole
5. Fill the tank until th e fuel level
reaches the filler tub e.
35
Page 38
BASIC PROCEDURES
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1. Filler tube
2. Fuel level
NOTE: Do not try to top off the fuel
tank. Leave some room for the fuel to
expand with temperature changes.
6. Wipe up any spilled fuel. If fuel sp ills
on you, wash with soap and water
and change your clothes.
7. To close fuel cap, push fuel cap into
position with the key inserte d in the
lock. Turn key counterclockwise to
the original position to lock fuel cap.
Then remove key and close fuel cap
lock cover.
NOTE: Fuel cap will not close properly
with the key out of the lock. The key
cannot be removed from fuel cap unless it is lo cked.
WARNING
Always make sure fuel cap is properly closed after refuelling and before operating vehicle.
Adjusting Suspension
Front Suspension
See a Can-Am dealer for front suspension adjustment.
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36
Page 39
SAFEOPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
______
SAFE OPERA
TING INSTRUCTIONS
______
37
Page 40
WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER
ROADSTER
The Spyder roadster is a different type
of road vehicle. This section w ill help
you understand some of the vehicle
distinctive features and operating characteristics.
Stability
The three-wheeled “Y” configuration
provides greater low-speed stability
than a motorcycle. However, it is not
as stable as a four-wheeled vehicle
such as an automobile. Driving aid
technologies, like the electronic Vehicle Stability System (VSS), help maintain stability during maneuvers, but
you can still lose control, tip o r r oll the
vehicle due to extreme maneuvers
(such as hard turns at high speeds) or
striking uneven surfaces or objects.
In addition, the operator or passenger
can fall off due to hard turns, acceleration, braking or impacts.
Response to Road
Conditions
The Spyder roadster responds differently than other vehicles to certain
road conditions.
– Do not ride off-road or on ice or
snow.
– Avoid puddles and ru nn in g water.
The vehicle hydroplanes more easily than a car. If you must go through
water, slow down.
– Slow down on gravel, dirt or sand
covered roads.
– Driving at temperature lower than
6°C (43°F) will result in reduced adherence.
Refer to
section for detailed instructions.
STREET STRATEGIES
sub-
Brake Pedal
One pedal applies brakes on all three
wheels. There is no hand-operated
brake, and there is no way to brake
front and rear wheels separately. The
Spyder roadster is better able to brak e
andsteeratthesametimethanamotorcycle. The vehicle can s top quickly
— be aware of vehicles behind you that
may not be able to stop as quickly.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
The vehicle is equipped with a n
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as part
of the Vehicle Stability System (VSS).
For hard braking, press and hold the
brake pedal. ABS will prevent wheels
from locking.
Parking Brake
!
The parking brake mechanically brakes
the rear wheel only, and it locks in place
when engaged. It is not controlled by
driving aid technologies (e.g., ABS,
Electronic Brake Distribution). Do not
useittosloworstopthevehicle—you
could lose control, spin, tip or roll over.
Steering
Direct Steering
To steer your Spyder roadster, always
steer in the direction of the turn.
Motorcyclists — Do not countersteer
as it is done on a motorcycle. Unlike
a motorcycle, your Spyder roadster
cannot lean while turning. If you are a
motorcyclist, you must relearn how to
turn. Practice steering in the direction
of the turn at all speeds until you are
proficient.
Sideways Forces in Turns
Unlike a motorcycle, the Sp yd er roadster does not lean in turns. You will
feel sideways forces pushing you to
the outside of the turn. To maintain
balance, the operator and passenger
must hold on with both hands and
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38
SAFE OPE
RATING INSTRUCTIONS
______
Page 41
WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER ROADSTER
keep both feet firmly planted on the
footrests. In hard turns, it may help to
lean your upper body forward and towardtheinsideoftheturn.
Width
Because the Spyder roadster is wider
than a typical motorcycle:
– Keep the front wheels in your lane
during turns. Be particularly aware
of where your front wheels are in
curves and when passing. If you
take a path that would put a motorcycle front wheel near the edge of
the lane, the Spyder roadster front
wheel may be out of the lane.
– Do not share lanes or split lanes
(ride between two lanes of traffic).
Group riding should proceed in a single file, even with motorcycles.
– Be prepared to swerve farther to
avoid obstacles.
NOTE: Clearing an obstacle with the
front wheels does not guarantee clearing the obstacle with the rear wheel.
Reverse
CAUTION Always keep both
feet on the pegs while operating in
reverse. Never put your feet on the
ground while backing-up.
Driver's License and Local
Laws
Driver's license requirements for operating the Spyder roadster vary by
location. Depending on local laws, you
may need a motorcycle endorsement,
three-wheeled vehicle endorsement,
or just a standard automobile driver's
license.
Check with local authorities to make
sure you have the proper license before operating the ve hicle on public
roads.
R
The Spyder roadster operates in reverse like a car. However, there are
some important differences:
– If necessary, have the passenger
dismount if your visibility is limited.
– Remember that the front is wider
than the rear. Do not back up too
close to objects or you may hit them
with the front tires.
– Keep your speed low and do not
back up for long distances.
– When possible, park so that you do
not have to back out of the pa
space.
– SM6 model: Shift back into first
gear before shutting off the engine.
______
SAFE OPERA
rking
TING INSTRUCTIONS
______
39
Page 42
DRIVING AID TECHNOLOGIES
Vehicle Stability System
(VSS)
The Spyder roadster is equipped with
a Vehicle Stability System (VSS). VSS
can help you control the direction of
thevehicleandreducetheriskoftipping or rolling over in some situations.
VSS consists of:
–AnAntilock Braking System (ABS)
that helps maintain steering control
during hard braking by preventing
the wheels from locking.
–AnElectronic Brake Distribution
(EBD) system that automatically adjusts t he bra ke balance betw een all
three wheels. With the ABS, EBD
helps maintain directional control
and maximize the braking force depending on the traction available.
–ATraction Control System (TCS)
that helps prevent the rear wheel
from slipping. The TCS will limit
rear wheel spin only if you turn the
handlebar (steer out of straight line)
or if traction conditions or vehicle
stability require engine torque to be
reduced.
–AStability Control System (SCS)
is designed to limit the power driving the rear tire and t o brake individual wheels, which reduces the risk
of losing control of the vehicle or
rolling over.
Limitations
VSS cannot help you maintain control
in all situations.
Surfaces with Poor Traction
The grip of tires on the road surface
limits the maximum braking. Eve n
with ABS and EBD, your stopping distance will be longer on surfaces with
poor traction or if you do not maintain
tire pressure and tread condition.
If your tires lose traction with the road
surface you may lose control of the vehicle, even with VSS.
If the paved road surface is covered
or partially covered with ice, snow
or slush, there is not enough traction
available to maintain control of the vehicle, even with VSS. Do not operate
on snow, ice or slush.
Like other on-road vehicles, this vehicle can hydroplane on water (lose
traction on a layer of water). If you ride
toofastintoalayerofwater,suchas
a large puddle or flowing water on the
road, the vehicle can lose traction and
spin out, and the VSS cannot keep you
in control. Avoid large water puddles
or water streams, and slow down or
pull off the road during heavy rains. If
you must pass through water, slow
down as much as possible before you
reach it.
Reduce speed on surfaces with poor
traction, like mud, sand, gravel or wet
pavement. The Spyder roadster is not
for off-road operation. Always operate
the vehicle on maintained roadways.
Do not use the vehicle on any other terrain.
Tir e s
The VSS on the vehicle has been calibrated to perform best with a tire of
a specific size, material and tread pattern. Replacing your tires with ones
not approved by BRP can cause the
VSS to be less effective.
Use only BRP recommended tires,
which can be ordered only from an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
Proper tire inflation pressure and tread
condition are important for maintaining traction, especially on loose or wet
surfaces. Tire pressure that is too low
may result in hydropla ning and excessive tire heat build up, while a tire pressure that is too high can reduce VSS
effectiveness.
Hard Turns
The VSS does not control or limit steering input — it cannot keep you from
turning too sharply. Large and rapid
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40
SAFE OPE
RATING INSTRUCTIONS
______
Page 43
steering handlebar movements can
cause the vehicle to go out of control,
spin, tip or roll over.
Excess Speed
The VSS does not control the vehicle
speed, except when SCS intervenes
during a turn. VSS does not prevent
the vehicle from entering a turn too
fast. If you drive too fast for conditions, you can lose control, even with
VSS.
Dynamic Power Steering
(DPS)
The DPS (Dynamic Power Steering)
provides a computer controlled, variable power assist, achieved by an electric motor to optimize the amount of
steering effort required by the rider.
The steering assist level is dependent
of the handlebar effort, the steering angle and the vehicle speed.
When vehicle is in the reverse gear,
power steering assist will decrease as
vehicle speed increases.
DRIVING AID TECHNOLOGIES
______
SAFE OPERA
TING INSTRUCTIONS
______
41
Page 44
UNDERSTANDING RISK ON THE ROAD
Before you operate the Spyder roadster, consider your risk of being hurt or
killed in a crash, how you can reduce
the risk and whether you are willing to
take the risk. There are many factors
that contribute to the risk that you face.
You can control some of these factors,
but others, like the behavior of other
drivers, are beyond your control. Here
are some of the factors that affect your
risk:
Type of Vehicle
Different types of vehicles vary in
terms of size, visibility and m aneuverability and provide different degrees of
protection.
The Spyder roadster is small and maneuverable. Maneu ve rability can help
avoid crashes. However, smaller vehicles are harder to see, which increases
the chance that other motorists will
cause a crash. In some situations, the
Spyder roadster is less likely to be in
a crash than a motorcycle. For example, you are less likely to tip over at low
speeds while operating the vehicle.
However, in other situations, the vehicleismorelikelytobeinacrash. For
example, because the vehicle is wider,
it will not fit through as small an opening as many motorcycles.
In cars and trucks, the structure of the
vehicle provides protection in crashes
and from other road hazards. In addition, passengers can protect themselves by wearing seat belts. You
should expect that riding the Spyder
roadster is riskier t han ridin g in a car
and that the risk o f inju ry is more like
riding a motorcycle.
As when riding a motorcycle, you can
reduce the risk of injuries by wearin g a
helmet and riding gear.
Operator Skills and
Judgment
Every driver has some control over
their own risk on the road. Drivers
who develop good skills will have better control of their vehicle. Do not rely
on your experience with motorcycles,
automobiles, ATVs, snowmobiles or
any other kind of vehicle to prepare
you to operate the Spyder roadster.
Learn how this vehicle is different.
Read this Operator's Guide, watch the
SAFETY DVD
take a training course. Become pro ficientwiththecontrolsandbeableto
do the practice exercises accurately
and with confidence before going on
the road.
When you begin riding on the road,
start with less challenging situations
(e.g., light traffic, lower speeds, good
weather, no passenger) and g radually
move on to more challenging riding
situations as you develop your skills.
Plan ahead to avoid situations that are
too difficult for your skill level, or th at
present more risk than you want to
take on.
Even skilled drivers cause crashes.
For example, if you use your skills to
do extreme maneuvers or stunts, you
increase your risk. The smart driver
uses good judgment along with skills
to increase the margin of safety and
minimize risk. Learn the defensive
driving techniques in
GIES
subsection.
video, and if a vailable,
STREET STRATE-
Rider Condition
A d river needs to be alert, sober, and
physically ready to ride. Never use this
vehicle with drugs or alcohol. Riding
when intoxicated, tired or otherwise
impaired increases the risk of a crash.
Alcohol, drugs, me dications, fatigue,
drowsiness and emotions can all inhibit your ability to ride safely. Like
riding a motorcycle, riding the Spyder
roadster is a challenging activity —
being in good physical and mental con-
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dition is even more important than for a
car. The safest policy is to never operate the vehicle unless you are alert and
completely sober. Even if your blood
alcohol level is not over the legal limit,
your judgment and skills are impaired
by any alcohol consumption.
You must be physically able to operate
all controls, turn the handlebar through
the full range of steering, mount and
dismount, and monitor your surroundings to operate the vehicle.
Passengers also need to be alert,
sober and physically able to maintain
their posture, hold on and react appropriately to curves, bumps, acceleration
and stops.
Vehicle Condition
Keep your vehicle in good condition.
Do pre-operation checks and perform
regular maintenance. Watch for any
messages on the multifunction gauge
cluster when you start the vehicle, and
address any problems before you ride.
UNDERSTANDING RISK ON THE ROAD
Road and Weather
Conditions
Roads with heavy traffic, poor visibility
or poor traction surfaces increase your
risk. Choose routes that are appropriate for your skill level and the level of
risk you are willing to accept.
