Roadster
Operators
Guide
Safety, Vehicle
and
Maintenance Information
TM
Includes
Learn how the Spyder roadster is different.
Read this operators guide and watch the safety video.
Complete a training course (if available), practice and become proficient with the controls.
Consult local laws - license requirements vary by location.
Keep this guide in the front storage compartment.
219 000 536
SPYDER
WARNING
GS
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
WARNING
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the state of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
®™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
© Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. and BRP US Inc. All rights reserved.
HOW TO US E THIS OPERATOR ’S GUIDE
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 (p.6)
– CONTROLS, INSTRUMENTS AND
BASIC PROCEDURES (p.9)
– SAFE OPERATING INSTRUC TI ONS
(p. 27)
– PRE-RIDE INSPECTION (p. 65).
Experienced motorcyclists should pay
special a ttention to WHAT’S DIFFER-
ENT ABOUT THE SPYDER R OADSTER (p.28).
In this Operator’s Guide, the word
motorcycle typically refers to a
two-wheeled motorcycle.
Keep this Operator’s Guide in the front
storage compartment so that you can
refer to it for things such as maintenance, troubleshooting and instructing
others.
Finding Safety Information
Read the entire GENERAL PRECAUTIONS ( p. 6) and SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS (p.27) sections to learn
how to reduce the risk of you, passengers or bystanders being hurt or k il led.
In addition, certain messages in other
sections are highlighted a s follows:
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
CAUTION Indicates a hazard
situation which , if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate
injury.
Driving Environment
This Operator’ s Guide w a s written i n
North America in a right-lane driving
environment. Please ada pt your application of these maneuvers to your
jurisdiction and rule s of the road.
Refer t o Other Sources of
Information
In additi on to reading this Operator’s
Guide, you should read t he Safety
Card on the vehicle (see a lso p. 59) and
watch the safety video.
If possible, take a training class
that is specifically designed for the
Spyder roadster. Check our website
at www.can-am.brp.com for more
information abo ut u pcoming training
classes availability. If you can’t take a
training class specifically designed for
the Spyder roadster, i t is a good idea
to take a motorcycle training course,
since some of the skills req uired a re
similar and informa tion about managing r isk on the road is taught and
similarly applies to riding your Spyder
roadster.
Acknowl edgment
BRP wishes to thank t he Motorcycle
Safety Founda tion (MSF) for giving permission to BRP to use som e of MSF’s
material related to street motorcycle
safety found in this Operator’s Guide.
The MSF is an internationally recognized not for profit foundation a nd is
supported by motorcycle manufacturers. It p rovides training, tools a nd
partnerships to the motorcycle safety community. Visit its website at
www.msf-usa.org.
NOTICE
which, if not followed, could severely damage vehicle compo nents or
other property.
Indicates an instruction
______________________
1
TABL E OF CON TENT S
HOW TO USE THIS OPERATOR’S GUIDE ........................................ 1
Know Before You Go............................................................. 1
Finding Safety Information ...................................................... 1
Driving Environment ............................................................. 1
Refer to Other Sources of Information ......................................... 1
Acknowledgment ................................................................ 1
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS.......................................................... 6
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Pois oning . ............................................ 6
Avoid Gasoline Fires andOther Hazards ....................................... 6
Avoid Burns from HotParts ..................................................... 6
Accessories and Modifications ................................................. 6
CONTROLS, INSTRUMENTS AND BASIC PROCEDURES
OPERATING DURING BREAK-IN ................................................. 10
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS ..................................................... 11
Primary Controls ................................................................ 11
Secondary Controls ............................................................. 14
Multifunction Gauge Cluster ................................................... 16
BASIC PROCEDURES .............................................................. 20
Starting and Stopping the Engine . ............................................. 20
Adjusting Mirrors................................................................ 21
Locking the Handle Bars........................................................ 21
Opening the Front Storage Compartment .................................... 21
Opening the Seat................................................................ 22
Fueling ........................................................................... 22
Operating in Reverse ........................................................... 23
Adjusting Suspension........................................................... 23
License Plate Installation ....................................................... 25
SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WHAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER ROADSTER ...................... 28
Stability .......................................................................... 28
Response to Road C onditions.. ................................................ 28
Brake Pedal ...................................................................... 28
Parking Brake.................................................................... 28
Steering .......................................................................... 28
Width............................................................................. 29
Reverse .......................................................................... 29
Driver’s License andLocal Laws............................................... 29
DRIVING AIDTECHNOLOGIES................................................... 30
Vehicle Stability System (VSS) . ................................................ 30
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) ........................................... 31
Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)................................................ 31
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2
TABLE O F CONTENTS
UNDERSTANDING RISK ON THE ROAD ........................................ 32
Type of Vehicle .................................................................. 32
Operator Skills and Judgment.................................................. 32
Rider Condition .................................................................. 32
