Like a sled, turns do require the rider to lean-in to counterbalance the inertia of the machine rolling out. (Photo: SPEED)

The Spyder attracts a lot of attention, for sure. While cruising curious onlookers nearly become obstacles. Cars move in for a closer look, and pedestrians step off sidewalks to catch a glimpse. Everybody has their eye out for the Spyder! At gas stations, grocery stores, and the office, I'd hear descriptions of a Spyder driving by and would be interrogated about where I was at 6:04pm Tuesday night – a bit unusual. I'd pull up on the silver Spyder, and would hear, “I saw a yellow Spyder riding by on 485, was that you?” ... “Uh, no... this one's silver...” WTH???

Radical and fun, the Spyder is fast and stable! It's a worthy escape and a realistic daily commuter capable of safely navigating diverse weather and road conditions, with enough cargo space for a laptop bag and wet weather gear. The Spyder starts at $16,199 ; BRP Can-Am also offers a version with an automatic clutch for $17,699 (I tested an automatic briefly and would recommend it without reservation for anyone unsure about a manual transmission).

I thoroughly enjoyed the couple weeks I had the BRP Can-Am Spyder and looked forward to the thrill of the ride on each leg of my commute. For two weeks I gave up the big television, washing machines, cars, compact disc players, and electrical tin openers. I chose something else. I'll never look back again!