HOW TO USE THIS OPERATOR'S GUIDE

Congratulations on your purchase of a NOTICE Indicates an instruction

new CAN-AM™ Roadster. It is backed which, if not followed, could se-
by the Bombardier Recreational verely damage vehicle components
Products Inc. (BRP) warranty and a or other property.
network of authorized dealers ready
to provide the parts, service or acces- About this Operator's
sories you may require. Guide
Your dealer is committed to your sat- This Operator's Guide was written in
isfaction. He has taken training to per- North America in a right-lane driving
form the initial set-up and inspection of environment. Please adapt your ap-
your roadster before you took posses- plication of these maneuvers to your
sion. jurisdiction and rules of the road.
At delivery, you were informed of the In this Operator's Guide, the word
warranty coverage and signed the motorcycle typically refers to a
PREDELIVERY CHECK LIST to ensure two-wheeled motorcycle.
your new vehicle was prepared to your
entire satisfaction. This Operator's Guide is for both the
SM5 (manual transmission) and the
Know Before you Go SE5 (semi-automatic transmission)
Spyder roadster models. All text ap-
For your safety and the safety of pas- plies to both except for those items
sengers and bystanders, read the fol- specified as "SM5 Model" or "SE5
lowing sections before you operate Model".
the Spyder roadster:
Keep this Operator's Guide in the front
– GENERAL PRECAUTIONS storage compartment so that you can
– VEHICLE INFORMATION refer to it for things such as mainte-
– SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS nance, road side repairs and instruct-
– PRE-RIDE INSPECTION. ing others.
Experienced motorcyclists should pay If you want to view and/or print an ex-
special attention to the WHAT'S DIF- tra copy of your Operator's Guide, sim-
FERENT ABOUT THE SYPDER ROAD- ply visit the following website www.
STER section. operatorsguide.brp.com.
The informations contained in this doc-
Safety Messages ument are correct at the time of publi-
The types of safety messages, what cation. BRP, however, maintains a pol-
they look like and how they are used in icy of continuous improvement of its
this guide are explained as follows: products without imposing upon itself
any obligation to install them on prod-
ucts previously manufactured. Due
WARNING to late changes, some differences be-
Indicates a potential hazard, if not tween the manufactured product and
avoided, could result in serious in- the descriptions and/or specifications
jury or death. in this guide may occur. BRP reserves
the right at any time to discontinue or
change specifications, designs, fea-
CAUTION Indicates a hazard tures, models or equipment without
situation which, if not avoided, incurring any obligation upon itself.
could result in minor or moderate
injury. This Operator's Guide and the SAFETY
DVD should remain with the vehicle
when it's sold.

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HOW TO USE THIS OPERATOR'S GUIDE

Refer to Other Sources of

Information
In addition to reading this Operator's
Guide, you should read the Safety Card
on the vehicle (see also the SAFETY
CARD section) and watch the SAFETY
DVD.
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 designed
for the Spyder roadster, it is a good idea
to take a motorcycle training course,
since some of the skills required are
similar and information about man-
aging risk on the road is taught and
similarly applies to riding your Spyder
roadster.

Acknowledgment
BRP wishes to thank the Motorcycle
Safety Foundation (MSF) for giving per-
mission to BRP to use some of MSF's
material related to street motorcycle
safety found in this Operator's Guide.
The MSF is an internationally recog-
nized not for profit foundation and
is supported by motorcycle manu-
facturers. It provides training, tools
and partnerships to the motorcycle
safety community. Visit its website at
www.msf-usa.org.

2 _______________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HOW TO USE THIS OPERATOR'S GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Know Before you Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Safety Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About this Operator's Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Refer to Other Sources of Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Acknowledgment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Avoid Gasoline Fires and Other Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Avoid Burns from Hot Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Accessories and Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

VEHICLE INFORMATION

CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Primary Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Secondary Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Multifunction Gauge Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
BASIC PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
License Plate Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Adjusting Mirrors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Locking the Handlebar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Opening the Front Storage Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Opening the Seat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Starting and Stopping the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Operating in Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Operating During Break-In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Adjusting Suspension. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER ROADSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Response to Road Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Brake Pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Width. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Driver's License and Local Laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
DRIVING AID TECHNOLOGIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Vehicle Stability System (VSS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Dynamic Power Steering (DPS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

UNDERSTANDING RISK ON THE ROAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Type of Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Operator Skills and Judgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Rider Condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Vehicle Condition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Road and Weather Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
RIDING GEAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Helmets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Other Riding Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Choosing a Practice Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Preparing to Ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Riding Posture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Practice Exercises (SM5 Model) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Practice Exercises (SE5 Model). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Developing Advanced Riding Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
STREET STRATEGIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Plan your Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Defensive Riding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Being Visible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Lane Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Common Riding Situations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Road Conditions and Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
On-Road Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Tire Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
CARRYING A PASSENGER OR CARGO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Weight Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Operating with Extra Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Carrying a Passenger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Where to Store Cargo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
No Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Questionnaire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Answers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Hang Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Safety Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Safety Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

PRE-RIDE INSPECTION

PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TRANSPORTING AND STORING

TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER ROADSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

STORING THE SPYDER ROADSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
BREAK-IN INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Tool Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Body Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Drive Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Engine Oil Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
HCM Oil Filter (SE5 Model). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Brakes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Clutch Fluid (SM5 Model). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Headlights Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

ROAD SIDE REPAIRS

PROBLEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Will not Shift into First Gear (SM5 Model). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Will not Shift into Neutral (SE5 Model) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Will not Shift (SE5 Model) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Lost Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Flat Tire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Dead Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Electrical Accessories Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Light Failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Engine will not Start. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
MESSAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Vehicle Identification Number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Engine Identification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
EPA Compliance Label (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

_______________ 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

WARRANTY

BRP LIMITED WARRANTY — USA AND CANADA: 2012 Can-Am® SPYDER®

ROADSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
BRP LIMITED WARRANTY OUTSIDE USA AND CANADA: 2012 Can-Am™
SPYDERTM ROADSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

CUSTOMER INFORMATION

PRIVACY INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

6 _______________
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid Carbon Monoxide – Never top off the fuel tank. Leave
Poisoning some room for the fuel to expand
with temperature changes.
All engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, a deadly gas. Breathing car- – Wipe up any spilled fuel.
bon monoxide can cause headaches, – Never start or operate the engine
dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, confu- with the fuel cap removed.
sion and eventually death. – Use only an approved red gasoline
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odor- container to store fuel.
less, tasteless gas that may be present – Do not carry gasoline containers in
even if you do not see or smell any en- the front storage compartment or
gine exhaust. Deadly levels of carbon anywhere else on the vehicle.
monoxide can collect rapidly, and you Gasoline is poisonous and can cause
can quickly be overcome and unable injury or death.
to save yourself. Also, deadly levels of – Never siphon gasoline by mouth.
carbon monoxide can linger for hours
or days in enclosed or poorly ventilated – If you swallow gasoline, get any in
areas. If you experience any symp- your eye or inhale gasoline vapor,
toms of carbon monoxide poisoning, see your doctor immediately.
leave the area immediately, get fresh If gasoline spills on you, wash with
air and seek medical treatment. soap and water and change your
To prevent serious injury or death from clothes.
carbon monoxide:
– Never run the vehicle in poorly ven- Avoid Burns from Hot Parts
tilated or partially enclosed areas The exhaust system and engine be-
such as garages, carports or barns. come hot during operation. Avoid con-
Even if you try to ventilate engine tact during and shortly after operation
exhaust with fans or open windows to avoid burns.
and doors, carbon monoxide can
rapidly reach dangerous levels. Accessories and
– Never run the vehicle outdoors Modifications
where engine exhaust can be drawn
into a building through openings Do not make unauthorized modifica-
such as windows and doors. tions, or use attachments or acces-
sories that are not approved by BRP.
Since these changes have not been
Avoid Gasoline Fires and tested by BRP, they may increase the
Other Hazards risk of crashes on the road or injuries,
Gasoline is extremely flammable and and they can make the vehicle illegal
highly explosive. Fuel vapors can for use on the road.
spread and be ignited by a spark or Unlike most motorcycles, the Spyder
flame many feet away from the en- roadster is equipped with a Vehicle Sta-
gine. To reduce the risk of fire or explo- bility System (VSS), which is calibrated
sion, follow these instructions: for the vehicle normal configuration.
– Refuel outdoors in a well ventilated VSS may not function properly if the
area away from flames, sparks, any- vehicle is modified, such as changing
one smoking and other sources of weight distribution, wheelbase, tires,
ignition. suspension or steering.
– Never add fuel with engine running. See your authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer for available accessories for
your vehicle.

_______________ 7
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS

This page is
intentionally blank

8 _______________
 VEHICLE
INFORMATION

_______________ 9
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS
Many controls are similar to the controls of a motorcycle, but some controls are dif-
ferent. It is important to know the location and operation of all controls, and to de-
velop and practice smooth and coordinated use of them. See the REQUIRED RID-
ING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES.

Primary Controls

3
1
7 4

6
2 1
rmo2008-001-013_c

SM5 MODEL

1 Handlebar
2 Throttle
3 Clutch Lever
4 Gearshift Lever
6 Brake Pedal
7 Parking Brake Pedal

10 ______________
 CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

1
7 5

6
2 1
rmo2009-001-002_a

SE5 MODEL

1 Handlebar
2 Throttle
5 Gearshift Selector
6 Brake Pedal
7 Parking Brake Pedal

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, and it
controls engine speed. To increase en- rmo2008-001-007_a
gine speed, roll the throttle as shown TO INCREASE SPEED
(lower your wrist).
To decrease engine speed, roll the
throttle as shown (raise your wrist).

_______________ 11
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

4) Gearshift Lever (SM5 Model)

The gearshift lever is in front of the left
footrest.
The gear pattern is Reverse-1-
Neutral-2-3-4-5.

rmo2008-001-007_b

TO DECREASE SPEED

The throttle is spring loaded and should

return to idle when you release your
grip.

3) Clutch Lever (SM5 Model)

The clutch lever is in front of the left rmo2008-001-009_a
handgrip. The clutch controls the
transmission of power from the en- Lift up or press down fully to move se-
gine to the rear wheel. The lever is quentially from one gear to the next.
squeezed in to disengage power and When the lever is released, it returns
eased out to engage power. to center where the mechanism resets
Refer to LEARNING THE FRICTION for the next shift up or down. Neutral
ZONE AND BASIC HANDLING sub- (N) is selected by either a half lift from
section for detailed instructions. first gear or a half press from second
gear. Refer to the SHIFTING subsec-
Clutch Lever Position Adjustment tion for detailed instructions.
The distance between the clutch lever To shift into reverse, refer to the OPER-
and handgrip can be adjusted. Adjust ATING IN REVERSE subsection for de-
clutch lever position as follows: tailed instructions.
1. Hold the clutch lever forward. 5) Gearshift Selector (SE5 Model)
2. Turn the adjuster dial to the desired The gearshift selector is below the left
position. handgrip.

rmo2008-004-401_a

1. Gearshift selector
rmo2008-001-020_a
Press selector forward to upshift. Pull
CLUTCH LEVER ADJUSTMENT
1. Clutch lever
selector toward you to downshift.
2. Adjuster dial

12 ______________
 CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

rmo2008-001-008_a

1. Brake pedal
2. Footpeg
rmo2008-004-400_a
7) Parking Brake Pedal
1. Upshift
2. Downshift The parking brake pedal is behind the
operator's left footpeg.
This shifts sequentially from one gear
to the next. Release the selector after
shifting.
To shift through multiple gears, use the
selector multiple times.
To shift into neutral from first gear or
reverse, briefly press or pull the gear
selector. A longer activation will shift
over neutral. Refer to the SHIFTING
subsection for detailed instructions.
rmo2008-001-079_a
When the gearshift selector is re-
leased, the mechanism resets for the 1. Parking brake pedal
next shift up or down. With the vehicle stopped, press it
If operator does not downshift when down firmly until it locks to apply the
slowing down and engine RPM drops parking brake. Firmly press the pedal
below a threshold value, the gearbox down a second time to release the
will automatically downshift to the parking brake.
next available gear.
If the engine is started with the gear-
box in gear, 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.
rmo2008-001-080_a

1. Engaging/disengaging parking brake pedal

WARNING
Do not use the parking brake 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.

_______________ 13
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

Operate the parking brake pedal only while seated on the stopped vehicle.

Secondary Controls

9
3

10
5 8
11

6 7 1 4 2
rmo2008-005-001_b

1 Ignition switch 7 Horn button

2 Engine start button 8 Reverse interlock lever (SM5 model)
3 Engine stop switch 9 Reverse button (SE5 model)
4 Hazard warning switch 10 Headlights override button
5 Headlights switch 11 Mode (M) button
6 Turn signal button

14 ______________
 CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

1) Ignition Switch 2) Engine Start Button

The engine start button is near the right
handgrip. When depressed and held, it
starts the engine.
Refer to STARTING AND STOPPING
THE ENGINE for detailed instructions.
3) Engine Stop Switch
The engine stop switch is near the
right handgrip. It has two positions and
rmo2008-001-002_a
must be set to the run position before
IGNITION SWITCH you can start the engine. It allows you
1. OFF
2. ON to stop the engine anytime without re-
3. Front storage compartment opening moving your hand from the handlebar.
4. Seat opening/fuel tank access
5. Steering lock position Refer to STARTING AND STOPPING
THE ENGINE for detailed instructions.
The ignition switch is located in the
center of the handlebar. It controls: 4) Hazard Warning Switch
– Engine ignition The hazard warning switch is near
– Seat opening mechanism to access: the right handgrip. Push the button
• Fuel tank cap to the left to turn on the hazard warn-
ing lights.
• Fuses
• Brake fluid reservoirs 5) Headlights Switch
• Battery terminals. The switch is near the left handgrip,
– Front storage compartment open- and is used to select high or low beam
ing mechanism for the headlight. The headlights au-
– Steering-lock mechanism. tomatically turn on when the engine
reaches 800 RPM.
NOTICE If the key does not turn
easily, do not force it. Pull it out and To select high beams, push the switch
reinsert. to the front position. To select low
beams, push the switch to the down
position.
WARNING
If you turn the ignition switch to To flash the high beams, push the
OFF, it shuts off the engine and all switch down, then release it. The
the electrical systems including high beams will stay on as long as the
the VSS, EBD and DPS. If you do switch is held.
this while the vehicle is moving,
you could lose control and crash.

NOTE: You should receive two keys

with your vehicle. Each key con-
tains a computer chip specifically pre-
programmed to allow starting the en-
gine. Store the spare key in a safe
place because you must have your
spare key to have another one made by
an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.

_______________ 15
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

rmo2008-001-061_a rmo2008-004-401_b

1. High beams 1. Reverse button

2. Low beams
3. Flash high beams Push and hold the reverse button
to allow shifting into reverse. Refer
6) Turn Signal Button to SHIFTING INTO REVERSE (SE5
The turn signal button is located near MODEL) for detailed instructions.
the left handgrip. It turns off automat- The hazard warning lights flash when
ically after a normal turn, but you may the vehicle is in reverse.
have to turn it off manually after a shal-
low turn or lane change. 10) Headlight Override
To turn the signal off, press the button There is a headlight override button on
in. the front of the right handgrip. Push
Turn signals will automatically turn off and hold the headlight override but-
after 30 seconds while the vehicle is ton to operate the selected headlights
moving. (low or high beams). This button will
light the high beams even if the ignition
7) Horn Button switch is in the OFF position.
The horn button is located near the left The button can be used to illuminate
handgrip. the inside the front storage compart-
ment. The high beams will reflect on
8) Reverse Interlock Lever the inside of compartment lid when it
(SM5 Model) is opened.
The reverse interlock lever is located in 11) Mode (M) Button
front of the left handgrip. Pull it toward
you with your right hand to allow shift- A MODE (M) button is located on the
ing into reverse. Refer to SHIFTING front of left multifunction switch. It has
INTO REVERSE (SM5 MODEL) for de- the same functions as the Mode but-
tailed instructions. ton on the multifunction gauge, and is
activated using the finger with the left
WARNING hand on the handgrip. Refer to MUL-
TIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER for a
Do not use the reverse interlock detailed explanation.
lever while riding forward. You
could lose control.

The hazard warning lights flash when

the vehicle is in reverse.

9) Reverse Button (SE5 Model)

The reverse button is located near the
left handgrip.

16 ______________
 CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

Multifunction Gauge
Cluster
The multifunction gauge cluster
includes gauges (speedometer,
tachometer, engine temperature, fuel
level), indicator lamps and a user se-
lectable digital display.

rmr2008-027-003_a

MODE (M) BUTTON

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 UNIT.
2) MODE (M) Button
Pressing the MODE (M) button will scroll through the functions of the secondary
digital display.
NOTE: A second MODE (M) button is located on the front of left multifunction
switch. Refer to MODE (M) BUTTON.
3) SET (S) Button
Pressing the SET (S) button will scroll through the functions of the main digital dis-
play.

_______________ 17
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

4) Analog Tachometer (RPM)

Measures engine revolutions per minute (RPM). Multiply by 1000 to obtain actual
revolutions.
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 display provides a brief description for some of the conditions or prob-
lems indicated by lamps.
The following table lists the indicator lamps during normal operation. For problem-
atic conditions, refer to MESSAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER.
INDICATOR LAMP(S) DIGITAL DISPLAY DESCRIPTION
All indicator lamps are activated
All indicator
On None when ignition switch is ON and
lamps
the engine is not started
Flashing PARK BRAKE Parking brake engaged
SE5 model: The ignition switch
! Flashing +
None
is OFF and the parking brake is
not engaged. Always engage the
Beeper
parking brake when parking the
vehicle

N On None Gearbox in neutral position

R Flashing None Gearbox in reverse position

Headlights in the HIGH beam

On None
position

Flashing None VSS intervention occurs

Turn signal or hazard warning

Flashing None
lights flashing

6) Main Digital Display

Displays useful real-time information to the rider.
For display function informations, refer to MAIN DISPLAY FUNCTIONS.
Important information messages can also be displayed. Refer to MESSAGES IN
MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER.
7) Fuel Level
Bar gauge that continuously indicates the amount of fuel left in the fuel tank.

18 ______________
 CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

8) Secondary Digital Display

Displays useful real time information to the rider. For display function informa-
tions, refer to SECONDARY DISPLAY FUNCTION.
9) Gearbox Position
Displays the selected gearbox position.
10) Engine Temperature
Bar gauge that continuously indicates the engine coolant temperature.
11) Digital Speedometer
In addition of the analog type speedometer, vehicle speed 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.

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:
– BEFORE OPERATING READ THE SAFETY CARD ABOVE THEN PRESS _M_
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 (S) button will scroll through the different functions.
FUNCTION SEQUENCE INFORMATION DISPLAYED
XX °C (Celsius)
Outside temperature
XX °F (Fahrenheit)
Tachometer (revolutions per minutes) XXXX RPM

Secondary Display Functions

Pressing the MODE (M) button will scroll through the different functions.

_______________ 19
CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTS

FUNCTION SEQUENCE INFORMATION DISPLAYED

XX:XX (24:00 time base)
Clock
XX:XX A or P (12:00 AM/PM time base)
Cumulative distance odometer XXXXX.X Km or mi
Trip distance — odometer A (TRIP A) 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 MODE (M) button for three seconds.

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 select metric units or SET (S) button to select imperial
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 select 12:00 AM PM or 24:00 time base.
4. If 12:00 AM PM time base is selected, A or P flashes. Press MODE (M) button
to select A (AM) or P (PM).
5. Press SET (S) button to change hours.
6. Press MODE (M) button to switch to minutes (minutes flash).
7. Press SET (S) button to change minutes.
8. Press MODE (M) button.
Setting Language
For display language setting, refer to an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.

20 ______________
BASIC PROCEDURES
License Plate Installation 4. Secure upper portion of license
When a license plate needs to be in- plate using existing hardware on
stalled or replaced, ensure to install vehicle plate support.
two new damping pads (P/N 293 740
028) on plate to be installed.

rmo2008-002-009

DAMPING PAD (P/N 293 740 028)

rmo2008-002-010_b
1. Remove existing plate on vehicle (if
1. Existing hardware
applicable).
2. Position new damping pads over ex- 5. Squeeze license plate and support
isting pads on vehicle plate support. together at each lower corner.

Adjusting Mirrors
Press the mirror at the points shown
below to adjust its position in the four
directions.

rmo2008-002-010_a
rmo2008-001-081_a
1. Existing pads on plate support
MIRROR ADJUSTMENT POINTS
3. Peel off backing of new damping
pads. 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 counterclock-
wise to the steering lock position
then remove key.
rmo2008-002-009_a

1. Backing

_______________ 21
BASIC PROCEDURES

rmo2008-001-010

rmo2008-001-074_a FRONT STORAGE COMPARTMENT OPENED

KEY POSITION TO LOCK HANDLEBAR
1. Turn key 1/4 turn Opening the Seat
1. Insert key in ignition switch.
Opening the Front Storage
Compartment 2. Push and turn the key 1/4 turn clock-
wise to the seat opening position
1. Insert key in ignition switch. and hold while lifting seat.
2. Push and turn the key 1/4 turn coun-
terclockwise 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.

rmo2008-001-071_a

KEY POSITION TO OPEN SEAT

1. Push key
2. Turn key 1/4 turn

NOTICE Do not force the seat past

the maximum opening angle or it
may break.
rmo2008-001-070_a

KEY POSITION TO OPEN FRONT STORAGE

COMPARTMENT
1. Push key
2. Turn key 1/4 turn

rmo2008-001-011_a

1. Maximum opening of seat

22 ______________
 BASIC PROCEDURES

Starting and Stopping the lease the button and wait 30 sec-
Engine onds to let the starter cool down
before trying again.
Starting the Engine
NOTICE Do not apply throttle
while starting the engine.
WARNING
Exhaust gas contains poisonous 9. Check the display for problems and
carbon monoxide that can rapidly to ensure that the oil light turns off.
accumulate in an enclosed or 10. Release the parking brake. Make
poorly ventilated area. If inhaled, sure the parking brake indicator on
it can cause serious injury or the multifunction gauge cluster is
death. off.
Only run the engine in an unen-
closed, well ventilated area. See NOTICE If the parking brake is not
AVOID CARBON MONOXIDE POI- fully released before operating the
SONING. vehicle, brake pads will drag while
you are moving. This can damage
SM5 Model the brake system.
1. Push down and hold the brake SE5 Model
pedal.
NOTE: The SE5 model can be started
2. Turn the key to ON. in any gear with the brake pedal de-
pressed. The transmission automati-
NOTICE Do not apply throttle cally shifts to neutral when the engine
while electrical system is initializ- started.
ing.
1. Push down and hold the brake
3. Refer to the Safety Card as needed pedal.
to prepare yourself, your passen- 2. Turn the key to ON.
ger and the vehicle, then press the
MODE (M) button to enable the NOTICE Do not apply throttle
starter. while electrical system is initializ-
4. Watch the multifunction gauge clus- ing.
ter. If any indicator lights identify a
3. Refer to the Safety Card as needed
problem, consult the PROBLEMS
to prepare yourself, your passen-
section before riding. The oil light
ger and the vehicle, then press the
should be on because the engine
MODE (M) button to enable the
has not been started. Pay attention
starter.
to any scrolling messages on the
display. 4. Watch the multifunction gauge clus-
ter. If any indicator lights identify a
5. Set the engine stop switch to the
problem, consult the PROBLEMS
RUN/ON position.
section before riding. The oil light
6. Pull in and hold the clutch lever. should be on because the engine
7. Shift into NEUTRAL. Check the mul- has not been started. Pay attention
tifunction gauge cluster to be sure to any scrolling messages on the
you are in neutral. display.
8. Press and hold the engine start but- 5. Set the engine stop switch to the
ton until the engine starts. Do not RUN/ON position.
hold the start button for more than
15 seconds. If it does not start, re-

_______________ 23
BASIC PROCEDURES

6. Press and hold the engine start but- SE5 Model

ton until the engine starts. Do not 1. Shift into neutral.
hold the start button for more than
15 seconds. If it does not start, re- 2. Set the engine stop switch to OFF.
lease the button and wait 30 sec- 3. Engage the parking brake. The
onds to let the starter cool down brake locks in the depressed posi-
before trying again. tion, and a scrolling message PARK
BRAKE will appear on the display.
NOTICE Do not apply throttle
while starting the engine. 4. Turn the key to OFF.
NOTE: If the parking brake is not en-
7. Check the display for problems and gaged while the key is OFF, the park
to ensure that the oil light turns off. brake indicator light will flash and a
8. Release the parking brake. Make beeper will sound.
sure the parking brake indicator on 5. Before dismounting, check that the
the multifunction gauge cluster is parking brake is fully engaged. Rock
off. the vehicle back and forth.
NOTICE If the parking brake is not NOTE: As the brake pads wear, you
fully released before operating the may need to push the parking brake
vehicle, brake pads will drag while lever farther to engage the brake.
you are moving. This can damage
the brake system. WARNING
Stopping the Engine Always fully engage the parking
brake. The vehicle can roll if the
SM5 Model parking brake is not fully engaged,
1. Shift into first gear. regardless of what gear it is in.
The centrifugal clutch is always
2. Set the engine stop switch to OFF. disengaged when the vehicle is
3. Engage the parking brake. The stopped, so the transmission will
brake locks in the depressed posi- not hold the vehicle in place.
tion, and a scrolling message PARK
BRAKE will appear on the display. Pushing the Vehicle
4. Turn the key to OFF.
5. Before dismounting, check that the CAUTION Avoid pushing the
parking brake is fully engaged. Hold vehicle on a slope. If you must push
the clutch and rock the vehicle back the vehicle on a slope, take extra
and forth. care to stay within reach of the brake
NOTE: As the brake pads wear, you pedal in case the vehicle starts to
may need to push the parking brake roll.
lever farther to engage the brake. To move the vehicle a short distance
without starting the engine:
WARNING 1. While seated on the vehicle, push
Always fully engage the parking down and hold the brake pedal.
brake. The vehicle can roll if the 2. Shift the transmission into NEU-
parking brake is not fully engaged TRAL (SM5 model).
and the transmission is in neutral. 3. Disengage the parking brake.