Vehicle Condition................................................................ 33
Road and Weather Conditions .. ............................................... 33
RIDING GEAR ....................................................................... 34
Helmets.......................................................................... 34
Other Riding Gear ............................................................... 34
REQUIREDRIDINGSKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES ..................... 37
Choosing a Practice Area ....................................................... 37
Preparingto Ride ................................................................ 38
Riding Posture................................................................... 38
Practice Exercises .............................................................. 38
Developing Advanced RidingSkills ............................................ 45
STREET STRATEGIES.............................................................. 47
Plan Your Trip .................................................................... 47
Defensive Riding ................................................................ 47
Being Visible ..................................................................... 48
Lane Position .................................................................... 49
Common Riding Situations..................................................... 49
Road Conditions a nd Ha zards .. ................................................ 52
On-Road Emergencies . ........................................................ 53
Tire Failure ....................................................................... 53
CARRYING A PASSENGER OR CARGO ......................................... 54
WeightLimits.................................................................... 54
Operating with Extra Weight................................................... 54
Carrying a Passenger ........................................................... 54
Where to Store Cargo........................................................... 55
No Towing ....................................................................... 55
KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST ......................................................... 56
Questionnaire ................................................................... 56
Answers ......................................................................... 58
SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE ..................................... 59
Hang Tag ......................................................................... 59
Safety Card ...................................................................... 59
Labels ............................................................................ 60
REPORTINGSAFETY DEFECTS .................................................. 63
PRE-RIDE INSP ECTION
PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST.............................................................. 66
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3
TABLE O F CONTENTS
TRANSPORTING AND STORING
TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER ROADSTER .................................... 68
STORING THE SPYDER ROADSTER ............................................. 70
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCESCHEDULE ...................................................... 72
MAINTENANCEPROCEDURES .................................................. 76
ToolKit ........................................................................... 76
Body Panels ..................................................................... 76
Tires .............................................................................. 79
Drive Belt ........................................................................ 80
Engine Oil and Coolant.......................................................... 82
Brakes............................................................................ 85
Battery ........................................................................... 86
Clutch Fluid Level Verification.................................................. 87
Headlights Aiming .............................................................. 88
Vehicle Care ..................................................................... 89
ROAD SIDE REPAIRS
PROBLEMS .......................................................................... 92
Cannot Shift Into First Gear..................................................... 92
Lost Keys ........................................................................ 92
Flat Tire........................................................................... 92
Dead Battery..................................................................... 92
ElectricalAccessories Failure .................................................. 93
LightFailure...................................................................... 95
Engine Does Not Start ........................................................ 100
MESSAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER....................... 101
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION ...................................................... 104
Vehicle Identification Number. .. ............................................. 104
Engine Identification Number................................................ 104
EPA Compliance Label (USA) ................................................ 104
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................. 105
BRP LIMITED WARRANTY – USA AND CANADA: 2 008 CAN-AM™ SPYDER™
ROADSTER ........................................................................ 112
_______________________
4
WARRANTY
TABLE O F CONTENTS
BRP LIMITED WARRANTY OUTSIDE USA AND CANADA: 2008 CAN-AM
TM
SPYDERTMROADSTER .......................................................... 116
CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT ........... 121
PRIVACY OBLIGATION/DISCLAIMER ......................................... 122
CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP......................................... 123
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5
GENERAL PRECAU TIONS
Avoid Car bon Monoxide
Poisoning
All engi ne exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, a deadly gas. Breathing carbon m onoxide can cause headac hes ,
dizziness, drowsines s , nausea, confusion and eventually death.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that may be present
even if you do not see or smell any engine exhaust. Deadly levels of carbon
monoxide can collect rapidly, and y ou
can quickly be overcome and unable
to save yourself. Also, deadly levels of
carbon monoxide can ling er for hours
or day s in enclosed or poorly ventilated
areas. If y ou experience any s y m ptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning,
leave the area immediately, get fresh
air and seek medica l treatment.
To prevent serious injury or death from
carbon monoxide:
– Never run the vehicle in poorly v en-
tilated or partially enclosed areas
such as garages, carports or barns.
