2014 Can Am Spyder Rt – Your Ultimate Owner'S Care Guide

There’s a unique thrill that comes with owning a Can-Am Spyder. It’s the open-road freedom of a motorcycle blended with the stability and comfort of a luxury tourer. If you own or are looking at a 2014 Can Am Spyder RT, you’ve keyed in on a landmark model year that brought significant upgrades. But you probably agree that keeping this unique three-wheeler in peak condition requires a specific kind of knowledge that goes beyond a standard car or bike manual.

We promise this guide will be your go-to resource. Forget sifting through dozens of forum threads for conflicting advice. We’re going to break down everything you need to know, from simple pre-ride checks to tackling common issues with the confidence of a seasoned tech.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the game-changing features of the 2014 model, provide a step-by-step maintenance walkthrough, diagnose common problems, and share pro tips to enhance your ride. Let’s get your Spyder running better than ever.

What Makes the 2014 Can-Am Spyder RT a Game-Changer?

The 2014 model year was a massive leap forward for the Spyder RT platform. If you’ve ever talked to long-time Spyder owners, they’ll tell you this was the year BRP got serious about touring. The single biggest reason? The engine.

Prior models used the Rotax 998cc V-Twin, a solid but rev-happy engine. For 2014, BRP introduced the incredible Rotax 1330 ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) inline-triple engine. This wasn’t just a minor tweak; it was a complete transformation of the machine’s character.

The Benefits of the 1330 ACE Engine

Massive Torque Increase: The 1330 delivers a whopping 40% more torque at lower RPMs. This means less shifting, smoother acceleration from a stop, and effortless cruising.
Improved Fuel Economy: BRP claimed up to 252 miles per tank. This new engine, paired with an “ECO” mode, made for a more sustainable 2014 can am spyder rt experience, letting you ride longer between fuel stops.
New 6-Speed Transmission: The old 5-speed was replaced with a much smoother 6-speed manual (SM6) or semi-automatic (SE6). The extra gear keeps revs low on the highway, reducing vibration and engine noise.
Reduced Maintenance: The 1330 ACE stretched the oil change interval to 9,300 miles (though many DIYers do it sooner) and only requires a valve adjustment check at 28,000 miles. Less time in the garage means more time on the road.

Your Essential Pre-Ride Checklist: Best Practices for Every Trip

Every great ride starts with a quick but thorough safety check. Don’t skip it. Spending two minutes in your driveway can save you from a major headache—or worse—on the road. This is one of the most important 2014 can am spyder rt tips we can offer. We use a modified version of the motorcycle T-CLOCS checklist.

Tires & Wheels: Check the pressure on all three tires. The front tires should be around 18-22 PSI and the rear around 26-30 PSI (always confirm with your owner’s manual or the sticker on the bike). Look for any signs of damage or embedded objects.
Controls & Brakes: Squeeze the brake lever. It should feel firm, not spongy. Press the foot brake pedal. Check your brake fluid level in the reservoir—it should be between the min and max lines.
Lights & Electrics: Turn the key on. Check your headlights (high and low beam), turn signals, brake lights (using both the hand lever and foot pedal), and horn. A faulty bulb is an easy fix but a big safety risk.
Oil & Fluids: With the engine warm and on level ground, check the engine oil level using the dipstick. Don’t overfill it! Glance at the coolant reservoir to ensure the level is correct.
Chassis & Belt: Take a quick look at the drive belt. You’re looking for any cracking, fraying, or missing teeth. Also, give a quick visual inspection of the frame and suspension for any obvious leaks or loose bolts.

The Ultimate 2014 Can Am Spyder RT Care Guide: DIY Maintenance

Ready to get your hands dirty? The 2014 Can Am Spyder RT is surprisingly DIY-friendly for most routine maintenance. Following this care guide will save you money and give you a deeper connection with your machine. Always have your service manual handy for torque specs and detailed diagrams.

How to Perform an Engine Oil & Filter Change

This is the most common maintenance task you’ll perform. The 1330 engine is much easier to service than the old 998.