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RIDING GEAR
Riding three-wheeled, open-air vehicles like the Spyder roadster requ ire s
the same protective gear as motorcycling. Even though the vehicle is more
stable at low speeds than a motorcycle, you can still be thrown off.
This section is based on guidance for
motorcyclists given by the Motorcycle
Safety Foundation (MSF).
In the event of a crash, protective gear
may preventor reduce injuries. Protective gear also helps you stay comfortable and can help provide protection
against the elements.
Recommended basic protective gear
for riders and passenger includes
sturdy over-the-ankle footwear with
non-slip soles, long pants, a jacket,
full-fingered gloves and, above all, an
approved helmet with proper eye protection.
1
2
3
4
5
6
rmo2008-001-019_a
RIDING GEAR
1. Approved helmet
2. Eye and face protection
3. Jacket with long sleeves
4. Gloves
5. Long pants
6. Over-the-ankle footwear
Proper apparel can reduce the severity
of injuryin case ofa crash forboth operators and passengers.
Helmets
Helmets protect the head and brain
from injury. A helmet can also protect the passenger's face from impact
with the back of the operator's helmet.
Even the best helmet is no guarantee
against injury, but statistics indicate
that h elmet use sig nificantly reduces
the risk of brain injury. So, be safe and
always wear a helmet while riding.
Choosing a Helmet
Helmets should be manufactured to
meet the appropriate standard in your
state, province or country.
A full-face helmet gives the most protection against im pacts since it covers
all of the head and face. It can also protect against debris, stones, insects,
etc.
A three-quarter or open-face helmet
can also offer protection. It is constructed with the same basic components but does not offer the face and
chin protection of full-face helmets.
If you wear an open-face helmet, you
should use a snap-on face shield or a
pair of goggles.
NOTE: Ordinary glasses or sunglasses
are not sufficient eye protection for a
motorcyclist. They can shatter or fly
off, and they allow wind and airborne
objects to reach the eyes.
Use tinted face shields, goggles or
glasses in the daytime only; do not use
them at night or in poor illumination.
Do not use them if they impair your
ability to discern color.
Other Riding Gear
Footwear
Always wear closed toe footwea r.
Sturdy over-the-ankle boots protect
against a variety of riding hazards, such
as stones that get thrown up from the
roadway and burns from the hot exhaust pipe.
Avoid long shoelaces that can be tangled in the gearshift lever, brake pedal
or other parts. Rubber soles and low
heels are a good idea to help keep feet
on the footrests.
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RIDING GEAR
Gloves
Full-fingered gloves protect hands
from the wind, sun, heat, cold and
flying objects. Gloves tha t fit snugly
will improve grip on the handlebar and
help reduce hand fatigue. Sturdy, reinforced motorcycle gloves help protect
hands in the event of a fall. Gloves
made specifically for motorcyclists
have seams on the ou ts ide to prevent
irritation,andarecurvedtoprovidea
natural grip w hen curled around the
handgrips. If gloves are too bulky, it
may be difficult to operatethe controls.
Gauntlets keep cold air from going up
sleeves and protect the wr ists.
rmo2008-001-006_a
1. Glove gauntlet
Jackets, Pants and Riding Suits
Wear a jacket and long pants, or a full
riding suit. Quality motorcycle-type
protective gear will provide comfort,
and it can help y ou avoid being distracted by adverse environmental elements. In case of a crash, good quality
protective g ear made of sturdy material may prevent or reduce injury.
Some gear includes padding or hard
armor that may further reduce the risk
of injury in a crash. Pants also help protect against burns from hot parts .
Protective gear sold for motorcycling
will often provide the best combination
of fit and protection. These garments
are designed to fit while sitting in a riding position. They are cut longer in the
sleeves an d legs and are fuller across
the shoulders. Riding suits are available in both one-piece and two-piece
sets.
Leather is a good choice because it is
durable and wind-resistant and provides protection against injury. Other
abrasive-resistantprotectivegear
made of synthetic fabrics are good
choices, too. Do not wear loose or
long clothing or scarves that can become tangled in the moving parts.
Flaps and fasteners seal out the wind.
A jacket with a zippered front will be
more wind resistant than a jacket with
buttons or snaps. A flap of material
over the zipper of a jacket gives additional protection against the wind.
Jackets with snug cuffs and waist
are recommended to keep wind from
blowing in. A large, loose collar can
flap when riding and may irritate skin or
be a distraction.
In cool-weather riding, protect yourself against hypothermia. Hypothermia, a condition of low body temperature, can cause loss of concentration,
slowed reactions and loss of smooth,
precise muscle movement. In cool
conditions, proper protective gear like
a windproof jacket and insulated layers
of clothing are essential. Even at moderate temperatures, you can feel very
cold due to the wind while riding.
Protective gear that is appropriate for
cold-weather riding may be too hot
when stopped. Dress in layers so that
clothing can be removed as desired.
Topping the protective gear with a
windproof outer layer can prevent cold
air from reaching the skin.
Riding gear can also help a rider be
more visible. Wearing bright colors is
a wise choice. If a dark jacket is worn,
an inexpensive reflective vest
worn over it. It is a good idea to put
extrareflectivetapeongarmentsworn
regularly while riding.
Rain Gear
Ifyoumustrideinwetweather,arain
suit or a waterproof riding suit is recommended. On long rides, i
can be
tisagood
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RIDING GEAR
idea to carry rain gear. A dry rider will
be m u ch m ore com fortable and alert
thanariderwhoiswetandcold.
One or two-piece styles are availa ble,
and those designed specifically for motorcycling are best. High-visibility orange oryellow colorsare goodchoices.
A feature to look for is elastic in the
waist, pant legs and sleeves. The
jacket should have a high collar and
zip up with wide flaps across the opening. When purchasing a rain suit, consider adding waterproof gloves and
footwear.
Remember, if the weather is wet, it is
best to avoid riding. If you do ride in
wet weath er, you may need to stop if
water startsto accumulate onthe road.
Hearing Protection
Long-term exposure to wind and motor noise when riding can cause permanent hearing loss. Properly worn
hearing protective devices such as
earplugs can help prevent hearing loss.
Check locallaws before using any hearing protective devices.
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS A ND PRACTICE
EXERCISES
Before you take the Spyder roadster
on the road, you need to develop riding skills and strate gie s for managing
risk on the road. The following exercises will familiarize you with the basic
operation of the vehicle. If you have
experience with motorcycles or other
motor vehicles, pay particular attention
to how the Spyder roadster operation
and performance are different from vehicles you are used to. Practice each
exercise until you can perform it proficiently before moving on to the next.
This section includes the following exercises:
SM6 Model
1. Revving the engine and using the
engine stop switch
2. Learning the friction zone and basic
handling
3. Engine stop while in motion
4. Using the throttle and clutch
5. Basic turns
6. Quick stops
7. Weaves
8. Shifting
9. Swerve
10.Operating in reverse.
SE6 Model
1. Revving the engine and using the
engine stop switch
2. Starting, stopping, and basic handling
3. Engine stop while in motion
4. Basic turns
5. Quick stops
6. Weaves
7. Shifting
8. Swerve
9. Operating in reverse.
ChoosingaPracticeArea
Performtheseexercisesina
pavedareaatleast76 m - 30 m
(250 ft - 100 ft) that is not open to traffic. A closed, well marked parking lot
without obstacles (light poles, curbs,
etc.) makes a good practice area. Be
aware of oil left by parked cars. Look
for parking lots that are empty during
off hours, such as schools, churches,
communitycentersorshopping
centers. Do not trespass on private
property.
Onceyouhaveselectedasuitablelocation, get permission to use it from the
owner. If there are obstructions, such
as light poles or islands, be sure that
they do not interfere with the required
open paths shown in the diagram below.
Keep this basic parking lot diagram in
mind when setting up the exercises.
3 m (10 ft) wide parking lot spaces are
indicated in the diagrams for convenience, but the size of the spaces in
the lot you use may be different. If the
parking lot you choose does not have
lines or if the parking spaces are sized
much larger or smaller than the ones
in the diagrams, use the dimension s
shown below. Mark them using a tape
measure and chalk or markers such
as cones or milk containers weighted
with water or sand.
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
1
5
3
4
5
2
5
rmo2008-001-046_o
TYPICAL PARKING LOT
1. At least 30 m (100 ft)
2. At least 75 m (250 ft)
3. 12 m (40 ft)
4. 6 m (20 ft)
5. Open area
Even in a closed lot, be aware of potential traffic. Check to the front, sides
and rear before doing an exercise.
Also, watch out for children and animals.
5
Preparing to Ride
Know the location and operation of all
the vehicle controls. Refer to
INFORMATION
Perform the pre-ride inspection. Refer
to
PRE-RIDE INSPECTION
Always start and stop the engine according to the instructio n s i
section.
ING AND STOPPING THE ENGINE
BASIC PROCEDURES
VEHICLE
section.
n
START-
subsection.
Riding Posture
Good posture helps you maneuver the
vehicle more easily. Always keep both
hands and both feet in position so that
you can operate the controls easily.
The wrist should typically be aligned
straight with the arm (this position
helps you apply the amount of throttle you want). Arms shou ld be relaxed
and bent. Keep your back straight and
your head and eyes up. Keep both feet
on the pegs near the controls.
Never o perate the vehicle, even for a
short distance, unless you are in the
proper riding posture.
rmo2015-008-901
RIDING POSTURE
Practice Exercises
(SM6 Model)
1) Revving the Engine and Using the
Engine Stop Switch
Purpose
– Become familiar w ith the sound of
the engine revving so you will not be
surprised during the exercises.
– Become familiar with using the en-
gine stop switch.
in
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
Directions
– WiththevehicleinNEUTRAL,the
parking brake engaged, and your
right foot pressing the brake pedal,
pull in and hold the clutch lever.
Watch the tachometer and apply
throttle (twist lowering yo ur wrist) a
few times to raise the RPM to no
more than 4000. As long as the
clutch is fully pulled in the power
will not transfer to the rear wheel.
– Usetheenginestopswitchtocut
all power to the vehicle. Press the
switch with your right thumb while
keeping your hand on the handgrip.
Tips for Additional Practice
– Practice pressing the engine stop
switch without looking at it.
2) Learning the Friction Zone and
Basic Handling
Pulling in the clut ch disengages power
to the rear wheel — if you feel like you
are losing control while doing these
exercises, you can pull in the clutch
to stop accelerating and apply the
brake as needed to slow down. You
canalsousetheenginestopswitchto
cut power entirely.
The friction zoneis the area in thetravel
of the clutch lever that begins where
the clutch starts to transmit power to
the rear wheel and ends just before the
clutch becomes fully engaged. While
the clutch is partially engaged, it allow
you to precisely control engine p ow er
transmitted to the rear wheel. Proper
use of the friction zone helps you g
moving smoothly from a stop.
Purpose
– Become fam iliar with the clutch and
operating within the friction zone.
– Become f amiliar with low speed de-
celeration and braking.
et
Directions
For this exercise, do NOT use any
throttle. You will be controlling your
movement using only the clutch in the
friction zone and brake.
Begin by stopping every 6 m (20 ft) (every marker/every second line).
– Start the engine and release the
parking brake.
– With the brake pedal depressed and
the clutch lever pulled in, shift the
transmission into first gear by firmly
pushing down on the shift lever.
– Release the foot brake.
– Slowly let out the clutch lever until
the vehicle starts to creep forward.
Hold the clutch lever at this point.
This is the friction zone. If you release the clutch too quickly, the engine may stall or the vehicle may
jump forward. If the vehicle stalls,
restart the engine and try again, releasing the clutch more gradually.
– As you approach the stopping point,
pull the clutch lever all the way in
and press the brake pedal to stop.
Pulling the clutch in does not have to
be gradual— you cando this quickly.
– When you reach the end of the
straightaway, stop, turn the handlebar all the way to the right, and
turn around. Be careful not to apply
throttle as you turn. Stop when you
are in line with the straigh ta wa y in
s
the opposite direction.
– Repeat this exercise until you feel
comfortable.
Tips for Additional Practice
– As you become more comfortable
with the friction zone, t ry st
every 12 m (40 ft) (every other cone)
so that you can fully release the
clutch.
opping
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
3) Engine Stop while in Motion
Purpose
– Become familiar with using the en-
gine stop switch when in motion so
you know how the vehicle will react
ifyouneedtouseitlater.
Directions
– Partway down the straightaway,
while operating in the friction zone,
turntheenginestopswitchtoOFF
and coast to a stop.
– Restart the engine and repeat the
exercise. Try releasing the clutc h
farther and moving a little faster before using the engine stop switch.
3
2
1
rmo2008-001-046_c
1. Start
2. Press engine stop switch
3. Proceed to end of straightaway, stop and
turn as before
4. Stop
5. Press engine stop switch
4
5
4) Using the Throttle and Clutch
Purpose
– Become familiar with operating the
throttle.
