When it comes to three-wheeled motorcycles, there’s a good amount of debate on the merits of a traditional trike versus a Can-Am Spyder. Whether you’re a long-time rider looking to switch things up, or someone considering three wheels for the first time, it’s important to understand how these two machines differ. As someone who’s spent years riding both two and three-wheeled motorcycles, I’ve come to appreciate the unique experiences they offer. And after riding a Can-Am Spyder RT for the last two years, I have a few opinions to share.

In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between traditional trikes and the Can-Am Spyder, considering factors like handling, comfort, and community. We'll also look at some popular online resources where owners of both types of bikes gather to swap stories, troubleshoot, and share advice.

Handling and Stability

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: handling. The most significant difference between a traditional trike and a Can-Am Spyder lies in how these bikes handle. Traditional trikes, like Harley-Davidson's Tri Glide Ultra or Honda's Gold Wing Trike, have the two wheels in the back and one up front. It’s essentially a motorcycle with a sidecar that never leaves your side. This setup keeps things pretty familiar for two-wheeled riders transitioning to three wheels, especially in terms of leaning into corners. However, trikes can feel heavy and may require more upper body strength, especially in tight turns.

On the other hand, the Can-Am Spyder flips the traditional setup with two wheels up front and one in the rear. The first time I took my Spyder out on a twisty Ohio road, I felt like I had to unlearn everything I knew about riding. You steer the Spyder more like a car or ATV—turning the handlebars without leaning into the curves. It felt odd at first, but once I got the hang of it, I realized how much more stable it was, especially on those steep, hilly roads. For riders who want stability without sacrificing fun, the Spyder’s unique Y-frame design shines.

Comfort for Long Rides

Comfort is another critical factor, especially for those long-haul rides. Both traditional trikes and the Can-Am Spyder offer excellent comfort options, but they go about it differently.

Traditional trikes, especially those like the Harley Tri Glide, have that familiar cruiser-style seating, with plush seats and ample space for a passenger. I rode a traditional cruiser for years, and there’s something undeniably comforting about the wide handlebars and laid-back seating position. But if you’re someone who, like me, wants a bit more out of your long-distance rides, you might find traditional trikes lacking in terms of modern features.

The Can-Am Spyder, particularly the RT model, is built for comfort with long-distance rides in mind. Its ergonomic design, adjustable windshield, and advanced suspension system keep you comfortable, whether you’re cruising down a highway or navigating hilly terrain. And let me tell you, living in a rural area where smooth, straight roads are as rare as a quiet house when you have triplets, I’ve appreciated the Spyder’s ability to handle rougher terrain without leaving me feeling like I’ve been tossed around.

Storage and Passenger Space

Let’s talk about storage, because—let's be real—sometimes you just need to bring a little extra. Whether you’re packing for a weekend trip or just need a place for a jacket, the storage space can be a deal-breaker.

Traditional trikes usually offer pretty generous storage, especially models like the Honda Gold Wing Trike, which comes with built-in saddlebags and a large trunk. For those planning long trips, you’ll have more than enough space for everything, plus a passenger seat that rivals a luxury sedan.

The Can-Am Spyder, however, doesn’t disappoint in this category either. The RT model offers a large rear trunk, side saddlebags, and even a front compartment (affectionately known as the “frunk”). My husband and I have taken weekend trips where we packed enough gear to survive anything short of a zombie apocalypse, and we were able to fit everything in the Spyder’s storage compartments comfortably.

Community and Resources

One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked when comparing a traditional trike to a Can-Am Spyder is the community behind these machines. When you ride, it’s not just about the bike—it’s about the people you meet along the way.

For traditional trike riders, you’ll find a strong community in places like Harley-Davidson Forums and dedicated Facebook Groups for trike riders. These groups are full of people who know the ins and outs of maintaining, modifying, and, yes, troubleshooting trikes. The sense of camaraderie among trike riders is something to behold.

On the other hand, Can-Am Spyder owners also have an incredibly supportive community. You’ll find several popular Facebook groups, like Can-Am Spyder Owners Worldwide or SpyderLovers, where riders exchange tips, plan meetups, and even troubleshoot mechanical issues. Plus, BRP, the company behind the Spyder, offers plenty of support through the Can-Am Owners Club and other official resources.

As someone who’s navigated a lot of these forums (mostly while trying to figure out how to properly adjust my suspension), I can confidently say both communities are welcoming. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the game, you'll find the support you need.

Personal Experience: The Move to Three Wheels

As I mentioned earlier, I didn’t make the move to three wheels on a whim. After riding a traditional cruiser for eight years and an adventure bike for another eight, the decision came when I realized my anxiety about riding twisty roads was keeping me off my bike more often than not. But the moment I got my Spyder, I knew I was back in the game.

Riding the Spyder gave me back that freedom I had missed. With the stability of three wheels and the comfort for long rides, I found myself out on the road more often, with fewer concerns about the terrain. If you’re on the fence about making the switch to three wheels, whether it’s to a traditional trike or a Can-Am Spyder, take it from me—there’s nothing quite like finding a ride that suits your lifestyle and keeps you out on the road.

The Best of Both Worlds: Ryker Adventure Calls Steel Wall Art

Now, if you’re like me and find that riding three wheels opens up a world of adventure, you might want to bring that sense of adventure into your home. The Can-Am Ryker Die Cut Steel Wall Art from Street Iron Gear is the perfect way to do just that. Featuring a Ryker with a backdrop of mountains and the text “Adventure Calls,” this piece adds a touch of rugged beauty to any space. Available in various colors and sizes up to 36 inches, it’s a stunning reminder that adventure is always just around the corner.