Parts Needed: BRP XPS Oil Change Kit (contains 5 quarts of 5W-40 synthetic blend oil, a new filter, O-rings, and a drain plug crush washer).
Tools Needed: A good socket set, a torque wrench, an oil filter wrench, and a drain pan.
The Process: First, warm up the engine for a few minutes to get the oil flowing. Remove the left side panel to access the oil filter. Place your drain pan, then remove the two drain plugs (one for the crankcase, one for the clutch case) and the oil filter. Once drained, replace the crush washers on the plugs, install the new filter (after rubbing a little new oil on its O-ring), and torque everything to spec. Refill with the specified amount of oil, run the engine for a minute, then re-check the level.

Brake System Inspection

Your Spyder has an integrated braking system. One pedal/lever applies pressure to all three wheels, so keeping it in top shape is non-negotiable.

Look at your brake fluid reservoir. The fluid should be clear or slightly amber. If it’s dark and murky, it’s time for a flush. Use a flashlight to inspect your brake pads through the calipers. You should see plenty of pad material. If it’s down to 2mm or less, it’s time for a replacement.

Drive Belt Tension and Inspection

Unlike a chain, the Spyder’s belt requires no lubrication, but it does need proper tension and alignment. A loose belt can skip teeth, and a tight belt can cause premature bearing failure.

You’ll need a belt tension gauge (like a Krikit gauge) to check this properly. The specific tension value is in your manual. While you’re there, carefully inspect both sides of the belt for any cracks, glazing, or embedded rocks. A damaged belt must be replaced immediately to prevent a sudden failure on the road.

Common Problems with the 2014 Can Am Spyder RT (And How to Fix Them)

No machine is perfect. While the 2014 model is very reliable, there are a few common quirks and issues owners report. Knowing what to look for can turn a panic moment into a simple diagnosis.

“Limp Home” Mode

This is the most common “problem” new owners face. If the computer detects a critical fault, it will drastically reduce power to protect the engine, allowing you to “limp” to safety. This is often triggered by something simple.

The Cause: The number one cause is a weak or dying battery. The Spyder’s complex electronics are extremely sensitive to voltage. A loose battery terminal can also trigger it. Other causes can be a faulty sensor or a bad spark plug.
The Fix: Before you panic, check your battery connections. Make sure they are clean and tight. If the battery is more than 2-3 years old, have it load tested. A cheap voltmeter is a great tool for any Spyder owner.

DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) Faults

A “Check DPS” warning on the dash can be alarming, as the steering becomes very heavy. Just like limp mode, the most common culprit is a low voltage issue from a weak battery. Always check the battery first before assuming the expensive DPS unit has failed.

VSS (Vehicle Stability System) Intrusion

Sometimes called the “Nanny,” the VSS is an amazing safety system that prevents rollovers and keeps you in control. However, it can feel overly aggressive to new riders, cutting power in tight turns. This isn’t a problem, but a feature you need to learn. Smooth inputs on the throttle and handlebars will help you work with the system, not against it.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2014 Can Am Spyder RT

What kind of fuel should I use in my 2014 Spyder RT?

You should always use premium unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher. The 1330 ACE is a high-compression engine, and using lower-octane fuel can lead to engine knocking and potential long-term damage.

How often should the oil be changed on the 1330 ACE engine?

BRP’s official recommendation is every 9,300 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. However, many enthusiastic owners, especially those who ride in hot climates or do a lot of stop-and-go city riding, prefer to change it every 5,000-7,000 miles as a best practice for longevity.

Is the 2014 Spyder RT reliable?

Absolutely. The introduction of the 1330 ACE engine and the 6-speed transmission made the 2014 Can Am Spyder RT one of the most reliable and sought-after models. The powertrain is robust. Most issues that do arise are electronic and often related to battery health, which is a manageable maintenance item.

Can I use a car tire on the rear of my Spyder?

This is a hot topic in the Spyder community, often called going to the “Darkside.” Many owners do it and report longer tread life and good performance. However, it is not supported by BRP and may void your warranty. Car tires have a different profile and sidewall construction than motorcycle tires, which can change the handling characteristics. Proceed with caution and do thorough research if you consider this modification.

The 2014 Can Am Spyder RT is a fantastic machine that offers a unique blend of performance, comfort, and safety. By understanding its key features, staying on top of routine maintenance, and knowing how to troubleshoot its common quirks, you can ensure a long and thrilling ownership experience.

This guide gives you the foundation you need. Now, grab your tools, give your Spyder the attention it deserves, and hit the open road with confidence. Ride safe and enjoy the journey!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.