– Learn to balance throttle and clutch.
Directions
This exercise is similar to the friction
zone exercise, except this time you
will be using so me throttle. You will
use the entire straightaway, stopping
only at the ends.
– Start this exercise stopped in first
gear at the beginning of a straightaway.
– With the clutch lever pulle d in,
gentlyapply th rottleuntil the
tachometer reads between 1500
and 2000 RPM. Practice holding it
within this range.
– Hold the throttle at this position
while gently releasing the clutch
lever as before. Try not to let the
RPMs exceed 2500.
– The more quickly you release the
clutch lever, the more quickly you
will accelerate. If you re lease the
clutch too quickly, the engine may
stall or the vehicle may jump forward.
Applying too much throttle can
cause the rear wheel to spin and
can result in rapid acceleration.
– When the clutch lever is fully re-
leased, the throttle controls your
speed.
– As you approach the end of the
straightaway, release the throttle,
pull in the clutch lever and apply the
brakes to come to a stop.
– Without using throttle, tur
andhead downtheopposite
straightaway.
n around
Restart the engine and proceed to the
next exercise.
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3
2
1
rmo2008-001-046_d
1. Start
2. Release throttle
3. Stop
4. Release throttle
3
4
3
Tips for Additional Practice
– Coordinat e releasing the clutch
lever and applying the throttle to
start smoothly and to control your
acceleration.
REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
– As you approach the curve, slow
downtonomorethan8km/h
(5 MPH) by pulling in the clutch lever
and applying brake if needed.
– Hold the clutch lever in the frictio n
zone to maintain your low speed.
– Look in the direction of the curve.
– Turnthe handlebar in the directionof
the curve, pu llin g on the insidehand-
grip and pushing on the outside. Be
careful not to ch ange yo ur ha nd po-
sition on the throttle .
– Leaning forward and into the curve
may help you turn the handlebar
more easily.
– Straighten your handlebar after the
turn and proceed down the straight-
away.
5) Basic Turns
Purpose
– Get comforta ble turning in a con-
trolled manner.
Directions
This exercise is similar to what yo u
did before, except that now instead
of
stopping for each turn, you will make
theturninthefrictionzone.
– Proceed down the straight away in
first gear. Ride a little farthe
rfrom
the cones so you can make a wide
arcing turn at the end of the straightaway.
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RIDING POSTURE WHEN TURNING
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
3
2
2
1
3
rmo2008-001-046_e
1. Start
2. Friction zone
3. Apex
NOTE: Motorcy clists - Riding through
turns and curves with your Spyder
roadster is different than on a motorcycle. The vehicle does not lean d uring
a turn, so you may need to shift you r
body weight towards the inside of the
turn to keep a comfortable posture
on the vehicle. You will need to exert
moreforcetoturnthehandlebarof
your vehicle than is needed to turn a
motorcycle. However, it is easier to
stop while turning than with a motor
cycle.
Tips for Additional Practice
– After you are comfortable turning in
one direction, try going around the
course the other way. Be care
ful
not to apply more throttle than you
intend when turning left.
– Stopattheapexoftheturntosee
what it is like to use yo
ur brakes in a
curve or turn.
6) Quick Stops
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle 's
braking ability.
– Learn to ap ply brakes with max i-
mum force.
Directions
This exercise is similar to what you did
before, except you’ll be applying the
brake more firmly, working up to braking as hard as possible.
– Start at one end of the straight away
and accelerate to 8 km/h (5 MPH).
– Partway down the straightaway, re-
lease th e throttle completely an d
brake quickly and firmly.
– Keep head and eyes up and keep
handlebar straight.
– Repeat, increasing your speed and
braking harder.
1
2
-
2
rmo2008-001-046_f
1. Start
2. Stop
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Tips for Additional Practice
– Practice checking your mirrors be-
fore braking hard.
7) Weaves
Purpose
– Get more experience with the vehi-
cle handling and rider position.
Directions
6m (20ft)Weave
1. Weave between every marker/intersection of every other parking
spot. Do not use throttle — stay in
the friction zone.
2. Lean into each turn and turn the
handlebar in the direction you want
to g o by pulling an d pu s h ing the
grips.
REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
rmo2008-005-050_a
1. Start
12 m (40 ft) Weave
Once you’re comfortable, try doing
12 m (40 ft) weaves between every
other cone/every fourth p
1
arking space.
rmo2008-001-046_k
1. Start
Tips for Additional Practice
– Youcangraduallyincrease
speedasyougetcomfortableto16 km/h - 19 km/h
(10MPH -12MPH)fortheweaves,
but slow down for the U-turns at the
ends.
8) Shifting
When riding, you must change gears
to match the engine speed with road
speed.
Purpose
– Become familiar with the foot mo-
tions needed to shift gears.
– Learn to upshift and downshift
Directions
This exercise is similar to what you did
before, except now you will b
ing on the straightaways, then coming
to a stop at the end of e ach straight-
1
.
e upshift-
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
away. Youmay want to use the parking
lot aisles for this exe rcise rather than
riding in the spaces.
8a) Practice Using the Shift Lever at
aStop
First, while stopped, practice the left
foot motion for shifting between first
and second gears.
– At a stop in first gear, pull in the
clutch lever.
– Slide the tip of your left foot under
the shift lever and lift it as far as it
will go, one firm stroke up to shift
into second gear.
– Step on the shift lever and press it as
far as it will go, one firm stroke down
to shift into first gear.
– Repeat until you are comfortable
with the foot motions required.
8b) Upshifting from First into
Second Gear
In the straightaway, accelerate to approximately 16 km/h (10 MPH) in first
gear.
To u p sh i f t:
– Release the throttle.
– Pull in the clutch lever. (If you pull in
the clutch before releasing throttle,
the engine may rev — just release
the throttle if this happens.)
– Slide the tip of your left foot under
the shift lever and lift it as far as it
will go, one firm stroke up to shift
into second gear.
– Smoothly ease out the clutch.
– You do not need to apply throttle,
but once you are comfortable, if
space allows, you can apply the
throttle to increase speed in sec-
ond gear.
As you approach the end of the
straightaway, come to a stop:
– Release the throttle.
– Pull the clutch lever all the way in.
– Apply brake.
– After stopping, downshift into first
gear by stepping on the shift lever
and pressin g it as far as it will go,
one firm stroke down. Once you
are more comfortable, downshift
into first as you come to a stop.
33
2
2
1
rmo2008-001-046_h
1. Start
2. Shift into second at 16 km/h (10 MPH)
3. Stop
8c) Downshifting from Second to
First Gear
If space allows, practice downshifting
into from second to first gear.
In the straightaway, slow to approximately 16 km/h (10 MPH).
– Release the throttle and pull in the
clutch lever.
– Stepontheshiftlevertoshif
first gear.
– Smoothly ease out the clutch.
– Put your foot back on the peg.
3
tinto
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
8d) Other Gears
If space allows, you can try shifting into
and out of higher gears as well. Follow
the same process and shift up or down
one gear at a time.
Tips for Additional Practice
As you gain more experience, you can
refine your shifting skills and use them
to better control the vehicle.
– When downshifting, rolling on the
throttle slightly while smoothly easing out the clutch can help the engine rev up to match vehicle speed
more quickly and m ake the downshift smoother, preventing skidding
of the rear wheel.
– Shifting to a lower gear slows the
vehicle if you do not apply throttle.
This is known as engine braking.
To use engine braking, shift down
one gear at a time and ease out the
clutch between each downshift.
Keep the clutch in the friction zone
until the engine speed stabilizes,
then eas e out the lever fully until
ready for the next downshift.
– Usually you shift gears one ata time,
but it is possible to shift through
more than one gear while the clutch
is squeezed by repeating the up or
down stroke as many times as you
want gear changes.
Remember that VSS does not control
engine braking. If you shift into too low
a gear when you are at high speed, the
rear tire can skid and you can lose control, spin out, tip or roll over, pa
in a curve.
9) Swerve
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle
handling for quick maneuvers.
– Try different variations of braking
and swerving.
rticularly
Directions
Setupyourmarkersasshowninthediagram below. Do not use any fixed or
hard, heavy objects as markers for this
exercise.
– Enter between the double cones at
about 8 km/h (5 MPH) and maintain
that speed throughout.
– Steer around the line of cones.
– Exit through the second set of dou-
ble cones.
– Repeat the ex ercise multiple times,
swerving in both directions.
1
1
rmo2008-001-049_a
1. 6 m (20 ft)
2. 3 m (10 ft)
3. 2.5 m (8 ft)
Tips for Additional Practice
– Youcangraduallyincrease
your entry speed (to no more
than13 km/h to 19 km/h
(8 MPH to 12 MPH) and try some
variations. For example, approach
faster and slow before entering the
exercise, pull in the clutch
’s
brakes during the swerve, etc.
2
3
2
and apply
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
– A helper can add an element of sur-
prise to the exercise by deciding
which direction you should swerve,
or if you should come to a stop instead. Have your helper stand at a
safe distance (e.g., beyond the end
of your practice area). As you reach
the first set of cones, the helper can
use hand signals to indicate which
direction to swerve or for you to
stop.
– Practice checkingyourmirrorsand
blind spot before you swerve.
10) Operating in Reverse
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle ’s
handling and turning radius in reverse.
rmo2008-001-048_a
1. Start
2. R everse
3. Stop
4. Forward
4
3
2
1
Directions
Shift into reverse. See
IN REVERSE
subsection.
Check that the area behind you is clear
and continue to look backwards while
youeaseouttheclutch. Becareful
not to strike anything with y our front
wheels as you back up. Slow and stop
using clutch and brake, just like when
operating normally.
Back for a few f eet at time, stopping in
between.
Keep your speed low and do not back
up for long distances.
After you are comfortable with reverse, back into a parking space as
shown in the diagram below.
in
BASIC PROCEDURES
OPERATING
Additional Practice in Controlled
Environments
Onceyouarecomfortablewithallof
the above exercises, you can try a few
other things as space and conditions
allow. This might be in the parking lot
or at a later time in a place where you
have the opportunity without putting
yourself at risk.
– Quick starts: Try quickly getting up
to speed and upshifting through the
gears.
– Quick stop from higher speed:
Similar to the quick stop exercise,
but performed from higher speeds
to get a feel for emergency stops.
– Starting up an incline: To d o t hi s,
keep holding the brake pedal as you
release the clutch lever unti
in the friction zone. This will keep
you from rolling bac kwards.
lyouare
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
Practice Exercises
(SE6 Model)
1) Revving the Engine and Using the
Engine Stop Switch
Purpose
– Become familiar with the opera tio n
of the twist throttle.
– Become familiar w ith the sound of
the engine at different RPMs. This
will help you to know when to upshift and downshift based on the
engine sound.
– Become familiar with using the en-
gine stop switch.
Directions
– Start with the vehicle in NEUTRAL,
the parkingbrake engaged, and your
right foot on the brake pedal. Check
the multifunction gauge cluster to
be sure you are in NEUTRAL — if
you are in first gear, the roadster will
try to start moving when you apply
the throttle.
– Watch the tachometer and apply
throttle (twist by lowering your
wrist)afewtimestoraisetheRPM
to no more than 4000. Practice
applying the throttle gently and
smoothly, holding it steady at about
3000 RPM, and releasing it. As long
asthetransmissionisinneutralthe
power will not transfer to the rear
wheel.
– Usetheenginestopswitchtocut
all power to the vehicle. Press th
switch with your right thumb while
keeping your hand on the handgrip.
Tips for Additional Practice
– Practice pressing the engine stop
switch without looking at it.
2) Starting, Stopping and Basic
Handling
Purpose
– Learn throttle controland how to get
the vehicle moving.
– Become f amiliar with low speed de-
celeration and braking.
Directions
Ifyoufeellikeyouarelosingcontrol
while doing th e s e exercises, release
thethrottletostopacceleratingand
apply the brake as needed to slow
down. You can also use the engine
stop switch to cut power entirely.
2a) Apply and Immediately Release
Throttle
Directions
At first, you will only use the throttle for
a moment at a time, then release it and
coast.
– Start the engine and release the
parking brake.
– With the brake pedal depressed,
shift the transmission into first gear
by pressing the gear selector for-
ward.
– Release the brake.
– Slowly app ly throttle until the ve-
hicle sta rts to creep forward. As
soon as you start moving release
the throttle and coast, then press
the brake to stop. Repeat to the end
of the strai ghtaway.
e
– To turn around at the end of the
straightaway, stop, turn the han-
dlebar all the way to the right, then
briefly apply and release the throt-
tle, and coast through the turn. You
may need to briefly apply the throt-
tlemorethanoncetocompletethe
turn. Stopwhenyouareinlinewith
the straightaway in the opposite di-
rection.