Even if you try to v entilate engi ne
exhaust with fans or ope n w indow s
and doors, carbon monoxide can
rapidly reach da ngerous levels.
– Never run the vehicle outdoors
where engine exhaust 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 awa y 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, anyone smo king 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.
– Wipeupanyspilledfuel.
– Never st a rt or operate the engine
with the fuel cap removed.
– Use only an approved red ga s oli ne
container to store fuel.
– Do not ca rry gasoline containers in
the front s tora ge com partm ent or
anywhere else on the vehicle.
Gasoline is poisonous and can cause
injury or death.
– Never s iphon gasoline by mouth.
– If you swallow gasoline, get any in
your eye or inhale gasoline vapor,
see your doc tor imm ediately.
If gasoline spills on you, wash with
soap and w ater and change your
clothes.
Avoid Burns from Hot Pa rts
The exhaust system and engine become hot during operation. Avoid contact during and shortly after op eration
to avoid burns.
Accessories and
Modific ati ons
Do not make unauthorized modifications, or use attachments or accessories tha t 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 i njuries,
and they can make the vehicle illegal
for use on the r oa d.
Unlike m ost motorcycles, the Spyder
roadster is equipped with a Vehicle Stability System (VSS), which is calibrated
for the vehicle’s normal configuration.
VSS may not function properly if the
vehicle is modified, such as changing
weight distribution, wheelbase, tires,
suspension or steering.
_______________________
6
See your authoriz ed Can-A m roadster
dealer for available a c ce ssories for
your vehicle.
GENE RA L PRECA UTIONS
______________________
7
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
_______________________
8
T
CONTROLS,
INSTRUMENTS
AND BASIC
PROCEDURES
______________________
9
OPERATING DURING BREAK-IN
A break-in period of 1 000 km ( 625 mi)
is required for the vehicle.
Duringthefirst300km(186mi),avoid
hard braking.
WARNING
New brakes and tires do not operate at their maximum efficiency
until they are worn in. Braking,
steering and VSS (p.30) performance may be reduced, so use
extra caution.
Brakes and tires tak e about 300 km
(186 mi) of riding with frequent
braking and steering to wear in.
For riding with infrequent braking
and steering, allow extra time to
wear in the brakes and tires.
During the first 1 000 km (625 mi ):
– Avoid full throttle acceleration.
– Avoid prolonged riding.
– If the cool ing fan opera tes continu-
ously during stop and go traffic, pul l
over and sh ut off the engine to let it
cool off or speed u p to let air cool off
the engine.
After the brea k-in period, y our vehicle
should be inspected by an authoriz ed
Can-Am roads t er dealer as per the
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (p.72).
NOTE: The break-in inspection is performed at the expens e of the vehicle
owner.
______________________
10
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
Many controls a re similar to the control s of a motorcycle, but some con trols are different. It i s important to know the location a nd operation of all c ontrols, and to develop and pract ice smooth and coordinated use of them. See REQUIRED RIDING
SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES (p.37).
Primary C ontrols
3
1
6
4
5
rmo2008-001-013_a
1) Handlebars
Grip the han dlebars with both ha nds .
Steer the handlebars in the direction
you w ant to go.
2) Throttle
The throttle is the right handgr
ip, and
it controls engine speed. To increase
engine speed, roll the throttle toward
you.
2
1
rmo2008-001-007_a
TO INCREA S E SPEED
_____________________
11
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
To decrease engi ne s peed, roll the
throttle away from you.
rmo2008-001-007_b
TO DECR EA SE SPEED
The throttle is spring loaded and should
return to idle when you release y our
grip.
3) Clutch Lever
The clutch lever is i n 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 a nd
eased out to engage power.
Refer to 2) LE ARNING THE FR IC TION
ZONE AN D BASIC HANDLIN G ( p. 38)
for detailed instructions.
Position Adjustment
4) Gearshift Lever
The gearshift lever is in front of the left
footrest.
The gear pattern is Reverse-1-Neutral2-3-4-5.
rmo2008-001-009_a
Lift up or press down fully to move s equentially from one gear to the next.
When the lever is releas ed, it returns
to center w here the mecha nism resets
for the next shift up or d own. Neutral
(N) is selected by eithe r a ha lf lift from
first gea r or a half press from se cond
gear. Refer to 8) SHIFTING (p.43) for
detailed instructions.
To shift into reverse, refer to SHIFTING
INTO REVERS E (p. 23) for detailed instructions.