24 ______________
 BASIC PROCEDURES

4. Dismount on the right side of the ve- Driving in Reverse

hicle, keeping your foot on the brake Check that the area behind you is clear
pedal. and continue to look backwards while
5. Push the vehicle, using the brake as you operate in reverse. Keep your
needed. speed low and do not back up for long
distances.
CAUTION Only push from the
right side, so you can reach the brake Shifting Out of Reverse
pedal. Stay clear of the hot exhaust SM5 Model
pipe.
When pulling the vehicle backward, To shift out of reverse, hold in the
be careful that the front wheel does clutch and lift the shift lever once to
not roll over your feet. shift into first. You do not need to use
the reverse interlock lever — it resets
6. Remount the vehicle and park as automatically.
specified above.
SE5 Model
Operating in Reverse To shift out of reverse, stop vehicle and
See the REVERSE subsection for more push on upshift selector quickly to shift
information about safe operation in re- into neutral and longer to shift in first
verse. gear.

Shifting Into Reverse (SM5 Model) Operating During Break-In

1. With engine running, shift into first A break-in period of 1 000 km (600 mi)
gear. is required for the vehicle.
2. Hold in the clutch lever. During the first 300 km (200 mi), avoid
3. With your right hand, pull the re- hard braking.
verse interlock lever (marked "R")
towards you and hold it. WARNING
4. Step down on the shift lever one New brakes and tires do not op-
stroke. erate at their maximum efficiency
until their break-in is completed.
5. Release the reverse interlock lever Braking, steering and VSS perfor-
and check that the letter "R" flashes mance may be reduced, so use
on the multifunction gauge cluster extra caution.
and the hazard warning lights flash. Brakes and tires take about 300 km
(200 mi) of riding with frequent
Shifting Into Reverse (SE5 Model) braking and steering to break-in.
1. With engine running. the roadster For riding with infrequent braking
stopped, and the brake depressed, and steering, allow extra time to
shift into first gear or neutral. break-in the brakes and tires.
2. Press and hold the reverse button.
During the first 1 000 km (600 mi):
3. Pull the gearshift selector toward
you to downshift to reverse. – Avoid full throttle acceleration.

_______________ 25
BASIC PROCEDURES

– Avoid prolonged riding. Refueling Procedure

– If the cooling fan operates continu-
ously during stop and go traffic, pull WARNING
over and shut off the engine to let it Gasoline is extremely flammable
cool off or speed up to let air cool off and highly explosive. Follow the
the engine. refueling procedure to reduce
After the break-in period, your vehi- the risk of fire or explosion. See
cle should be inspected by an autho- AVOID GASOLINE FIRES AND
rized Can-Am roadster dealer as per OTHER HAZARDS.
the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE sec-
tion.
To refuel the vehicle:
NOTE: The break-in inspection is per-
formed at the expense of the vehicle 1. Park outdoors in a well ventilated
owner. area away from flames, sparks, any-
one smoking and other sources of
ignition.
Fueling
2. Stop the engine.
Fuel Recommendation 3. Unlatch and lift seat (see OPENING
Use unleaded gasoline or oxygenated THE SEAT). The fuel cap is located
fuel containing no more than 10% on the left side.
ethanol or methanol. The gasoline 4. Slowly rotate cap counterclockwise
used must have the following mini- and remove it.
mum octane number:
MINIMUM OCTANE NUMBER
Inside North America 87 ((R+M)/2)
Outside North America 92 RON

NOTICE Other fuel can degrade

vehicle performance and damage
critical parts in the fuel system and rmo2008-001-016
engine.
FUEL CAP ON LEFT SIDE UNDERNEATH
SEAT
WARNING
5. Fill the tank until the fuel nozzle au-
Do not carry gasoline containers tomatically clicks and shuts off.
in the front storage compartment
or anywhere else on the vehicle. NOTE: Do not try to top off the fuel
Gasoline may spill and ignite, par- tank. Leave some room for the fuel to
ticularly in a crash. expand with temperature changes.
6. Wipe up any spilled fuel. If fuel spills
on you, wash with soap and water
and change your clothes.
7. Put cap on and fully tighten clock-
wise until you hear a click. Never
start or operate the engine with the
fuel cap removed.
8. Close seat.

26 ______________
 BASIC PROCEDURES

Adjusting Suspension
The front and rear suspension can be
adjusted according to the load on the
vehicle or the type of ride you want to
experience.
Lower spring preload provides a softer
ride and is preferred for light loads and
smooth roads. Higher spring preload
provides a firmer ride and is recom- rmr2008-029-003_a
mended for heavy loads, rough road SPYDER RS
conditions and more challenging rid- 1. Spring preload adjustment cam
ing.

Front Suspension

WARNING
Adjust both springs to the same
load. Uneven adjustment can
cause poor handling, loss of sta-
bility and loss of control. rmr2008-030-004_c

A. Smooth setting (position 1)

B. Hard setting (position 5)
1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Engage the parking brake. RECOMMENDED SPRING
3. Adjust the spring preload using the PRELOAD
following tool (stored in the tool kit).
CAM
LOAD
POSITION
68 kg (150 lb) rider 1, 2
91 kg (200 lb) rider 3
68 kg (150 lb) rider
rmr2008-029-002 3
with cargo
FRONT SUSPENSION ADJUSTMENT
WRENCH 91 kg (200 lb) rider
4
with cargo
Spyder RS
Turn adjustment cam to the desired po- Rider with passenger
5
sition. and cargo

Spyder RS-S
Verification conditions:
– Vehicle on a level surface
– Normal cargo load
– Rider and passenger taking place on
the vehicle.
Measure the distance between the up-
per and lower shock absorber mount-
ing bolts.

_______________ 27
BASIC PROCEDURES

RECOMMENDED PRELOAD
428 mm (16-7/8 in)

1. Loosen the lock ring.

2. Bring the preload ring to the desired
setting.

rmr2008-030-002_a

1. Cam
2. Protrusion

6. With a ratchet and an extension,

turn the cam adjuster to change the
position of the shock absorber cam.

rmo2012-001-001_a

SPYDER RS-S
1. Spring preload adjustment ring
2. Lock ring

3. Lock the assembly by tightening the

lock ring against the preload ring.
rmr2008-030-003_a

TORQUE 1. Cam adjuster

2. Ratchet with extension
Lock ring 10 N•m (89 lbf•in)

Rear Suspension
1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Block the front wheels.
3. Install a jack under the rear portion
of frame.
rmr2008-030-004_c
NOTICE Do not jack the vehicle un- A. Smooth adjustment (position 1)
der the rear shock. B. Hard adjustment (position 7)

4. Lift the rear of vehicle until the NOTE: Never adjust the rear shock
shock absorber is fully extended. absorber cam from position 7 directly
5. Using XPS LUBE (P/N 293 600 016) to position 1 as it will restrain access
or an equivalent product, lubricate to adjustment holes and prevent you
all around the shock absorber cam. adjusting the suspension.
Lubricate especially near the protru-
sions.

28 ______________
 BASIC PROCEDURES

rmr2008-030-004_d

AVOID ADJUSTING CAM POSITION 7

DIRECTLY TO POSITION 1
A. Position 1
B. Position 7

RECOMMENDED REAR SHOCK

ADJUSTMENT
CAM
LOAD
POSITION
68 kg (150 lb) rider 1, 2
91 kg (200 lb) rider 3-5
Rider with passenger 6, 7

_______________ 29
BASIC PROCEDURES

This page is
intentionally blank

30 ______________
 SAFE OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 31

WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER
ROADSTER
The Spyder roadster is a different type vehicle can stop quickly — be aware
of road vehicle. This section will help of vehicles behind you that may not be
you understand some of the vehicle's able to stop as quickly.
distinctive features and operating char-
acteristics. Antilock Braking System (ABS)
The vehicle is equipped with an An-
Stability tilock Braking System (ABS) as part of
The three-wheeled “Y” configuration the Vehicle Stability System (VSS). For
provides greater low-speed stability hard braking, press and hold the brake
than a motorcycle. However, it is not pedal. ABS will prevent wheels from
as stable as a four-wheeled vehicle locking.
such as an automobile. Driving aid
technologies, like the electronic Vehi- Parking Brake
cle Stability System (VSS), help main- The parking brake mechanically brakes
tain stability during maneuvers, but the rear wheel only, and it locks in place
you can still lose control, tip or roll the when engaged. It is not controlled by
vehicle due to extreme maneuvers driving aid technologies (e.g., ABS,
(such as hard turns at high speeds) or Electronic Brake Distribution). Do not
striking uneven surfaces or objects. use it to slow or stop the vehicle — you
In addition, the operator or passenger could lose control, spin, tip or roll over.
can fall off due to hard turns, accelera- Warn passengers not to touch it with
tion, braking or impacts. their left foot.
Response to Road Steering
Conditions
The Spyder roadster responds differ- Direct Steering
ently than other vehicles to certain To steer your Spyder roadster, always
road conditions. steer in the direction of the turn.
– Do not ride off-road or on ice or Motorcyclists — Do not countersteer
snow. as it is done on a motorcycle. Unlike
– Avoid puddles and running water. a motorcycle, your Spyder roadster
The vehicle hydroplanes more eas- cannot lean while turning. If you are a
ily than a car. If you must go through motorcyclist, you must relearn how to
water, slow down. turn. Practice steering in the direction
– Slow down on gravel, dirt or sand of the turn at all speeds until you are
covered roads. proficient.
See the ROAD CONDITIONS AND
HAZARDS section. Sideways Forces in Turns
Unlike a motorcycle, the Spyder road-
Brake Pedal ster does not lean in turns. You will
feel sideways forces pushing you to
One pedal brakes all three wheels. the outside of the turn. To maintain
There is no hand-operated brake, and balance, the operator and passenger
there is no way to brake front and rear must hold on with both hands and keep
wheels separately. The Spyder road- both feet firmly planted on the foot-
ster is better able to brake and steer at pegs. In hard turns, it may help to lean
the same time than a motorcycle. The your upper body forward and toward
the inside of the turn.

32 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE SPYDER ROADSTER

Width Driver's License and Local

Because the Spyder roadster is wider Laws
than a typical motorcycle: Driver's license requirements for op-
– Keep the front wheels in your lane erating the Spyder roadster vary by
during turns. Be particularly aware location. Depending on local laws, you
of where your front wheels are in may need a motorcycle endorsement,
curves and when passing. If you three-wheeled vehicle endorsement,
take a path that would put a motor- or just a standard automobile driver's
cycle front wheel near the edge of license.
the lane, the Spyder roadster front Check with local authorities to make
wheel may be out of the lane. sure you have the proper license be-
– Do not share lanes or split lanes fore operating the vehicle on public
(ride between two lanes of traffic). roads.
Group riding should proceed in a sin-
gle file, even with motorcycles.
– Be prepared to swerve farther to
avoid obstacles.

Reverse
The Spyder roadster operates in re-
verse like a car. However, there are
some important differences:
– The hazard warning lights flash
when it is in reverse, but there are
no backup lights. Be aware that
other motorists might not know that
you are about to back up.
– 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 parking
space.
– SM5 model: Shift back into first
gear before shutting off the engine.

CAUTION Always keep both

feet on the pegs while operating in
reverse. Never put your feet on the
ground while backing-up.

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 33

DRIVING AID TECHNOLOGIES
Vehicle Stability System If the paved road surface is covered
(VSS) or partially covered with ice, snow
or slush, there is not enough traction
The Spyder roadster is equipped with available to maintain control of the ve-
a Vehicle Stability System (VSS). VSS hicle, even with VSS. Do not operate
can help you control the direction of on snow, ice or slush.
the vehicle and reduce the risk of tip-
ping or rolling over in some situations. Like other on-road vehicles, this ve-
VSS consists of: hicle can hydroplane on water (lose
– An Antilock Braking System (ABS) traction on a layer of water). If you ride
that helps maintain steering control too fast into a layer of water, such as
during hard braking by preventing a large puddle or flowing water on the
the wheels from locking. road, the vehicle can lose traction and
spin out, and the VSS cannot keep you
– An Electronic Brake Distribution in control. Avoid large water puddles
(EBD) system that automatically ad- or water streams, and slow down or
justs the brake balance between all pull off the road during heavy rains. If
three wheels. With the ABS, EBD you must pass through water, slow
helps maintain directional control down as much as possible before you
and maximize the braking force de- reach it.
pending on the traction available.
– A Traction Control System (TCS) Reduce speed on surfaces with poor
that helps prevent the rear wheel traction, like mud, sand, gravel or wet
from slipping. The TCS will limit pavement. The Spyder roadster is not
rear wheel spin only if you turn the for off-road operation. Always operate
handlebar (steer out of straight line) the vehicle on maintained roadways.
or if vehicle speed exceeds 50 km/h Do not use the vehicle on any other ter-
(31 MPH). rain.
– A Stability Control System (SCS) Tires
is designed to limit the power driv-
ing the rear tire and to brake individ- The VSS on the vehicle has been cal-
ual wheels, which reduces the risk ibrated to perform best with a tire of
of losing control of the vehicle or a specific size, material and tread pat-
rolling over. tern. Replacing your tires with ones
not approved by BRP can cause the
Limitations VSS to be ineffective.
VSS cannot help you maintain control Use only BRP recommended tires,
in all situations. which can be ordered only from an au-
thorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
Surfaces with Poor Traction Proper tire inflation pressure and tread
The grip of tires on the road surface condition are important for maintaining
limits the maximum braking. Even traction, especially on loose or wet sur-
with ABS and EBD, your stopping dis- faces.
tance will be longer on surfaces with
poor traction or if you do not maintain Hard Turns
tire pressure and tread condition. The VSS does not control or limit steer-
If your tires lose traction with the road ing input — it cannot keep you from
surface you may lose control of the ve- turning too sharply. Large and rapid
hicle, even with VSS. steering handlebar movements can
cause the vehicle to go out of control,
spin, tip or roll over.

34 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 DRIVING AID TECHNOLOGIES

Engine Braking
The VSS does not control engine brak-
ing (slowing the vehicle by downshift-
ing). 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, tip or roll over, particularly in a
curve.
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 condi-
tions, you can lose control, even with
VSS.

Dynamic Power Steering

(DPS)
The DPS (Dynamic Power Steering)
provides a computer controlled, vari-
able power assist, achieved by an elec-
tric motor to optimize the amount of
steering effort required by the rider.
The steering assist level is dependent
of the handlebar effort, the steering an-
gle and the vehicle speed.
When vehicle is in the reverse gear,
power steering assist will decrease as
vehicle speed increases.

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 35

UNDERSTANDING RISK ON THE ROAD
Before you operate the Spyder road- Operator Skills and
ster, consider your risk of being hurt or Judgment
killed in a crash, how you can reduce
the risk and whether you are willing to Every driver has some control over
take the risk. There are many factors their own risk on the road. Drivers
that contribute to the risk that you face. who develop good skills will have bet-
You can control some of these factors, ter control of their vehicle. Do not rely
but others, like the behavior of other on your experience with motorcycles,
drivers, are beyond your control. Here automobiles, ATVs, snowmobiles or
are some of the factors that affect your any other kind of vehicle to prepare you
risk: to operate the Spyder roadster. Learn
how this vehicle is different. Read this
Operator's Guide, watch the SAFETY
Type of Vehicle DVD, and if available, take a training
Different types of vehicles vary in course. Become proficient with the
terms of size, visibility and maneuver- controls and be able to do the practice
ability and provide different degrees of exercises accurately and with confi-
protection. dence before going on the road.
The Spyder roadster is small and ma- When you begin riding on the road,
neuverable. Maneuverability can help start with less challenging situations
avoid crashes. However, smaller vehi- (e.g., light traffic, lower speeds, good
cles are harder to see, which increases weather, no passenger) and gradually
the chance that other motorists will move on to more challenging riding
cause a crash. In some situations, the situations as you develop your skills.
Spyder roadster is less likely to be in Plan ahead to avoid situations that are
a crash than a motorcycle. For exam- too difficult for your skill level, or that
ple, you are less likely to tip over at low present more risk than you want to
speeds while operating the vehicle. take on.
However, in other situations, the vehi- Even skilled drivers cause crashes.
cle is more likely to be in a crash. For For example, if you use your skills to
example, because the vehicle is wider, do extreme maneuvers or stunts, you
it will not fit through as small an open- increase your risk. The smart driver
ing as many motorcycles. uses good judgment along with skills
In cars and trucks, the structure of the to increase the margin of safety and
vehicle provides protection in crashes minimize risk. Learn the defensive
and from other road hazards. In addi- driving techniques in STREET STRATE-
tion, passengers can protect them- GIES.
selves by wearing seat belts. You
should expect that riding the Spyder Rider Condition
roadster is riskier than riding in a car
and that the risk of injury is more like A driver needs to be alert, sober, and
riding a motorcycle. physically ready to ride. Riding when
intoxicated, tired or otherwise im-
As when riding a motorcycle, you can paired increases the risk of a crash.
reduce the risk of injuries by wearing a
helmet and riding gear. Alcohol, drugs, medications, fatigue,
drowsiness and emotions can all in-
hibit your ability to ride safely. Like
riding a motorcycle, riding the Spyder
roadster is a challenging activity —
being in good physical and mental con-
dition is even more important than for a
car. The safest policy is to never oper-

36 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 UNDERSTANDING RISK ON THE ROAD

ate 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 surround-
ings to operate the vehicle.
Passengers also need to be alert,
sober and physically able to maintain
their posture, hold on and react appro-
priately 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.

Road and Weather

Conditions
Roads with heavy traffic, poor visibility
or poor traction surfaces increase your
risk. Choose routes that are appropri-
ate for your skill level and the level of
risk you are willing to accept.

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 37

RIDING GEAR
Riding three-wheeled, open-air vehi- with the back of the operator's helmet.
cles like the Spyder roadster requires Even the best helmet is no guarantee
the same protective gear as motorcy- against injury, but statistics indicate
cling. Even though the vehicle is more that helmet use significantly reduces
stable at low speeds than a motorcy- the risk of brain injury. So, be safe and
cle, you can still be thrown off. always wear a helmet while riding.
This section is based on guidance for
motorcyclists given by the Motorcycle Choosing a Helmet
Safety Foundation (MSF). Helmets should be manufactured to
In the event of a crash, protective gear meet the appropriate standard in your
may prevent or reduce injuries. Protec- state, province or country.
tive gear also helps you stay comfort- A full-face helmet gives the most pro-
able and can help provide protection tection against impacts since it covers
against the elements. all of the head and face. It can also pro-
Recommended basic protective gear tect against debris, stones, insects,
for riders and passenger includes etc.
sturdy over-the-ankle footwear with A three-quarter or open-face helmet
non-slip soles, long pants, a jacket, can also offer protection. It is con-
full-fingered gloves and, above all, an structed with the same basic compo-
approved helmet with proper eye pro- nents but does not offer the face and
tection. chin protection of full-face helmets.
If you wear an open-face helmet, you
1
should use a snap-on face shield or a
2 pair of goggles.
NOTE: Ordinary glasses or sunglasses
are not sufficient eye protection for a
3
motorcyclist. They can shatter or fly
off, and they allow wind and airborne
4 objects to reach the eyes.
Use tinted face shields, goggles or
5
glasses in the daytime only; do not use
them at night or in poor illumination.
Do not use them if they impair your
6
ability to discern color.
rmo2008-001-019_a

RIDING GEAR Other Riding Gear

1. Approved helmet
2. Eye and face protection
3. Jacket with long sleeves Footwear
4. Gloves
5. Long pants Always wear closed toe footwear.
6. Over-the-ankle footwear Sturdy over-the-ankle boots protect
against a variety of riding hazards, such
Proper apparel can reduce the severity as stones that get thrown up from the
of injury in case of a crash for both oper- roadway and burns from the hot ex-
ators and passengers. haust pipe.
Avoid long shoelaces that can be tan-
Helmets gled in the gearshift lever, brake pedal
Helmets protect the head and brain or other parts. Rubber soles and low
from injury. A helmet can also pro- heels are a good idea to help keep feet
tect the passenger's face from impact on the footrests.