– Continue with this part of t
cise until you are com fortable with
applying and releasing the throttle.
he exer-
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
2b) Hold Throttle, Release and Stop
Every 12 m (40 ft)
Next, you will be holding the throttle a
little longer, then stopping every 12 m
(40 ft) (every other marker/every fourth
line).
– Again, slowly apply throttle until the
vehicle starts to creep forward. This
time, hold the throttle at this point.
– As you approach the stopping point,
release the throttle and press the
brake to stop.
– Turn around at the end of the
straightaway as before, except now
you do not need to release the throttle during the turn. Pay attention to
maintaining a steady throttle position as you turn. Stop when you are
in line with the straightaway in the
opposite direction.
2c) Hold Throttle, Release and Stop
at Ends
Next, use the entire straightaway,
stopping only at the ends. Keep the
throttle moderate.
3
2
1
rmo2008-001-046_c
1. Start
2. Press engine stop switch
3. Proceed to end of straightaway, stop and
turn as before
4. Stop
5. Press engine stop switch
4
5
3) Engine Stop while in Motion
Purpose
– Become familiar with using the en-
gine stop switch when in motion so
you know how the vehicle will react
ifyouneedtouseitlater.
Directions
– Partway down the straightaway,
while operating at 8 km/h (5 MPH),
turntheenginestopswitchtoOFF
and coast to a stop.
– Restart the engine and repeat
the exercise. Try increasing your
speed (to a maximum of 20 km/h
(12 MPH) before using the engine
stop switch.
NOTE: SE6 mo de l will not start in gear
without brake pedal depressed.
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SAFE OPE
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Restart the engine and proceed to the
next exercise.
4) Basic Turns
Purpose
– Get comforta ble turning in a con-
trolled manner.
Directions
This exercise is similar to what yo u
did before, except that now instead of
stopping for each turn, you will make
the turn at low speed.
– Proceed down the straight away in
first gear. Ride a little farther from
the cones so you can make a wide
arcing turn at the end of the straightaway.
– As you approach the curve, slow
downtonomorethan8km/h
(5 MPH) by releasing the throttle
and apply brake if needed.
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
– Hold the throttle to maintain your
low speed.
– Look in the direction of the curve.
– Turnthe handlebar in the directionof
the curve, pu llin g on the insidehand-
grip and pushing on the outside, be-
ing careful not to apply throttle.
– Leaning forward and into the curve
may help you turn the handlebar
more easily.
– Straighten your handlebar after the
turn and proceed down the straight-
away.
rmo2015-008-902
RIDING POSTURE WHEN TURNING
3
2
2
1
3
rmo2008-001-046_e
1. Start
2. Friction zone
3. Apex
NOTE: Motorcy clists - Riding through
turns and curves with your Spyder
roadster is different than on a motorcycle. The vehicle does not lean d uring
a turn, so you may need to shift you r
body weight towards the inside of the
turn to keep a comfortable posture
on the vehicle. You will need to exert
moreforcetoturnthehandlebarof
your vehicle than is needed to turn a
motorcycle. However, it is easier to
stop while turning than with a motor
cycle.
-
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SAFE OPERA
Tips for Additional Practice
– After you are comfortable turning in
one direction, try going around the
course the other way. Be care
not to apply more throttle than you
intend when turning left.
– Stopattheapexoftheturntosee
what it is like to use yo
curve or turn.
TING INSTRUCTIONS
ur brakes in a
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59
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
5) Quick Stops
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle
braking ability.
– Learn to ap ply brakes with max i-
mum force.
Directions
This exercise is similar to what yo u
did before, except you’ll be applying
the brak e more firmly, working up to
braking as hard as possible. The Antilock Braking System (ABS) will prevent the wheels from locking and help
youmaintainsteeringcontrolwhile
applying maximum braking force. Always release the throttle comple tely
for quick stops with the SE6. If you apply throttle and brake at the same time,
your stopping distance will be longer.
– Start at one end of the straightaway
and accelerate to 8 km/h (5 MPH).
Partway down the straightaway, release th e throttle completely an d
brake quickly. Never pump the
brake as the ABS will prevent wheel
lock.
– Keep head and eyes up, keep han-
dlebar straight, and do not release
the brake until fully stopped.
– Repeat, increasing your speed and
braking harder.
1
2
2
rmo2008-001-046_f
1. Start
2. Stop
Tips for Additional Practice
– Practice checking your mirrors be-
fore braking hard.
6) Weaves
Purpose
– Get more experience with the vehi-
cle handling and rider position.
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SAFE OPE
Directions
6m (20ft)Weave
1. Weave between every marker/intersection of every other parking
spot. Keep your speed low initially as you get used to making the
changes of direction.
2. Lean into each turn and turn the
handlebar in the direction you want
to g o by pulling an d pu s h ing the
grips.
RATING INSTRUCTIONS
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
rmo2008-005-050_a
1
1. Start
12 m (40 ft) Weave
Once you’re comfortable, try doing
12 m (40 ft) weaves between every
other cone/every fourth parking space.
rmo2008-001-046_k
1. Start
Tips for Additional Practice
– Youcangraduallyincrease
speedasyougetcomfortableto16 km/h - 19 km/h
(10MPH -12MPH)fortheweaves,
but slow down for the U-turns at the
ends.
7) Shifting
When riding, you must change gears
to match the engine speed with road
speed. Lower gears are used for lower
speeds and higher gears are used f
higher speeds, just like on a manual
transmission car or truck.
The SE6 will autom atically dow ns hift
if the engine speed drops under 1800
RPM.
Purpose
– Learn to upshift and downsh
1
or
ift.
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
Directions
This exercise is similar to what you did
before, except now you will be upshifting on the straightaways, then coming
to a stop at the end of e ach straightaway. Youmay want to use the parking
lot aisles for this exe rcise rather than
riding in the spaces.
7a) Practice Using the Gear Selector
at a Stop
First, while stopped, practice to single
shift between reverse, neutral and first
gear. Then practice to:
– Double shift from reverse to first
gear
– Double shift from first to reverse
gear
– Repeat until yo u are comfortable.
7b) Upshifting from First into
Second Gear
– In the straightaway,accelerate
until the engine speed reaches
3000 RPM.
– Press the gear selector forward to
shift into second gear. You do not
have to release the throttle while
shifting with the SE6.
– Once you are comfortable, if space
allows, you can adjust the throttle to
increase speed in second gear.
As you approach the end of the
straightaway, come to a stop:
– Release the throttle
– Apply brake
– The SE will downshift automatically
as the roadster slows. You can also
manually downshift by pulling the
gear selector towards you.
33
2
2
1
rmo2008-001-046_h
1. Start
2. Shift into second at 25 km/h (16 MPH)
3. Stop
7c) If Space Allows, P ractice
Downshifting into First While
Moving
In the straightaway:
– Pull the gear selector toward you
without releasing throttle.
– You will feel more engine braking
when you downshift without throttle.
7d) Other Gears
If space allows, you can try shifting into
and out of higher gears as well. Fol
the same process and shift up or down
one gear at a time.
3
low
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NOTE: Applying slightly more throttle while downshifting can help the
engine rev up to match vehicle speed
more quickly and make the downshift
smoother. W hen you do not apply
throttle while downshifting, engine
braking will slow the vehicle. This can
help you decrease speed, but remember that VSS does not control engine
braking. If you shift into too low a gear
when you are at high speed, the rear
tire can skid and you can los e control,
spin out, tip or roll over, particularly in a
curve.
REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
2
1
3
1
2
8) Swerve
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle ’s
handling for quick maneuvers.
– Try different variations of braking
and swerving.
Directions
At this point you will need to change
your course. Set up your markers as
shown in the diagram below. Do not
use any fixed or hard, heavy objects as
markers for this exercise.
– Enter between the double cones at
about 8 km/h (5 MPH) and maintain
that speed throughout.
– Steer around the line of cones.
– Exit through the second set of dou-
ble cones.
– Repeat the ex ercise multiple times,
swerving in both directions.
rmo2008-001-049_a
1. 6 m (20 ft)
2. 3 m (10 ft)
3. 2.5 m (8 ft)
Tips for Additional Practice
– Youcangraduallyincrease
your entry speed (to no more
than13 km/h to 19 km/h
(8 MPH to 12 MPH) and try some
variations. For example, approach
faster and slow before entering the
exercise, apply brakes during the
swerve, etc.
– A helper can add an element of sur-
prise to the exercise by deciding
which direction you should swerve,
or if you should come to a stop instead. Have your helper stand at a
safe distance (e.g., beyond the end
of your practice area). As you reach
the first set of cones, the helper can
use hand signals to indicate w
direction to swerve or for you to
stop.
– Practice checkingyourmirrorsand
blind spot before you swer
9) Operating in Reverse
hich
ve.
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SAFE OPERA
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle
handling and turning r
verse.
TING INSTRUCTIONS
adius in re-
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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES
Directions
– Shift into reverse. See
INGINREVERSE
DURES
– Check that the area behind you is
clear. Con tin ue to look backwards.
Be careful not to strike anything
with your front wheels as you back
up. Slow and stop by releasing
throttle and using brake, just like
when operating normally.
– Back for a few feet at time, stopping
in between.
– Keep your speed low and do not
back up for long distances.
– Afteryouarecomfortablewithre-
verse, back into a parking space as
shown in the diagram below.
subsection.
4
in
3
OPERAT-
BASIC PROCE-
Start by riding in less ch alle nging situations:
– Short distances
– Good weather
– Low traffic
– Daytime
– Lower speeds
– No passenger.
You can gradually move on to more
challenging riding situations as you develop your skills.
2
1
rmo2008-001-048_a
1. Start
2. R everse
3. Stop
4. Forward
Developing Advanced
Riding Skills
Once you have mastered bas ic riding
skills, you can begin de
advanced skills. First, learn the ”Street
Strategies” covered in the next section. Then you can tak
on the road in relatively low-risk situations.
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64
veloping more
ethevehicle
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STREET STRATEGIES
This section provides some strategies
to reduce your risk on the road. Many
of these strategies are similar to those
used for motorcycles.
This section is based on guidance for
motorcyclists given by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). However, even experienced motorcyclists
should read this section, as some
strategies are different for the Spyder
roadster.
Plan your Trip
Always check weather conditions before riding the vehicle. Take appropriate gear for any weather you might
encounter.
Plan a route and ride in conditions that
are appropriate for your skill level.
The vehicle has a 25 L (6.6 U.S. gal.)
fuel tank. When the low fuel indicator
light flashes, fill fuel tank as soon as
possible. Plan your refueling stops,
particularly in unpopulated areas.
Defensive Riding
As with a motorcycle, defensive riding
can help you avoid crashes. You need
to sta y alert at all times. Never stop
watching your surroundings, including the area behind you. Always scan
for potential hazards, pla n ahead, and
leavespaceandtimetoavoidtrouble.
Do not assume other motorists will
see you or follow the rules of t h e road.
road surfaces, down hills, or when carrying more weight, and visib ility may
be limited in fog, in curves or at night.
Scanning Ahead
In addition to leaving adequate following distance to the next vehicle, scan
ahead and plan your path even farther
in advance.
Plan your immediate path at least four
seconds ahead. Watch this path for
hazards, such as anything in the road
or anything entering the road.
Scan ahead 12 seconds along y our anticipated path to identify potential hazardous situations before they happen.
For example , look for intersections
where other vehicles may appear or
places where pedestrians might enter
the road. Be prepared to respond if a
hazardous situation develops.
Watch Behind and to the Sides
Vehicles and other hazards can approach from all directions. Constantly
be aware of your surroundings. Check
your mirrors frequently to see directly
behind you. Also do frequent head
checks (turn your head to look) to monitor your blind spot.
AA
Following Distance
Always leave at least a two-second following distance between you and the
vehicle in front of you when operating under ideal riding conditions. This
means that you should pass any fixed
point on the road at least two full seconds after the vehicle in front of you.
When conditions make braking distance longer, or visibility is limited,
use a longer following distance for a
greater margin of safety. For e xa mple,
braking distance is longer on slippery
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rmo2008-001-014_a
A. Operator's blind spots
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Page 68
STREET STRATEGIES
When braking, be pa rticu larly aware of
vehicles behind you that may not be
able to stop as quickly as the Spyder
roadster.
Keep your Eyes Moving
To stay aware of your surroundings, do
not fixate on any one thing. Move your
eyes constantly to monitor the road,
traffic control markings and devices
and other vehicles. Look near and far,
in all directions.
