The Can-Am Spyder sits on three wheels total: two front and one rear and equals the size of the average sports bike. Can-Am claims the bike will provide a much smoother and safer ride than any type of motorcycle on the market. Can-Am has given the Spyder a few surprising specs: 106 hp at 8500 rpm and 77 lbs of torque at 6250 rpm. Reviews have seemed to state that the roadster keeps its power and speed in check around the 6000 rpm range with plenty of power and kick to spare.

For all intensive purposes, we will refer to the auto as a “bike”.

The bike is equipped with a BRP-Rotax 990cc v-twin engine that is liquid cooled. The bodywork is surrounded in what Can-Am refers to as SST technology (Surrounding Spar Technology) or a complete and durable steel frame that wraps around the engine.

The Spyder is certainly not an autobahn speed devil meant to reach speeds in the hundreds, but it does handle quite well even on highways. The suspension is well built and designed to absorb most road impact, as well as vibrations. Many reviewers commented that the riders could feel little to no vibration, meaning a smooth ride for everyone.

The biggest change from a sports bike is the method used to turn the Spyder. Most bike riders are aware of the leaning sensation needed to turn a bike around corners, where the handlebars are more likely pushed or eased into a turn instead of pulled. The Spyder, however, operates more like the traditional ATV. The spaced handlebars are used to guide the roadster in different directions. Can-Am has developed a Vehicle Stability System (VSS) and Stability Control System (SCS) to ensure the vehicle does not have a chance of flipping or rolling if a driver overextends a turn, which means (Sorry, folks) less chance of drifting and less dangerous turning. That is not to say however that turning a Spyder roadster is not unique and fun, it is by far the best feature of the bike. It should be noted that it does take more effort than one is used to in order to turn the vehicle. Therefore, a Spyder is certainly not for the laziest of folk.

Those who don’t mind the trade-off can pick up a motorcycle, more specifically a 249 cc sports bike that gets 61 miles per gallon!

The brand new 2009 Ninja 250R is not only plausible but very affordable as well, starting out at a base price around $3,999 (US). Consumers also have the option to choose between a 12, 24, 36 or 48 month warranty (Twelve months is the standard option, therefore the others cost a little extra). The bike comes with a professional glossy finish that is available in Metallic Diablo Black, Sunbeam Red, Candy Thunder Blue, or Special Edition Lime Green. The 250R includes other standard features, such as a digital ignition, a 6 speed transmission, liquid cooling, and a 374 pound curb weight.

The bike packs quite a wallop for a small price, not to mention the fact that it is an awesome starting point for beginners. Reviews all over the board have pegged the 250R as one of the best budget sports bikes on the market, and for those who crave ultimate power and speed, a full upgrade to bigger models can take the limits to just about any height.

The body design is very sleek and sexy and has had a very huge overhaul this year compared to previous models. It mirrors the more sophisticated Ninja versions to ensure a more advanced and aerodynamic look.

Newcomers to sports bikes and even some veterans alike will enjoy picking one of these up for sheer pleasure, if not only for the extra mileage.