38 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 RIDING GEAR

Gloves Leather is a good choice because it is

Full-fingered gloves protect hands durable and wind-resistant and pro-
from the wind, sun, heat, cold and vides protection against injury. Other
flying objects. Gloves that fit snugly abrasive-resistant protective gear
will improve grip on the handlebar and made of synthetic fabrics are good
help reduce hand fatigue. Sturdy, rein- choices, too. Do not wear loose or
forced motorcycle gloves help protect long clothing or scarves that can be-
hands in the event of a fall. Gloves come tangled in the moving parts.
made specifically for motorcyclists Flaps and fasteners seal out the wind.
have seams on the outside to prevent A jacket with a zippered front will be
irritation, and are curved to provide a more wind resistant than a jacket with
natural grip when curled around the buttons or snaps. A flap of material
handgrips. If gloves are too bulky, it over the zipper of a jacket gives ad-
may be difficult to operate the controls. ditional protection against the wind.
Gauntlets keep cold air from going up Jackets with snug cuffs and waist
sleeves and protect the wrists. 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 your-
self against hypothermia. Hypother-
mia, a condition of low body tempera-
ture, can cause loss of concentration,
slowed reactions and loss of smooth,
precise muscle movement. In cool
rmo2008-001-006_a
conditions, proper protective gear like
1. Glove gauntlet
a windproof jacket and insulated layers
of clothing are essential. Even at mod-
Jackets, Pants and Riding Suits erate temperatures, you can feel very
cold due to the wind while riding.
Wear a jacket and long pants, or a full
riding suit. Quality motorcycle-type Protective gear that is appropriate for
protective gear will provide comfort, cold-weather riding may be too hot
and it can help you avoid being dis- when stopped. Dress in layers so that
tracted by adverse environmental ele- clothing can be removed as desired.
ments. In case of a crash, good quality Topping the protective gear with a
protective gear made of sturdy ma- windproof outer layer can prevent cold
terial may prevent or reduce injury. air from reaching the skin.
Some gear includes padding or hard Riding gear can also help a rider be
armor that may further reduce the risk more visible. Wearing bright colors is
of injury in a crash. Pants also help pro- a wise choice. If a dark jacket is worn,
tect against burns from hot parts. an inexpensive reflective vest can be
Protective gear sold for motorcycling worn over it. It is a good idea to put
will often provide the best combination extra reflective tape on garments worn
of fit and protection. These garments regularly while riding.
are designed to fit while sitting in a rid-
ing position. They are cut longer in the Rain Gear
sleeves and legs and are fuller across If you must ride in wet weather, a rain
the shoulders. Riding suits are avail- suit or a waterproof riding suit is rec-
able in both one-piece and two-piece ommended. On long rides, it is a good
sets.

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 39

RIDING GEAR

idea to carry rain gear. A dry rider will

be much more comfortable and alert
than a rider who is wet and cold.
One or two-piece styles are available,
and those designed specifically for mo-
torcycling are best. High-visibility or-
ange or yellow colors are good choices.
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 open-
ing. When purchasing a rain suit, con-
sider adding waterproof gloves and
footwear.
Remember, if the weather is wet, it is
best to avoid riding. If you do ride in
wet weather, you may need to stop if
water starts to accumulate on the road.

Hearing Protection
Long-term exposure to wind and mo-
tor noise when riding can cause per-
manent hearing loss. Properly worn
hearing protective devices such as
earplugs can help prevent hearing loss.
Check local laws before using any hear-
ing protective devices.

40 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE
EXERCISES
Before you take the Spyder roadster Choosing a Practice Area
on the road, you need to develop rid- Perform these exercises in a
ing skills and strategies for managing paved area at least 76 m - 30 m
risk on the road. The following exer- (250 ft - 100 ft) that is not open to traf-
cises will familiarize you with the basic fic. A closed, well marked parking lot
operation of the vehicle. If you have without obstacles (light poles, curbs,
experience with motorcycles or other etc.) makes a good practice area. Be
motor vehicles, pay particular attention aware of oil left by parked cars. Look
to how the Spyder roadster operation for parking lots that are empty during
and performance are different from ve- off hours, such as schools, churches,
hicles you are used to. Practice each community centers or shopping
exercise until you can perform it profi- centers. Do not trespass on private
ciently before moving on to the next. property.
This section includes the following ex-
ercises: Once you have selected a suitable loca-
tion, get permission to use it from the
SM5 Model owner. If there are obstructions, such
1. Revving the engine and using the as light poles or islands, be sure that
engine stop switch they do not interfere with the required
2. Learning the friction zone and basic open paths shown in the diagram be-
handling low.
3. Engine stop while in motion Keep this basic parking lot diagram in
4. Using the throttle and clutch mind when setting up the exercises.
3 m (10 ft) wide parking lot spaces are
5. Basic turns
indicated in the diagrams for conve-
6. Quick stops nience, but the size of the spaces in
7. Weaves the lot you use may be different. If the
8. Shifting parking lot you choose does not have
9. Swerve lines or if the parking spaces are sized
much larger or smaller than the ones
10. Operating in reverse.
in the diagrams, use the dimensions
SE5 Model shown below. Mark them using a tape
1. Revving the engine and using the measure and chalk or markers such
engine stop switch as cones or milk containers weighted
with water or sand.
2. Starting, stopping, and basic han-
dling
3. Engine stop while in motion
4. Basic turns
5. Quick stops
6. Weaves
7. Shifting
8. Swerve
9. Operating in reverse.

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 41

REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

1 Riding Posture
5 Good posture helps you maneuver the
vehicle more easily. Always keep both
3 hands and both feet in position so that
you can operate the controls easily.
4 The wrist should typically be aligned
straight with the arm (this position
helps you apply the amount of throt-
tle you want). Arms should be relaxed
and bent. Keep your back straight and
your head and eyes up. Keep both feet
5 5 on the pegs near the controls.
2
Never operate the vehicle, even for a
short distance, unless you are in the
proper riding posture.

5
rmo2008-001-046_o

TYPICAL PARKING LOT

1. At least 30 m (100 ft)
2. At least 76 m (250 ft)
3. 12 m (40 ft) rmo2008-001-062
4. 6 m (20 ft)
5. Open area RIDING POSTURE

Even in a closed lot, be aware of poten- Practice Exercises

tial traffic. Check to the front, sides (SM5 Model)
and rear before doing an exercise.
Also, watch out for children and ani- 1) Revving the Engine and Using the
mals. Engine Stop Switch
Preparing to Ride Purpose
Know the location and operation of all – Become familiar with the sound of
the vehicle controls. the engine revving so you will not be
surprised during the exercises.
Perform the pre-ride inspection; see
PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST before begin- – Become familiar with using the en-
ning. gine stop switch.
Always start and stop the engine ac-
cording to the instructions in the BA-
SIC PROCEDURES section.

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 REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

Directions Directions
– With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, the For this exercise, do NOT use any
parking brake engaged, and your throttle. You will be controlling your
right foot pressing the brake pedal, movement using only the clutch in the
pull in and hold the clutch lever. friction zone and brake.
Watch the tachometer and apply
throttle (twist lowering your wrist) a Begin by stopping every 6 m (20 ft) (ev-
few times to raise the RPM to no ery marker/every second line).
more than 4000. As long as the – Start the engine and release the
clutch is fully pulled in the power parking brake.
will not transfer to the rear wheel. – With the brake pedal depressed and
– Use the engine stop switch to cut the clutch lever pulled in, shift the
all power to the vehicle. Press the transmission into first gear by firmly
switch with your right thumb while pushing down on the shift lever.
keeping your hand on the handgrip. – Release the foot brake.
– Slowly let out the clutch lever until
Tips for Additional Practice the vehicle starts to creep forward.
– Practice pressing the engine stop Hold the clutch lever at this point.
switch without looking at it. This is the friction zone. If you re-
lease the clutch too quickly, the en-
2) Learning the Friction Zone and gine may stall or the vehicle may
Basic Handling jump forward. If the vehicle stalls,
Pulling in the clutch disengages power restart the engine and try again, re-
to the rear wheel — if you feel like you leasing the clutch more gradually.
are losing control while doing these – As you approach the stopping point,
exercises, you can pull in the clutch pull the clutch lever all the way in
to stop accelerating and apply the and press the brake pedal to stop.
brake as needed to slow down. You Pulling the clutch in does not have to
can also use the engine stop switch to be gradual — you can do this quickly.
cut power entirely. – When you reach the end of the
The friction zone is the area in the travel straightaway, stop, turn the han-
of the clutch lever that begins where dlebar all the way to the right, and
the clutch starts to transmit power to turn around. Be careful not to apply
the rear wheel and ends just before the throttle as you turn. Stop when you
clutch becomes fully engaged. While are in line with the straightaway in
the clutch is partially engaged, it allows the opposite direction.
you to precisely control engine power – Repeat this exercise until you feel
transmitted to the rear wheel. Proper comfortable.
use of the friction zone helps you get
moving smoothly from a stop. Tips for Additional Practice
– As you become more comfortable
Purpose with the friction zone, try stopping
– Become familiar with the clutch and every 12 m (40 ft) (every other cone)
operating within the friction zone. so that you can fully release the
– Become familiar with low speed de- clutch.
celeration and braking.

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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

3) Engine Stop while in Motion 4) Using the Throttle and Clutch

Purpose Purpose
– Become familiar with using the en- – Become familiar with operating the
gine stop switch when in motion so throttle.
you know how the vehicle will react – Learn to balance throttle and clutch.
if you need to use it later.
Directions
Directions
This exercise is similar to the friction
– Partway down the straightaway, zone exercise, except this time you
while operating in the friction zone, will be using some throttle. You will
turn the engine stop switch to OFF use the entire straightaway, stopping
and coast to a stop. only at the ends.
– Restart the engine and repeat the – Start this exercise stopped in first
exercise. Try releasing the clutch gear at the beginning of a straight-
farther and moving a little faster be- away.
fore using the engine stop switch.
– With the clutch lever pulled in,
gently apply throttle until the
tachometer reads between 1500
and 2000 RPM. Practice holding it
3 within this range.
4 – Hold the throttle at this position
while gently releasing the clutch
lever as before. Try not to let the
RPMs exceed 2500.
2 – The more quickly you release the
clutch lever, the more quickly you
will accelerate. If you release the
clutch too quickly, the engine may
stall or the vehicle may jump for-
5 ward.
Applying too much throttle can
cause the rear wheel to spin and
can result in rapid acceleration.
– When the clutch lever is fully re-
1 leased, the throttle controls your
speed.
– As you approach the end of the
rmo2008-001-046_c
straightaway, release the throttle,
pull in the clutch lever and apply the
1. Start
2. Press engine stop switch brakes to come to a stop.
3. Proceed to end of straightaway, stop and – Without using throttle, turn around
turn as before and head down the opposite
4. Stop
5. Press engine stop switch straightaway.

Restart the engine and proceed to the

next exercise.

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 REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

– As you approach the curve, slow

down to no more than 8 km/h
3 (5 MPH) by pulling in the clutch lever
3 and applying brake if needed.
– Hold the clutch lever in the friction
zone to maintain your low speed.
– Look in the direction of the curve.
2 – Turn the handlebar in the direction of
the curve, pulling on the inside hand-
grip and pushing on the outside. Be
careful not to change your hand po-
sition on the throttle.
4 – 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-
1 3 away.

rmo2008-001-046_d

1. Start
2. Roll off throttle
3. Stop
4. Roll off throttle

Tips for Additional Practice

– Coordinate releasing the clutch
lever and applying the throttle to
start smoothly and to control your
acceleration.

5) Basic Turns
Purpose
– Get comfortable turning in a con- rmo2008-001-064

trolled manner. RIDING POSTURE WHEN TURNING

Directions
This exercise is similar to what you
did before, except that now instead of
stopping for each turn, you will make
the turn in the friction zone.
– 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 straight-
away.

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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

3 6) Quick Stops
Purpose
2
– Become familiar with the vehicle
braking ability.
– Learn to apply brakes with maxi-
mum force.
Directions
This exercise is similar to what you did
before, except you’ll be applying the
brake more firmly, working up to brak-
ing 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-
2 lease the throttle completely and
1 brake quickly and firmly.
– Keep head and eyes up and keep
3 handlebar straight.
rmo2008-001-046_e – Repeat, increasing your speed and
1. Start braking harder.
2. Friction zone
3. Apex

NOTE: Motorcyclists - Riding through

turns and curves with your Spyder
roadster is different than on a motorcy- 1
cle. The vehicle does not lean in a turn,
so you may need to shift your body
weight towards the inside of the turn
to keep a comfortable posture on the
vehicle. You will need to exert more
force to turn the handlebar of your ve- 2
hicle than is needed to turn a motorcy-
cle. However, it is easier to stop while
turning than with a motorcycle.
2
Tips for Additional Practice
– After you are comfortable turning in
one direction, try going around the
course the other way. Be careful
not to apply more throttle than you
intend when turning left.
– Stop at the apex of the turn to see
what it's like to use your brakes in a rmo2008-001-046_f
curve or turn. 1. Start
2. Stop

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 REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

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
6 m (20 ft) 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 go by pulling and pushing the
grips.

1
rmo2008-001-046_k

1. Start

Tips for Additional Practice

– You can gradually increase
speed as you get comfort-
able to 16 km/h - 19 km/h
(10 MPH - 12 MPH) for the weaves,
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.
1
rmo2008-005-050_a Directions
1. Start This exercise is similar to what you did
before, except now you will be upshift-
12 m (40 ft) Weave ing on the straightaways, then coming
Once you’re comfortable, try doing to a stop at the end of each straight-
12 m (40 ft) weaves between every
other cone/every fourth parking space.

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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

away. You may want to use the parking – Apply brake.

lot aisles for this exercise rather than – After stopping, downshift into first
riding in the spaces. gear by stepping on the shift lever
and pressing it as far as it will go,
8a) Practice Using the Shift Lever at one firm stroke down. Once you
a Stop are more comfortable, downshift
First, while stopped, practice the left into first as you come to a stop.
foot motion for shifting between first
and second gears.
– At a stop in first gear, pull in the
3 3
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 2
to shift into first gear.
– Repeat until you are comfortable
with the foot motions required.
2
8b) Upshifting from First into
Second Gear
In the straightaway, accelerate to ap-
proximately 16 km/h (10 MPH) in first
gear.
To upshift: 1 3
– Roll off the throttle.
– Pull in the clutch lever. (If you pull in rmo2008-001-046_h

the clutch before releasing throttle, 1. Start

the engine may rev — just release 2. Shift into second at 16 km/h (10 MPH)
the throttle if this happens.) 3. Stop
– Slide the tip of your left foot under 8c) Downshifting from Second to
the shift lever and lift it as far as it First Gear
will go, one firm stroke up to shift
into second gear. If space allows, practice downshifting
into from second to first gear.
– Smoothly ease out the clutch.
– You do not need to apply throttle, In the straightaway, slow to approxi-
but once you are comfortable, if mately 16 km/h (10 MPH).
space allows, you can apply the – Release the throttle and pull in the
throttle to increase speed in sec- clutch lever.
ond gear. – Step on the shift lever to shift into
As you approach the end of the first gear.
straightaway, come to a stop: – Smoothly ease out the clutch.
– Release the throttle. – Put your foot back on the peg.
– Pull the clutch lever all the way in.

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8d) Other Gears Directions

If space allows, you can try shifting into Set up your markers as shown in the di-
and out of higher gears as well. Follow agram below. Do not use any fixed or
the same process and shift up or down hard, heavy objects as markers for this
one gear at a time. exercise.
– Enter between the double cones at
Tips for Additional Practice about 8 km/h (5 MPH) and maintain
As you gain more experience, you can that speed throughout.
refine your shifting skills and use them – Steer around the line of cones.
to better control the vehicle. – Exit through the second set of dou-
– When downshifting, rolling on the ble cones.
throttle slightly while smoothly eas- – Repeat the exercise multiple times,
ing out the clutch can help the en- swerving in both directions.
gine rev up to match vehicle speed
more quickly and make the down-
shift smoother, preventing skidding
of the rear wheel.
– Shifting to a lower gear slows the 2
vehicle if you do not apply throttle.
This is known as engine braking.
To use engine braking, shift down 1
one gear at a time and ease out the 3
clutch between each downshift.
Keep the clutch in the friction zone
until the engine speed stabilizes, 1
then ease out the lever fully until
ready for the next downshift.
– Usually you shift gears one at a time, 2
but it is possible to shift through
more than one gear while the clutch
is squeezed by repeating the up or
rmo2008-001-049_a
down stroke as many times as you
want gear changes. 1. 6 m (20 ft)
2. 3 m (10 ft)
Remember that VSS does not control 3. 2.5 m (8 ft)
engine braking. If you shift into too low
a gear when you are at high speed, the Tips for Additional Practice
rear tire can skid and you can lose con- – You can gradually increase
trol, spin out, tip or roll over, particularly your entry speed (to no more
in a curve. than 13 km/h to 19 km/h
(8 MPH to 12 MPH)) and try some
9) Swerve variations. For example, approach
faster and slow before entering the
Purpose exercise, pull in the clutch and apply
– Become familiar with the vehicle’s brakes during the swerve, etc.
handling for quick maneuvers.
– Try different variations of braking
and swerving.

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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 in-
stead. Have your helper stand at a 4
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 3
direction to swerve or for you to
stop.
– Practice checking your mirrors and
blind spot before you swerve. 2

10) Operating in Reverse 1

Purpose rmo2008-001-048_a

– Become familiar with the vehicle’s 1. Start

2. Reverse
handling and turning radius in re- 3. Stop
verse. 4. Forward

Directions Additional Practice in Controlled

Shift into reverse. See SHIFTING INTO Environments
REVERSE (SM5 MODEL). Once you are comfortable with all of
Check that the area behind you is clear the above exercises, you can try a few
and continue to look backwards while other things as space and conditions
you ease out the clutch. Be careful allow. This might be in the parking lot
not to strike anything with your front or at a later time in a place where you
wheels as you back up. Slow and stop have the opportunity without putting
using clutch and brake, just like when yourself at risk.
operating normally. – Quick starts: Try quickly getting up
to speed and upshifting through the
Back for a few feet at time, stopping in gears.
between.
– Quick stop from higher speed:
Keep your speed low and do not back Similar to the quick stop exercise,
up for long distances. but performed from higher speeds
After you are comfortable with re- to get a feel for emergency stops.
verse, back into a parking space as – Starting up an incline: To do this,
shown in the diagram below. keep holding the brake pedal as you
release the clutch lever until you are
in the friction zone. This will keep
you from rolling backwards.

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Practice Exercises 2) Starting, Stopping and Basic

(SE5 Model) Handling

1) Revving the Engine and Using the Purpose

Engine Stop Switch If you feel like you are losing control
while doing these exercises, release
Purpose the throttle to stop accelerating and
– Become familiar with the operation apply the brake as needed to slow
of the twist throttle. down. You can also use the engine
– Become familiar with the sound of stop switch to cut power entirely.
the engine at different RPMs. This – Learn throttle control and how to get
will help you to know when to up- the vehicle moving.
shift and downshift based on the – Become familiar with low speed de-
engine sound. celeration and braking.
– Become familiar with using the en-
gine stop switch. 2a) Apply and Immediately Release
Throttle
Directions Directions
– Start with the vehicle in NEUTRAL,
the parking brake engaged, and your At first, you will only use the throttle for
right foot on the brake pedal. Check a moment at a time, then release it and
the multifunction gauge cluster to coast.
be sure you are in NEUTRAL — if – Start the engine and release the
you are in first gear, the roadster will parking brake.
try to start moving when you apply – With the brake pedal depressed,
the throttle. shift the transmission into first gear
– Watch the tachometer and apply by pressing the gear selector for-
throttle (twist by lowering your ward.
wrist) a few times to raise the RPM – Release the brake.
to no more than 4000. Practice – Slowly apply throttle until the ve-
applying the throttle gently and hicle starts to creep forward. As
smoothly, holding it steady at about soon as you start moving release
3000 RPM, and releasing it. As long the throttle and coast, then press
as the transmission is in neutral the the brake to stop. Repeat to the end
power will not transfer to the rear of the straightaway.
wheel. – To turn around at the end of the
– Use the engine stop switch to cut straightaway, stop, turn the han-
all power to the vehicle. Press the dlebar all the way to the right, then
switch with your right thumb while briefly apply and release the throt-
keeping your hand on the handgrip. tle, and coast through the turn. You
may need to briefly apply the throt-
Tips for Additional Practice tle more than once to complete the
– Practice pressing the engine stop turn. Stop when you are in line with
switch without looking at it. the straightaway in the opposite di-
rection.
– Continue with this part of the exer-
cise until you are comfortable with
applying and releasing the throttle.

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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 3
4
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 2
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 5
straightaway as before, except now
you do not need to release the throt-
tle during the turn. Pay attention to
maintaining a steady throttle posi-
tion as you turn. Stop when you are 1
in line with the straightaway in the
opposite direction.
rmo2008-001-046_c
2c) Hold Throttle, Release and Stop 1. Start
at Ends 2. Press engine stop switch
3. Proceed to end of straightaway, stop and
Next, use the entire straightaway, turn as before
stopping only at the ends. Keep the 4. Stop
throttle moderate. 5. Press engine stop switch

3) Engine Stop while in Motion Restart the engine and proceed to the
next exercise.
Purpose
– Become familiar with using the en- 4) Basic Turns
gine stop switch when in motion so
you know how the vehicle will react Purpose
if you need to use it later. – Get comfortable turning in a con-
trolled manner.
Directions
– Partway down the straightaway, Directions
while operating at 8 km/h (5 MPH), This exercise is similar to what you
turn the engine stop switch to OFF did before, except that now instead of
and coast to a stop. stopping for each turn, you will make
– Restart the engine and repeat the turn at low speed.
the exercise. Try increasing your – Proceed down the straight away in
speed (to a maximum of 20 km/h first gear. Ride a little farther from
(12 MPH) before using the engine the cones so you can make a wide
stop switch. arcing turn at the end of the straight-
NOTE: SE5 model will not start in gear away.
without brake pedal depressed. – As you approach the curve, slow
down to no more than 8 km/h
(5 MPH) by releasing the throttle
and apply brake if needed.

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– Hold the throttle to maintain your 3

low speed.
– Look in the direction of the curve.
– Turn the handlebar in the direction of 2
the curve, pulling on the inside hand-
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.

2
1

3
rmo2008-001-046_e

1. Start
2. Friction zone
3. Apex

NOTE: Motorcyclists - Riding through

turns and curves with your Spyder
roadster is different than on a motorcy-
cle. The vehicle does not lean in a turn,
so you may need to shift your body
rmo2008-001-064
weight to the inside of the turn to keep
RIDING POSTURE WHEN TURNING a comfortable posture on the vehicle.
You will need to exert more force to
turn the handlebar of your vehicle than
is needed to turn a motorcycle. How-
ever, it is easier to stop while turning
than with a motorcycle.
Tips for Additional Practice
– After you are comfortable turning in
one direction, try going around the
course the other way. Be careful
not to apply more throttle than you
intend when turning left.
– Stop at the apex of the turn to see
what it's like to use your brakes in a
curve or turn.

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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

5) Quick Stops
Purpose 1
– Become familiar with the vehicle
braking ability.
– Learn to apply brakes with maxi-
mum force.
Directions
2
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. The An- 2
tilock Braking System (ABS) will pre-
vent the wheels from locking and help
you maintain steering control while
applying maximum braking force. Al-
ways roll off the throttle completely for
quick stops with the SE5. If you apply
throttle and brake at the same time,
your stopping distance will be longer.
rmo2008-001-046_f
– Start at one end of the straightaway
1. Start
and accelerate to 8 km/h (5 MPH). 2. Stop
Partway down the straightaway, roll
off the throttle completely and brake Tips for Additional Practice
quickly. Never pump the brake as – Practice checking your mirrors be-
the ABS will prevent wheel lock. fore braking hard.
– Keep head and eyes up, keep han-
dlebar straight, and do not release 6) Weaves
the brake until fully stopped.
– Repeat, increasing your speed and Purpose
braking harder. – Get more experience with the vehi-
cle handling and rider position.
Directions
6 m (20 ft) Weave
1. Weave between every marker/
intersection of every other park-
ing spot. Keep your speed low ini-
tially 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 go by pulling and pushing the
grips.

