So you’re looking for a new toy for the garage and you’re considering a CanAm Spyder and a Polaris Slingshot because they’re both different than what you’re used to seeing on the road. Despite the fact that they’re both 3-wheeled rides sporting 2 of their wheels in the front, these 2 are very different from one another, even when it comes to license endorsements needed to ride/drive them.
So which head-turner will raise the hair on your neck the most? Read or review below to help you choose!
2017 CanAm Spyder F3 SM6 Overview
The old-fashioned trike has been flipped, literally, by CanAm with the Spyder Roadster.
The Spyder rides more like a motorcycle than a car (like the Slingshot does) and sports a performance-calibrated Vehicle Stability System and power steering for great handling and cornering. Powered by a Rotax 1330 ACE 3 cylinder engine, this high-torque engine pushes out 105 hp and comes with a 6-speed manual or semi-automatic transmission with reverse. When it comes to stopping, the high-performance, Brembo braking system keeps you safe as you look to slow down.
When it comes to a great rider experience, the Spyder roadster has a few key features to take note of. One feature is the ECO™ mode smart assist dash light that lets you know the best time to shift for better fuel consumption. Conveniences for the driver also carry over to the UFit custom fitting system that lets you position your footpegs and handlebars based on your height and riding style. Lastly, there’s nothing more inconvenient than finding out that your vehicle has been stolen. To help prevent that, CanAm includes an anti-theft system to help keep your ride… well… yours!
As for the bells and whistles, the 2017 CanAm Spyder sports 2 halogen headlamps, 6.5 gallons of storage space and features a multi-function LCD display that shows your gear position, the Spyder’s temperature, and includes a/an:
- Analog gauge
- Tachometer and odometer
- Trip & hour meters
- Electronic fuel gauge
- Clock
As for the warranty, the 2017 CanAm Spyder comes with a Factory, 2-year BRP Limited Warranty with 2-year roadside assistance. Buyers also have the opportunity to extend the warranty from 12 to 36 months.
2017 Polaris Slingshot SL Overview
Brandishing a 4 cylinder, 2.4 Liter DOHC Engine, this thrillride pushes out 173 HP on a lightweight, tubular chassis with a sport-tuned suspension. The 5-Speed Synchromesh manual transmission also comes with reverse and a dry, single plate, hydraulically-actuated clutch for a great driving experience. The Slingshot includes the speed sensitive Polaris Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), electronic stability, and traction control to keep you on the road, even on those rainy days that appear out of nowhere.
Paired with excellent steering and handling, the Slingshot’s ride comes with great stopping power, as well. On this ride, you’ll find 298mm vented cast iron ABS disc brakes on the front and rear. One thing to keep in mind is that helmet rules for the Slingshot vary by state but Minnesota requires a helmet for riders 17 and younger.
Moving from under the hood and outside of the wheel wells (that houses 3 lightweight aluminum wheels), you’ll find that the 2017 Slingshot comes with projector beam headlights & LED taillights so you’re easily noticed on the road.
In the fully waterproof cockpit, you will find a:
- 4.3” LCD screen media console featuring a backup camera and Bluetooth® integration
- Rockford Fosgate Speaker System
- Lockable storage bins behind the seats and a glove box
- Waterproof, cut and sew bucket seats with a 3-point seatbelt system
As for the 2017 Slingshot, Polaris offers a 2 year factory warranty.
2017 CanAm Spyder F3 SM6 & 2017 Polaris Slingshot SLGeneral Specs |
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2017 CanAm Spyder F3 SM6 | 2017 Polaris Slingshot SL | |
Price: | Starting at $16,990 | Starting at $25,499 |
Engine Type: | 1330 Ace In-Line 3 cylinders | GM Ecotec LE9 2.4L DOHC |
Transmission: | 6-speed manual with reverse | 5 Speed Synchromesh with reverse |
Bore & Stroke: | 84 mm x 80 mm | 88 mm x 98 mm |
Warranty: | 2-year BRP Limited Warranty with 2-year roadside assistance | 2 Year Factory Warranty |
Fuel Capacity: | 7.1 gallons | 9.77 gallons |
Fuel Type: | 91 octane | 91 octane or higher |
Front Brakes: | 270 mm discs with Brembo 4-piston fixed calipers | Vented cast iron, 298 mm diameter |
Back Brakes: | 270 mm disc, 1 piston floating caliper with integrated parking brake | Vented cast iron, 298 mm diameter |
Dry Weight: | 899 lbs | 1,749 lbs |
MN Motorcycle Endorsement Required: | Yes | No |
2017 CanAm Spyder F3 SM6 & 2017 Polaris Slingshot SLDimensions |
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2017 CanAm Spyder F3 SM6 | 2017 Polaris Slingshot SL | |
Wheelbase: | 67.3 in (1,709 mm) | 105.0 in (2,667 mm) |
Length: | 104 in (2,642 mm) | 149.6 in (3,800 mm) |
Width: | 58.9 in (1,497 mm) | 77.9 in (1,980 mm) |
Height: | 43.3 in (1,099 mm) | 51.9 in (1,318 mm) |
Ground Clearance: | 4.5 in (115 mm) | 5.0 in (127 mm) |