Anticipate Trouble
Whenever you notice a potential hazard, plan a way to avoid it. This might
mean adjusting your speed or lan e position, or changing lanes. You should
be ready for evasive maneuvers such
as swerving and/or b raking if something enters your path. Always leave
time and space to react to trouble.
Being Visible
Motorists tend not to see smaller vehicles like motorcycles. Therefore you
should use strategies to become more
visible.
signals, but they may not cancel after
shallow turns. Make sure turn signals
are off after you have completed your
maneuver; leaving them on may confuse other motorists.
When possible, flash your brake lights
before slowing and when waiting at
intersections, to alert motorists behind
you.
Use your emergen cy flashers to make
yourself visible when needed.
You can also use your horn to attempt
to alert ot her motorists of your presence.
Do not assume that other motorists
will notice your lights, signals or horn.
Blind Spots
Avoid riding in the blind spots of other
vehicles. Position yourself so that
drivers ahead can see you in their mirrors. In some cases, suchas when you
are following a truck or a bus, you must
be farther behind the vehicle in front of
you.
To Be More Visible to Other
Motorists
Lighting and Reflectors
Make sure that the headlights, running lights and taillights on your vehicle work properly. Your vehicle is
equipped with reflectors on the fenders, sides, and back. Make sure that all
reflectors are clean and not broken or
missing.
Use your high beams whenever possible, both day and night. Use low
beams to avoid blinding other motorists at night or when too much light
reflects back, such as in fog.
Signals
Use your turn signals to inform others of your intentions. The Spyder
roadster has automatic canceling tu
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SAFE OPE
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AA
rmo2008-001-015_a
A. Blind spots of other vehicles
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STREET STRATEGIES
Time of Day and Weather
In dim light, such as at night, at dawn
or dusk, or in poor weather such as rain
or fog, you may be harder to see. Glare
at dawn and dusk or very bright sunlight can also make it harder for other
motorists to see you.
Clothing
Bright colors or reflective clothing can
increase your visibility.
Be Careful Even When Motorists
See You
Even when motorists seem to notice
you, they may still drive in a way that
puts you at risk of a crash. Drive defensively, and do not rely on other motorists to operate their vehicles safely.
Lane Position
Normally, position the Spyder roadster
in the center of the lane. This position keeps the front tires in the lane. It
also provides distance from vehicles in
other lanes, reducing wind from large
vehicles and reducing the risk of being
struck by vehicles that leave their lane.
This position also keeps your fron t
wheels out of the slippery area in the
middle of the lane, helping maintain
braking and steering ability. If you are
used to driving a car, remember that
you are centered on the Spyder roadster, rather than seated to the side, so
your perspective is different.
You c an move to the left or right part
of the lane, to avoid hazards, keep distance from other vehicles, or handle
curves. Youcanalsomovetotheleft
or right part of the lane to get a betterviewortobeseenbyothervehicles. Because of the Spyder roadster
center seat position and width, it may
be harder to see around traffic, even
when you are near the edge of the
lane. You may need a greater following
distance behind wide or tall vehicles.
Avoid putting your wheel outs
the lane to see around traffic. In order
ide of
for drivers a head to s ee you, you must
be able to see their mirrors. When you
are being followed by a large vehicle,
passing vehicles may not be able to
see you easily if you are not in t he left
part of the lane.
rmo2008-001-075_a
1. Vehicle in left portion of lane
Because the Spyder roadster is wider
than a motorcycle, the range of lane
positions is smaller. W he n riding in the
left or right part of the lane be sure that
the front wheels stay in the lane.
On multilane roads, choose a lane that
is appropriate for your speed in the
flow of traffic, and also consider your
ability to see and be seen, and possible
paths for evasive maneuvers (such as
swerving into other lanes or onto the
shoulder).
Common Riding Situations
Intersections
Intersections, including small intersections with alleys and drivewa
present an additional risk due to the
cross traffic. Always watch for traffic
in all directions: behind, i
the left and right.
nfrontandto
ys,
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STREET STRATEGIES
When stopping at an intersection, stop
in the middle of the lane, even if you
are pre paring to turn. Th is can make
you more visible and discourage other
motorists from trying to d rive around
you. Watch for vehicles approaching
from behind. Flash your brake lights as
they approach. Be in first gear and be
prepared to move if necessary to avoid
a collision.
Lane Changes and Passing
Remember that the Spyder roadster
is wider than a motorcycle and needs
more lateral space to pass another vehicle. Also remember that the vehicle
is less visible than a car, so it is particularly important to signal your lane
change well in advance and check your
mirrors and blind spots. Be sure to
turn off your turn signal after changing
lanes; a lane change will not turn the
handlebar far enough to automatically
cancel the signal.
Never drive on the line between two
lanes of traffic (split lan e s ). The vehicle
is too wide.
Never drive on the shoulder to pass
vehicles. If you put one wheel off the
road, you can lose control.
Turn s
Remember to slow, look, and steer
through turns.
– Slow: Reduce speed as needed be-
fore entering a turn by rolling off the
throttle, using the brakes, and/or
downshifting to a lower gear. Enter the turn at a speed that you can
maintain throughout the turn.
Although the Spyder roadster is better able to brake while tu rning than
a mo to rc ycle , it is still important to
slow down before you enter a turn
or curve rather than braking in the
turn. Braking and turning both require traction. The more traction
you use for braking, the less there
is available for turning at th e same
time.
Whenyoutakeaturnorcurvetoo
fast, you may notice the inside front
wheel lifting off the pavement and
feel and hear VSS cutting back engine power. While VSS canhelp you
maintain control, it is still possible to
spin or roll over if you turn too hard
and fast.
– Look: Search through the entire
turn and keep your eyes moving.
Evaluatetheentireturnassoonas
possible — surface characteristics,
sharpness of the turn, and overall
traffic conditions — so you have
time to make decisions about speed
and position. Sometimes turning
your head in the direction of the turn
helps to keep a good visual pictur
– Steer: Turn the handlebar to
the vehicle in the direction of the
turn. The Spyder roadster is not like
a motorcycle, so it does no
steer, and the vehicle does not lean.
Remember, you will experience the
lateral force generate
so you may need to shift your body
weight to the inside of the turn to
keep a comfortable
vehicle. You will need to exert more
force to turn the handlebar of your
vehicle than is n
torcycle.
d by turning,
posture on the
eeded to turn a mo-
e.
steer
t counter-
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STREET STRATEGIES
SM6 Model
When shifting gears while turning, be
careful not to release the clutch lever
too fast. Adjust throttle as you release
the clutch lever to match engine and
vehicle speed in a smooth shift. Releasing the clutch too quickly or using too m uch throttle may cause the
rear wheel to lose traction and start
skidding, potentially causing loss of
control. The Traction Control System
(TCS) will detect the onset of wheel
spin and reduce the power transmitted
to the rear wheel. This intervention is
intended to allow the rear wheel to regain traction and allow you to correct
the unwanted oversteering to keep
your vehicle on the intended turning
radius.
Curves
Because the Spyder roadster is narrower than a car, you can move from
sidetosideinthelaneincurvesto
straighten your path of travel. But the
Spyder roadster is wider than a motorcycle, so less lateral m ovement is
possible, and it is important to make
sure that your front tires do not leave
the lane.
For typical curves, an outs ide, inside,
outside path is best.
2
1
rmo2008-001-063_a
PATH FOR TYPICAL CURVES
1. Outside
2. Inside (at the apex)
1
Hills
Select an appropriate gear for the incline. Going up hills, a lower gear can
help maintain enough power. Going
down hills, a lower gear can provide
engine braking to control your speed.
SM6 Model
To start while on an incline, hold the
vehicleinplacewiththebrakeuntil
you move the clutch lever into the friction zone. Then smoothly release the
brake as you release the clutch lever
and apply throttle.
SE6 Model
When stopped, the SE6 model can
roll regardless of what gear it is in .
The SE6 model clutch is always disengaged when the vehicle is stopped, so
the transmission will not hold the vehicle inplace. Hold the brake pedal when
stopped on an incline. To startwhile on
an incline, hold the brake pedal as you
increase throttle. Release the brake
pedal as you feel the clutch engage (at
about 1800 RPM).
Night Riding
In addition to using yo u r lights and signals to be seen by other m otorists,
consider your own ability to see at
night. Use high beams when appropriate. Avoid overriding your headlight
(riding so fast th at you can’t see as far
as your stopping distance). You can
also use other vehicles headlights to
see the road ahead.
Do not use tinted or colored visors
or lenses at night, and be particularly
careful that your visor does not have
scratches or smudges.
Group Riding
Ride single file only. Never share
lanes, even with a motorcycle.
When riding with motorcycles, maintain proper following distance from
the motorcycle in front of you, even
if they are riding to one side of the
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STREET STRATEGIES
lane. In curves, do not try to follow
the path of motorcycles. Motorcycles
can move farther to the edges of the
lane in curves — if you follow them exactly, your front wheel can leave the
lane. Motorcycles may b e able to take
curves faster than the Spyder roadster.
Do not try to match their speed.
2
1
rmo2008-001-045_a
GROUP RIDING POSITION
1. Center of lane
2. Distance of 2 seconds
Particularly on curvy roads, Spyder
roadster riders might become tired
sooner than motorcyclists. Do not
push yourself to keep up with motorcycles; stop if you are tired.
Road Conditions and
Hazards
Ice, Snow and Slush
Donotrideonice,snoworslush. Even
with VSS, there will not be enough
traction to maintain control on these
slippery surfaces. The Spyder roadster is more likely than a car to spin out
of control in slippery surfaces.
Gravel, Dirt and Sand
On gravel, dirt, or sand-covered roads,
use extra caution and reduce your
speed, particularly for curves. These
surfaces do not provide as much traction as paved surfaces and you can
lose control, even with VSS.
Wet Pavement and Puddles
There is normally enough traction to
maintain control on pavement that is
moist or wet, as long as there is not
a layer of water on top of the pavement (like a puddle or flowing water on
the road). As with other vehicles, the
Spyder roadster can hydroplane if you
drive too fast over water that has accumulated on the road, but hydroplaning
occurs at lower speeds than with most
cars or motorcycles. You are more
likely to hydroplane in deeper water.
Watch for splashing or spraying when
other vehicles go through water as an
indicator of depth.
When hydroplaning occurs, one or
more wheels rise up on a layer of water, losing contact with the road. If this
happens to the rear wheel, you may
feel it slide sideways. Hy drop laning
wheels do not have the traction necessary to control the vehicle. You can
lose control and spin out, and the VSS
cannot keep you in control.
Avoid large water puddles or water
streams, and slow down or pull off the
road during heavy rains. If you must
pass through water, slow down as
much as possible before you reach it.
After passing through water, test your
brakes. Apply them several times if
necessary to let friction dry the brake
pads.
Properly maintained tires reduce the
risk of hydroplaning. A lways maintain
recommended tire pressure:
COLD TIRE PRESSURE
Front tires
Rear tires
NOTE: The pressure difference between the leftand right side tireshould
not exceed 3.4 kPa (.5 PSI).
Immediately replace any tire that
shows the maximum tread wear indicator to minimize risk of hydroplaning.
The middle of a lane can be particularly
slick in the first few minutes of rain, as
oil and dirt combine with the water. After more rain, water can accumulate in
ruts in worn pavement. Avoid both of
103kPa ±14kPa
(15 PSI ± 2 PSI)
193kPa ±14kPa
(28 PSI ± 2 PSI)
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STREET STRATEGIES
these low traction areas. When possible, keep your front tires in areas with
the best traction.
Off-Road Use
Do not use the Spyder roadster off
road. The vehicle cannot handle the
rough, low-traction, uneven surfaces
that you may encounter in off-road riding. You could easily get stuck, lose
control or roll over. Also, it may be illegal for off-road use in c ertain areas.
Obstacles, Holes and Bumps
Whenever possible, avoid riding over
obstacles, holes and bumps. If you
must ride over them, slow down as
much as possible before you get there,
then releas e the brake as you go over.
For wide obstacles or bumps, approach straight on if poss ible, so that
both front tires go over at the same
time. W hen going over an obstacle,
bump or hole with both front wheels,
riders should stand up slightly on the
pegs and use legs to absorb the shock.
Be prepared for the rear wheelto strike
the obstacle. For narrower obstacles,
bumps or holes, it is better to ride over
it with the rear tire. If you ride over
them with a front tire, maintain a firm
grip on the handlebar, take care not to
accidentally applying the throttle and
be prepared to correct your trajectory
if necessary.
If you strike a large enough obstacle,
bump or hole, the impact can make the
vehicle jump and strike you, eject riders, make you lose control, spin or r
over.
If you can’t come to a com plete stop
in time to avoid an obstacle, you can
swerve to avoid it. You can swerve
and brake at the same time if neces
sary.
