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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.

Drew Stearne
For over 16 years Drew has been producing video content on technology, video games and entertainment but now spends his days looking at, talking about, or indeed driving, fast cars.
Drew Stearne
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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.

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I'd never ridden a motorcycle before so this was a completely new experience to me.

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After only a few minutes, I was happy controlling it and I could take to the open road.

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The controls are simple: twist-handle throttle and foot-operated bakes.

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The RT model is setup as a grand tourer, with a more upright driving position and extra luggage space.

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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.

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For someone who's used to the security of a car I was a little concerned about getting on the Spyder.

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But immediately the vehicle fills you with confidence and you're able to drive it spiritedly straight away.

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The in-line three-cylinder engine delivers a surprising amount of torque.

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BRP is probably better known for its snowmobiles. The Spyder is its only road-going vehicle.

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The windshield can be raised for a more protected drive -- recommended for motorways.

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The Spyder happily cruised along at 70mph on British motorways.

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The most fun, though, was on twisty country roads.

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For someone who never really considered riding a motorcycle, this certainly had me hooked.

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The engine was powerful enough to generate some wheel-spin off the line.

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We clocked 0-60 at under 5 seconds.

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The power to weight ratio is equal to that of a sports car.

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People are divided over the Spyder's looks, but I was a fan.

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You certainly don't see many of them on the road and you get a lot of stares as you drive past.

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The semi-automatic gearbox allows you to retain a lot of control over your gear selection without having to grapple with a clutch.

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