BRP's Can-Am Spyder RT is three-wheeled fun (pictures)
The XCAR team tend to get their kicks with four-wheeled vehicles most of the time, but the Can-Am Spyder looked like too much fun to miss.
In the UK you only need a regular driver's license to drive the three-wheeled Can-Am Spyder. I took it for a spin.
I'd never ridden a motorcycle before so this was a completely new experience to me.
After only a few minutes, I was happy controlling it and I could take to the open road.
The controls are simple: twist-handle throttle and foot-operated bakes.
The RT model is setup as a grand tourer, with a more upright driving position and extra luggage space.
Unlike some three-wheeled motorcycles, the body doesn't roll in turns. The vehicle stays perfectly level, although leaning into the turns is recommended at speed.
For someone who's used to the security of a car I was a little concerned about getting on the Spyder.
But immediately the vehicle fills you with confidence and you're able to drive it spiritedly straight away.
The in-line three-cylinder engine delivers a surprising amount of torque.
BRP is probably better known for its snowmobiles. The Spyder is its only road-going vehicle.
The windshield can be raised for a more protected drive -- recommended for motorways.
The Spyder happily cruised along at 70mph on British motorways.
The most fun, though, was on twisty country roads.
For someone who never really considered riding a motorcycle, this certainly had me hooked.
The engine was powerful enough to generate some wheel-spin off the line.
We clocked 0-60 at under 5 seconds.
The power to weight ratio is equal to that of a sports car.
People are divided over the Spyder's looks, but I was a fan.
You certainly don't see many of them on the road and you get a lot of stares as you drive past.
The semi-automatic gearbox allows you to retain a lot of control over your gear selection without having to grapple with a clutch.