If you encounter a large anima
road, like a deer, it is best to stop before reaching it and wait until the animal leaves, or go past slowl
chases you, a good strategy is to slow
y. If a dog
oll
linthe
down and downshift as the dog approaches, then accelerate away as you
get closer to where the dog would intercept you.
On-Road Emergencies
A vehicle malfunction or an unexpected situation can occur any time
during a ride. A well-maintained vehicle can help reduce the risk o f malfunction, but you should still be prepared
for an emergency.
– Always have the Operator's Guide
and tool kit in the vehicle.
– Whenstoppingontheroad,follow
these precautions:
• If the road has paved shoulders,
signal your intention to pull off
the highway, pull off at near traffic speed, then slow down to a
complete stop.
• If the shoulder is unpaved, signal
arightturnandslowdowntoa
safe speed before pulling off the
paved roadway.
• To increase your visibility, turn on
the hazard warning lights.
– If you have cellular phone or other
communication device, fully charge
it before long rides.
– Ifyouareinvolvedinanaccident,
BRP strongly recommends that you
have your vehicle transported (see
TRANSPORTING THE VEHICLE
the nearest Can-Am roadster dealer
to have it thoroughly inspected for
safety before riding again.
– Fill in the BRP accident/inci
port.
-
)to
dent re-
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STREET STRATEGIES
Tire F ailu re
If a tire failure or a blowout suddenly
occurs, firmly grip the handlebar, gradually slow down and carefully steer to a
safe place to stop. Avoid hard braking,
downshifting, or sharp steering. If a
front tire fails, the vehicle may tend to
pull in the direction of the failed tire, so
you will nee d to maintain a firm grip on
the handlebar to control your direction.
Refer to
for instructions on tire repair.
ROAD SIDE REPAIRS
section
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SAFE OPE
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Page 75
CARRYING A PASSENGER OR CARGO
Weight Limits
Do not exceed the weight limits for riders and cargo.
WEIGHT LIMITS
Vehicleloadlimit
(including operator,
passenger, cargo and
added accessories)
Front storage compartment
Excess weight will:
– Reduce your ability to accelerate,
brake and turn.
– Reduce the effectiveness of the
VSS.
– Increase the risk of rolling over if the
weight is high or toward the rear.
– Reduce ground clearance, increas-
ing the risk of striking low obstacles
or uneven road surfaces.
– Increase the risk of tire failure.
199 kg
(438 lb)
7kg
(15 lb)
Operating with Extra
Weight
Carrying a passenger or heavy cargo
affects the way the vehicle handles
because of the greater weight, and because the weight distribution will be
different.
1. Youwillnotbeabletoaccelerateas
quickly. Allow more time and space
for passing.
2. Youwillnotbeabletostopas
quickly. Use a longer following distance from the vehicle in front of
you, at least three seconds. Use
an even longer distance if riding
conditions are not ideal (e.g., low
visibility, poor road surface).
3.Youwillnotbeabletoturnas
sharply or at as high a speed. Slow
downmorethanusualbeforeturningandavoidsharpturns.
4. The Spyder roadster may be less
stable. There is a greater risk of tipping or rolling during extreme maneuvers with weight that is higher
or farther to the rear (like a passenger).
Carrying a Passenger
The Spyder roadster is designed for
only one passenger, seated behind the
operator. Never carry multiple passengers.
Do not carry a passenger untilyou have
experience riding alone in a variety of
conditions and can proficiently handle
the vehicle.
The passenger must be sober, alert,
able to reach the passenger footrests
and hand h old s, maintain balance and
hold on in sudden maneuvers, and not
distract the operator.
WARNING
Never carry a passenger if passenger handlesare not installedon vehicle.
Be sure the passenger is wearing appropriateprotectivegear. Thepassenger should wear all of the protective
gear recommended for the operator,
particularly a helmet. A full-face helmet is recommended; in a sudden
stop, the passenger’s face can strike
the back of the operator's helmet.
Keep the brakes applied and the transmission in neutral until the passenger
is in riding position.
Instruct the passenger on how to ride
before starting out. Have the p
ger follow these rules:
1. Maintain proper riding posi
Hold the passengerhandholds
and keep feet on the passenger
assen-
tion.
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Page 76
CARRYING A PASSENGER OR CARGO
footrests at all times, even with the
accessory backrest.
The passenger should not hold on
to the operator as the operator may
not be able to withstand the lateral
force generated by both.
Different gripping positions on the
handholds may be more comfortable for different maneuvers. (e.g.,
one hand at the front corner of and
one hand at the opposite back corner for turns, both hands further forward or back for other situations).
rmo2015-008-314_a
DIFFERENT GRIPPING POSITIONS ON THE
HANDHOLDS
NOTICE
tie down, lift or transport vehicle.
2. Stay clear of the exhaust pipe, the
rear wheel and the drive belt.
3. Avoid turning around or leaning except to keep balance in a turn. In an
unexpected maneuver, a passenger
who is not in the normal riding position is more likely to fall o ff.
4. Watch the road and respond to upcoming road conditions . Lean into
curves as needed to resist any sideways force. When crossing an o
stacle, hole or bump, rise slightly
off the seat without locking your elbows.
Avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and
turns, especially with
passengers. Sudden, unexpected maneuvers can make the passenger fall
off.
Never use handholds to
b-
inexperienced
Where to Store Cargo
You can carry cargo in the front storage
compartment. Do not carry cargo in
any other location unless the vehicle
is equipped w ith approved BRP accessories.
WARNING
Never tie down cargo onto passenger seat, a s this will depress the
PRS (Pillion Rider Switch). This
effectively changes the VSS calibration to the 2-up calibration, so
the VSS interventions might be
more intrusive and stronger than
expected if the driver is alone with
only cargo on the passenger seat.
Front Storage Compartment
The front storage compartment has
room to store light objects, such as
two helmets. Do not put more than
7 kg (15 lb) in the front storage compartment, even if the items fit. Never
store flammable items, such as fuel, in
the front storage compartment.
Make sure the front storage compartment latch is secure before riding.
No Towing
Do not tow anything with the vehicle.
The VSS will not be effective, and you
will be more likely to los e control.
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SAFE OPE
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KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST
The following provides a sample of information thatyou should have learned
by reading this guide. It does not include all of the important information,
but should give you an idea of whether
you have a general understanding of
the vehicle and its operation.
See the
ing the questionnaire.
ANSWERS
on the page follow-
Questionnaire
1.
Ifyouneedtostopquickly,press
both the brake pedal and the
parking brake.
TrueFa l s e
2.A pre-ride inspection should be
performed once a week.
TrueFa l s e
3.
VSS allows you to use th e vehicle
in any kind of weath er.
TrueFa l s e
4.
You should only replace the tires
with those approved by BRP
obtained from an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer.
TrueFa l s e
5.
It is important for the passenger to
be alert and sober.
TrueFa l s e
6.Name six items of protective gear
that can reduce your risk of injury.
1) _________________________
2) _________________________
3) _________________________
4) _________________________
5) _________________________
6) _________________________
7.
Protective gear is important for
preventing and reducing injuries,
keeping you comfortable, and
providing protection against the
elements.
TrueFal s e
8.Which of the following is not one
of the vehicle driving controls?
a. Handlebar
b. Twist throttle
c. Front brake lever
9.You should leave your low beam
lights on during the day for added
visibility.
TrueFal s e
10. You should normally position the
vehicle in the center of the lane.
TrueFal s e
______
SAFE OPERA
11.
Unlike a typical motorcycle, you
shouldmakeitcommonpractice
to brake and turn at the same
time.
TrueFal s e
TING INSTRUCTIONS
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75
Page 78
KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST
12. Under normal conditions,
following distance should be
at least ________.
a. 1 second
b. 2 seconds
c. 3 seconds
13. You should not store flammable
liquids such as gasoline in the
front storage compartment, even
iftheyareinapprovedcontainers.
TrueFa l s e
14.
List 5 ways of being more
noticeable to other drivers.
1) _________________________
2) _________________________
3) _________________________
4) _________________________
5) _________________________
15.
Whenbrakingonsurfaceswith
less than ideal traction, you shou
pumpthebrakestohelpmaintain
control of the vehicle.
19.
Riding the Spyder roadster is as
safe as riding in a car.
TrueFalse
20.
ABSallowsyoutopressthe
brake pedal hard without locking
the brakes.
TrueFa l s e
ld
TrueFal s e
16. The vehicle’s maximum load
including riders, cargo and
accessories is 199
TrueFal s e
17.
The vehicle can safely tow a trailer
as long as the
does not exceed 200 kg (441 lb).
TrueFal s e
18. A pa sse
operator.
_____
76
nger should hold onto the
TrueFalse
kg (438 lb).
total towed weight
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KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST
Answers
1.
False
To stop quickly, press the brake
pedal only. Never use the parking
brake while the vehicle is moving.
2.False
You should doa pre-ride inspection
every time you ride.
3.False
If there is ice, snow, slush or
enough water on the road to
cause hydroplaning, VSS can not
help you maintain control.
4.
True
5.
True
1)
6.
7.
8.c. Front brake lever
9.False
Helmet
Eye and face protection
2)
Jacket with long s leeves
3)
4)
Gloves
Long pants
5)
6)
Closed-toe footwear, preferably
over the ankle.
True
The vehicle does not have a front
brake lever.
You should use your hig
during the day.
hbeams
b. 2 seconds
12.
Under normal conditions,
following distance should be
at least two seconds.
13. True
14.
1) Make sure your lights and
reflectors are clean.
2) Use your high beams whenever
possible.
3)
Use your turn signals.
4) Flash your brake lights before
slowing.
5) Use your emergency flashers
as needed.
6) Use your horn to alert others of
your presence.
7)
Avoid riding in blind spots.
8) Wear bright colors and
reflective clothing.
15.
False
Youshouldpressandholdthe
brake pedal, not pump. The
vehicle is equipped with ABS,
which keeps the wheels from
locking.
16. True
17.
18.False
False
You should never tow a t
with the vehicle.
The passenger should always
hold on to the h
andholds.
railer
10. True
11.
False
You can brake a
time if you need to, but generally it
is better to brake before the turn.
______
nd turn at the same
SAFE OPERA
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Page 80
KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST
19.False
In cars and trucks, the structure
of the vehicle provides
protection. In addition,
passengers can protect
themselves by wearing seat
belts. You should expect that
riding the Spyder roadster is
much riskier than riding in a car
and that the risk of injury is more
like the risk of injury when riding
a motorcycle.
20.True
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SAFE OPE
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Page 81
SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
The Spyder roadster is a different type of vehicle -
it requires special skills and knowledge.
Learn how the Spyder roadster is different.
R
ead
C
omplete
practitice
Referer
Always w
ear a helmet and riding gear.
H
andling
limits and r
oad c
onditions
This vehicle comes with a hang tag and
labels containing important safety information.
Any person who rides this vehicle
should read and understand this informationonthevehiclebeforeriding.
Hang Tag
WARNING
The Spyder roadster is a different type of vehicle -
it requires special skills and knowledge.
Learn how the Spyder roadster is different.
ead
the operator's guide (in storage compartments or under-
neath seats) and watch the safety video.
omple
a training course (if available),
proficient with the controls, and get a proper license.
to the Safety Card before riding.
With this type of vehicle, riders are exposed to more road risks
than in a car. Even skilled operators can be struck by other
vehicles or lose control. This vehicle will not protect you in a
crash.
The Vehicle Stability System (VSS) cannot stop you from
losing control, flipping over, or falling off if you exceed this
vehicle’s limits. Know the limits for different road conditions.
Do not ride on ice, snow, or off road. Avoid puddles and running
water. This type of vehicle can hydroplane on water and slip on
gravel, dirt and sand covered roads. If you must go through
these road conditions, slow down.
This hangtag may only be removed by the customer.
ear a helmet and riding gea
andling
limits and
oad
, become
onditions
704905082
______
704905082A
SAFE OPERA
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Page 82
SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
Safety Card
The Safety Card is found under the LH lateral service cover. Remove LH lateralservice cover and make sure to secure service cover back in place before riding.
Use the Safety Card to review key information and when you are teaching new operators and passengers how to ride the vehicle. It also includes frequently referenced information.
NOTE: The following illustration used in this Operator's G uid e is a general representation only. Your model may differ.
retaw no enalpordyh nac elcihev fo epyt sihT .retaw gninnu
.sgep no teef peek dna s
The Spyder roadster is a different type of vehicle - it requires
special skills and knowledge. Learn how the Spyder roadster is
different.
Read the operator’s guide (in storage compartments or underneath
seats) and watch the safety video. Complete a training course (if avail-
able), practice, become proficient with the controls, and get a proper
704904518
license.Do the following procedures before each ride.
you from losing control, flipping over, or falling off if you exceed this vehicle’s limits.