The position of the clutch lever can be
adjusted as follows:
1. Hold the c lutch lever forward.
2. Turn the adjuster dial to the desired
position.
rmo2008-001-020_a
CLUTCH LEVER ADJUSTMENT
1. Clutch lever
2. Adjuster dial
5) Brake Pedal
The brake pedal is in front of the right
footrest. Press it dow n to ope rate.
This pedal brakes all three wheels.
rmo2008-001-008_a
1. Brake pedal
2. Footpeg
6) Parking Brake Pedal
The pa rking brake pedal is behind the
operator’s left footpeg. With the vehicle stopped, press it dow n firmly until it
______________________
12
locks to apply the parking brake. Firmly press the pedal down a second time
to release the parking brake.
rmo2008-001-079_a
1. Park in g b rak e p edal
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
rmo2008-001-080_a
1. Engaging/disengaging parking brake pedal
WARNING
Do not use the parking b rake to
slow or stop the vehicle; you could
lose control, spin, tip or roll over.
Warn passenger not to touch it
with their left foot.
Operate the parking brake p eda l only
while seated on the stopped vehicle.
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13
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
Secondary Controls
85
rmo2008-001-001_a
1
Ignition switch 6 Turn signal button
2 Engine start button
7
Horn button
3
9
4 26 7 1
3 Engine stop switch 8 Reverse interlock lever
4
Hazard warning switch 9 Headlights override button
5
Headlights switch
1) Ignition Switch
– seat opening mec ha nism to access:
• fuel tank cap
• fuses
• brake fl uid reservoirs
• battery terminals.
– front stora ge compartment opening
mechanism
– steering-lock mechanism.
rmo2008-001-002_a
IGNITION SWITCH
1. OFF
2. ON
3. Front storage compartment opening
4. Seat opening/Fuel tank access
5. Steering lock position
NOTICE
easily, do not force it. Pull i t out and
reinsert.
If the key does not turn
The ignition switch is located in the
center of the handlebars . It controls:
– engine ignition
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14
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
WARNING
If you turn the ignition switch to
OFF, it shuts off the engine and
all th e elec trical systems including the VSS (p.30), EBD (p.31) and
DPS (p. 31). If you do this while the
vehicle is movi ng, you could lose
control and crash.
NOTE: You should receive two keys
with your vehicle. Each key contains a computer chip spec ifically preprogrammed to start your vehicle.
Store the spare key in a safe place because you must have your spare key
to hav e another one made by an authorized C a n- A m roadster dealer.
2) Engine Start Button
The engine s tart button is near the right
handgrip.
3) Engine Stop Switch
beams w ill stay on as long as you hold
down the switch.
rmo2008-001-061_a
1. High beams
2. Low beams
3. Flash high beams
6) Tu rn Signal Button
The turn signal button is located near
the left handgrip. It turns off automatically after a normal turn, but you may
have to turn it off manually after a shallow turn or l an e chang e.
To turn the signal off, press the button
in.
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 e ngine anytime without removing your ha nd from the handlebar.
4) Hazard Warning Switch
The ha zard warning switch is near
the right handgrip. Push the button
to the left to turn on the hazard warning lights.
5) Headlights Switch
The switch is near the left handg
rip,
and is used to select high or low beam
for the headlight. The headlights automatically turn on when the i
gnition
switch is in the ON position.
To select high beams, pus
h the switch
to the front position. To select low
beams, push the sw itc h to the down
position.
To flash the high bea m s, push the
switch down, then re
lease it. The high
Turn signals w ill automatically turn off
after 30 seconds while the ve hicle is
moving.
7) Horn Button
The horn button is loca t ed near the left
handgrip.
8) Reverse Interlock Lever
The reverse interlock lever is located in
front of the left handgrip. Pull it toward
youwithyourrighthandtoallowshifting into reverse. Refer to OPERATING
IN REVERSE (p. 23) for detailed instructions.
WARNING
Do not use the reverse interlock
lever w hile riding forward. You
could lose control.
The hazard warning lights flash when
thevehicleisinreve
rse.
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15
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
9) Headlight Override
There is a headlight override button on
the front of the right handgrip. P us h
and hold the headlight overrid e button
to operate the high beam s . This but-
The button can be used to light up inside the front storage compartment.
The high bea m s will reflect on the
inside of compartment lid w hen it is
opened.
ton will light the high beams even if the
ignition switch is in the OFF position.
