Model Overview: 2014 Can-Am Spyder RS-S SM5 Review and Specs

Not into two wheels anymore? Take a look at this review of the Can-Am Spyder.

‘Attitude’ is the word that comes to mind when the 2014 Can-Am Spyder RS-S SM5 takes the spotlight. Donning carbon black accents and a 998cc Rotax® V-twin engine, the Can-Am Spyder is anything but child’s play.

But before we delve any further into this review, it’s important to note that the Spyder isn’t altogether a performance vehicle. Don’t get me wrong, this tricycle is not to be trifled with, but if we’re talking pure horsepower and agility, motorcycles take the cake all day.

Still, a machine like the Spyder boasts many other admirable features. Let’s take a deeper look at this three-wheeled thrill ride.    

Review of the 2014 Can-Am Spyder RS-S SM5

For nearly 50 years, Can-Am has permeated the world of off-roading with several top-of-the-line ATVs and side-by-side vehicles. This time, however, it’s the 2014 Can-Am Spyder that’s commanding our full attention. Classified as a ‘reverse tricycle roadster,’ the Spyder weighs in at just over 800 pounds and, like it’s hefty curb weight, has gobs of curb appeal, too: blacked-out handlebars, foot pegs, rear sprockets and springs, a sporty windshield, two-toned seat stitching, and Metallic 15-inch rims—there’s no doubt this decked out trike turns heads.

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Video Source: Los Angeles Times YouTube

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Aside from its comely looks, the Spyder performs decently on the highway, managing up to 100 hp and 30 MPGs; but, if you ride a motorcycle, you’ll want to check your expectations before hopping onto one of these guys. As one Can-Am Spyder review by the Los Angeles Times pointed out, tricycles don’t lean or flow into turns as motorcycles do; they ride more like a car.

Nevertheless, what the Spyder offers that its two-wheeled cousin doesn’t is a moderate learning curve. Trikes are incredibly user-friendly, so much so that it’s been suggested that if you know how to drive a car then you should have no problem learning how to operate the 2014 Can-Am Spyder, especially when you take into account the Vehicle Stability System that Can-Am incorporated, which integrates ABS, traction control and stability control, so you can ride confidently regardless of experience level.

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Video Source: autoMediaVideo YouTube

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On top of that, the Spyder also boasts conveniences like cruise control, sport-tuned handling, a 5-speed manual transmission with reverse, digital gauges, extremely comfortable seating, and a modern anti-theft system powered by D.E.S.S.TM Keys. Not to mention, you can store up to two motorcycle helmets and other miscellaneous items inside its 12-gallon lockable front storage compartment.

One thing’s for sure: the 2014 Can-Am Spyder RS-S is one of the most unique powersports vehicles you’ll find on the road. Delivering crisp acceleration and satisfactory torque, this three-wheeled machine is sure to get the blood pumping on even the most humdrum of days.

Can-Am Spyder Specs

• Engine Type Rotax® V-twin, liquid-cooled with EFI and electronic throttle control
• Displacement 998cc
• Bore & Stroke 3.82 in. x 2.68 in.
• Power 100 hp @ 7500 RPM
• Torque 80 lb-ft. @ 5000 RPM
• Transmission 5-speed manual with reverse
  
  
• Front Suspension Double A-arm with anti-roll bar
• Front Shocks SACHS† shocks / 5.9 in.
• Rear Suspension Swing arm
• Rear Shocks SACHS† monoshock / 6.0 in.
  
  
• Electronic Brake Foot-operated, hydraulic 3-wheel brake
• Distribution System
  
  
• Front Brakes 270 mm discs with Brembo† 4-piston fixed calipers
• Rear Brake 270 mm disc with Brembo single-piston floating caliper
  
  
• Front Tires 165 / 55 R15
• Rear Tire 225 / 50 R15
• Aluminum Front 6 twin-spoke, 15.0 in. x 5.0 in.
• Aluminum Rear 15.0 in. x 7.0 in.
  
  
• L x W x H 105 x 59.3 x 45.1 in.
• Wheelbase 67.5 in.
• Seat Height 29 in.
• Ground Clearance 4.5 in.
  
  
• Dry Weight 798 lb
• Storage Capacity 12 gal
• Max. Vehicle Load 440 lb
• Fuel Capacity 6.6 gal

What the 2014 Can-Am Spyder is…

• Rogue, sophisticated, and sporty.
• Fuel-efficient, user-friendly, and reasonably modern.
• A keen addition to Batman’s toy collection.

What it isn’t…

• Nimble, quick, and fluid like a motorcycle.
• Modest, so if you aren’t the audacious type, this is not the vehicle for you.
• A race horse, so don’t get throttle happy with it.

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