Believe it or not, there are a number of ways to get back out on the open road. One of the latest is the Can-Am Spyder. It is a three wheeled bike but it is not your average trike. The Spyder is a reverse trike. It has two wheels in the front and one in the back. If it reminds you of a jet-ski or a snowmobile, it's because the company that produces them, Bombardier, is also a leading manufacturer of snowmobiles, ATVs, and Sea Doo jet-skis.
It has all of the options that someone with mobility problems would need. You have the choice of foot shift or electric push-button shifting. It has reverse for those that can't get off of the bike and push it if you get into a tight spot. Many people have problems with trikes because they have a tendency to be unstable and seem easy to flip when turning at faster speeds. But the folks at Can-Am took care of that problem too. There is a traction control system, vehicle stability system, and stability control system. These systems work together with the anti-lock braking system to keep all three tires safely on the asphalt. It also has power steering to make turns a little easier since you don't lean this bike like you would your normal two-wheeler.
/Okay...so there is plenty of safety features, where's all the fun stuff? Well Can-Am has managed to keep the fun in the bike while making it safe at the same time. It has a 1000cc engine pushing plenty of speed and torque to the back tire. So much torque that it will even manage a pretty decent burnout despite the traction control system. The Spyder may not lean into corners or split lanes but it does allow the majority of the sensations of riding a motorcycle. The wind is still a factor, the unobstructed view of the environment you are riding through is still there, and, of course, direct contact with the outside elements like the sound of the road humming under the tires and smells of coffee shops, restaurants or the sweet ocean air still reach the senses. And that is what riding is all about isn't it? Being out there, exposed to the elements and soaking in all the Mother Nature can throw our way?
The Spyder will be in the United States in the Fall of 2007 at limited dealerships. The price tag is a little steep, but when you consider all of the technology that is found on this bike compared to your cheaper options, it's really a pretty sweet deal at around $15,000. Now we just have to find somewhere to haul our chairs!
Information and photos used were from http://www.motorcycle-usa.com