Multifunction Gauge Cluster
The multifunction gauge c lust er includes gauges (speedometer, tacho m eter, engine temperature, fuel level), indicator lamps and a user selectable digital display.
Description
rmo2008-001-050_a
1) Analog Speedometer
Measures vehicle speed in kilometers or miles per hour. To change units, refer to
SETTING METRIC/IMPERIAL UNITS (p.19).
2) MODE (M) Button
Pressing the MODE (M) button w ill scroll through the functions of the s ec onda ry
digital display.
3) SET (S) Button
Pressing the SET (S) button will scroll through the functions of the main digital display.
4) Analog Tachometer (RPM)
Measures engine revolutions per minute (RP M) . Multip ly by 1000 to obta in actual
revolutions.
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16
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
5) Indicator Lamps
Indicator lamps will inform you of various conditions or problems.
An indicator lamp can flash alone or in combination with another lamp.
The digital di splay provides a brief description for some of the conditions or prob-
lems indicated by lamps.
The foll owing table lists the indicator lamps during normal operation. For prob-
lematic conditions, refer to MESSAGES IN M ULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER
(p.1 01).
INDICATOR LAMP(S) MAIN DIGITAL
DISPLAY
All indicator
lamps
!
N
R
On
On
On
Flashing None
On None
Flashing None
Flashing None
None
PARK BRAKE Parking brake engaged.
None
DESCRIPTION
All indicator lamps are activated
when ignition switch is set to ON
and the engine is not started.
Gearbox in neutral position.
Gearbox in reverse position.
Headlights in the HIGH beam
position.
VSS intervention occurs.
Turn signal or hazard warning
lights flashing.
6) Main Digital Display
Displays several real time useful informations to the rider.
For display func tio n informations, refer to M AIN DISPLAY FUNCTIONS (p. 18).
Important information messages can also be displayed, refer to MESSAGES IN
MULTIFUNC TION GAU GE CLUST ER (p. 101).
7) Fuel Level
Bar gauge that continuo us ly indicates the amount of fuel left in the fuel tank.
8) Secondary Digital Display
Displays several real time useful information s to the rider. For display function informations, refer to SECONDARY D ISPLAY FUNCTI ONS (p. 18).
9) Gearbox Pos iti ons
Displays the selected gearbox position.
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17
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
The gearbox positions are: R (reverse) , 1, N (neutral), 2, 3, 4, 5.
10) Engine Temp erature
Bar gauge that contin uous ly indicates the engine coolant temperature.
11) Digital Speedometer
In addition of the analo g type speedom eter, vehicle s peed can also be indicated via
this display.
Speed can be displayed in kilometers (Km/h) or miles (MPH) per hour. To change
units, refer to SETTING METRIC/IMPERIAL UNITS (p.19).
Startup and Shutdown
Any time the ignition switch is set to O N after hav ing been in the OFF position for
five minutes or more, the main digital di s play will scroll the following message:
– BEFORE OPERATING READ THE SAFETY CARD ABOVE THEN PRESS _M_
BUTTON.
NOTE: Acknow ledge this message to a llow engine starting.
Digital Display Information
WARNING
Do not adjust the display while riding. You could lose control.
Main Display Functions
Pressing the SET (S) button will scroll through the different functions.
FUNCTION SEQUENCE INFORMATION DISPLAYED
Outside temperature XX C° (Celsius)
XX F° (Fahrenheit)
Tachometer (Revolutions per minutes) XXXX RPM
Secondary Display Functi ons
Pressing the MODE ( M) button will scroll through the different functions.
FUNCTION SEQUENCE INFORMATION DISPLAYED
Clock
Cumulative distance odometer
Trip distance – odometer A (TRIP A) XXXXX.X Km or mi
XX:XX ( 24:00 time base)
XX:XX A or P (12:00 AM/PM time base)
XXXXX.X Km or mi
Trip distance – odometer B (TRIP B) XXXXX.X Km or mi
Trip time chronometer (HrTRIP) XXXXX.X
Engine time chronometer (Hr) XXXXX.X
To reset any trip functions, push and hold the M ODE (M) button for three seconds .
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18
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
Display Settings
Setting Metric/Imperial Units
1. Push and hold SET (S) button for three seconds.
2. Main digital displays scrolling message: PUSH _M_ TO SELECT KM, _S_ TO
SELECT MI
3. Push MODE (M) button to s elect metric units or SET (S) button to s elect impe-
rial units.