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1
rmo2008-005-050_a 1
1. Start rmo2008-001-046_k

1. Start
12 m (40 ft) Weave
Once you’re comfortable, try doing Tips for Additional Practice
12 m (40 ft) weaves between every – You can gradually increase
other cone/every fourth parking space. speed as you get comfort-
able to 16 km/h - 19 km/h
(10 MPH - 12 MPH) for the weaves,
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 for
higher speeds, just like on a manual
transmission car or truck.
The SE5 will not allow you to upshift if
the engine speed is too low. The SE5
will automatically downshift if the en-
gine speed drops under 1800 RPM.
Purpose
– Learn to upshift and downshift.

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REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

Directions
3 3
This exercise is similar to what you did
before, except now you will be upshift-
ing on the straightaways, then coming
to a stop at the end of each straight-
away. You may want to use the parking
lot aisles for this exercise rather than
riding in the spaces. 2
7a) Practice Using the Gear Selector
at a Stop
First, while stopped, practice to single 2
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 you are comfortable. 1 3

7b) Upshifting from First into rmo2008-001-046_h

Second Gear 1. Start

– In the straightaway, accelerate 2. Shift into second at 25 km/h (16 MPH)
3. Stop
until the engine speed reaches
3000 RPM. 7c) If Space Allows, Practice
– Press the gear selector forward to Downshifting into First While
shift into second gear. You do not Moving
have to release the throttle while In the straightaway:
shifting with the SE5.
– Pull the gear selector toward you
– Once you are comfortable, if space without releasing throttle.
allows, you can adjust the throttle to
increase speed in second gear. – You will feel more engine braking
when you downshift without throt-
As you approach the end of the tle.
straightaway, come to a stop:
– Roll off the throttle. 7d) Other Gears
– Apply brake. If space allows, you can try shifting into
– The SE5 will downshift automati- and out of higher gears as well. Follow
cally as the roadster slows. You can the same process and shift up or down
also manually downshift by pulling one gear at a time.
the gear selector towards you.

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NOTE: Applying slightly more throt-

tle while downshifting can help the
engine rev up to match vehicle speed 2
more quickly and make the downshift
smoother. When you do not apply
throttle while downshifting, engine 1
braking will slow the vehicle. This can 3
help you decrease speed, but remem-
ber that VSS does not control engine
braking. If you shift into too low a gear 1
when you are at high speed, the rear
tire can skid and you can lose control,
spin out, tip or roll over, particularly in a 2
curve.

8) Swerve
rmo2008-001-049_a

Purpose 1. 6 m (20 ft)

– Become familiar with the vehicle’s 2. 3 m (10 ft)
3. 2.5 m (8 ft)
handling for quick maneuvers.
– Try different variations of braking Tips for Additional Practice
and swerving. – You can gradually increase
your entry speed (to no more
Directions than 13 km/h to 19 km/h
At this point you will need to change (8 MPH to 12 MPH) and try some
your course. Set up your markers as variations. For example, approach
shown in the diagram below. Do not faster and slow before entering the
use any fixed or hard, heavy objects as exercise, apply brakes during the
markers for this exercise. swerve, etc.
– Enter between the double cones at – A helper can add an element of sur-
about 8 km/h (5 MPH) and maintain prise to the exercise by deciding
that speed throughout. which direction you should swerve,
– Steer around the line of cones. or if you should come to a stop in-
– Exit through the second set of dou- stead. Have your helper stand at a
ble cones. safe distance away (e.g., beyond
the end of your practice area). As
– Repeat the exercise multiple times, you reach the first set of cones, the
swerving in both directions. helper can use hand signals to indi-
cate which direction to swerve or
for you to stop.
– Practice checking your mirrors and
blind spot before you swerve.

9) Operating in Reverse
Purpose
– Become familiar with the vehicle
handling and turning radius in re-
verse.

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 57

REQUIRED RIDING SKILLS AND PRACTICE EXERCISES

Directions Start by riding in less challenging situa-

– Shift into reverse. See SHIFTING tions:
INTO REVERSE (SE5 MODEL). – Short distances
– Check that the area behind you is – Good weather
clear. Continue to look backwards. – Low traffic
Be careful not to strike anything – Daytime
with your front wheels as you back
up. Slow and stop by releasing – Lower speeds
throttle and using brake, just like – No passenger.
when operating normally. You can gradually move on to more
– Back for a few feet at time, stopping challenging riding situations as you de-
in between. velop your skills.
– Keep your speed low and do not
back up for long distances.
– After you are comfortable with re-
verse, back into a parking space as
shown in the diagram below.

rmo2008-001-048_a

1. Start
2. Reverse
3. Stop
4. Forward

Developing Advanced
Riding Skills
Once you have mastered basic riding
skills, you can begin developing more
advanced skills. First, learn the ”Street
Strategies” covered in the next sec-
tion. Then you can take the vehicle
on the road in relatively low-risk situa-
tions.

58 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

STREET STRATEGIES
This section provides some strategies road surfaces, down hills, or when car-
to reduce your risk on the road. Many rying more weight, and visibility may
of these strategies are similar to those be limited in fog, in curves or at night.
used for motorcycles.
This section is based on guidance for Scanning Ahead
motorcyclists given by the Motorcy- In addition to leaving adequate follow-
cle Safety Foundation (MSF). How- ing distance to the next vehicle, scan
ever, even experienced motorcyclists ahead and plan your path even farther
should read this section, as some in advance.
strategies are different for the Spyder Plan your immediate path at least four
roadster. seconds ahead. Watch this path for
hazards, such as anything in the road
Plan your Trip or anything entering the road.
Always check weather conditions be- Scan ahead 12 seconds along your an-
fore riding the vehicle. Take appropri- ticipated path to identify potential haz-
ate gear for any weather you might ardous situations before they happen.
encounter. For example, look for intersections
Plan a route and ride in conditions that where other vehicles may appear or
are appropriate for your skill level. places where pedestrians might enter
the road. Be prepared to respond if a
The vehicle has a 25 L (6.6 U.S. gal.) hazardous situation develops.
fuel tank. When the low fuel indicator
light flashes, fill fuel tank as soon as Watch Behind and to the Sides
possible. Plan your refueling stops,
particularly in unpopulated areas. Vehicles and other hazards can ap-
proach from all directions. Constantly
Defensive Riding be aware of your surroundings. Check
your mirrors frequently to see directly
As with a motorcycle, defensive riding behind you. Also do frequent head
can help you avoid crashes. You need checks (turn your head to look) to mon-
to stay alert at all times. Never stop itor your blind spot.
watching your surroundings, includ-
ing the area behind you. Always scan
for potential hazards, plan ahead, and
leave space and time to avoid trouble.
Do not assume other motorists will A A
see you or follow the rules of the road.

Following Distance
Always leave at least a two-second fol-
lowing distance between you and the
vehicle in front of you when operat-
ing under ideal riding conditions. This
means that you should pass any fixed
point on the road at least two full sec-
onds after the vehicle in front of you.
When conditions make braking dis-
tance longer, or visibility is limited, rmo2008-001-014_a
use a longer following distance for a
A. Operator's blind spots
greater margin of safety. For example,
braking distance is longer on slippery

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 59

STREET STRATEGIES

When braking, be particularly aware of signals, but they may not cancel after
vehicles behind you that may not be shallow turns. Make sure turn signals
able to stop as quickly as the Spyder are off after you have completed your
roadster. maneuver; leaving them on may con-
fuse other motorists.
Keep your Eyes Moving When possible, flash your brake lights
To stay aware of your surroundings, do before slowing and when waiting at
not fixate on any one thing. Move your intersections, to alert motorists behind
eyes constantly to monitor the road, you.
traffic control markings and devices Use your emergency flashers to make
and other vehicles. Look near and far, yourself visible when needed.
in all directions.
You can also use your horn to attempt
Anticipate Trouble to alert other motorists of your pres-
ence.
Whenever you notice a potential haz-
ard, plan a way to avoid it. This might Do not assume that other motorists
mean adjusting your speed or lane po- will notice your lights, signals or horn.
sition, or changing lanes. You should
be ready for evasive maneuvers such Blind Spots
as swerving and/or braking if some- Avoid riding in the blind spots of other
thing enters your path. Always leave vehicles. Position yourself so that
time and space to react to trouble. drivers ahead can see you in their mir-
rors. In some cases, such as when you
Being Visible are following a truck or a bus, you must
be farther behind the vehicle in front of
Motorists tend not to see smaller ve- you.
hicles like motorcycles. Therefore you
should use strategies to become more
visible.

To Be More Visible to Other

Motorists
Lighting and Reflectors A A
Make sure that the headlights, run-
ning lights and taillights on your ve-
hicle work properly. Your vehicle is
equipped with reflectors on the fend-
ers, sides, and back. Make sure that all
reflectors are clean and not broken or
missing.
Use your high beams whenever pos-
sible, both day and night. Use low
beams to avoid blinding other mo-
torists at night or when too much light
reflects back, such as in fog.
rmo2008-001-015_a
Signals
A. Blind spots of other vehicles
Use your turn signals to inform oth-
ers of your intentions. The Spyder
roadster has automatic canceling turn

60 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 STREET STRATEGIES

Time of Day and Weather for drivers ahead to see you, you must
In dim light, such as at night, at dawn be able to see their mirrors. When you
or dusk, or in poor weather such as rain are being followed by a large vehicle,
or fog, you may be harder to see. Glare passing vehicles may not be able to
at dawn and dusk or very bright sun- see you easily if you are not in the left
light can also make it harder for other part of the lane.
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 de-
fensively, and don't rely on other mo-
torists to operate their vehicles safely.

Lane Position
Normally, position the Spyder roadster
in the center of the lane. This posi-
rmo2008-001-075_a
tion keeps the front tires in the lane. It
also provides distance from vehicles in 1. Vehicle in left portion of lane
other lanes, reducing wind from large
vehicles and reducing the risk of being Because the Spyder roadster is wider
struck by vehicles that leave their lane. than a motorcycle, the range of lane
This position also keeps your front positions is smaller. When riding in the
wheels out of the slippery area in the left or right part of the lane be sure that
middle of the lane, helping maintain the front wheels stay in the lane.
braking and steering ability. If you are On multilane roads, choose a lane that
used to driving a car, remember that is appropriate for your speed in the
you are centered on the Spyder road- flow of traffic, and also consider your
ster, rather than seated to the side, so ability to see and be seen, and possible
your perspective is different. paths for evasive maneuvers (such as
You can move to the left or right part swerving into other lanes or onto the
of the lane, to avoid hazards, keep dis- shoulder).
tance from other vehicles, or handle
curves. You can also move to the left Common Riding Situations
or right part of the lane to get a bet-
ter view or to be seen by other vehi- Intersections
cles. Because of the Spyder roadster Intersections, including small inter-
center seat position and width, it may sections with alleys and driveways,
be harder to see around traffic, even present an additional risk due to the
when you are near the edge of the cross traffic. Always watch for traffic
lane. You may need a greater following in all directions: behind, in front and to
distance behind wide or tall vehicles. the left and right.
Avoid putting your wheel outside of
the lane to see around traffic. In order

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 61

STREET STRATEGIES

When stopping at an intersection, stop Turns

in the middle of the lane, even if you Remember to slow, look, and steer
are preparing to turn. This can make through turns.
you more visible and discourage other
motorists from trying to drive around – Slow: Reduce speed as needed be-
you. Watch for vehicles approaching fore entering a turn by rolling off the
from behind. Flash your brake lights as throttle, using the brakes, and/or
they approach. Be in first gear and be downshifting to a lower gear. En-
prepared to move if necessary to avoid ter the turn at a speed that you can
a collision. maintain throughout the turn.
Although the Spyder roadster is bet-
Lane Changes and Passing ter able to brake while turning than
a motorcycle, it is still important to
Remember that the Spyder roadster slow down before you enter a turn
is wider than a motorcycle and needs or curve rather than braking in the
more lateral space to pass another ve- turn. Braking and turning both re-
hicle. Also remember that the vehicle quire traction. The more traction
is less visible than a car, so it is par- you use for braking, the less there
ticularly important to signal your lane is available for turning at the same
change well in advance and check your time.
mirrors and blind spots. Be sure to When you take a turn or curve too
turn off your turn signal after changing fast, you may notice the inside front
lanes; a lane change will not turn the wheel lifting off the pavement and
handlebar far enough to automatically feel and hear VSS cutting back en-
cancel the signal. gine power. While VSS can help you
Never drive on the line between two maintain control, it is still possible to
lanes of traffic (split lanes). The vehicle spin or roll over if you turn too hard
is too wide. and fast.
Never drive on the shoulder to pass – Look: Search through the entire
vehicles. If you put one wheel off the turn and keep your eyes moving.
road, you can lose control. Evaluate the entire turn as soon as
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 picture.
– Steer: Turn the handlebar to steer
the vehicle in the direction of the
turn. The Spyder roadster is not like
a motorcycle, so it does not counter-
steer, and the vehicle does not lean.
Remember, you will experience the
lateral force generated by turning,
so you may need to shift your body
weight to the inside of the turn to
keep a comfortable posture on the
vehicle. You will need to exert more
force to turn the handlebar of your
vehicle than is needed to turn a mo-
torcycle.

62 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 STREET STRATEGIES

SM5 Model Hills

When shifting gears while turning, be Select an appropriate gear for the in-
careful not to release the clutch lever cline. Going up hills, a lower gear can
too fast. Adjust throttle as you release help maintain enough power. Going
the clutch lever to match engine and down hills, a lower gear can provide
vehicle speed in a smooth shift. Re- engine braking to control your speed.
leasing the clutch too quickly or us-
ing too much throttle may cause the SM5 Model
rear wheel to lose traction and start To start while on an incline, hold the
skidding, potentially causing loss of vehicle in place with the brake until
control. The Traction Control System you move the clutch lever into the fric-
(TCS) will detect the onset of wheel tion zone. Then smoothly release the
spin and reduce the power transmitted brake as you release the clutch lever
to the rear wheel. This intervention is and apply throttle.
intended to allow the rear wheel to re-
gain traction and allow you to correct SE5 Model
the unwanted oversteering to keep When stopped, the SE5 model can
your vehicle on the intended turning roll regardless of what gear it is in.
radius. The SE5 model centrifugal clutch is
always disengaged when the vehi-
Curves cle is stopped, so the transmission
Because the Spyder roadster is nar- will not hold the vehicle in place. Hold
rower than a car, you can move from the brake pedal when stopped on an
side to side in the lane in curves to incline. To start while on an incline,
straighten your path of travel. But the hold the brake pedal as you increase
Spyder roadster is wider than a mo- throttle. Release the brake pedal as
torcycle, so less lateral movement is you feel the clutch engage (at about
possible, and it is important to make 1800 RPM).
sure that your front tires do not leave
the lane. Night Riding
For typical curves, an outside, inside, In addition to using your lights and sig-
outside path is best. nals to be seen by other motorists,
consider your own ability to see at
night. Use high beams when appro-
priate. Avoid overriding your headlight
(riding so fast that you can’t see as far
as your stopping distance). You can
1 also use other vehicles headlights to
2 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
1
scratches or smudges.

rmo2008-001-063_a
Group Riding
PATH FOR TYPICAL CURVES Ride single file only. Never share
1. Outside lanes, even with a motorcycle.
2. Inside (at the apex)
When riding with motorcycles, main-
tain proper following distance from
the motorcycle in front of you, even

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 63

STREET STRATEGIES

if they are riding to one side of the ment (like a puddle or flowing water on
lane. In curves, do not try to follow the road). As with other vehicles, the
the path of motorcycles. Motorcycles Spyder roadster can hydroplane if you
can move farther to the edges of the drive too fast over water that has accu-
lane in curves — if you follow them ex- mulated on the road, but hydroplaning
actly, your front wheel can leave the occurs at lower speeds than with most
lane. Motorcycles may be able to take cars or motorcycles. You are more
curves faster than the Spyder roadster. likely to hydroplane in deeper water.
Do not try to match their speed. Watch for splashing or spraying when
other vehicles go through water as an
indicator of depth.
2 When hydroplaning occurs, one or
more wheels rise up on a layer of wa-
ter, losing contact with the road. If this
1 happens to the rear wheel, you may
feel it slide sideways. Hydroplaning
rmo2008-001-045_a
wheels do not have the traction nec-
GROUP RIDING POSITION essary to control the vehicle. You can
1. Center of lane
2. Distance of 2 sec.
lose control and spin out, and the VSS
cannot keep you in control.
Particularly on curvy roads, Spyder Avoid large water puddles or water
roadster riders might become tired streams, and slow down or pull off the
sooner than motorcyclists. Do not road during heavy rains. If you must
push yourself to keep up with motor- pass through water, slow down as
cycles; stop if you are tired. much as possible before you reach it.
After passing through water, test your
Road Conditions and brakes. Apply them several times if
Hazards necessary to let friction dry the brake
pads.
Ice, Snow and Slush
Properly maintained tires reduce the
Do not ride on ice, snow or slush. Even risk of hydroplaning. Always maintain
with VSS, there will not be enough recommended tire pressure:
traction to maintain control on these – Front:
slippery surfaces. The Spyder road- Nominal.: 103 kPa (15 PSI)
ster is more likely than a car to spin out Min.: 89 kPa (13 PSI)
of control in slippery surfaces. Max.: 117 kPa (17 PSI).
Gravel, Dirt and Sand – Rear:
Nominal.: 193 kPa (28 PSI)
On gravel, dirt, or sand-covered roads, Min.: 179 kPa (26 PSI)
use extra caution and reduce your Max.: 207 kPa (30 PSI).
speed, particularly for curves. These
surfaces do not provide as much trac- NOTE: The pressure difference be-
tion as paved surfaces and you can tween the left and right side tire should
lose control, even with VSS. not exceed 3.4 kPa (.5 PSI).
Immediately replace any tire that
Wet Pavement and Puddles shows the maximum tread wear indi-
There is normally enough traction to cator to minimize risk of hydroplaning.
maintain control on pavement that is The middle of a lane can be particularly
moist or wet, as long as there is not slick in the first few minutes of rain, as
a layer of water on top of the pave- oil and dirt combine with the water. Af-

64 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 STREET STRATEGIES

ter more rain, water can accumulate in mal leaves, or go past slowly. If a dog
ruts in worn pavement. Avoid both of chases you, a good strategy is to slow
these low traction areas. When possi- down and downshift as the dog ap-
ble, keep your front tires in areas with proaches, then accelerate away as you
the best traction. get closer to where the dog would in-
tercept you.
Off-Road Use
Do not use the Spyder roadster off On-Road Emergencies
road. The vehicle cannot handle the A vehicle malfunction or an unex-
rough, low-traction, uneven surfaces pected situation can occur any time
that you may encounter in off-road rid- during a ride. A well-maintained vehi-
ing. You could easily get stuck, lose cle can help reduce the risk of malfunc-
control or roll over. Also, it may be ille- tion, but you should still be prepared
gal for off-road use in certain areas. for an emergency.
– Always have the Operator's Guide
Obstacles, Holes and Bumps and tool kit in the vehicle.
Whenever possible, avoid riding over – When stopping on the road, follow
obstacles, holes and bumps. If you these precautions:
must ride over them, slow down as • If the road has paved shoulders,
much as possible before you get there, signal your intention to pull off
then release the brake as you go over. the highway, pull off at near traf-
For wide obstacles or bumps, ap- fic speed, then slow down to a
proach straight on if possible, so that complete stop.
both front tires go over at the same
time. When going over an obstacle, • If the shoulder is unpaved, signal
bump or hole with both front wheels, a right turn and slow down to a
riders should stand up slightly on the safe speed before pulling off the
pegs and use legs to absorb the shock. paved roadway.
Be prepared for the rear wheel to strike • To increase your visibility, turn on
the obstacle. For narrower obstacles, the hazard warning lights.
bumps or holes, it is better to ride over – If you have cellular phone or other
it with the rear tire. If you ride over communication device, fully charge
them with a front tire, maintain a firm it before long rides.
grip on the handlebar, take care not to – If you are involved in a crash, BRP
accidentally applying the throttle and strongly recommends that you
be prepared to correct your trajectory have your vehicle transported (see
if necessary. TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER
If you strike a large enough obstacle, ROADSTER) to the nearest Can-Am
bump or hole, the impact can make the roadster dealer to have it thoroughly
vehicle jump and strike you, eject rid- inspected for safety before riding
ers, make you lose control, spin or roll again.
over. – Fill in the BRP accident/incident re-
If you can’t come to a complete stop port.
in time to avoid an obstacle, you can
swerve to avoid it. You can swerve Tire Failure
and brake at the same time if neces- If a tire failure or a blowout suddenly
sary. occurs, firmly grip the handlebar, grad-
If you encounter a large animal in the ually slow down and carefully steer to a
road, like a deer, it is best to stop be- safe place to stop. Avoid hard braking,
fore reaching it and wait until the ani- downshifting, or sharp steering. If a

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 65

STREET STRATEGIES

front tire fails, the vehicle may tend to

pull in the direction of the failed tire, so
you will need to maintain a firm grip on
the handlebar to control your direction.
Refer to ROAD SIDE REPAIRS subsec-
tion for instructions on tire repair.