Check road conditions. The Vehicle Stability System (VSS) cannot stop
road conditions, slow down.
and slip on gravel, dirt and sand covered roads. If you must go through these
Know the limits for different road conditions. Do not ride on ice, snow, or off road.
SAFETY CARD
rmo2015-008-049_a
TYPICAL - SAFETY CARD UNDER LH
LATERAL SERVICE COVER
r
dna selddup diovA
in a crash.
exposed to more road risks than in a car. Even skilled operators can be
struck by other vehicles or lose control. This vehicle will not protect you
Wear a helmet and riding gear. With this type of vehicle, riders are
Instruct the passenger.
• Watch the road. Lean into curves. Brace for bumps.
Always keep in mind:
dlohdnah dloh syawlA •
.ladep toof eht htiw ekarB •
looking at the digital screen.
• Reduce your speed if you are towing a trailer.
• Make sure the surrounding is clear and safe before
• Steer in the direction of a turn; do not countersteer.
• Keep all wheels in your lane,
always ride in a single file, and do not split lanes.
• Perform Pre-ride Inspection.
704904518
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SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
Safety Labels
These labels are affixed to the vehicle for the safety of the operator, passenger
(2-UP) or bystanders
The followinglabels are on your vehicle, and they shouldbe considered permanent
parts of the vehicle. If missing or damaged, they can be replaced free of charge.
SeeanauthorizedCan-Amroadsterdealer.
NOTE: In the event of any discrepancy between this guide and the vehicle, the
safety labels on the vehicle have precedence over the labels in this guide.
Label 1
TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION/
RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR LES PNEUS ET LE CHARGEMENT
THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED 199 Kg OR 438 lb
LE POIDS TOTAL DES OCCUPANTS ET DU CHARGEMENT NE DOIT JAMAIS DÉPASSER 199 Kg OU 438 lb
THIS VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH TUBELESS TIRES/
CE VÉHICULE EST ÉQUIPÉ DE PNEUS SANS CHAMBRE À AIR
SEATING CAPACITY /
NOMBRE DE PLACES
READ OPERATOR’S
GUIDE /
VOIR GUIDE
FRONT/AVANT
REAR/ARRIÈRE
SPARE/ PNEU DE
DU CONDUCTEUR
TIRE/PNEU
SECOURS
TOTAL
2
SIZE/
DIMENSION
MC165/55R15 55H
MC225/50R15 76H
NONE/AUCUN
COLD TIRE PRESSURE/
PRESSION DES PNEUS À FROID
103 ± 14 kPa / 15 ±2 psi
193 ± 14 kPa / 28 ±2 psi
704905092A
FRONT
AVANT
(1.03± 0.14 bar)
(1.93± 0.14 bar)
NONE/AUCUN
REAR
11
ARRIÈRE
TIRE BRAND
KENDA KR31
KENDA KR21
NONE/AUCUN
DIMENSION DE
381 x 127mm
381 x 178mm
NONE/AUCUN
MARQUE DE PNEU
RIM SIZE/
LA JANTE
(15 x 5)in
(15 x 7)in
704905092
rmo2015-008-052_a
1. Label is located on the LH side front panel
under storage cover
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SAFE OPERA
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SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
-
Make sure engine is at operating temperature.
Label 2
704904562
rmo2015-008-052_b
1. Label is located under passenger seat
Label 3
DO NOT OVERLOAD
7 kg (15 lb)
LOAD LIMIT
704904787
704904787
Label 4
CAUTION
ENGINE OIL AND CERTAIN COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE
COMPARTMENT MAY BE HOT.
DIRECT CONTACT MAY RESULT IN SKIN BURNS.
Checking Engine Oil Level:
-
Make sure engine is at operating temperature.
- Roadster must be on a level surface.
- Let engine running at idle for at least 30 seconds.
- Stop engine & wipe the dipstick.
- Dipstick must be screwed in completely before checking oil level.
- Use XPS synthetic blend oil summer grade or equivalent motorcycle oil.
704904073
rmo2015-008-053_a
1. Label is located under RH lateral service
cover
Label 5
704904073
rmo2015-008-053_b
1. Label is located in basket
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82
SAFE OPE
rmo2008-003-003
COOLANT RESERVOIR CAP
RATING INSTRUCTIONS
______
Page 85
rmo2015-008-027_a
1. Labe l 5 located underneath front service
cover
Label 6
WARNING
Clean filler cap before removing.
Use only DOT 4 brake fluid from
a sealed container.
704903119
704903119
rmo2015-008-053_a
1. Labe l 6 is located under RH lateral service
cover
Label 7
WARNING
Part detachment could result in a road
hazard. To avoid a potential road hazard,
always attach tether cord to the part that
covers this compartment.
704905127
SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
rmo2015-008-222_b
1. Label 7 is attached to tether cord, under
passenger seat
Label 8
NOTICE
-Matt finish paint needs
special care to maintain its
appearance.
See operator’s guide
-PVD chrome wheel should
be washed with water and
a mild soap. Do not polish,
use acid based or abrasive
chrome cleaner on the
PVD chrome wheel.
-Do not clean windshield
with alkaline or acid
cleaner, gasoline or solvent
to avoid windshield
damage.
See operator's guide.
704904936
LOCATED UNDER STORAGE COVER
704904936A
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SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
intentionally blank
This page is
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Page 87
PRE-RIDE
INSPECTION
_______________
85
Page 88
PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST
WARNING
Perform a pre-ride inspection before each ride to detect potential
problems during operation. The
pre-ride inspection can help you
monitor wear and deterioration
before they become a problem.
Correct any problems that you discover to reduce the risk of a breakdown or crash. See an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer as necessary.
Inspect:
– Tires: Look for damage, incorrect
inflation and excessive tread wear.
Refer to the
CEDURES
– Wheels and lugnuts: Look for
damage. Twist each front wheel
lugnut by hand to be su re it is not
loose. Be sure the rear wheel axle
nut is in place.
– Drive belt: Look for fraying, cuts,
punctures and missing teeth. Verify
alignment. For additional information, refer to the
PROCEDURES
– Leaks: Look under the vehicle for
any leaks.
– Frontstoragecompartment
cover: Pulltocheckthatitisproperly latched.
– Ensure seat is properly latched.
– Mirrors: Clean and adjust (see
RORS
– Brake pedal: Press and make sure
you feelfirm resistance.
fully return when released.
– Throttle handle:Twist several
times. Be sure it operates freely
and returns to idle pos
leased.
– Clutch lever (SM6 model): Adjust
to your convenience (see
CONTROLS
to be sure it operates normally and
fully returns when released.
MAINTENANCE PRO-
subsection.
MAINTENANCE
subsection.
in
EQUIPMENT
subsec
tion). Squeeze
MIR-
subsection).
Pedal must
ition when re-
PRIMARY
– Gearshift selector (SE6 model):
Be sure gearshift selector operates
normally in both directions and returns to center w hen released.
– Weight: Ensure that total load on
the vehicle (including operator, passenger, cargo and added accessories) does not exceed 199 kg
(438 lb).
Turn Ignition Key to the ON Position:
– Multifunctiongaugecluster:
Check the gauges, indicators, messages and the fuel level.
– Horn: Check operation.
– Steering: Start engine and verify
that steering operates freely.
– Engine stop switch: Check that the
engine stop switch is working properly.
– Parking brake: Start engine, re-
lease parking brake and ensure parking brake indicator is off on the multifunction gauge cluste r.
– Brake: Drive a short distance for-
ward slowly then apply brake to
test.
Always lock lateral service covers back
in position.
______________
86
Page 89
MAINTENANCE
_______________
87
Page 90
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Maintenance isvery important forkeeping your vehicle in safe operating condition.
Proper ma inte nance is the owner’s responsibility. Perform periodic checks and
follow the maintenance schedule. The maintenance schedule does not exempt
the pre-ride inspection.
WARNING
Failure to properly maintain the vehicle according to the maintenance
schedule and procedures can make it unsafe to operate.
FIRST INSPECTION - 5 000 KM (3,000 MI)
Check fault codes.
Replace engine oil and oil filter.
Check clutch fluid level (SM6 model only).
Check brake fluid level.
Check reverse mechanism operation.
Check engine coolant level.
Inspect throttle twist grip operation.
Check lighting system (brake light, hazard warning light, turn signal lights, position
lights, license plate light).
Check operation of contro l switches.
Inspect the drive belt cond ition and its tension. Adjust i f required.
Check tightening torque of the front wheels lug nuts.
Check tightening torque of the rear wheel axle nut.
Check parking brake operation. Adjust as required.
Check tires wear. Alig n front wheels if required.
Check tires pressure. Adjust as required.
Visually check brake pads and discs condition.
Check passenger handholds looseness.
Check footrests looseness.
Check body panels looseness.
Check operation of storage compartment latch es, hinges and key barrels.
Remove front grill and clear al l debris from radiator air duct.
EVERY 1 500 KM (1,000 MI)
Check oil level.
______________
88
Page 91
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
EVERY 15 0 00 KM (9,300 MI) OR 1 YEAR (WHICHEVER COMES FIRST)
Check fault codes.
Replace engine oil and oil filter.
Check clutch fluid level (SM6 model only).
Check brake fluid level. Replace every 2 years.
Check brake hoses
Check reverse mechanism operation.
Check radiator, hoses and water pump.
Check engine coolant level.
Perform a pressure test of cooling system.
Inspect throttle twist grip operation.
Check lighting system (brake light, hazard warning light, turn signal lights, position
lights, license plate light)
Check operation of control switches and passenger switches.
Check condition of fuel hoses, fuel evaporation lines and canister.
Check battery connections tightening.
Inspect the drive belt cond ition and its tension. Adjust i f required.
Check and retight exhaust pipe, clamping rings, joints, and gaskets condition.
Check steering for abnormal play.
Check tie-rods condition.
Check shock absorbers for leaks or other damages.
Check tightening torque of the front wheels lug nuts.
Check tightening torque of the rear wheel axle nut.
Check ball joints condition.
Check front and rear wheel bearings condition.
Check parking brake operation. Adjust as required.
Check tires wear. Alig n front wheels if required.
Check tires pressure. Adjust as required.
Check brake pads and discs condition.
Check passenger handholds looseness.
Check footrests looseness.
_______________
89
Page 92
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
EVERY 15 0 00 KM (9,300 MI) OR 1 YEAR (WHICHEVER COMES FIRST)
Check body panels looseness.
Check operation of storage compartment latch es, hinges and key barrels.
Remove front grill and clear al l debris from radiator air duct.
EVERY 30 000 KM (19,000 MI)
Replace air filter and clean air filter housing.
Replace clutch fluid (SM6 model only).
EVERY 45 000 KM (28,000 MI)
Replace the fuel filter (or every 5 years).
Replace the Hydraulic Control Module (HCM) oil filte r (SE6 model only).
Replace the canister pre-filter.
Replace engine coolant (or every 5 years).
Replace the spark plugs.
Check front suspension arms rubber bushings.
______________
90
Page 93
FIRST INSPECTION
We recommend that after the first 5 000 km (3,000 mi) of operation, your vehicle
be inspected by an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer. The initial maintenance is
very important and must not be neglected.
NOTE: The first inspection is at the expense of the vehicle owner.
We recommend that this inspection be signed by an authorized Can-Am dealer.
Date of inspectionAuthorized dealer signature
Dealer name
_______________
91
Page 94
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
This section includesinstructions
for basic maintenance procedures.
If you have the necessary mechanical skills and the re quired tools, you
can perform these procedures. If not,
see your authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer.
Other important items in the maintenance schedule that are more difficult
and require special tools are best performed by your authorized Can-Am
roadster dealer.
WARNING
Turn off the engine and follow
these maintenanceprocedures
when performing maintenance.
If you do not follow proper maintenance procedures you can be
injured by hot parts, moving parts,
electricity, chemicals or other hazards.
Wheels and Tires
WARNING
Tires that are not the recommended type, damaged, worn
down below the minimum tread
wear limit indicator or improperly
inflated can cause loss of control.
New tires will not operate at their
maximum efficiency until their
break-in is completed. Braki ng,
steering and VSS performance
may be reduced, so use extra
caution. Tires take about 300 km
(200 mi) of riding with frequent
braking to break-in. For riding with
infrequent braking, allow extra
time to break-in the tires.
The tires have been specifically designed for the Spyder roadster. Use
only the BRP recommended tires,
which can be ordered only from an
authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
When the rear tire is removed or replaced, perform the following:
– Check and clea n the rear s procket
bearing and seal. Replace if damaged or broken.