Setting Clock
1. Press MODE (M) button to select clock display.
2. Push and hold MODE (M) button for three seconds.
3. Press MODE (M) button to s elect 12:00 AM PM or 24:00 time base.
4. If 12:00 AM PM time base selected, A or P flashes.
press MODE (M) button to select A (A M) or P (PM).
5. Press SET (S) button to change hour.
6. Press MODE (M) button to switch to minute (minute flashes).
7. Press SET (S) button to change minute.
8. Press MODE (M ) button.
Setting Language
For display language s etting, refer to an authorized Can-Am roa dst er dealer.
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19
BASIC PROCEDURES
Starting and Stopping the
Engine
Starting the Engine
WARNING
Exhaust gas contains poisonous
carbon monoxi de that can rapidly
accumulate in anenclosedor poorly ventilated area. If inhaled, it can
cause serious injury or death.
Only run the engine in an unenclosed, well ventilated area. See
AVOID CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING (p. 6).
1. Push down and hold the brake pedal.
2. Turn the key to ON.
3. Watch the m ultifunction gauge
cluster. If any indicator lights identify a problem, consult PROBLEMS
(p. 92) be fore ridi ng. The oil light
should be on because the engine
has not been started. Pay attention
to any scrolling messages on the
display.
4. Refer to the Safety Card as needed
to prepare yourself, your pa ss enger and the vehicle, then press the
MODE (M) button to e nable the
starter.
5. Put the engine stop switch in the
RUN/ON position.
6. Pull in and hold the clutch lever
(clutch must be squeezed before
the starter will operate).
7. Shift into NEUTRAL. Check the
multifunction gauge c luster to be
sure you are in neutral.
8. Press and h old the engine start button until the engine s t a rts. Do not
hold the start b utton for more than
15 seconds . If it does not start,
release the button and wait 30 seconds to let the starter cool down
before trying again.
NOTICE
while sta rting the engine.
9. Check the display for problems and
to ensure that the oil light turns off.
10.R elease the parking brake. Make
sure the parking brake indicator on
the multifunction gauge cluster is
off.
NOTICE
fully released before operating the
vehicle, brake pads will drag while
you are moving. This can damage
the b rake system.
Stopping the Engine and Parking
1. Shift the transmission into first
gear.
2. Movetheenginestopswitchto
OFF.
3. Engage the pa r k ing brake. The
brake l oc ks in the depres se d position, and a scr oll ing messag e PARK
BRAKE will appear on the display.
4. Turn the key to OFF.
5. Before dismounting, check that the
parking brake is fully enga ged by
holding the clutch lever in and rocking the vehicle back and forth. As
the brake pads wear, you may need
to push the parking brake lever farther to engage the brak e.
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 re ach of the br ak e
pedal in case the vehicle starts to
roll.
To move the vehicle a sho rt distance
without turning on t he engine :
1. While seated on the vehicle, push
down and hold the brake pedal.
Do not apply throttle
If the parking brake is not
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20
2. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
3. Disengage the parking brake.
4. Dismount on the right side of the
vehicle, keeping your foot on the
brake pedal.
5. Push the vehicle, using the bra ke a s
needed.
CAUTION Only push from the
right-hand side, so you can reach the
brake p edal. 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 veh icle and park as
specified above.
Adjusting Mirrors
Press the mirror at the points shown
below to adjust its position in the four
directions.
BASIC PROCEDURES
rmo2008-001-074_a
KEY POS ITION TO LOCK HANDLE BARS
1. Turn key 1/4 t urn
Opening the Front Storage
Compa rtment
1. Insert key in ignition switch.
2. Push and turn the key 1/4 turn to
the left to the front storage compartment position and hold while
lifting cover.
rmo2008-001-081_a
MIRROR ADJUSTMENT POINTS
Locking the Handle Bars
Tolockthevehiclebyblockingthe
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 to the left to
the steering lock position and remove.
rmo2008-001-070_a
KEY POSITION TO OPEN FRONT STORAGE
COM PARTMENT
1. Push key
2. Turn key 1/4 t urn
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21
BASIC PROCEDURES
Fueling
Fuel Recommendation
Use unleaded gasoline or oxy genated fuel containin g no more than 10%
ethanol or methanol or both. The gasoline used must have the following min-
imum octane number:
MINIMUM OCTANE NUM BER
rmo2008-001-010
FRONT STORAGE COM PARTMENT
Opening the Seat
1. Insert key in ignition switch.
2. Push and turn the key 1/4 turn to
the right to the seat opening position and hol d while lifting seat.
rmo2008-001-071_a
KEYPOSITIONTOOPENSEAT
1. Push key
2. Turn key 1/4 t urn
NOTICE
the maximum opening angle or it
may break.
