2015 Can-Am Spyder F3

Can-Am’s Spyder family has grown to four with the addition of the F3 for the 2015 model year, the name derived from the new in-line triple that powers the machine.

There’s no doubt Can-Am has set about enhancing both form and function with the new F3, which cuts a more compact, angular and fashionable figure than the RS, Can-Am’s other sporty sporting Spyder, and has squarer and flatter bodywork at the front-end. Additionally, it has a large grille at the snout which also extends around the sides. The F3 is shorter and narrower than the RS, as well as having a smaller wheelbase and overall length.

The F3 has metallic silver aluminium wheels, but the six spokes are solid rather than hollow. The F3 also promotes a wind-in-your-face ride with the absence of a screen, and it has a black muffler.

But the biggest vibe from the F3 is that you can actually see the engine in all its glory, and it’s the new 1330cc ride-by-wire triple that was previously only seen in the range-topping RT tourer. The RS and ST Spyders will continue to use the older 998cc V-twin in the 2015 model year.

The Rotax-made Ace engine in the F3 produces 115hp at 7250rpm, and 130Nm at 5000rpm, with customers getting the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed semi-automatic – both with reverse gear. The F3 already has 108Nm at its disposal at 2000rpm, and between 4000-6300rpm it never dips below 122Nm.

The front suspension is double A-arm with anti-roll bar, complete with Fox aluminium front shocks, while the front bakes are radially mounted Brembos. Not that a ‘front’ brake is used, as the F3, like all Spyders, has a hydraulic foot-operated three-wheel brake distribution system.

The three wheels are 15-inch, with the two fronts 165/55 and the rear 225/50. Weight is 386kg dry, 24 more than the RS -- but it still wins out in power and torque-to-weight ratios.

Safety and security have always been key pillars of the Spyder family, and the F3 is no different with a suite of aids including stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, power steering and a digitally coded security system. There’s no doubt we’ll be putting a number of those to the test next week when the Bikesales Network hears to Canada to ride the F3 through Quebec, so standby for a full launch review.

In Quebec, we’ll be riding both the F3 and F3-S, the latter the same mechanical and chassis platform as the F3 but with a unique “S” trim signature, machined deep black high gloss front wheels, a black suede seat with red stitching, premium front fenders with LED running lights, and electronic cruise control.

Australian availability and pricing is yet to be announced.