2012 Can-Am Spyder RS and RT — First Look Review

2012 Can-Am Spyder RT Limited
2012 Can-Am Spyder RT Limited in Lava Bronze Metallic

Our soon-to-be-delivered September issue features a full test of the 2012 Can-Am Spyder RS-S, the sportiest of BRP’s three-wheeled roadsters. Equipped with a 106-horsepower (claimed) 998cc Rotax V-twin, a state-of-the-art Vehicle Stability System and an optional semi-automatic five-speed SE5 transmission, the Spyder is unlike anything else on the road. As our road test states, getting the most out of the no-lean Spyder requires you to “position your body forward and to the inside of curves, steer smoothly and adjust throttle inputs to keep all the VSS sensors happy, sort of like finessing a pinball machine just shy of tilt. It can be quite a challenging workout, and loads of fun.”

2012 Can-Am Spyder RS-S
2012 Can-Am Spyder RS-S in Can-Am Red / Satin Black

The 2012 Can-Am Spyder RS-S, which is distinguished from the base-model RS by special wheels, seat stitching, paint and graphics, gets a front suspension upgrade courtesy of Fox Racing Shox, with improved compression and rebound damping and a threaded preload adjuster. Its LCD display will be amber colored for better nighttime contrast, and it gets additional carbon-black color treatment to the handlebar, rider/passenger footpegs and front/rear suspension springs. The Spyder RS-S also comes in two new, eye-catching color schemes: Neutron Green Metallic / Satin Black and Can-Am Red / Satin Black. The Spyder RS gets the same amber LCD display and will be offered in a new Steel Metallic Black color (Pearl White Metallic returns).

2012 Can-Am Spyder RS-S
2012 Can-Am Spyder RS-S in Neutron Green Metallic / Satin Black

BRP’s touring-spec 2012 Can-Am Spyder RT, which features integrated saddlebags, a passenger backrest, touring seat, electrically adjustable tall windscreen and many other long-haul amenities, also gets a few updates. The multi-function dot matrix display gets amber coloration for better nighttime contrast. Four model packages are returning: the base RT, RT Audio & Convenience, RT-S and RT Limited. Except for the base model, all packages offer new color schemes. The Spyder RT-S gets exclusive Dark Mist Gray colored six-spoke front wheels, and the Spyder RT Limited gets additional chrome accents and an upgraded seat.

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Pricing and availability are TBD. For more information, visit Can-am.brp.com

Related Articles:

2010 Can-Am Spyder RT-S Road Test

2008 Can-Am Spyder RS Road Test

4 COMMENTS

  1. Dear Sir(s),
    Several of us have an interest in the Can-Am and we are attempting to find color brouchers / catalogs with information, options, pricing, local dealerships, etc.

    If you can be of assistance, please forward perhaps five (5)to me and I’ll distribute / mail them out if need be.

    Patrick Nelson
    4434 W, Cathy Circle
    Glendale, Az, 85308

    “Thank You”, in advance for your assistance.

    Sincerly a hopeful customer,

    Patrick Nelson

  2. I plan on purchasing a 2012 Can Am Spyder RT Limited SE-5. Several Can Am owners have warned me about the engine heat on the earlier models. I cannot find anything on-line regarding this subject. Can you help?

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