66 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

CARRYING A PASSENGER OR CARGO
Weight Limits 3. You will not be able to turn as
Do not exceed the weight limits for rid- sharply or at as high a speed. Slow
ers and cargo. down more than usual before turn-
ing and avoid sharp turns.
WEIGHT LIMITS 4. The Spyder roadster may be less
stable. There is a greater risk of tip-
Vehicle load limit ping or rolling during extreme ma-
(including operator, 200 kg neuvers with weight that is higher
passenger, cargo and (441 lb) or farther to the rear (like a passen-
added accessories) ger).
16 kg
Front storage compartment Carrying a Passenger
(35 lb)
The Spyder roadster is designed for
Excess weight will: only one passenger, seated behind the
– Reduce your ability to accelerate, operator. Never carry multiple passen-
brake and turn. gers.
– Reduce the effectiveness of the Do not carry a passenger until you have
VSS. experience riding alone in a variety of
– Increase the risk of rolling over if the conditions and can proficiently handle
weight is high or toward the rear. the vehicle.
– Reduce ground clearance, increas- The passenger must be sober, alert,
ing the risk of striking low obstacles able to reach the passenger footpegs
or uneven road surfaces. and handholds, maintain balance and
– Increase the risk of tire failure. hold on in sudden maneuvers, and not
distract the operator.
Operating with Extra Be sure the passenger is wearing ap-
Weight propriate protective gear. The passen-
Carrying a passenger or heavy cargo ger should wear all of the protective
affects the way the vehicle handles gear recommended for the operator,
because of the greater weight, and be- particularly a helmet. A full-face hel-
cause the weight distribution will be met is recommended; in a sudden
different. stop, the passenger’s face can strike
the back of the operator's helmet.
1. You will not be able to accelerate as
quickly. Allow more time and space Keep the brakes applied and the trans-
for passing. mission in neutral until the passenger
2. You will not be able to stop as is in riding position.
quickly. Use a longer following dis- Instruct the passenger on how to ride
tance from the vehicle in front of before starting out. Have the passen-
you, at least three seconds. Use ger follow these rules:
an even longer distance if riding 1. Maintain proper riding position.
conditions are not ideal (e.g., low Hold the passenger handholds and
visibility, poor road surface). keep feet on the passenger foot-
pegs at all times, even with the ac-
cessory 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

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 67

CARRYING A PASSENGER OR CARGO

handholds may be more comfort- Front Storage Compartment

able for different maneuvers. (e.g., The front storage compartment has
one hand at the front corner of and room to store light objects, such as
one hand at the opposite back cor- two helmets. Do not put more than
ner for turns, both hands further for- 16 kg (35 lb) in the front storage com-
ward or back for other situations). partment, even if the items fit. Never
store flammable items, such as fuel,
in the front storage compartment.
A front storage compartment liner is
available. The front storage compart-
ment includes a designated space for
this Operator’s Guide and a tool kit.

rmo2008-001-120_a

DIFFERENT GRIPPING POSITIONS ON THE

HANDHOLDS

2. Never touch the parking brake pedal

with your left foot. Engaging the
parking brake while the vehicle is
moving can cause a crash.
3. Stay clear of the exhaust pipe, the
rear wheel and the drive belt.
rmo2008-001-031_b
4. Avoid turning around or leaning ex-
1. Tool kit
cept to keep balance in a turn. In an 2. Operator's guide
unexpected maneuver, a passenger
who is not in the normal riding posi- Make sure the front storage compart-
tion is more likely to fall off. ment latch is secure before riding.
5. Watch the road and respond to up-
coming road conditions. Lean into No Towing
curves as needed to resist any side- Do not tow anything with the vehicle.
ways force. When crossing an ob- The VSS will not be effective, and you
stacle, hole or bump, rise slightly will be more likely to lose control.
off the seat without locking your el-
bows.
Avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and
turns, especially with inexperienced
passengers. Sudden, unexpected ma-
neuvers can make the passenger fall
off.

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 with approved BRP acces-
sories.

68 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST
The following provides a sample of in- 6. Name six items of protective gear
formation that you should have learned that can reduce your risk of injury.
by reading this guide. It does not in-
clude all of the important information, 1) _________________________
but should give you an idea of whether
you have a general understanding of 2) _________________________
the vehicle and its operation. 3) _________________________
See the ANSWERS on the page follow-
ing the questionnaire. 4) _________________________
5) _________________________
Questionnaire
6) _________________________
1. If you need to stop quickly, press
both the brake pedal and the 7. Protective gear is important for
parking brake. preventing and reducing injuries,
True False keeping you comfortable, and
providing protection against the
elements.
2. A pre-ride inspection should be
performed once a week. True False
True False
8. Which of the following is not one
of the vehicle driving controls?
3. VSS allows you to use the vehicle
in any kind of weather. a. Handlebar
True False b. Twist throttle

4. c. Front brake lever

You should only replace the tires
with those approved by BRP
obtained from an authorized 9. You should leave your low beam
Can-Am roadster dealer. lights on during the day for added
visibility.
True False
True False
5. It is important for the passenger to
be alert and sober. 10. You should normally position the
vehicle in the center of the lane.
True False
True False

11. Unlike a typical motorcycle, you

should make it common practice
to brake and turn at the same
time.
True False

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 69

KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST

12. Under normal conditions, 18. A passenger should hold onto the
following distance should be operator.
at least ________.
True False
a. 1 second
b. 2 seconds 19. Riding the Spyder roadster is as
safe as riding in a car.
c. 3 seconds
True False
13. You should not store flammable
liquids such as gasoline in the 20. ABS allows you to press the brake
front storage compartment, even pedal hard without locking the
if they are in approved containers. brakes.

True False True False

14. List 5 ways of being more

noticeable to other drivers.
1) _________________________
2) _________________________
3) _________________________
4) _________________________
5) _________________________

15. When braking on surfaces with

less than ideal traction, you should
pump the brakes to help maintain
control of the vehicle.
True False

16. The vehicle’s maximum load

including riders, cargo and
accessories is 200 kg (441 lb).
True False

17. The vehicle can safely tow a trailer

as long as the tongue weight
does not cause the overall load to
exceed 200 kg (441 lb).
True False

70 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 KNOWLEDGE SELF-TEST

Answers 12. b. 2 seconds

Under normal conditions,
following distance should be
1. False at least two seconds.
To stop quickly, press the brake
pedal only. Never use the parking 13. True
brake while the vehicle is moving.
14. 1) Make sure your lights and
2. False reflectors are clean.
2) Use your high beams whenever
You should do a pre-ride inspection possible.
every time you ride.
3) Use your turn signals.
3. False 4) Flash your brake lights before
If there is ice, snow, slush or slowing.
enough water on the road to 5) Use your emergency flashers
cause hydroplaning, VSS can not as needed.
help you maintain control. 6) Use your horn to alert others of
your presence.
4. True 7) Avoid riding in blind spots.
8) Wear bright colors and
5. True reflective clothing.
6. 1) Helmet 15. False
2) Eye and face protection You should press and hold the
3) Jacket with long sleeves brake pedal, not pump. The
vehicle is equipped with ABS,
4) Gloves which keeps the wheels from
5) Long pants locking.
6) Closed-toe footwear, preferably 16. True
over the ankle.
17. False
7. True You should never tow a trailer with
the vehicle.
8. c. Front brake lever
The vehicle does not have a front 18. False
brake lever. The passenger should always hold
on to the handholds.
9. False
You should use your high beams 19. False
during the day. In cars and trucks, the structure of
the vehicle provides protection. In
10. True addition, passengers can protect
themselves by wearing seat belts.
11. False You should expect that riding the
Spyder roadster is much riskier
You can brake and turn at the same than riding in a car and that the
time if you need to, but generally it risk of injury is more like the risk of
is better to brake before the turn. injury when riding a motorcycle.
20. True

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 71

SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE
This vehicle comes with a hang tag and NOTE: The following illustration used
labels containing important safety in- in this Operator's Guide is a general
formation. representation only. Your model may
Any person who rides this vehicle differ.
should read and understand this in-
formation on the vehicle before riding.

Hang Tag

704901792
704901792

Safety Card
The Safety Card is found at the top of
the multifunction gauge cluster. Pull it
out to read it, and be sure to securely
put it back before riding.
Use the Safety Card to review key in-
formation and when you are teaching
new operators and passengers how
to ride the vehicle. It also includes fre-
quently referenced information, such
as tire pressure, weight limits and a
pre-ride inspection checklist.

72 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE

704901347

SAFETY CARD

rmo2008-001-113
rmo2008-001-112_a
SAFETY CARD PULLED OUT
1. Safety card tab location

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 73

SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE

Safety Labels
The following labels are on your vehicle, and they should be considered permanent
parts of the vehicle. If missing or damaged, they can be replaced free of charge.
See an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
NOTE: The following illustrations used in this Operator's Guide are a general rep-
resentation only. Your model may differ.

Label 1

704902074

Label 3

rmo2008-001-029_b

TYPICAL
1. Label 1 location

Label 2
704901344

704901353

rmo2008-001-031_c

1. Label 3 located in the front storage

compartment

rmo2008-001-107_b

1. Label 2 location

74 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 SAFETY INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE

Label 4

CAUTION
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. rmo2008-003-004_a
- Stop engine & wipe the dipstick.
- Dipstick must be screwed in 1. Label 5 located underneath service cover
completely before checking oil level.
- Use XPS synthetic blend oil (summer Label 6
grade) or an equivalent motocycle oil.
704902096

WARNING
704902096

Clean filler cap before removing.

Use only DOT 4 brake fluid from
a sealed container.
704901803

704901803

rmo2008-001-029_c

1. Label 4 located on the oil tank behind the

left middle side panel

Label 5

rmo2008-001-040_b

1. Label 6 located underneath seat

rmo2008-003-003

COOLANT RESERVOIR CAP

______ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______ 75

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
Your safety is very important to
Bombardier Recreational Products
Inc. (BRP). If you have any concerns
you should immediately contact BRP's
customer service.
In the USA, if you believe that your ve-
hicle has a defect which could cause
a crash or could cause injury or death,
you should immediately inform the Na-
tional Highway Traffic Safety Adminis-
tration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints,
it may open an investigation, and if it
finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a re-
call and remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved in any
individual problems between you, your
dealer or Bombardier Recreational
Products Inc.
To contact NHTSA you may either call
the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at
888-327-4236 (TTY: 1 800-424-9153 or
go to our website: www.safercar.gov
or write to:

Administrator
NHTSA
400 7th Street SW
Washington, DC 20590

You can also obtain other information

about motor vehicle safety from the
the website www.safercar.gov.

76 _____ SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ______

 PRE-RIDE
INSPECTION

_______________ 77
PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST
WARNING – Clutch lever: (SM5 model): Adjust
to your convenience (see CLUTCH
Perform a pre-ride inspection be- LEVER POSITION ADJUSTMENT).
fore each ride to detect potential Squeeze to be sure it operates nor-
problems during operation. The mally and fully returns when re-
pre-ride inspection can help you leased.
monitor wear and deterioration
before they become a problem. – Gearshift selector (SE5 model):
Correct any problems that you dis- Be sure gearshift selector operates
normally in both directions and re-
cover to reduce the risk of a break-
down or crash. See an authorized turns to center when released.
Can-Am roadster dealer as neces- – Weight: Ensure that total load on
sary. the vehicle (including operator, pas-
senger, cargo and added acces-
sories) does not exceed 200 kg
There is a pre-ride inspection checklist (441 lb).
on the Safety Card.
Turn Ignition Key to the ON Position:
Inspect:
– Multifunction gauge cluster:
– Tires: Look for damage, incorrect Check the gauges, indicators, mes-
inflation and excessive tread wear. sages and the fuel level.
Refer to the TIRES section.
– Lights: Check operation of head-
– Wheels and lugnuts: Look for lights, taillight, brake light, turn sig-
damage. Twist each front wheel nals and hazard warning lights.
lugnut by hand to be sure it is not
loose. Be sure the rear wheel axle – Horn: Check operation.
nut is in place. – Steering: Start engine and verify
– Drive belt: Look for fraying, cuts, that steering operates freely.
punctures and missing teeth. Verify – Engine stop switch: Check that the
alignment. For additional informa- engine stop switch is working prop-
tion, refer to the DRIVE BELT sub- erly.
section. – Parking brake: Start engine, re-
– Leaks: Look under the vehicle for lease parking brake and ensure park-
any leaks. ing brake indicator is off on the mul-
– Front storage compartment tifunction gauge cluster.
cover: Pull to check that it is prop- – Brake: Drive forward slowly a few
erly latched. feet then apply brake to test.
– Ensure seat is properly latched. Always lock Safety Card back into posi-
– Mirrors: Clean and adjust (see AD- tion.
JUSTING MIRRORS).
– Brake pedal: Press and make sure
you feel firm resistance. Pedal must
fully return when released.
– Throttle handle: Twist several
times. Be sure it operates freely
and returns to idle position when re-
leased.

78 ______________
TRANSPORTING
AND STORING

_______________ 79
TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER ROADSTER
If your vehicle needs to be transported, 4. Attach the straps to the winch cable.
it should be carried on a flatbed trailer If possible, use chains or additional
of the proper size and capacity. straps to attach the straps to the
winch cable as indicated below to
avoid damaging the bumper cover.
CAUTION If you need to push
the vehicle, do it from the right-hand
side to be able to reach the brake
pedal.
When pulling the vehicle back-
wards, be careful that the front
wheel does not roll over your feet.
NOTICE Do not tow the Spyder
roadster — towing can seriously
damage the vehicle's drive system.
When contacting a towing or trans-
porting service, be sure to ask if they
have a flatbed trailer, loading ramp or
power ramp to safely lift the vehicle rmo2008-001-066_a
and tie-down straps. Ensure the vehi- 1. Strap around front suspension lower arms
cle is properly transported as specified 2. Chains to avoid damaging the bumper cover
in this section. 3. Winch cable

NOTICE Avoid using chains to tie 5. Ensure that the parking brake is re-
the vehicle — they may damage leased.
the surface finish or plastic com- 6. Pull the vehicle on the flatbed trailer
ponents. with the winch.
To load the vehicle for transport, pro- 7. Engage the parking brake.
ceed as follows: 8. Ensure that the vehicle's gear is in
1. Shift the vehicle into NEUTRAL (N). NEUTRAL (N).
2. Remove the key from the ignition 9. Strap the front tires by using one the
switch. following methods indicated below.
3. Put a strap around the lower arm of
each front suspension.

rmo2008-001-065_a
rmo2008-001-069_a
1. Strap
2. Lower suspension arm FRONT WHEELS ATTACHMENT —
METHOD 1
1. Strap around the rim of each front wheel
and attached to the front of trailer

80 ______________
 TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER ROADSTER

rmo2008-001-072_a

1. Front and rear wheel firmly attached to

trailer
rmo2008-001-073_a

FRONT WHEELS ATTACHMENT —

METHOD 2
1. Strap around each wheel and fixed to the
front and rear of trailer

10. Pass a tie-down strap inside the

rear wheel rim only. Do not pass
the tie-down strap inside the rear
sprocket.
NOTICE Passing the tie-down
strap inside the rear sprocket may
seriously damage the drive system.

rmo2008-001-067_a

REAR WHEEL ATTACHMENT

1. Tie-down strap
2. Inside rear wheel rim ONLY

11. Firmly attach the rear wheel

tie-down strap to the rear of the
trailer with a ratchet.
12. Ensure that both the front and rear
wheels are firmly attached to the
trailer.

_______________ 81
STORING THE SPYDER ROADSTER
If the vehicle will not be ridden for at To Remove the Vehicle from Stor-
least four months, such as during the age:
winter, proper storage is necessary to 1. Uncover and clean the vehicle.
keep the vehicle in good condition. 2. Charge the battery if needed.
BRP recommends you have your au- 3. Perform a pre-ride inspection, then
thorized Can-Am roadster dealer fully test-ride the vehicle at low speed.
prepare your vehicle for storage. Or, at
your convenience, you can follow the
basic procedures below.
To Prepare the Vehicle for Storage:
1. Inspect vehicle and have your au-
thorized Can-Am roadster dealer
repair any problems if necessary.
2. Change the engine oil and filter. Go
to an authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer if necessary.
3. Check engine coolant, brake fluid
and clutch fluid levels.
4. Fill the fuel tank, add fuel stabi-
lizer and run the engine to prevent
the tank from rusting and the fuel
from deteriorating. Strictly follow
instructions on fuel stabilizer con-
tainer.
5. Inflate all tires to their recom-
mended pressure.
6. Clean the vehicle.
7. Lubricate all control cables and
latches, pivoting points of all levers
and lubrication points of front sus-
pensions.
8. Close and latch all storage compart-
ments.
9. Cover the vehicle with a permeable
materials (e.g., tarpaulin). Avoid us-
ing plastic or similar non-breathing,
coated materials that restrict air
flow and allow heat and moisture
to accumulate.
10. Store the vehicle in a dry area, away
from sunlight, with a small amount
of daily temperature variation.
11. Slow charge the battery once a
month at the recommended charg-
ing rate of 2 A. It is not necessary to
remove the battery.

82 ______________
MAINTENANCE

_______________ 83
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Maintenance is very important for keeping your vehicle in safe operating condition.
Proper maintenance 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.

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Initial inspection 1 000 km (600 mi)
A: Adjust
Every 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
C: Clean
I: Inspect Every 10 000 km (6,000 mi) or 1 year
L: Lubricate
Every 20 000 20 000 km (12,000 mi) or 2 years
R: Replace
To be performed by Note
ENGINE
Check oil level every
Engine oil and oil filter R R Customer
500 km (300 mi)
Inspect and clean if
Oil tank strainer I, C I, C Dealer
necessary
HCM oil filter (SE5 model) R R Customer
Inspect first at
Valve clearance A Dealer
10 000 km (6,000 mi)
Air filter I R Dealer
Wipe off any oil in
Air filter housing C Customer
housing
I: Customer
Clutch fluid (SM5 model) I R
R: Dealer
Engine coolant I I R Dealer
Condition, leak and
Radiator, hoses and water pump I Dealer
cleanliness
Radiator cap/cooling system pressure
I Dealer
test
Exhaust “Y” pipe front gaskets R Dealer
Reverse mechanism (SM5 model) A Dealer

84 ______________
 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Initial inspection 1 000 km (600 mi)
A: Adjust
Every 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
C: Clean
I: Inspect Every 10 000 km (6,000 mi) or 1 year
L: Lubricate
Every 20 000 20 000 km (12,000 mi) or 2 years
R: Replace
To be performed by Note
ELECTRONIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Fault codes I I Dealer
Adjust every time rear
Wheel speed sensor I Dealer
wheel is loosened
Passenger switch I Dealer
FUEL SYSTEM
I, C,
Throttle body Dealer
A
Throttle cable L Dealer Adjust if necessary
Fuel hoses I Dealer
Replace every 5
Fuel filter years or 30 000 km Dealer
(19,000 mi)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Spark plugs I I R Dealer
Battery connections I, C Dealer
Lighting system (Brake light, hazard
warning lights, turn signal lights, I Customer
position lights, license plate light)
DRIVE SYSTEM
Dealer Inspect wear, alignment
Drive belt I, A I, A
Customer and tension (p. 94)
Replace every 50 000 km
Rear sprocket bearing I Dealer
(31,000 mi)
Inspect at every tire
Rear axle bearings I Dealer
replacement
Bearing seals, O-rings and wear
R Dealer
sleeves of rear axle

_______________ 85
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Initial inspection 1 000 km (600 mi)
A: Adjust
Every 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
C: Clean
I: Inspect Every 10 000 km (6,000 mi) or 1 year
L: Lubricate
Every 20 000 20 000 km (12,000 mi) or 2 years
R: Replace
To be performed by Note
TIRES/WHEELS
When tread depth
reaches 4 mm (5/32 in).
Tires must be removed
Front tires Rotate Dealer
from the wheels in
order to respect rotation
direction
Wheel bearings I Dealer
Front wheel nuts I Dealer
Rear wheel nut I Dealer
STEERING
Steering play I Dealer
Tie rod I Dealer
Front wheel alignment I Dealer
SUSPENSION
Shock absorbers I Dealer
Front suspension arms L L Dealer
Ball joints I Dealer
BRAKES
I: Customer
Brake fluid I R
R: Dealer
Brake pads and discs I Customer
Brake hoses I Dealer
I, C,
Parking brake I, A Dealer
A

86 ______________
 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Initial inspection 1 000 km (600 mi)
A: Adjust
Every 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
C: Clean
I: Inspect Every 10 000 km (6,000 mi) or 1 year
L: Lubricate
Every 20 000 20 000 km (12,000 mi) or 2 years
R: Replace
To be performed by Note
BODY/FRAME
Passenger handholds I Customer Check solidness
Use multi-purpose
Footpegs L Customer
lubricant
Plastic parts fasteners I Customer Check solidness
Use CABLE
Storage compartment latch I I, L Customer
LUBRICANT (P/N 293
600 041) or the
equivalent

_______________ 87
BREAK-IN INSPECTION
We recommend that after the first 1 000 km (600 mi) of operation, your vehicle be
inspected by an authorized Can-Am dealer. The initial maintenance is very impor-
tant and must not be neglected.
NOTE: The break-in inspection is at the expense of the vehicle owner.
We recommend that this inspection be signed by an authorized Can-Am dealer.

Date of inspection Authorized dealer signature

Dealer name

88 ______________
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
This section includes instructions Body Panels
for basic maintenance procedures. The body panels on the left side of the
If you have the necessary mechani- vehicle can be removed for mainte-
cal skills and the required tools, you nance.
can perform these procedures. If not,
see your authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer.
Other important items in the mainte-
nance schedule that are more difficult
and require special tools are best per-
formed by your authorized Can-Am
roadster dealer.

WARNING rmo2008-001-029_a

LEFT HAND SIDE PANELS

Turn off the engine and follow 1. Middle side panel
these maintenance procedures 2. Top side panel
when performing maintenance. 3. Rear side panel
4. Bottom side panel
If you do not follow proper main-
tenance procedures you can be
injured by hot parts, moving parts, 1) Middle Side Panel
electricity, chemicals or other haz-
ards.

Tool Kit
The tool kit is located inside the front
storage compartment, on the left-hand
side of the vehicle.

rmo2008-001-024_a

1. Middle side panel

Removal
1. Unscrew 3 clips.

rmo2008-001-031_a

1. Tool kit located in the front storage

compartment

It contains the tools for the basic main-

tenance in this Operator's Guide.

rmo2008-001-032_a

1. Middle side panel clips

_______________ 89
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

2. Press down panel's top edge with

both hands and pull out.

rmo2008-001-033_b

Step 1: Press down top edge

Step 2: Push top edge under top side panel's
edge
rmo2008-001-033_a
3. Secure panel by pushing and turn-
3. Lift panel. ing each clip clockwise (1/4 turn) to
its maximum rotation.
Installation Clip is properly fixed when a small
1. Insert the middle side panel tabs amount of force is required while
into the lower side panel slots. turning clip.
Clip is not properly fixed when clip is
loose while turning.

rmo2008-001-034_a rmo2008-001-035_a

1. Lower side panel's slot

2. Middle side panel tab 2) Top Side Panel
2. Press down panel's top edge with Removal
both hands and push in. While
pressing, ensure that the lower tabs 1. Unlatch and lift seat.
remain in the slots. 2. Unscrew 4 Torx screws.

rmo2008-001-025_a

1. Top side panel Torx screws

90 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

Installation
1. Screw 4 Torx screws.
NOTICE Do not overtorque. Any
deformation on the panel around
the screw is an indication that it
is too tight. You may damage the
panel.
rmo2008-001-078_a
3) Rear Side Panel 1. Flat head screwdriver under rivet
2. Turn screwdriver 1/4 turn
Removal
1. Unlatch and lift seat. 5. Disconnect left turn signal housing
connectors.
2. Remove top side panel.
3. Unscrew Torx screws. Installation
1. Connect left turn signal housing
connectors by matching the correct
wire color.
2. Install plastic rivets and screw in
Torx screws.
NOTICE Do not overtorque. Any
deformation on the panel around
rmo2008-001-038_a
the screw is an indication that it
1. Torx screws
is too tight. You may damage the
2. Plastic rivets panel.

4. Remove plastic rivets as indicated 4) Lower Side Panel

below.
Removal
1. Remove middle side panel.
2. Remove top side panel.
3. Remove rear side panel.
4. Unscrew 3 Torx screws.

rmo2008-001-077_a

1. Flat head screwdriver under rivet head

2. Turn screwdriver 1/4 turn

rmo2008-001-036_a

1. Bottom panel Torx screws

2. Screw located at the front of bottom panel

Installation
1. Screw 3 Torx screws.