Do not force the seat past
Inside North America 87 ((R+M)/2)
Outside North America 92 RON
NOTICE
Other fuel can degrade
vehicle performance and damage
critical p arts in the fuel system and
engine.
WARNING
Do not carry gasoline containers
in the front storage compartment
or anywh ere else on the vehicle.
Gasoline may spill and ignite, particularly in a crash.
Refueling Procedure
WARNING
Gasoline is extremely flammable
and highly ex plos i ve. Follow the
refueling procedure to reduce
the risk of fi re or explosion. See
AVOID GASOLINE FIRES AND
OTHER HAZARDS (p.6).
To refuel the vehicle:
1. Park outdoors in a well ventilated
area away from flames, sparks,
anyone smoking and other sources
of ignition.
rmo2008-001-011_a
1. Maximum opening of seat
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22
2. Stop the engine.
3. Unlatch and lift seat (p.22) . The fu-
el cap is loca ted on the left side.
4. Slowly rotate cap counterclock-
wise and remove it.
BASIC PROCEDURES
Operating in Reverse
1. Check that the area behind you is
clear, and continue to look backwards while you ease out the
clutch. Slow and stop using clutch
and brake, just like when operating
normally.
rmo2008-001-016
FUELCAPONLEFTSIDEUNDERNEATH
SEAT
5. Fill the tank until the fuel noz zle a utomatically clicks and shuts off.
Do not try to top off the fuel tank.
Leave some room for the f uel to expand with temperature c ha nges .
6. Wipe up any spilled fuel. If fuel
spills on you, wash with soap and
water and change your c lothes.
7. Put cap on and fully tighten clockwise until you hear a click. Never
start or operate the eng ine with the
fuel cap removed.
8. Close seat.
Operating in Reverse
See REVERSE (p.29) for more informa-
tion about safe operation in reverse.
2. Keep your speed low and do not
back up for long distances.
Shifting Out of Revers e
To shi f t out of reverse, hold in the
clutch and lift the shift lever once to
shift into first. You do not ne ed to use
the reverse interlock lever – it res ets
automatically.
Adjusting Sus pension
The front an d rear suspension can be
adjusted according to the load on the
vehicle or the type of rid e you want to
experience.
Lower spring l oa d provides a softer
ride and is preferred for light loads and
smooth roads. Higher spring load provides a firmer r ide and is recommended for heavy loads, rough road conditions and more challenging riding.
Shifting Into Re verse
1. With engine running, shift into first
gear.
2. Hold in the clutch lever.
3. With y our right hand, pull the reverse interlock lever (ma rked R )
towards you and hold it.
4. Step dow n on the shift lever one
stroke.
5. Release the reverse interlock lever
and check that the letter R flashes
on the m ultifunction ga uge cluster
and the hazard w arning lights flash.
Front Suspension
WARNING
Adjust both springs to the same
load. Uneven adjustment c an
cause poor handling, loss of stability and loss of control.
1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Engage the parking brake.
3. Adjust the spring preload by turning
the cam with the adjusting w renc h
(stored in the tool kit).
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23
BASIC PROCEDURES
3. Install a jack under the rear portion
of frame.
rmr2008-029-002
FRONT SUSPENSION ADJUSTING WRENCH
rmr2008-029-003
FRONT SUSPENSION CAM ADJUSTMENT
rmr2008-030-004_c
A. Smooth adjustment (position 1 )
B. Hard adjustment (position 5)
RECOMMENDED FRONT SHOCK
ADJUSTMENT
NOTICE
Do not jack the vehicle un-
der the rear shock.
4. Lift the rear of vehicle until the
shock absorber is fully extended.
5. Using XP-S lube (P/N 293 600 016)
or a n equivalent product, lubricate
all around the shock absorber cam.
Lubricate especially near the protrusions.
rmr2008-030-002_a
1. Cam
2. Protrusion
6. With a ratchet and an extens ion,
turn the cam adjuster to change the
position of the shock absorber cam.
LOAD CAM POSITION
68 kg (150 lb) rider 1, 2
91 kg (200 lb) rider 3
68 kg (150 lb) rider
with cargo
91 kg (200 lb) rider
with cargo
Rider with
passenger and
cargo
Rear Suspension
1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Block the front wheels.