– Check and clean the rear axle bea r-
ings. Replace if damagedor broken.
– Replace and lubricate the bearing
seal of the rear axle.
– Replace and lubricate rear axle
O-ring.
– Check and clean the rear axle wear
sleeves. Replace if damaged or broken.
When the rear wheel is removed or replaced, perform the following:
– Replace rear axle nut.
– Replace and lubricate the bearing
seal of the rear axle.
– Replace and lubricate rear axle
O-ring.
– Check rubber damper condition.
Replace if damaged or broken.
Tir e Pressure
Check pressure when tires are cold
before using the vehicle. Tire pressure changes with the air temperature. Recheck pressure if temperature
has changed (e.g., significant weather
change, driving in the mountains).
COLD TIRE PRESSURE
Front tires
Rear tires
NOTE: The pressure difference between the leftand right side tireshould
not exceed 3.4 kPa (.5 PSI).
For your convenience, an electronic
pressure gauge is supplied in the tool
kit.
103kPa ±14kPa
(15 PSI ± 2 PSI)
193kPa ±14kPa
(28 PSI ± 2 PSI)
______________
92
Page 95
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
Tir e Damage
Checkalltiresfor:
– Cuts, slits and cracks in the tires.
– Bumps or bulges in the side of the
tire or the tread.
– Nails or other foreign objects in the
side of the tire or tread.
– Air leaks (hissing sound) caused by
an ill-fitting rim or a faulty tire valve.
If any of the above occurs, have the tire
repaired or replaced as soon as possible by an authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer.
Tire Tread Wear
Check min imum tread depth by using
the tread-wear indicators (hard rubber
bars molded at the base of the tread;
1infigurebelow). Checkinthreelocations across the tire tread:
– Outer edge
–Center
– Inside edge.
The tread-wear indicators will appear
across the treads that have been worn
down to the minimum tread depth.
When at least one tread-wear indicator
appears across the tread, have the tire
replaced as soon as possible by an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
It is normal to see uneven wear on tires
depending on how the vehicle is driven
and road conditions. The front tires
external or internal edges and the rear
tire center tread will wear unevenly
depending on if the vehicle is driven
smoothly or aggressively.
WARNING
The tires are designed to rotate
only in one direction. Do not
switch the left and right front
wheels. If a tire is mounted on the
incorrect side, you will have less
traction and could lose control.
WARNING
Do not hold the front wheel spoke
while attempting to spin the front
wheel as your fingers may be
caught between the wheel and the
brake caliper.
Tire Rotation (Front)
Rotate front tires when tread depth
reaches 4 mm (5/32 in). This will m a ximize tire life.
WARNING
The tires are designed to rotate
only in one direction. Do not
switch the left and right front
wheels. The tires must be dismounted from the wheels for tire
rotation. If a tire is mounted on the
incorrect side, you will have less
traction and could lose control.
rmo2008-001-041_a
TIRE TREAD WEAR
1. Tread-wear limit indicator
A. Appropriate tread depth
B. Minimum tread depth, replace tire
CAUTION Do nothold the front
wheel spoke while attempting to
spin the front wheel as your fingers
may be caught between the wheel
and the brake caliper.
Tire Registration Form
Intheeventofatirerecall,wecanonly
contact you if we have your name and
address. As a vehicle manufacturer,
_______________
93
Page 96
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
BRP keeps a record of the Tire Identification Number (T.I.N.) associated
with the Vehicle Identification Number
(V.I.N.) (see
TION
) and its current owner informa-
VEHICLE IDENTIFICA-
tion.
If you replace any tire on your vehi-
cle, a "Tire Registration Form" must be
completedandsenttothetiremanufacturer consumer service group. The
“Tire Registration Form” is available at
an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
Drive Belt
Visually inspect belt alignment and
condition before each ride.
Belt alignment and deflection adjustment should always be performed by
an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer
accordingtothe
SCHEDULE
.
Drive Belt Alignment
The gap between the belt and the
sprocket internal flange should be
sum of "X" + "Y" = 3.25 mm ± 2.75 mm
(.13 in ± .11 in). If belt goes beyond
the outside edge of sprocket, have the
belt properly aligned by an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer as soon as
possible.
NOTE: Belt can be in contact with
ONLY ONE flange from ONLY ONE
of the sprockets.
MAINTENANCE
rmo2014-005-031_a
FRONT SPROCKET
1. Front sprocket teeth
2. Belt
3. Sprocket internal flange
A. GAP "X"
rmo2014-003-007_a
REAR SPROCKET
1. Rear sprocket teeth
2. Belt
3. Sprocket internal flange
A. GAP "Y"
Drive Belt Wear
Inspect the drive belt with the vehicle
in neutral, engine off, on a level surface
with plenty of room — you will have to
roll the vehicle forward or backwa rd to
see the full length of the belt.
rmo2014-003-001_a
TYPICAL
1. Front sprocket
2. R ear sprocket
______________
94
rmo2008-001-109_a
DRIVE BELT SURFACES
1. Outer surface
2. Teethsidesurface
3. Tooth
Inspect for the following conditions:
Page 97
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
WEAR CONDITION
Good condition
Hairline cracks
Minor chipping
Opened cracks
Hook wear
Missing teeth
Belt fabric worn,
exposing internal
components
Stone damage
REQUIRED
ACTION
None
Monitor
condition
Monitor
condition
Replace belt
Replace belt
Replace belt
Replace belt
Replace belt
When a drive belt is replaced, also replace the sprockets to increase the
longevity of the new drive belt.
Drive Belt Tension
While riding,if you feel vibrations in the
belt or if the belt is skipping sprocket
teeth, have the belt tension adjusted
as soon as possible by an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer.
Engine Oil
Recommended Engine Oil
The same oil is used for the engine,
gearbox, clutch,and the Hydraulic Control Module (HCM) on the SE6 model.
Use the XPS 4-STROKE SYNTH.
BLEND OIL (SUMMER) (P / N 293
600 121) or a 5W-40 semi-synthetic
(minimum) or synthetic m o torcyc le
oil meeting the requirements for API
service SL, SJ,SM, SN or higher classification. Always check the API service
label on the oil container.
NOTICE
tives to the recommended oil. This
may lead to gearbox and clutch malfunctions.
Engine Oil Level Verification
In order to perform the engine oil level
verification, the engine must be at normal operating temperature.
1. Take a ride of at least 15 km (9 mi).
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
3. Let the engine idle for 10 minutes.
Do not add any oil addi-
NOTE: Hairline cracks do not require
the replacement of the belt, but must
be monitored closely — th ey may lead
to opened cracks or missing teeth, requiring belt replacement. Damage to
the center of the belt will eventually
require belt repla cement, b ut when
cracks extend to the edge of the belt,
belt failure is im minent.
_______________
WARNING
Exhaust gas contains poisonous
carbon monoxide that can rapidly
accumulate in an enclosed or
poorly ventilated area. If inhaled,
it can cause serious injury or
death. Only run the engine in an
unenclosed, well ventilated area.
95
Page 98
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
NOTICE
Adjusting the oil level on
a cold engine w ill result in overfilling.
must be performed within 2 minutes
after engine stop.
5. Remove RH lateral service cover.
Refer to
BODY PANELS
.
6. Unscrew and remove the oil dip-
stick.
rmo2015-008-760_a
TYPICAL
1. Oil dipstick
2. Oil filler tube
3. Oil tank
7. Wipe off the dipstick.
8. Reinsert and completely screw in
the dipstick.
9. Unscrew and remove the dipstick
again.
10. Check the oil level on the dipstick.
rmo2014-005-003_a
1. Upper mark (MAX)
2. Lower mark (MIN)
3. Operating range
Oil Level between Lower (MIN) and
Upper (MAX) Marks:
1. Do not add oil.
2. Properly insert and tighten dipstick.
3. Install RH lateral service cover.
Oil Level under MIN M ark
Adjustment:
1. Addapproximately500ml
(17 U.S. oz)ofrecommended
oil.
NOTE: The oil quantity between MIN
and MAX marks is 500 ml (17 U.S. oz).
2. Restart the engine and let it idle for
10 minutes.
WARNING
Exhaust gas contains poisonous
carbon monoxide that can rapidly
accumulate in an enclosed or
poorly ventilated area. If inhaled,
it can cause serious injury or
death. Only run the engine in an
unenclosed, well ventilated area.
NOTICE
a cold engine w ill result in overfilling.
3. Stop the engine.
NOTE: Engine oil level verification
must be performed within 2 minutes
after engine stop.
4. Recheck oil level.
5. Repeat the above steps until oil
level reaches the dipstick between
the lower and upper marks. Do not
overfill.
6. Properly insert and tighten dipstick.
7. Install RH lateral service cover.
Engine Oil Change
1. Prior to changing the oil, ensure vehicle is on a level surface.
Adjusting the oil level on
______________
96
Page 99
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
NOTICE
The engine oil and the engine oil filter must be replaced at the
same time. The oil change should
be carried out with a warm engine.
CAUTION Engine oil can be
very hot.
2. Remove the following RH body pan-
els, refer to
BODY
subsection:
– Lateral service cover
–Sidepanel
3. Clean area around drain plug under
oil sump cover.
4. Place an appropriate drain pan under
oil sump cover.
5. Remove the drain plug and discard
the sealing washer and O-rings.
rmo2015-008-002_b
TYPICAL
1. Magnetic d rain plug
Replace engine oil filter. Refer to
GINE OIL FILTER REMOVAL
EN-
further in
this section.
11. Allow sufficient time for oil to completely drain from clutch cover.
12. Check and clean oil filter cavity for
dirt and contamination.
13. Clean the magnet on the magnetic
drain plug.
14. Using NEW sealing washers and
O-rings and install bothdrain plugs.
NOTICE
Never reuse the drain
plug sealing washers and O-rings.
Always replace it with a new one.
rmo2015-008-002_a
TYPICAL
1. Drain plug
6. Remove the dipstick.
7. Allow sufficient time for oil to completely drain.
8. Clean area around magnetic drain
plug in the clutch cover.
9. Place an appropriate drain pan under
theclutchcover.
10. Remove the magnetic oil drain
plug and discard the sealin
gring.
_______________
15. Tighten drain plugs as specified.
DRAIN PLUG (OIL SUMP COVER)
Sealing ring
O-rings
Tightening torque
MAGNETIC DRAIN PLUG (CLUTCH
COVER)
Sealing ring
Tightening torque
Reinstall engine oil filter. Refer to
GINE OIL FILTER INSTALLATIO
NEW
NEW
28 N•m ± 2 N•m
(21lbf•ft ± 1lbf•ft)
NEW
20 N•m ± 1 N•m
(15lbf•ft ± 1lbf•ft)
EN-
N
.
16. Pour following amount of the recommended oil into the oil ta
nk.
97
Page 100
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
OIL QUANTITIES
MODELQUANTITY
Engine oil
SE6
SM6
and engine
oil filter
replacement
Engine oil
and engine
oil filter
replacement
17. Check engine oil level, refer to
GINE OIL LEVEL VERIFICATION
5.6 L
(5.9 qt (U.S. liq.))
4.9 L
(5.2 qt (U.S. liq.))
EN-
in
this subsection.
NOTICE
Ensure oil pressure warning lamp goes out within 5 seconds
from engine start. If oil pressure
warninglampstaysONformore
than 5 seconds, STOP ENGINE,
add 500 ml (17 U.S. oz) of oil, then
restart engine and let engine idle for
10 minutes and recheck oil level.
18. Ensure engine oil filter cover, mag-
netic drain plug (clutch cover) and
drain plug (oil sump cover) are not
leaking.
19. Reinstall all removed body panels.
20. Dispose of used oil as per your lo-
cal environmental regulations.
Engine Oil Filter
Engine Oil Filter Removal
1. Refer to
removal of the required body panels.
2. Unscrew oil filter cover.
NOTE: Place a rag around the cover to
keep components clean from oil.
ENGINE OIL CHANGE
for
rmo2015-008-046_a
TYPICAL
1. Oil filter cover
3. Remove oil filter cover with O-rings.
Discard O-rings.
4. Remove oil filter.
5. Dispose filter as per your local environmental regulations.
Engine Oil Filter Installation
Installation is the reverse of the removal procedure. However, pay attention to the following.
1. Check and clean the oil inlet andoutlet orifices in crankcase for d irt and
contaminants.
2. Insert NEW engine oil filte r.
3. Install NEW O-rings on the oil filter
cover.
OIL FILTER COVER
O-rings
Tightening torque
NEW
25 N•m ± 3 N•m
(18lbf•ft ± 2lbf•ft)
To ease assembly and prevent displacement of the O-rings during installation, apply a film of oil on filter and
O-rings (using engine oil), refer to following illustration.
______________
98
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