_______________ 91
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

NOTICE Do not overtorque. Any COLD TIRE PRESSURE

deformation on the panel around RECOMMENDATION
the screw is an indication that it
is too tight. You may damage the FRONT
panel. Nominal 103 kPa (15 PSI)
Tires Minimum 89 kPa (13 PSI)
Maximum 117 kPa (17 PSI)
WARNING
Tires that are not the recom- REAR
mended type, damaged, worn Nominal 193 kPa (28 PSI)
down below the minimum tread
wear limit indicator or improperly Minimum 179 kPa (26 PSI)
inflated can cause loss of control.
New tires will not operate at their Maximum 207 kPa (30 PSI)
maximum efficiency until their
break-in is completed. Braking, NOTE: The pressure difference be-
steering and VSS performance tween the left and right side tire should
may be reduced, so use extra not exceed 3.4 kPa (.5 PSI).
caution. Tires take about 300 km For your convenience, an electronic
(200 mi) of riding with frequent pressure gauge is supplied in the tool
braking to break-in. For riding with kit.
infrequent braking, allow extra
time to break-in the tires. Tire Damage
The tires have been specifically de- Check all tires for:
signed for the Spyder roadster. Use – Cuts, slits and cracks in the tires.
only the BRP recommended tires, – Bumps or bulges in the side of the
which can be ordered only from an tire or the tread.
authorized Can-Am roadster dealer. – Nails or other foreign objects in the
side of the tire or tread.
Tire Pressure – Air leaks (hissing sound) caused by
Check pressure when tires are cold an ill-fitting rim or a faulty tire valve.
before using the vehicle. Tire pres- If any of the above occurs, have the tire
sure changes with the air tempera- repaired or replaced as soon as possi-
ture. Recheck pressure if temperature ble by an authorized Can-Am roadster
has changed (e.g., significant weather dealer.
change, driving in the mountains).
Tire Tread Wear
Check minimum tread depth by using
the tread-wear indicators (hard rubber
bars molded at the base of the tread;
1 in figure below). Check in three loca-
tions across the tire tread:
– Outer edge
– Center
– Inside edge.

92 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

The tread-wear indicators will appear Tire Registration Form

across the treads that have been worn In the event of a tire recall, we can only
down to the minimum tread depth. contact you if we have your name and
When at least one tread-wear indicator address. As a vehicle manufacturer,
appears across the tread, have the tire BRP keeps a record of the Tire Iden-
replaced as soon as possible by an au- tification Number (T.I.N.) associated
thorized Can-Am roadster dealer. with the Vehicle Identification Number
(V.I.N.) (see VEHICLE IDENTIFICA-
TION) and its current owner informa-
tion.
If you replace any tire on your vehi-
cle, a "Tire Registration Form" must be
completed and sent to the tire manu-
facturer consumer service group. The
“Tire Registration Form” is available at
an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.

Drive Belt
rmo2008-001-041_a
Visually inspect belt alignment and
TIRE TREAD WEAR
1. Tread-wear limit indicator condition before each ride.
A. Appropriate tread depth Belt alignment and deflection adjust-
B. Minimum tread depth, replace tire ment should always be performed by
an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer
It is normal to see uneven wear on tires according to the MAINTENANCE
depending on how the vehicle is driven SCHEDULE.
and road conditions. The front tires
external or internal edges and the rear Drive Belt Alignment
tire center tread will wear unevenly
depending on if the vehicle is driven The gap between the belt (2) and the
smoothly or aggressively. sprocket internal flange (3) should
be a minimum of 1 mm (1/32 in). If
belt goes beyond the outside edge of
WARNING sprocket (5), have the belt properly
The tires are designed to rotate aligned by an authorized Can-Am road-
only in one direction. Do not ster dealer as soon as possible.
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.

_______________ 93
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

REQUIRED
WEAR CONDITION
ACTION
Good condition
None

Hairline cracks
Monitor
condition

Minor chipping
Monitor
condition

Opened cracks
Replace belt
rmo2008-001-027_a

BELT ALIGNMENT
1. Rear sprocket teeth Hook wear
2. Belt
3. Sprocket internal flange Replace belt
4. Proper belt alignment
5. Belt exceeding external edge — have
aligned
Missing teeth
A. MIN. 1 mm (1/32 in)
Replace belt
Drive Belt Wear
Inspect the drive belt with the vehicle
in neutral, engine off, on a level surface Belt fabric worn,
with plenty of room — you will have to exposing internal
roll the vehicle forward or backward to components
Replace belt
see the full length of the belt.

Stone damage
Replace belt

rmo2008-001-109_a NOTE: Hairline cracks do not require

DRIVE BELT SURFACES the replacement of the belt, but must
1. Outer surface be monitored closely — they may lead
2. Teeth side surface to opened cracks or missing teeth, re-
3. Tooth quiring belt replacement. Damage to
Inspect for the following conditions: the center of the belt will eventually
require belt replacement, but when
cracks extend to the edge of the belt,
belt failure is imminent.

94 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

When a drive belt is replaced, also re- 3. With the engine already at normal
place the sprockets to increase the operating temperature, start engine
longevity of the new drive belt. and let it run for at least 30 seconds.
NOTE: Running engine for at least
Drive Belt Tension 30 seconds allows the suction oil
While riding, if you feel vibrations in the pump to drain the oil from the engine
belt or if the belt is skipping sprocket crankcase back into the oil tank. Not
teeth, have the belt tension adjusted carrying out this step could result in
as soon as possible by an authorized overfilling the engine oil.
Can-Am roadster dealer. 4. Stop engine.
Engine Oil 5. Unscrew and remove the oil dip-
stick.
NOTICE The procedures for check-
ing the Spyder roadster oil level and
replacing oil are different from most
of the motor vehicles today. Prop-
erly follow instructions provided in
this section.

Recommended Engine Oil

Use the XPS 4-STROKE BLEND OIL
(SUMMER GRADE) (P/N 293 600 121).
rmr2008-011-100_a
If not available, use SAE 5W 40
1. Oil dipstick
semi-synthetic or synthetic motorcy- 2. Oil tank
cle oil that meets the requirements for
API service SL, SJ, SH or SG classifi- 6. Wipe off the dipstick.
cation. Always check the API service
label on the oil container. 7. Reinsert and completely screw in
the dipstick to assure an accurate
NOTE: The same oil is used for the reading.
engine, gearbox, clutch, and the HCM
(SE5 models). 8. Unscrew and remove the dipstick
again.
NOTICE To avoid damaging the 9. Check the oil level on the dipstick. It
clutch, do not use a motor oil meet- should be near or equal to the upper
ing the API service SM or ILSAC GF-4 mark.
classification. Clutch slippage will
occur.

Engine Oil Level Verification

NOTICE To obtain a precise read-
ing of the engine oil level, follow this
procedure and make sure engine is
at normal operating temperature.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Remove the LH middle side panel. rmr2008-011-102_a
Refer to BODY PANELS in the
1. Full
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES 2. Add
subsection. 3. Operating range

_______________ 95
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

Oil Level is at or Near Upper Mark:

1. Properly insert and tighten dipstick.
2. Install the LH middle side panel. Re-
fer to BODY PANELS in the MAIN-
TENANCE PROCEDURES subsec-
tion.
Oil Level Under Operating Range: rmr2008-011-101_a

1. Add a small amount of recom- 1. Bottom plate

mended oil. 2. Oil tank
2. Repeat the above steps until oil 3. Clean area around drain plug under
level reaches the dipsticks upper oil tank.
(F) mark. Do not overfill.
4. Place an appropriate drain pan under
3. Properly insert and tighten dipstick. oil tank.
4. Install the LH middle side panel. Re- 5. Remove the tank drain plug and dis-
fer to BODY PANELS in the MAIN- card the sealing washer.
TENANCE PROCEDURES subsec-
tion.

Engine Oil Change

Prior to changing the oil, ensure vehicle
is on a level surface.
NOTICE The oil change should be
carried out with a warm engine.

rmr2008-011-103_a
CAUTION Engine oil can be
very hot. 1. Reservoir drain plug
2. Oil tank
1. Remove the following LH body pan-
els. Refer to BODY PANELS in the 6. Remove the dipstick.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES 7. Allow sufficient time for oil to com-
subsection: pletely drain.
– Middle side panel
8. Clean area around engine drain plug.
– Upper side panel
– Rear panel 9. Place an appropriate drain pan under
the engine.
– Lower side panel.
10. Remove the engine oil drain plug
2. Remove the bottom plate under oil and discard the sealing washer.
tank.

96 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

NOTICE Ensure oil pressure warn-

ing lamp goes out within 5 seconds
from engine start. If oil pressure
warning lamp stays ON for more
than 5 seconds, STOP ENGINE and
recheck oil level.
Check for leaks at:
– Engine oil filter
rmr2008-011-104_a
– HCM oil filter
1. Engine oil drain plug
2. Oil filter cover – Engine drain plug
– Oil tank drain plug.
11. Allow sufficient time for oil to com- 20. Stop engine.
pletely drain from crankcase.
NOTE: The oil level dipstick is accu-
12. Clean the magnet on the engine rate when the oil temperature is at
drain plug.
80°C (176°F). If the oil level is checked
13. Using NEW sealing washers, when the oil is at room temperature
install engine and oil tank drain 20°C (68°F), the proper oil level indi-
plugs. cation is half way between the lower
(ADD) and upper (F) marks on the dip-
NOTICE Never reuse the drain stick. This must be considered to pre-
plug sealing washer. Always re- vent overfilling the oil tank.
place it with a new one.
SM5 Models
14. Torque drain plugs (engine and oil
tank) 20 N•m (15 lbf•ft). 21. Add 0.9 L (1 qt (U.S. liq.)) of the
recommended oil in the oil tank
15. Replace engine oil filter. Refer to (3.9 L (4.1 qt (U.S. liq.)) total quan-
ENGINE OIL FILTER REPLACE- tity).
MENT further in this section.
22. Check oil level immediately and ad-
16. Replace HCM oil filter (SE5 just if required.
model). Refer to HCM OIL FIL-
TER further in this section. 23. Reinstall all removed body panels.
24. Dispose of used oil as per your lo-
SE5 Model cal environmental regulations.
17. Replace the HCM oil filter. Refer to
HYDRAULIC CONTROL MODULE SE5 Models
(SE5) subsection. 25. Add 1.2 L (1.3 qt (U.S. liq.)) of the
recommended oil in the oil tank
All Models (4.2 L (4.4 qt (U.S. liq.)) total quan-
18. Pour 3 L (3 qt (U.S. liq.)) of the rec- tity).
ommended oil into oil tank. 26. Check oil level immediately and ad-
19. Start engine and let idle for two just if required.
minutes. NOTE: When the engine oil filter and
IMPORTANT
the HCM oil filter are replaced, the
total oil quantity to add will be 4.3 L
Do not rev up engine during idling (4.5 qt (U.S. liq.)).
period as this may cause permanent 27. Reinstall all removed body panels.
engine damage.
28. Dispose of used oil as per your lo-
cal environmental regulations.

_______________ 97
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

Engine Oil Filter 2. Install a NEW O-ring on the oil filter

cover.
Engine Oil Filter Removal To ease assembly and prevent dis-
1. Refer to ENGINE OIL CHANGE for placement of the O-ring during instal-
removal of the required body pan- lation, apply a light coat of oil on the
els. oil filter and O-ring. Refer to following
2. Remove oil filter cover screws. illustration.

rmr2008-011-005_a
rmr2008-011-105_a
1. Apply oil here
TYPICAL
1. Oil filter cover
2. Cover screws HCM Oil Filter (SE5 Model)
The HCM (Hydraulic Control Module)
3. Remove oil filter cover with O-ring. uses the same oil as the engine, but
Discard O-ring. has its own oil filter.
4. Remove oil filter.
NOTICE Replace HCM oil filter and
5. Dispose of filter as per your local en- engine oil filter at the same time.
vironmental regulations. Refer to PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE for frequency.
Engine Oil Filter Installation
Installation is the reverse of the re- HCM Oil Filter Removal
moval procedure. However, pay atten- 1. Drain engine oil. Refer to ENGINE
tion to the following. OIL CHANGE section.
1. Check and clean oil inlet and outlet 2. Remove oil filter cover screws.
orifices in crankcase for dirt and con-
taminants.

rmr2008-011-004_a rmr2008-078-013_a

TYPICAL 1. Oil filter cover

1. Oil inlet orifice from oil pressure pump 2. Cover screws
2. Oil outlet orifice to engine lubrication system

98 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

3. Remove oil filter cover with O-ring. Engine Coolant

Discard O-ring.
4. Remove oil filter. Engine Coolant Level Verification
5. Dispose filter as per your local envi-
ronmental regulations. WARNING
When opening the reservoir, the
HCM Oil Filter Installation coolant can be very hot and spray
out if the engine is hot. In order
The installation is the reverse of the re- to avoid getting burned, check the
moval procedure. Pay attention to the coolant level when the engine is
following. cold.
1. Check and clean the oil inlet and out-
let orifices in hydraulic control mod- The cooling system must be filled with
ule for dirt and contaminations. distilled water and antifreeze solution
(50% distilled water, 50% antifreeze).
For best performance, use BRP's pre-
mixed coolant (P/N 219 700 362).
With the engine cold, check the
coolant level as follows:
1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level sur-
face.
2. Open the front storage compart-
rmr2008-077-003_a
ment.
1. Oil outlet orifice to the hydraulic control 3. Pull out the service cover extremi-
module lubrication system ties with both hands.
2. Oil inlet orifice to the oil pump

2. Install a NEW O-ring on oil filter

cover.
To ease assembly and prevent dis-
placement of the O-ring during instal-
lation, apply a light coat of oil on the
oil filter and O-ring. Refer to following
illustration.
rmo2008-001-022_a

1. Service cover
2. Service cover extremities

4. Check the coolant level on the right

hand side. Coolant must be visible
without exceeding the MAX. level
mark.

rmr2008-077-004_a

1. Apply oil here

_______________ 99
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

Brake Fluid Level Verification

WARNING
To avoid serious damage to the
brake system:
– Use only DOT 4 brake fluid from
a sealed container.
– Use only a clean funnel when
filling brake fluid reservoir.
– Do not use brake fluid taken
rmo2008-001-039_a from old or already opened con-
1. Coolant MAX. level mark
tainers.
2. Coolant must be visible – Do not mix different fluids for
topping off.
5. If required, add coolant until it is vis-
ible in the reservoir without exceed-
ing the MAX. level mark. Use a fun- NOTICE Brake fluid can damage
nel to avoid spillage. plastic and painted surface. Handle
Do not overfill. with care.
6. Reinstall the service cover.
NOTE: A coolant system that fre- WARNING
quently requires coolant indicates Avoid getting brake fluid on skin
leaks or engine problems. See an au- or in eyes — it may cause severe
thorized Can-Am roadster dealer. burns. In case of contact with the
skin, wash thoroughly. In case of
Brakes contact with the eyes, immediately
rinse with plenty of water for at
WARNING least 10 minutes and then consult
a doctor immediately.
New brakes will not operate at
their maximum efficiency until
their break-in is completed. Brak- Check the brake fluid level as follows:
ing performance may be reduced, 1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level sur-
so use extra caution. Brakes take face.
about 300 km (200 mi) of riding
with frequent braking to break-in. 2. Unlatch and lift the seat.
For riding with infrequent braking, 3. Check the brake fluid level in both
allow extra time to break-in the reservoirs, near the back of the seat.
brakes. They should both be above the MIN.
mark.

100 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

6. Immediately wipe up spills.

Prior to installing brake fluid reservoir
caps:
– Check that V slit is in good condition.
– Ensure diaphragm are properly posi-
tioned.

rmo2008-001-040_b

1. Brake fluid reservoir

4. Clean the filler caps before remov-

ing.

WARNING
Clean filler cap before removing.
rbg2008-003-002_a
5. Add fluid as required. Do not over-
TYPICAL
fill. 1. V slit
NOTICE When topping off the
brake oil reservoir, make sure to use
a clean funnel to avoid brake fluid
contamination.

vmr2008-033-062_a

TYPICAL
1. Correct position
2. Wrong position

7. Reinstall both caps of the reservoir.

8. Close the seat and ensure it is fully
latched.
NOTE: Low brake fluid may indicate
rmo2010-001-091_a leaks or worn brake pads. See an au-
1. Brake fluid MAX. level mark thorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
2. Brake fluid MIN. level mark
Brake System Verification
The front and rear brakes are hydraulic
disc types. These brakes are self-
adjusting and do not require adjust-
ment.
The brake pedal also requires no ad-
justment.

rmo2010-001-092_a

A. Operating range

______________ 101
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

To keep brakes in good condition, WARNING

check the following as per the MAIN-
TENANCE SCHEDULE: Do not use conventional lead-acid
type batteries as the battery is
1. Entire brake system for fluid leaks installed sideways on the vehi-
2. Brake pedal for spongy feel cle. Acid may leak out through
the battery vent of a conventional
3. Brake discs for excessive wear and lead-acid type battery. Acid may
surface condition also leak if the battery case is
4. Brake pads for wear, damage or cracked or damaged, which can
looseness. cause severe burns.
See an authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer if there are any problems with The battery can be charged while it is
the brake system. installed on the vehicle. The battery
terminals are located under the seat.
Battery NOTICE Follow the instructions
provided with your battery charger.
Battery Location
Improper charging may damage the
The battery is located behind the rear battery.
left side panel under the seat on the
rear. To access the battery, remove To charge the battery, proceed as fol-
the rear side panel (see REAR SIDE lows:
PANEL). 1. Unlatch and lift the seat.
2. First connect the POSITIVE (+) cable
to the corresponding terminal.
3. Connect the NEGATIVE (-) cable to
the corresponding terminal.
NOTICE Always connect the POS-
ITIVE (+) cable first to avoid damag-
ing the electrical system of the vehi-
rmo2008-001-029_d cle.
1. Battery located behind the rear left side
panel

Battery Charging
The vehicle is equipped with a
maintenance-free type battery and
is completely sealed; there is no need
to add water to adjust the electrolyte
level. The battery may need to be
charged if the vehicle has not been
ridden for at least one month.
Always have the battery replaced by an
authorized Can-Am roadster dealer. rmo2008-001-044_a

1. NEGATIVE (-) terminal

2. POSITIVE (+) terminal

102 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

4. Start the battery charger. Charging

time will depend on the charging
rate.
When the battery is charged:
5. First disconnect the NEGATIVE (-)
cable.
6. Disconnect the POSITIVE (+) cable.
NOTICE Always disconnect the rmo2008-001-108_a
NEGATIVE (-) cable first to avoid 1. Clutch fluid reservoir window
damaging the electrical system of
the vehicle. 3. If the fluid is not visible, add fluid to
the reservoir. Use only DOT 4 brake
7. Close the seat and ensure that it is fluid.
latched.
Add clutch fluid as follows:
A standard battery charger can be
used. The recommended charge rate 4. Open the cap of the reservoir by un-
is 2 A. If the battery is dead, it can be screwing the 2 screws on top of the
jump started with a car battery (see reservoir.
DEAD BATTERY).
For home charging, a “trickle” charger
can be used to slow charge the bat-
tery. This type of charger can be left
connected for a long period of time
without damaging the battery. Always
follow the charging time as recom-
mended in the charger's instructions.

Clutch Fluid (SM5 Model)

rmo2008-001-108_b
Check the clutch fluid level when the 1. Screw on top of the reservoir
clutch does not operate normally or
when it is difficult to shift gears with 5. Add fluid as required. Do not over-
the gearshift lever. fill.
The clutch fluid reservoir is near the re-
verse interlock lever on the left handle- WARNING
bar. Avoid getting brake fluid on skin
Check the clutch fluid level as follows: or in eyes — it may cause severe
burns. In case of contact with the
1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level sur- skin, wash thoroughly. In case of
face. contact with the eyes, immediately
2. Look inside the window on top of rinse with plenty of water for at
the reservoir to see whether the least 10 minutes and then consult
fluid is visible. If necessary, use a a doctor immediately.
flashlight or shake the handlebar.
6. Immediately wipe up spills if neces-
sary.
7. Reinstall the cap of the reservoir.

______________ 103
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

Headlights Aiming 1 2
1. Position the vehicle 10 m (33 ft) in
front of a test surface as shown.
3
rmo2008-027-101_a

TYPICAL HEADLIGHT REFLECTION ON

SURFACE TEST
1. Focus point
2. Mark at 700 mm (27-1/2 in) above ground
3. Mark at 610 mm (24 in) above ground

6. Each headlight can be adjusted by

turning the adjustment screws lo-
rmo2012-001-002_a cated in the front of the lower con-
A. 10 m (33 ft) sole with a Phillips screwdriver. Ad-
just both headlights evenly.

90°

rmo2008-027-103_a

rmr2008-027-102_a
2. Trace 2 lines parallel to the ground
ADJUSTMENT SCREWS
on the test surface as follows:
LINES ON THE TEST SURFACE Vehicle Care
610 mm (24 in) above Cleaning
Line A
ground
To clean the vehicle, do not use
700 mm (27-1/2 in) above high-pressure washers (like the ones
Line B
ground found in car washes) as they may dam-
age certain parts of the vehicle.
3. Have a person of at least 91 kg
(200 lb) taking place on the driver's NOTICE Do not clean the wind-
seat. shield with alkaline or acid cleaner,
gasoline or solvent to avoid wind-
4. Select low beam. shield damage.
5. Beam aiming is correct when the
focus point (brightest spot) of the To clean the vehicle:
headlight reflection is between the 1. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with
marks. water to remove loose dirt.
2. Using a soft, clean cloth, wash the
vehicle with water mixed with a mild
detergent, such as soap specially
formulated for motorcycles or auto-
mobiles.

104 ______________
 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

NOTE: Using warm water works well

to remove bugs in the windshield and
front panels.
3. While washing the vehicle, check
for grease or oil. You can use
XPS ROADSTER WASH (P/N 219
701 703) or a mild automotive de-
greaser. Thoroughly follow the
manufacturer's instructions.
4. Dry the vehicle with a chamois or a
soft towel.
NOTE: A matt finish usually needs to
be washed more often than glossy
one.

Waxing
NOTICE Do not wax or polish matt
surfaces (including matt paint fin-
ishes).
SURFACE RECOMMENDATION
Apply only non-abrasive
Glossy paint
wax, safe for clear
finishes
coat paints
Matt paint
finishes
Avoid applying wax
Matt
finishes

Windshield can be polished with a plas-

tic cleaner/polisher.
NOTICE Do not use water repel-
lent products on windshield.

WARNING
Do not apply a vinyl or plastic pro-
tector on the seat as the surface
will become slippery and the oper-
ator or the passenger may slip off
the vehicle.