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24
3
rmr2008-030-003_a
4
1. Cam adjuster
2. Ratchet with extension
5
BASIC PROCEDURES
rmr2008-030-004_c
A. Smooth adjustment (position 1 )
B. Hard adjustment (position 7)
NOTE: Never adjust the rea r s hoc k
absorber cam from pos ition 7 directly
to position 1 as it will restrain access
to adjustm ent hol es and prevent you
adjusting the suspension.
rmr2008-030-004_d.eps
AVOID ADJUSTING CAM POSITION 7
DIRECTLY TO POSITION 1
A. Po sition 1
B. Po sition 7
rmo2008-002-009
DAMPING PAD (P/N 293 740 028)
Refer to the following procedure for
proper installation.
1. Remove existing pl ate on vehicle (if
applicable).
2. Position n ew damping pa ds over
existing pads on vehicle plate support.
RECOMMENDED REAR SHOCK
ADJUSTMENT
LOAD CAM POSITION
68 kg (150 lb) rider 1, 2
91 kg (200 lb) rider 3 – 5
Rider with
passenger
6, 7
License Plate Installation
When a license plate needs t
stalled or replaced, ensure to install
two new damping pads (P/N 293 740
028) on plate to be ins
talled.
obein-
rmo2008-002-010_a
TYPICAL
1. Existing pads on plate support
3. Peal off backing of new damping
pads.
rmo2008-002-009_a
TYPICAL
1. backing
4. Secure upper portion of lic ens e
plate using existing hardware on
vehicle plate support.
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25
BASIC PROCEDURES
rmo2008-002-010_b
TYPICAL
1. Existin g h ardware
5. Squeeze l icens e plate and support
together at each low er cor ner.
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26
T
SAFE OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
_________
SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
________
27
WHAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER
ROADSTER
The Spyder roadster is a different ty pe
of road vehicle. This section will help
you understand s om e of the vehicle’s
distinctive features and opera ting characteristics.
Stability
The three-wheeled “Y” config uration
provides greater low-speed stability than a motorcycle. However, it is
not as stable as a four-wheele d vehicle such as an a utom obile. Driving
aid technologies, like the electronic
Vehicle Stabil ity System ( VS S) , help
maintain stability during maneuvers,
but you can still lose control, tip or roll
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 impa ct s.
vehicles behind you that ma y not be
able to stop as quickly.
Antilock Braking S ys tem (ABS)
The vehicle is equipped with a n Antilock Braking System (ABS) as part of
the Vehicle Stability System (VSS). For
hard braking, press and hold the brake
pedal. A B S will prevent wheels from
locking.
Parking Bra ke
The parking brake mechanically brakes
the rear wheel only, and it locks in place
when engaged. It is no t c ontrolled by
driving aid technol ogies (e.g., AB S,
Electronic Br ake Distribution). Do not
useittosloworstopthevehicle–you
could lose control, spin, tip or roll over.
Warn p assengers no t to touch it with
their left f oot.
Response to Road
Conditio ns
The Spyde r roadster responds differently than other vehicles to certain
road conditions.
– Do not ride off-road or o n ice or
snow.
– Avoid puddles and running w ater.
The vehicle hydroplanes more easily th an a car. If you must go through
water, s low down.
– Slow down on gravel, dirt or sand
covered roads.
See ROAD CONDITIONS AND HAZ-
ARDS (p. 52).
Brake Pedal
One pedal brakes a ll three wheels.
There is no hand-opera t ed brak e, and
there is no way to brake front and rear
wheels separately. The Spyder roadster is b etter able to brake and steer at
thesametimethanamotorcycle. The
vehicle can stop quickly – be aware of
Steering
Direct Steering
To s teer your Spyder roadster, always
steer in the direction of the turn.
Motorcyclists – D o not countersteer
as i t is done on a motorcycle. Unl ike
a motorcycle, your Spyder roadster
cannot lean while turning. If you are a
motorcyclist, you mu st relearn how to
turn. Practice steering in the direction
of the turn at all speeds until you are
proficient.
Sideways Force s in Turns
Unlike a motorcycle, the Spyder roadster does not lea n in turns. You will
feel sideways forces pushing you to
the outside of the turn. To mai ntain
balance, the operator and passenger
must hold on with both hands an d keep
both feet firmly planted on the footpegs. In hard turns, it may h elp to lean
your upper body forward and toward
the inside of the turn.
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28
SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTION S
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