Can-Am Spyder ST Review: Is It Really a Motorcycle?
The Can-Am Spyder ST Is Not a Motorcycle — And That's Actually Fine
Let's get the hot take out of the way early: the Can-Am Spyder ST is not a motorcycle. It has three wheels, a reverse gear, stability control, and cornering dynamics closer to a sports car than a Harley-Davidson. Calling it a motorcycle is like calling a jetski a boat — technically defensible, practically absurd. But here's the thing: once you stop trying to force it into the wrong category, the Spyder ST starts to make a lot of sense. It's a genuinely capable, long-distance touring machine that deserves honest assessment rather than tribal dismissal. So let's give it one.
Can-Am Spyder ST Specs: What You're Actually Getting
The Spyder ST (Sport Touring) sits at the premium end of BRP's three-wheel lineup. Under the hood — and yes, it has a hood — sits a Rotax 1330 ACE inline triple, producing around 115 hp and 96 lb-ft of torque. That's meaningful power, and it's delivered smoothly through either a six-speed manual with reverse or BRP's semi-automatic SE6 transmission.
Key specs at a glance:
- Engine: 1330cc Rotax ACE liquid-cooled inline-triple
- Power: ~115 hp / 96 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or SE6 semi-automatic with reverse
- Suspension: Double A-arm front, single shock rear
- Braking: Linked ABS across all three wheels
- Fuel capacity: 26.5 litres
- Claimed range: 400+ km per tank
- Wet weight: ~450 kg
That weight figure is where the motorcycle comparison really falls apart. You're not leaning this thing into corners — you're steering it, like a car. The stability control system (VSS) actively manages traction across all three contact patches. It works well. It's just not riding in the traditional sense.
Common Can-Am Spyder ST Problems to Know About
The Spyder platform has been around long enough to develop a well-documented reliability record. It's mostly solid, but there are recurring issues worth knowing before you hand over your money.
1. Belt drive wear The Spyder uses a toothed belt final drive. They last well when properly tensioned, but neglected maintenance or misalignment can cause premature wear or failure. Always check belt tension and condition.
2. SE6 transmission quirks The semi-automatic gearbox divides opinion. Early units had software gremlins causing rough shifts or refusal to engage gears. Later firmware updates helped, but used examples should be tested thoroughly through all gears, including reverse.
3. Electrical issues on older models Pre-2018 Spyders have reported ECU faults, instrument cluster failures, and intermittent warning lights. BRP has issued several technical service bulletins. Check service history carefully.
4. Tie-rod and front suspension wear The double A-arm front end is robust but not immune to wear. Tie-rod ends, ball joints, and wheel bearings should be inspected on any used example with significant mileage.
5. Rear tyre wear rates The single rear tyre does all the driven work. Expect to replace it more frequently than a conventional motorcycle tyre, particularly if ridden hard or loaded with luggage.
What to Check Before Buying a Used Can-Am Spyder ST
Buying used? Don't skip this checklist. The Spyder's complexity means there's more to inspect than a standard two-wheeler.
Mechanical checks:
- Belt condition and tension — look for cracking, fraying, or uneven wear
- All three tyres for wear pattern and age (check date codes)
- Front suspension play — grab each front wheel and check for looseness
- Brake pad thickness on all three wheels
- Fluid levels: brake, coolant, engine oil
- Reverse gear engagement — it should be smooth and positive
- SE6 shifting through all gears if applicable
Electrical and software:
- No persistent fault codes on the dash — request a diagnostic read
- Instrument cluster fully functional
- All lights, heated grips, and accessories operational
- Check BRP service history for any open recalls or TSBs
Frame and body:
- Inspect the underside for crash damage — the low stance means kerb strikes are common
- Check wheel alignment visually from front and rear
- Luggage system latches, hinges, and seals if panniers are fitted
Inspect any bike free with the Motoryk app — run through a structured pre-purchase check and keep a record you can share or store.
Who the Can-Am Spyder ST Is Actually For
Stop trying to sell it to sport bike riders or crusty traditionalists — they'll never buy in. The Spyder ST's natural owner is someone who wants big-mile touring comfort, doesn't fancy filtering through traffic, may have physical limitations that make a two-wheeler impractical, or simply prefers the stability of three contact points on long motorway slogs.
It's genuinely excellent at that job. Wind protection is strong, the ergonomics are relaxed without being numb, and that 400 km range means you're stopping for coffee, not fuel anxiety.
Verdict: Respect It for What It Is
The Can-Am Spyder ST isn't trying to be a motorcycle. BRP never claimed it was. The riders who get the most from it are the ones who stopped making that comparison years ago. Is it riding? Depends on your definition. Is it a capable, well-engineered, long-distance machine that deserves serious consideration? Absolutely yes.
Just don't turn up to a trackday on one. You'll hear about it.
Thinking about buying a Spyder ST? Inspect any bike free before you commit — because even sofas with throttles deserve a proper pre-purchase check.