______________ 105
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

This page is
intentionally blank

106 ______________
ROAD SIDE
REPAIRS

______________ 107
PROBLEMS

NOTICE If the vehicle must be Flat Tire

transported, do not have it towed If a tire has a major puncture or cut in
— towing can seriously damage the the tread and is completely deflated,
vehicle. Refer to TRANSPORTING have the vehicle transported to the
THE SPYDER ROADSTER for de- nearest Can-Am Spyder dealer. Re-
tailed instructions. fer to TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER
ROADSTER for transporting instruc-
Will not Shift into First tions.
Gear (SM5 Model) If a tire has a minor nail or stone punc-
If the gearbox cannot shift into first ture and is not completely deflated,
gear when vehicle is not moving: the tire can be temporarily repaired. To
1. Slowly release the clutch lever while temporarily repair a tire, a self-inflating
maintaining a light pressure down tire sealer or tire plug repair kit can
on the shift lever. be used. Follow the manufacturer's
instructions that come with the tire
2. When you feel the shift lever engag- sealer or repair kit and have the tire
ing into first gear, pull in the clutch repaired or replaced by an authorized
lever. Can-Am roadster dealer as soon as
possible.
Will not Shift into Neutral When a tire is temporarily repaired,
(SE5 Model) ride slowly and carefully, and fre-
If the gearbox cannot shift into neutral quently check tire pressure until it is
when vehicle is not moving: replaced or permanently repaired.
1. The engine speed will be automat-
ically increased to approximately Dead Battery
1800 RPM then it will be brought If the battery is dead or too low to crank
back to idle speed. the engine, it can be jump started.
2. Up to 3 attempts will be done.
3. If it does not work, retry pressing up- WARNING
shift or downshift button. Connect the jumper cables as
specified in the jump start proce-
Will not Shift (SE5 Model) dure.
Batteries can emit explosive gas
Have your vehicle transported to the that can ignite if jumper cables are
nearest Can-Am roadster dealer. not properly connected.
Lost Keys To jump start the battery, proceed as
Use your spare key to have another follows:
one made by an authorized Can-Am 1. Move the other vehicle as close as
roadster dealer as soon as possible. If possible and preferably on the left
both keys are lost, the ignition switch side of the Spyder roadster. Make
and the D.E.S.S. electronic module will sure the vehicles are not touching.
need to be replaced at the expense of
the vehicle owner. 2. Shift the Spyder roadster into NEU-
TRAL (N) and engage the parking
brake.
3. Turn off the engine of the other vehi-
cle and all electrical accessories.

108 ______________
 PROBLEMS

4. Open the hood of the other vehicle. be a problem with the starting
5. Unlatch and lift the seat of the system. Have the vehicle trans-
Spyder roadster. ported (see TRANSPORTING THE
SPYDER ROADSTER) and re-
6. Make sure the ignition switch is set paired by the nearest authorized
to OFF. Can-Am roadster dealer.
7. Connect one end of the red POSI- 13. As soon the engine starts, discon-
TIVE (+) jumper cable to the POSI- nect both jumper cables in the re-
TIVE (+) terminal under the seat of verse connection order, starting
the Spyder roadster. with the NEGATIVE (-) cable con-
8. Connect the other end of the red nected to the Spyder roadster.
POSITIVE (+) jumper cable to 14. Have the battery fully recharged
the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the with a battery charger (see BAT-
booster battery. TERY CHARGING) or by a qualified
9. Connect one end of the black NEG- service station as soon as possi-
ATIVE (-) jumper cable to the NEGA- ble.
TIVE (-) terminal of the booster bat- If the engine dies shortly after it has
tery. been jump started or when the jumper
10. Connect the other end of the black cables are disconnected, there might
NEGATIVE (-) jumper cable to the be a problem with the charging sys-
NEGATIVE (-) terminal under the tem. Have the vehicle transported
seat of the Spyder roadster. (see TRANSPORTING THE SPYDER
ROADSTER) and repaired by the near-
est authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
After recharging battery, have the vehi-
cle inspected by an authorized Can-Am
roadster dealer.

Electrical Accessories
Failure
If any electrical accessories stop work-
ing on the vehicle, check for blown
fuses and replace if necessary.
If an electrical failure still occurs, have
rmo2008-001-044_a
the vehicle serviced by an authorized
1. NEGATIVE (-) terminal Can-Am roadster dealer.
2. POSITIVE (+) terminal

11. Start the vehicle with the booster Fuses

battery and run the engine at an Fuse Locations
idle of 1200 to 1500 RPM for a cou-
ple of minutes. Fuses are located:
12. Stand on the right side of the – Under the service cover behind the
Spyder roadster, apply brakes and front storage compartment on the
start the engine. If it does not front left side of the vehicle
crank or it cranks slowly, wiggle – Under the seat on the right side of
the jumper cables to make sure the vehicle.
they are making good contact and
try again.
If it still does not start, there might

______________ 109
PROBLEMS

NO. DESCRIPTION
Main relays control
ECM control
Pillion rider switch (PRS)
1 10 A
Vehicle control module (VCM)
Steering angle sensor (SAS)
Yaw rate sensor (YRS)
Clutch valve (SM5 model)
rmo2008-001-040_a
2 Horn 10 A
1. Fuse box located under the seat Service connector
3 Accessories 3A
Dynamic Power Steering control (DPS)
4 Transmission Control Module (TCM) 5 A
(SE5 model)
Camshaft position sensor (CAPS)
Engine control module (ECM)
Fuel pump
5 10 A
O² sensor heater
EVAP purge valve
rmo2008-001-076_a
Starter solenoid
1. Fuse box located under the service cover 6 Accessories 3A
behind the front storage compartment
D.E.S.S.
Fuse Description License plate light
7 10 A
Position light
taillightsr
Ignition coil
8 15 A
Fuel injectors
Clock
9 Hazard warning lights 10 A
Turn signal lights
10 Cooling fan 15 A
11 Multifunction gauge cluster 5A

rmo2008-001-028_a
12 Fog lights (optional) 10 A
FUSES LOCATED UNDER THE SERVICE 13 Spare fuses -
COVER
14 Fuse removal tool -

110 ______________
 PROBLEMS

4. Pull the fuse out. A fuse removal

tool is available in the fuse box lo-
cated behind the front storage com-
partment under the service cover.
5. Check whether the filament is
melted.
rmo2008-001-023_f

FUSES LOCATED UNDER THE SEAT

NO. DESCRIPTION
1 Empty -

Blipper (SE5 model)

2 20 A
TCM valves (SE5 model)
3 Rectifier 60 A
4 Main fuse 40 A
rmo2008-001-060_a

5 Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) motor 40 A FUSE UNDER THE SERVICE COVER
1. Good fuse
6 VCM pump 40 A 2. Blown fuse
3. Melted filament
7 Headlights 30 A
8 VCM valves 25 A

Fuse Replacement
1. Remove either the service cover or
lift seat to access the relevant fuse
box.
rmo2008-001-119_a
2. Set the ignition switch to OFF.
FUSE UNDER THE SEAT
3. To open the fuse box under the seat, 1. Good fuse
push down on the tab and pull off 2. Blown fuse
the cover.
6. Replace the fuse with one with the
same rating. Spare fuses are lo-
cated in the front fuse box.

WARNING
Using a higher-rated fuse can
cause severe damage and may
cause fires.
rmo2008-001-037_a
7. Install or close the fuse box cover.
OPENING FUSE BOX UNDER SEAT
Step 1: Push tab 8. Close the service cover and front
Step 2: Pull cover storage compartment or seat.

______________ 111
PROBLEMS

Light Failure
If any light stop working on the vehicle,
replace bulb of defective light.
If the light failure still occurs, have
the vehicle serviced by an authorized
Can-Am roadster dealer.

CAUTION Always turn the ig-

nition switch to the OFF position be-
fore replacing a bulb to avoid electric
shock.
Always check light operation after re-
placement.
rmo2008-001-088_a

LIGHTS LOCATION — REAR OF VEHICLE

1. Taillight/brake light
2. Turn signal light
3. License plate light

Headlight
1. Insert a small flat head screwdriver
in one of the two holes on the upper
console.
2. Press on the screwdriver and gently
pry out the upper corner of the clus-
ter.
3. Insert a finger to maintain the open-
rmo2008-001-084_a
ing of the upper corner.
LIGHTS LOCATION — FRONT OF VEHICLE
1. Turn signal light
2. Headlight
3. Position light

rmo2008-001-121_a

1. Upper console
2. Press on the screwdriver inside hole
3. Insert finger in opening

4. With the other hand, insert the

screwdriver in the other hole on the
upper console.

112 ______________
 PROBLEMS

5. Press on the screwdriver and gently

pry out the other corner of the clus-
ter.
The upper edge of the cluster will tilt
backward.

rmo2008-001-124_a

1. Bulb housing
2. Bulb retaining clip

rmo2008-001-122_a 9. Install the new bulb by clipping it to

1. Insert a finger to maintain the opening of the connector.
the upper corner
2. Press on the screwdriver inside the opposite NOTICE Never touch glass portion
hole of a halogen bulb with bare fingers,
it shortens its operating life. If glass
6. Pull out the housing cap as indicated is touched, clean it with isopropyl al-
below. cohol and a clean cloth.
10. Install the connector in the bulb
housing and put the housing cap
on.
11. Install the cluster by first inserting
the bottom edge and then firmly
pushing the upper edge with both
hands.

rmo2008-001-123_a

1. Housing cap

7. Turn the connector in the housing

counterclockwise to remove.
8. Remove the bulb by releasing both
clips with a small flat head screw-
rmo2008-001-125_a
driver.
INSTALLING CLUSTER
1. Inserting bottom edge of cluster first and
then pushing the upper edge

12. Ensure the cluster is properly in-

stalled. Repeat step 11 if neces-
sary.

Turn Signal Light — Front

1. Remove the lens with a Phillips
head screwdriver.

______________ 113
PROBLEMS

2. Remove the bulb by pushing it in

and turning counterclockwise.
3. Install the new bulb by pushing it in
and turning clockwise.
4. Reinstall the lens.

Taillight/Brake Light
1. Remove the wheel well panel by un-
rmo2008-001-103_a
screwing 7 Torx screws as indicated
1. Front turn signal lens screw below.
2. Turn the connector counterclock-
wise as indicated below and remove
lens.

rmo2008-001-114_a

WHEEL WELL PANEL PANEL

1. 7 Torx screws location
rmo2008-001-104_a
2. Partially remove right rear side panel
1. Front turn signal light connector
by removing the 2 plastic rivets un-
3. Remove the bulb by pushing it in der the seat as indicated below.
and turning counterclockwise.
4. Install the new bulb by pushing it in
and turning clockwise.
5. Properly reinstall the parts in the re-
verse order of their removal.

Turn Signal Light — Rear

1. Remove the lens with a Phillips rmo2008-001-115_a
head screwdriver. 1. 2 plastic rivets under the seat

rmo2008-001-105_a

1. Rear turn signal lens screw rmo2008-001-077_a

1. Flat head screwdriver under rivet head

2. Turn screwdriver 1/4 turn

114 ______________
 PROBLEMS

rmo2008-001-078_a

1. Flat head screwdriver under rivet

rmo2008-001-118_a
2. Turn screwdriver 1/4 turn
1. Connector
3. Disconnect right turn signal housing
connectors. 7. Remove the bulb by pushing it in
and turning counterclockwise.
4. Remove the Torx screw behind the
lens as indicated below. 8. Install the new bulb by pushing it in
and turning clockwise.
9. Properly reinstall the parts in the re-
verse order of their removal.
NOTE: When installing right rear side
panel, connect the turn signal housing
connectors by matching the correct
wire color and install plastic rivets.

Position Light
1. Push then hold lens towards rear of
rmo2008-001-116_a
fender.
1. Removing Torx screw behind lens

5. Remove the Torx screw beside the

lens under the rear tip as indicated
below.

rmo2008-003-001_a

2. Lift front portion of lens with your

rmo2008-001-117_a thumb or a small screwdriver to re-
1. Removing Torx screw beside the lens lease.
6. Turn the connector counterclock-
wise and remove from the lens.

______________ 115
PROBLEMS

rmo2008-001-090_a

rmo2008-003-002_a
1. License plate lens screw

3. Turn the bulb holder clockwise and 2. Remove the bulb by pushing it in
remove it from the connector. and turning counterclockwise.
3. Install the new bulb by pushing it in
and turning clockwise.
4. Reinstall the lens.

rmo2008-001-086_a

1. Turn clockwise

4. Pull bulb out of the holder as indi-

cated below.

rmo2008-001-087_a

1. Pull out bulb

5. Insert a new bulb in the holder.

6. Properly reinstall the parts in the re-
verse order of their removal.

License Plate Light

1. Remove the lens with a Phillips
head screwdriver.

116 ______________
 PROBLEMS

Engine will not Start

ENGINE DOES NOT TURN OVER
1. Scrolling safety message on the multifunction gauge cluster not acknowl-
edged.
– Press the MODE (M) to acknowledge the safety message.
2. Engine stop switch in the OFF position.
– Make sure that the engine stop switch is in the ON position.
3. Clutch lever not engaged (SM5 model).
– Pull in and hold the clutch lever.
4. Ignition switch in the OFF position.
– Turn the ignition to the ON position.
5. Battery dead or poor battery connections.
– Check the battery charge. Recharge if necessary (see BATTERY CHARG-
ING).
– Check the battery connections under the seat and on the battery terminals
(see BATTERY).
6. Blown fuse.
– Check fuse condition (see FUSES).
7. Transmission is in gear (SE5 model).
– Depress brake pedal if transmission is in gear.

ENGINE TURNS OVER, BUT DOES NOT START

1. Low fuel.
– Fill the fuel tank (see FUELING).
2. Weak battery.
– Check battery charge. Recharge if necessary (see BATTERY CHARGING).
– Check the battery connections under the seat and on the battery terminals
(see BATTERY).
3. Engine management problem.
– Check to see whether the engine indicator lamp is ON while starting. See an
authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.

______________ 117
MESSAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER
Important information about vehicle condition is displayed on the multifunction
gauge cluster. When starting the engine, always look at the gauge cluster for any
special messages.
If a fault is displayed, press the MODE button to skip the error message.
If a problem persists, go to an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
INDICATOR MAIN DIGITAL
CAUSE WHAT TO DO
LAMP(S) DISPLAY
Gearbox
position Have the vehicle repaired by an
E displayed None
sensor authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
instead of malfunction
selected gear
N + R flashing Undetermined Stop vehicle and allow to reach
quickly gear position neutral.
Use the right key for the vehicle
Wrong or
None BAD KEY or contact an authorized Can-Am
defective key
roadster dealer.
– Stop and wait for engine to
cool off.
Engine is – Check for leaks.
On HI TEMP
overheating – Check coolant level and
adjust (see ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL VERIFICATION).
* Have the vehicle transported to
HI TEMP Engine is
On the nearest authorized Can-Am
LIMP HOME overheating
roadster dealer.
– Recharge battery (see BATTERY
Low battery
On LO BATT VOLT CHARGING).
voltage
– Check battery connections.
Have the vehicle transported to
High battery
On HI BATT VOLT the nearest authorized Can-Am
voltage
roadster dealer.
ABS
Have the vehicle transported to
malfunction.
ABS On ABS FAULT
No ABS
the nearest authorized Can-Am
roadster dealer.
operation
* Have the vehicle transported to
VSS FAULT VSS
On the nearest authorized Can-Am
LIMP HOME malfunction
roadster dealer.
Defective
SEAT SWITCH
On pillion rider Check fuse (see FUSES).
DEFECTIVE
seat switch

118 ______________
 MESSAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER

INDICATOR MAIN DIGITAL

CAUSE WHAT TO DO
LAMP(S) DISPLAY
Have the vehicle transported to the
VSS
On EBD FAULT nearest authorized Can-Am roadster
malfunction
dealer.
! Low brake
– Check for brake fluid leaks.
On BRAKE FAILURE fluid level or – Check brake fluid level and
faulty sensor adjust (see BRAKE PEDAL
FLUID VERIFICATION).
Engine
management
On CHECK ENGINE
component – Remove and reinsert key.
malfunction
Dynamic
power
Have the vehicle repaired by an
On CHECK DPS steering
authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
component
malfunction
Transmission
– Remove and reinsert key.
Control
On CHECK TCM Module – Have the vehicle repaired
component by an authorized Can-Am
malfunction roadster dealer.
Important
engine
* Have the vehicle transported to
management
Flashing LIMP HOME the nearest authorized Can-Am
component
roadster dealer.
or VSS
malfunction
Make sure to release the brake
Brake applied
Flashing LIMP HOME completely while vehicle is in
while driving
movement.
– Check for oil leaks.
Low oil – Check oil level and adjust
On None
pressure (see ENGINE OIL LEVEL
VERIFICATION.

On None Low fuel level Fill fuel tank (see FUELING)

CHECK Have the vehicle repaired by an

On TCM fault
TRANSMISSION authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.

______________ 119
MESSAGES IN MULTIFUNCTION GAUGE CLUSTER

INDICATOR MAIN DIGITAL

CAUSE WHAT TO DO
LAMP(S) DISPLAY
Have the vehicle repaired by an
On CHECK DPS DPS fault
authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
Key not programmed for the
On KEY ERR Anti theft vehicle. See authorized Can-Am
roadster dealer.

* BRP recommends having the vehicle transported when in LIMP HOME. If you
operate the vehicle in LIMP HOME, avoid abrupt maneuvers and immediately go
to the nearest authorized Can-Am roadster dealer to have your vehicle serviced
before riding again. In LIMP HOME, the engine RPM is limited and therefore the
vehicle maximum speed is reduced.

120 ______________
 TECHNICAL
INFORMATION

______________ 121
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
The main components of your vehicle Engine Identification
(engine and frame) are identified by Number
different serial numbers. It may some-
times become necessary to locate
these numbers for warranty purposes
or to trace your vehicle in the event
of loss. These numbers are required
by the authorized Can-Am roadster
dealer to complete warranty claims
properly. No warranty will be allowed
by Bombardier Recreational Products
Inc. if the engine identification number
(E.I.N.) or vehicle identification number
(V.I.N.) is removed or mutilated in any
way. We strongly recommend that
rmo2008-001-111_a
you take note of all the serial numbers
on your vehicle and supply them to TYPICAL
1. E.I.N. (Engine Identification Number)
your insurance company. location

Vehicle Identification EPA Compliance Label

Number (USA)

rmo2008-001-094

1 2
rmo2008-001-091_a

VEHICLE SERIAL NUMBER LABEL

1. V.I.N. (Vehicle Identification Number)
2. Model number

rmo2008-001-044_b

1. EPA exhaust emission label located under

rmo2008-001-107_c
seat
LOCATION OF V.I.N.
1. Swing arm (V.I.N. label)
2. Lower frame (V.I.N. stamped on left side)

122 ______________
SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL SPYDER RS
ENGINE
ROTAX 991 60° V-Twin
Engine type 4-stroke, Dual Over Head Camshaft
(DOHC), liquid cooled
Number of cylinders 2
Number of valves 8 valves
Bore 97 mm (3.82 in)
Stroke 67.5 mm (2.6575 in)
Displacement 998 cm³ (60.9 in³)
Compression ratio 10.8:1
Type Dry sump with separate oil tank and oil cooler
Engine BRP Rotax paper type, replaceable
Oil filter
Transmission (SE5) BRP Rotax paper type, replaceable
Oil change with
SM5 3.9 L (4.1 qt (U.S. liq.))
new engine filter
Oil change with
Engine oil 4.2 L (4.4 qt (U.S. liq.))
new engine filter
Lubrication Capacity
Oil change with SE5
new engine and 4.3 L (4.5 qt (U.S. liq.))
HCM filters
Use XPS 4-STROKE BLEND OIL (SUMMER
GRADE) (P/N 293 600 121) or a 5W 40
Recommended Engine Oil semi-synthetic (minimum) or synthetic motorcycle
oil meeting the requirements for API service
SL, SJ, SH or SG classification
Wet, multi-plate, manual operation through
Type
SM5 model a hydraulic piston, vacuum assist
Fluid DOT 4 brake fluid
Centrifugal clutch + wet multi-plate clutch
Clutch Type
automatically controlled by TCM
SE5 model Engage-
2000 +/- 200 RPM (centrifugal)
ment
Stall 3200 +/- 200 RPM (centrifugal)
Exhaust system 2 into 1 with catalytic converter
Air filter Paper element

______________ 123
SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL SPYDER RS
GEARBOX
SM5 Sequential Manual 5-speed (SM5) with reverse
Type
SE5 Sequential Electronic 5-speed (SE5) with reverse
COOLING SYSTEM
Type Liquid cooled, single radiator with cooling fan
Ethyl glycol/water mix (50% coolant, 50%
distilled water). Use premixed coolant sold by
Type
Coolant BRP (P/N 219 700 362) or coolant specifically
designed for aluminum engines
Capacity 3.2 L (3.4 qt (U.S. liq.))
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Magneto generator output 500 W
Ignition system type Electronic ignition with dual output coil
Ignition timing Not adjustable
Quantity 2
NGK DCPR9E (apply heat-sink paste P12
Spark plug Make and type
(P/N 420 897 186) on spark plug thread)
Gap 0.7 mm - 0.8 mm (.028 in - .031 in)
Engine RPM limiter setting Forward 10 000 RPM
Type Maintenance free
Voltage 12 volts
Battery Nominal rating 21 A•h
Recommended charging
2A
rate
Headlight 2 x 55 W
Taillight/brake light 2 x 5/21 W
Front 21 W
Turn signal lights
Rear 10 W
Position lights 2x5W
License plate light 10 W
Refer to FUSES in ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES
Fuses
FAILURE

124 ______________
 SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL SPYDER RS
FUEL SYSTEM
Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with
Fuel delivery Type
dual 57 mm throttle body
Fuel pump Type Electrical module in fuel tank
Idle speed 1400 ± 100 RPM (not adjustable)
Type Regular unleaded gasoline

Fuel Inside North America 87 (R+M)/2 or higher

Octane no.
Outside North America 92 RON or higher

Fuel tank capacity 25 L (6.6 U.S. gal.)

DRIVE SYSTEM
Final drive type Carbon reinforced drive belt
Final drive ratio 28/79
STEERING
Type Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)
FRONT SUSPENSION
Suspension type Double A-arm with anti-sway bar
Suspension travel 144 mm (5.7 in)
Qty 2
Shock absorber RS Oil damper
Type
RS-S Gas
RS 5 position cam adjustment
Spring preload adjustment
RS-S Threaded rings
REAR SUSPENSION
Suspension type Swing arm with monoshock
Suspension travel 145 mm (5.7 in)
Qty 1
Shock absorber
Type Oil damper
Spring preload adjustment 7 position cam adjustment

______________ 125
SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL SPYDER RS
BRAKES
Foot-actuated, fully integrated hydraulic 3-wheel
Type
braking system with ABS and EBD
Dual 250 mm (9.8 in) x 6 mm (.24 in) discs
Front brake
with 4 piston calipers
Single 250 mm (9.8 in) x 6 mm (.24 in) disc
Rear brake
with 1 piston caliper
Capacity 545 ml - 570 ml (18.4 U.S. oz - 19.3 U.S. oz)
Brake fluid
Type DOT 4
Mechanical, left foot pedal actuated to
Parking brake
the rear caliper
Minimum brake pad thickness 1 mm (.04 in)
Minimum brake disc thickness 5.33 mm (.21 in)
Maximum brake disc warpage 0.12 mm (.005 in)
TIRES
Front MC 165/65R14 47H (special motorcycle type)
Type (use only tires MC 225/50R15 68H (special motorcycle type)
recommended by BRP) OR
Rear
MC 225/50R15 76H (special
motorcycle type)
Nominal.: 103 kPa (15 PSI)
Min.: 89 kPa (13 PSI)
Max.: 117 kPa (17 PSI)
Front
NOTE: The pressure difference between the
Pressure left and right side tire should not exceed 3.4 kPa
(.5 PSI).
Nominal.: 193 kPa (28 PSI)
Rear Min.: 179 kPa (26 PSI)
Max.: 207 kPa (30 PSI)
Front 2.5 mm (3/32 in)
Minimum tire tread depth
Rear 4.0 mm (5/32 in)
WHEELS
Front 355 mm (14 in) x 127 mm (5 in)
Size (diameter X width)
Rear 381 mm (15 in) x 178 mm (7 in)
Front wheel nuts torque 105 N•m (77 lbf•ft)
Rear drive axle nut torque 130 N•m (96 lbf•ft)

126 ______________
 SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL SPYDER RS
DIMENSIONS
Overall length 2 667 mm (105 in)
Overall width 1 506 mm (59.3 in)
Overall height 1 145 mm (45.1 in)
Seat (top) height 737 mm (29 in)
Wheel base 1 727 mm (68 in)
Front wheel track 1 308 mm (51.5 in)
Ground clearance, front and under engine 115 mm (4.5 in)
WEIGHT AND LOADING CAPACITY
Dry weight 317 kg (699 lb)
Capacity 44 L (11.6 U.S. gal.)
Front storage compartment
Maximum load 16 kg (35 lb)

Total vehicle load allowed (including operator, all other

200 kg (440 lb)
loads and added accessories)
Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 540 kg (1,188 lb)

Because of our ongoing commitment to product quality and innovation, BRP reserves the
right, at any time, to make changes in design and specifications and/or to make additions to,
or improvements in its products without imposing any obligation upon itself to install them
on its previously manufactured products.

______________ 127
SPECIFICATIONS

This page is
intentionally blank

128 ______________
WARRANTY

______________ 129
BRP LIMITED WARRANTY — USA AND CANADA:
2012 Can-Am® SPYDER® ROADSTER
1. SCOPE OF THE LIMITED WARRANTY
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (“BRP”)* warrants its 2012 Can-Am
Spyder roadsters sold by authorized Spyder Dealers (as defined below) in the
fifty United States and in Canada from defects in material or workmanship for
the period and under the conditions described below. This limited warranty will
become null and void if: (1) the Spyder roadster was used for racing or any other
competitive activity, at any point, even by a previous owner; (2) the odometer was
removed or has been tempered with; (3) the Spyder roadster was used off-road;
or (4) the Spyder roadster has been altered or modified in such a way so as to
adversely affect its operation, performance or durability, or has been altered or
modified to change its intended use.
All genuine Spyder parts and accessories installed on the roadster by an autho-
rized Spyder Dealer at the time of delivery of the roadster carry the same warranty
as that of the roadster.

2. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY GIVEN AND ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF ANY
AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FIT-
NESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY CANNOT
BE DISCLAIMED, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION
TO THE LIFE OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY. INCIDENTAL AND CONSE-
QUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE EXCLUDED FROM COVERAGE UNDER THIS
WARRANTY. SOME STATES/PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW FOR THE DIS-
CLAIMERS, LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS IDENTIFIED ABOVE, AS A
RESULT, THEY MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU
SPECIFIC RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS
WHICH MAY VARY FROM STATE TO STATE, OR PROVINCE TO PROVINCE.
Neither the distributor, any Spyder Dealer nor any other person has been autho-
rized to make any affirmation, representation or warranty regarding the roadster,
other than those contained in this limited warranty, and if made, shall not be en-
forceable against BRP. BRP reserves the right to modify this warranty at any time,
being understood that such modification will not alter the warranty conditions
applicable to the roadsters sold while this warranty is in effect.

3. EXCLUSIONS — ARE NOT WARRANTED

The following are not warranted under any circumstances:
– Replacement of routine maintenance items such as, without limitation, oil, lu-
bricants, fluids, filters and spark plugs.
– Normal wear and tear, such as, without limitation, wear and tear of the tires, bat-
tery, generator brushes, sealed beams and light bulbs, clutch plates and facings,
drive belt, brake pads, brake linings and rotors and sprockets.
– Tune ups and adjustments including without limitation adjustments of belt,
alignment and wheel balance.
– Damages related to the appearance of the roadster, including without limitation
scratches, dents, fading, flaking, peeling and damages to seat cover material.

130 ______________
– Damage caused by failure to provide proper maintenance or storage, as de-
scribed in the Operator's Guide.
– Damage resulting from removal of parts, improper repairs, improper service or
improper maintenance, modifications, alterations that are outside of the original
specifications of the roadster, or damage resulting from repairs done by a per-
son that is not an authorized servicing Spyder Dealer.
– Damage resulting from the installation of parts with specifications that differ
from the original Spyder parts, such as, without limitation, different tires,
exhaust system, wheels or brakes.
– Damage resulting from abuse, abnormal use, neglect or operation of the Spyder
roadster in a manner inconsistent with the recommendations of the Operator’s
Guide.
– Damage resulting from accident, road hazards, submersion, fire, theft, vandal-
ism or any act of God.
– Damage resulting from operation with fuels, oils or fluids with specifications dif-
ferent than as recommended in the Operator’s Guide.
– Damage resulting from corrosion from road salts, battery acid, environmental
influences or treatment contrary to the Operator’s Guide.
– Incidental or consequential damages, including without limitation towing,
storage, telephone, rental, taxi, inconvenience, insurance coverage, loan
payments, loss of time or loss of income.

4. WARRANTY COVERAGE PERIOD

This warranty will be in effect from the date of delivery to the first retail consumer
or the date the roadster is first put into use, whichever occurs first and for the
following periods:
1. for private, recreational use, TWENTY FOUR (24) CONSECUTIVE MONTHS,
except for the items covered in points (2) to (5) below; and for commercial
use TWELVE (12) CONSECUTIVE MONTHS, except for the items covered in
points (2) to (5) below.
A roadster is used commercially when it is used in connection with any work
or employment that generates income during any part of the warranty period.
A roadster is also used commercially when, at any point during the warranty
period, it is licensed for commercial use.
2. for the battery, SIX (6) CONSECUTIVE MONTHS.
3. for the tires, 6 CONSECUTIVE MONTHS or until tires are worn to the last three
thirty-seconds of an inch (3/32 inch) (2.38 millimeters) for the front tires and the
last five thirty-seconds of an inch (5/32 inch) (3.97 millimeters) for the rear tire,
whichever occurs first.
4. for Spyder roadsters sold to residents of the United States, FIVE (5) YEARS
or THIRTY THOUSAND (30 000) KILOMETERS (18,641 MILES), whichever
occurs first, on the emission related components included in the chart below.

______________ 131
 WARRANTY EMISSION PART LIST
Oxygen sensor Oil filler cap
Intake manifold Catalytic converter
Ignition coil Rear exhaust manifold
Spark plug wire (front cylinder) Front exhaust manifold
Spark plug wire (rear cylinder) Fuel return hose
Fuel tank Evaporative emission control system (EVAP)
Fuel tank cap Engine control module (ECM)
5. for Spyder roadsters produced for sale in the state of California, that are
originally sold to residents or subsequently warranty registered to residents
in the state of California, please also refer to the applicable California
Emissions Control Warranty Statement.
The repair or replacement of parts or the performance of service under this
warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration
date.

5. CONDITIONS TO HAVE WARRANTY COVERAGE

This warranty coverage is available only if each of the following conditions has
been fulfilled:
– The Spyder roadster must be purchased as new and unused by its first owner
from a Spyder dealer authorized to distribute Spyder roadsters in the country in
which the sale occurred (“Spyder Dealer”).
– The BRP-specified pre-delivery inspection process must be completed, docu-
mented and signed by the purchaser.
– The Spyder roadster must have undergone proper warranty registration by an
authorized Spyder Dealer.
– The Spyder roadster must be purchased in the country in which the purchaser
resides.
– Routine maintenance must be performed as indicated in the Operator’s Guide.
BRP reserves the right to make warranty coverage contingent upon proof of
proper maintenance.
BRP will not this limited warranty to any private use owner or commercial use
owner if the preceding conditions have not been met. Such limitations are neces-
sary in order to allow BRP to preserve both the safety of its products, and also that
of its consumers and the general public.

6. WHAT TO DO TO OBTAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE

The customer must cease using the Spyder roadster upon the appearance of
an anomaly. The customer must notify a servicing Spyder Dealer within two (2)
days of the appearance of a defect, and provide it with reasonable access to the
product and reasonable opportunity to repair it. The customer must also present
to the authorized Spyder Dealer proof of purchase of the product and must sign
the repair/work order prior to starting the repair in order to validate the warranty
repair. All parts replaced under this limited warranty become the property of BRP.

132 ______________
7. WHAT BRP WILL DO
BRP’s obligations under this warranty are limited to, at its sole discretion, repairing
parts found defective under normal use, maintenance and service, or replacing
such parts with new genuine Spyder parts without charge for parts and labor,
at any authorized Spyder Dealer during the warranty coverage period. BRP's
responsibility is limited to making the required repairs or replacements of parts.
No claim of breach of warranty shall be cause for cancellation or rescission of the
sale of the Spyder roadster to the owner.
In the event that service is required outside of the country of original sale, the
owner will bear responsibility for any additional charges due to local practices
and conditions, such as, but not limited to, freight, insurance, taxes, license fees,
import duties, and any and all other financial charges, including those levied by
governments, states, territories and their respective agencies.
BRP reserves the right to improve or modify products from time to time without as-
suming any obligation to modify any products manufactured.

8. TRANSFER
If the ownership of a Spyder roadster is transferred during the warranty coverage
period, this warranty shall also be transferred and be valid for the remaining
coverage period provided that BRP is notified of such transfer of ownership in the
following way:
1. The former owner contacts BRP (at the phone number provided below) or an
authorized Spyder Dealer and gives the coordinates of the new owner; or
2. BRP or an authorized Spyder Dealer receives a proof that the former owner
agreed to the transfer of ownership, in addition to the coordinates of the new
owner.

9. CONSUMER ASSISTANCE
In the event of a controversy or a dispute in connection with this limited warranty,
BRP suggests that you try to resolve the issue at the dealership level. We recom-
mend discussing the issue with the authorized Spyder Dealer's service manager or
owner.
If the issue has not yet been resolved, please submit your complaint in writing or
call the appropriate number below:

In Canada: In USA:
BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC. BRP US INC.
SPYDER ROADSTER SPYDER ROADSTER
Customer Assistance Center Customer Assistance Center
75 J.-A. Bombardier Street 7575 Bombardier Court
Sherbrooke QC J1L 1W3 Wausau WI 54401
Tel.: 819 566-3366 Tel.: 715 848-4957

______________ 133
CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY
STATEMENT
YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS:
The California Air Resources Board and BRP US Inc. ("BRP")*, on behalf of
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc., are pleased to explain the emission
control system warranty on your 2012 Can-Am Spyder roadster. In California,
new motor vehicles must be designated, built and equipped to meet the State's
stringent anti-smog standards. BRP must warrant the emission control system
on your Spyder roadster for the periods of time listed below provided there has
been no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your roadster.
Your emission control system may include parts such as the fuel-injection system,
ignition system, catalytic converter and engine computer. Also included may be
hoses, connectors and other emission-related assemblies. Where a warrantable
condition exists, BRP will repair your roadster at no cost to you including diagnosis,
parts and labor.

MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY COVERAGE

– For 5 years or 30 000 kilometers (18,641 miles), whichever occurs first.

OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:

As the Spyder roadster owner, you are responsible for the performance of the
required maintenance listed in your Operator's Guide. BRP recommends that
you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your roadster, but BRP cannot
deny warranty solely for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the
performance of all scheduled maintenance.
You are responsible for presenting your Spyder roadster to a Spyder dealer as soon
as a problem exists. The warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable
amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.
As the Spyder roadster owner, you should also be aware that BRP may deny
you warranty coverage if your roadster or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect,
improper maintenance or unapproved modifications.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you
should contact BRP's customer assistance center at 1 715 848-4957 or the Califor-
nia Air Resource Board at 9528 Telstar Avenue, El Monte, CA 91731.

* In the USA, products are distributed and serviced by BRP US Inc.

© 2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserved.
TM trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its

134 ______________
BRP LIMITED WARRANTY OUTSIDE USA AND
CANADA: 2012 Can-Am™ SPYDERTM ROADSTER
1. SCOPE OF THE LIMITED WARRANTY
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (“BRP”)* warrants its 2012 Can-Am
Spyder roadsters (the "Products") sold by authorized Can-Am Spyder roadster
distributors and dealers located in the EEA (the "EEA" or "European Economic
Area" shall mean the countries member of the European Union plus Norway,
Iceland and Liechtenstein) or elsewhere, except in the USA and Canada** (the
"Distributors/Dealers") from defects in material or workmanship for the period
and under the conditions described below. This limited warranty will become null
and void if: (1) the Product was used for racing or any other competitive activity,
at any point, even by a previous owner; or (2) the odometer was removed or has
been tampered with; (3) the Product was used off-road; or (4) the Product has
been altered or modified in such a way so as to adversely affect its operation,
performance or durability, or has been altered or modified to change its intended
use.
All genuine parts and accessories related to the Product and installed on the Prod-
uct by an authorized Distributor/Dealer at the time of delivery of the Product carry
the same warranty as that of the Product.

2. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY GIVEN AND ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF ANY
AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FIT-
NESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY CANNOT
BE DISCLAIMED, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION
TO THE LIFE OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY. ALL INCIDENTAL, CONSE-
QUENTIAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT OR OTHER DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARE
EXCLUDED FROM COVERAGE UNDER THIS WARRANTY. SOME COUN-
TRIES OR JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW FOR THE DISCLAIMERS,
LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR OTHER
EXCLUSIONS IDENTIFIED ABOVE. AS A RESULT, THEY MAY NOT APPLY
TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY
ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH MAY VARY FROM COUNTRY TO
COUNTRY, OR JURISDICTION TO JURISDICTION.
Neither the authorized Distributors/Dealers nor any other person have been
authorized to make any affirmation, representation or warranty regarding the
Product, other than those contained in this limited warranty, and if made, shall
not be enforceable against BRP. BRP reserves the right to modify this warranty
at any time, being understood that such modification will not alter the warranty
conditions applicable to the Products sold while this warranty is in effect.

3. EXCLUSIONS — ARE NOT WARRANTED

The following are not warranted under any circumstances:
– Replacement of routine maintenance items such as, without limitation, oil and
lubricants, filters and spark plugs.
– Normal wear and tear, such as, without limitation, wear and tear of the tires, bat-
tery, generator brushes, sealed beams and light bulbs, clutch plates and facings,
drive belt, brake pads, brake linings and rotors and sprockets.

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– Tune ups and adjustments including without limitation adjustments of belt,
alignment and wheel balance.
– Damages related to the appearance of the Product, including without limitation
scratches, dents, fading, flaking, peeling and damages to seat cover material.
– Damage caused by failure to provide proper maintenance or storage, as de-
scribed in the Operator's Guide.
– Damage resulting from removal of parts, improper repairs, improper service or
improper maintenance, modifications, alterations that are outside of the original
specifications of the Product, or damage resulting from repairs done by a person
that is not an authorized servicing Distributor/Dealer.
– Damage resulting from the installation of parts with specifications that differ
from the original Product parts, such as, without limitation, different tires,
exhaust system, wheels or brakes.
– Damage resulting from abuse, abnormal use, neglect or operation of the
Product in a manner inconsistent with the recommendations of the Operator’s
Guide.
– Damage resulting from water ingestion, accident, road hazards, submersion,
fire, theft, vandalism or any act of God.
– Damage resulting from operation with fuels, oils or lubricants with specifica-
tions different than as recommended in the Operator’s Guide.
– Damage resulting from corrosion from road salts, battery acid, environmental
influences or treatment contrary to the Operator’s Guide.
– Incidental or consequential damages, including without limitation, expense
for gasoline, expense for transporting the Product to and from the authorized
Distributor/Dealer, mechanic’s travel time, trailering or towing, storage, tele-
phone, cell phone, fax or telegram charges, rental of a like or replacement
Product during warranty services or down time, taxi, travel, lodging, loss of or
damage to personal property, inconvenience, cost of insurance coverage, loan
payments, loss of time, loss of income, revenue or profits, or loss of enjoyment
or use of Product.

4. WARRANTY COVERAGE PERIOD

This warranty will be in effect from the date of delivery to the first retail consumer
or the date the Product is first put into use, whichever occurs first and for the fol-
lowing periods:
1. for private, recreational use, TWENTY-FOUR (24) CONSECUTIVE
MONTHS, except for the items covered in points (2) and 3) below; and
for commercial use TWELVE (12) CONSECUTIVE MONTHS, except for the
items covered in points (2) and (3) below.

The Product is used commercially when it is used in connection with any

work or employment that generates income, during any part of the warranty
period. The Product is also used commercially when, at any point during the
warranty period, it is licensed for commercial use;

136 ______________
 2. for the battery, SIX (6) CONSECUTIVE MONTHS;
3. for the tires, 6 CONSECUTIVE MONTHS or until tires are worn to the last
three thirty-second of an inch (3/32 inch) (2.38 millimeters) for the front tires
and the last five thirty-second of an inch (5/32 inch) (3.97 millimeters) for the
rear tire, whichever occurs first.

The repair or replacement of parts or the performance of service under this

warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration
date. Note that the duration and any other modalities of the warranty coverage
are subject to the applicable national or local legislation in the customer's country.

5. CONDITIONS TO HAVE WARRANTY COVERAGE

This warranty coverage is available only if each of the following conditions has
been fulfilled:

– The Product must be purchased as new and unused by its first owner from a
Distributor/Dealer authorized to distribute the Product in the country in which
the sale occurred;
– The BRP specified predelivery inspection process has been completed and doc-
umented by the purchaser and the authorized Distributor/Dealer and signed by
the purchaser;
– The Product must have undergone proper warranty registration by an autho-
rized Distributor/Dealer;
– The Product must be purchased in the country in which the purchaser resides.
However, for residents of the EEA, they must purchase the Products within the
EEA, irrespective of which country within the EEA.
– Routine maintenance as outlined in the Operator's Guide must be performed in
a timely manner. BRP reserves the right to make warranty coverage contingent
upon proof of proper maintenance.
BRP will not honour this limited warranty to any private use owner or commercial
use owner if one of the preceding conditions has not been met. Such limitations
are necessary in order to allow BRP to protect the safety of its products, its
consumers, and the general public.

6. WHAT TO DO TO OBTAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE

The customer must cease using the Product upon the appearance of an anomaly.
The customer must notify an authorized servicing Distributor/Dealer within two
(2) months of the appearance of a defect, and provide it with reasonable access
to the Product and reasonable opportunity to repair it. The customer must also
present to the authorized Distributor/Dealer, proof of purchase of the Product and
must sign the repair/work order prior to starting the repair in order to validate the
warranty repair. All parts replaced under this limited warranty become the prop-
erty of BRP. Note that the notification period is subject to the applicable national
or local legislation in customer's country.

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7. WHAT BRP WILL DO
BRP’s obligations under this warranty are limited to, at its sole discretion, repairing
parts found defective under normal use, maintenance and service, or replacing
such parts with new genuine Product parts without charge for parts and labour, at
any authorized Distributor/Dealer during the warranty coverage period under the
conditions described above. BRP’s responsibility is limited to making the required
repairs or replacements of parts. No claim of breach of warranty shall be cause for
cancellation or rescission of the sale of the Product to the owner.
In the event that service is required outside of the country of original sale, or
for EEA residents, if service is required outside of the EEA, the owner will bear
responsibility for any additional charges due to local practices and conditions, such
as, but not limited to, freight, insurance, taxes, license fees, import duties, and
any and all other financial charges, including those levied by governments, states,
territories and their respective agencies.
BRP reserves the right to modify products from time to time without assuming any
obligation to modify all products manufactured.

8. TRANSFER
If the ownership of a Product is transferred during the warranty coverage period,
this warranty shall also be transferred and be valid for the remaining coverage
period provided that BRP is notified of such transfer of ownership in the following
way:
1. The former owner contacts BRP (at the phone number provided below) or an
authorized Distributor/Dealer and gives the coordinates of the new owner; or
2. BRP or an authorized Distributor/Dealer receives a proof that the former owner
agreed to the transfer of ownership, in addition to the coordinates of the new
owner.

9. CONSUMER ASSISTANCE
In the event of a controversy or a dispute in connection with this limited warranty,
BRP suggests that you try to resolve the issue at the dealership level. We rec-
ommend discussing the issue with the authorized Distributor/Dealer's service
manager or owner. In countries where there are authorized distributors, their
coordinates may be found on www.brp.com.
If the issue is not resolved with the help of your authorized Distributor/Dealer, com-
plaints may be submitted in writing or by calling BRP or one of its subsidiaries as
follows.

138 ______________
For Countries within Europe, Middle East, Africa, Russia & CIS,
Please Contact our European Office:
BRP EUROPE N.V.
Customer Assistance Center
Skaldenstraat 125
9042 Gent
Belgium
Tel.: + 32-9-218-26-00

For Scandinavian Countries, Please Contact our Finland Office:

BRP FINLAND OY
Service Department
Isoaavantie 7
Fin-96320 Rovaniemi
Finland
Tel.: + 358 16 3208 111

For All Other Countries, Please Contact your Local Distributor

or our Canadian Office:
BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.
Customer Assistance Center
75 J.-A. Bombardier Street
Sherbrooke, QC J1L 1W3
Tel.: +1 819 566-3366

You will find your distributors, coordinates on www.brp.com.

* In the European Economic Area and elsewhere, Products are distributed and serviced by
BRP European Distribution S.A. and other subsidiaries of BRP.
** The BRP limited warranty offered on Products sold in the USA and Canada is different
than the one offered in the EEA and elsewhere.
© 2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. All rights reserved.
TM trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

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 CUSTOMER
INFORMATION

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PRIVACY INFORMATION
BRP wishes to inform you that your coordinates will be used for safety and war-
ranty related purposes. Furthermore, BRP and its affiliates may use its customer
list to distribute marketing and promotional information about BRP and related
products.
To exercise your right to consult or correct your data, or to be removed from the ad-
dressee-list for direct marketing, please contact BRP.

By E-mail: privacyofficer@brp.com

By mail: BRP
Senior Legal Counsel-Privacy Officer
726 St-Joseph
Valcourt, Quebec
Canada,
J0E 2L0

142 ______________
CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP
If your address has changed or if you are the new owner of the vehicle, be sure to
notify BRP by either:
– Mailing one of the following card below;
– North America Only: calling at 715 848-4957 (USA) or 819 566-3366 (Canada);
– Notifying an authorized Can-Am roadster dealer.
In case of change of ownership, please join a proof that the former owner agreed
to the transfer.
Notifying BRP, even after the expiration of the limited warranty, is very important
as it enables BRP to reach the vehicle owner if necessary, like when safety recalls
are initiated. It is the owner’s responsibility to notify BRP.
STOLEN UNITS: If your personal vehicle is stolen, you should notify BRP or an au-
thorized Can-Am roadster dealer. We will ask you to provide your name, address,
phone number, the vehicle identification number and the date it was stolen.

In North America
BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL
PRODUCTS INC.
Warranty Department
75 J.-A. Bombardier Street
Sherbrooke, QC J1L 1W3
Canada

In Other Countries in the World

BRP EUROPEAN DISTRIBUTION
Warranty Department
Chemin de Messidor 5-7
1006 Lausanne
Switzerland

In Scandinavian Countries
BRP FINLAND OY
Service Department
Isoaavantie 7
Fin-96320 Rovaniemi
Finland
Tel.: + 358 16 3208 111

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP

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NOTES

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NOTES

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/OWNERSHIP

NOTES

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