daylorb

I've fallen into the habit of driving my spyder in one of two ways - either fully open with no windscreen in place windows down, or with just the top canvas on, no windscreen, no back canvas, windows up or down depending on temp. I've found even on the 40 degree days in TX that config stays warm enough inside and is super-fun to drive.

I'm curious how folks drive it on a track? Clearly fully open is great if the track allows it....

Is there any reason NOT to drive it with only the top canvas on though if the track requires it to be "closed?"

Lets say for a minute it must be closed, and there is a slim chance of maxing out the safe top speed - I wonder if driving it with no windscreen/no back canvas/windows down would mean the max speed line is lower, or higher, before the top rips apart? My first thought was lower given there would be more air flowing through it, although looking at the design it could actually put less pressure on the top.

Curious if anyone understands what the weak point is that fails around 130mph?

User 41221

I am just guessing here, but I suspect the rear latching points will detach as the wind causes the fabric to stretch enough to have it come loose. I find it hard to believe that the front latch would come loose as its plenty robust. Again tho... just a guess.

spyderlite

If it's any help l had forgot about the 126mph speed limit and l reached 140mph without any problems.

daylorb

Thanks - that is helpful! I doubt I'll get up that high, although that would not be a fun surprise...

Dr.Bill

When I had mine I would drive it with the top off using arm restraints. The PCA rules allow the Spyder to be driven in this configuration due to the speed restrictions on the top. Not sure of other groups. Of course, many don't care if the top is up or down.

orthojoe

Don’t drive with the top on. The metal bar that goes on top of the roll hoops will snap because of the flexing that occurs. Happened to my friend

Suicide Jockey

It's a great guess that seems to be supported in this detailed 987 Spyder review appearing in the February 24, 2010, issue of Excellence, which states:

"To avoid stretching the top, a maximum of 125 mph with it up is suggested . . . "

It's well worth revisiting this detailed Pete Stout-authored article if you're a 987 Spyder fan:
https://www.excellence-mag.com/issue...1#.WiYlboV3cma

backeddy

In this Spyder as well as my last one, I tracked with top on, rear plastic out. After 1000's of laps, i can tell you the top is not coming off, it has never stretched either. 145mph+ was/is no biggie!

the_vetman

Always top off except when raining. Harnesses and arm restraints required for PCA; not so with most of the other org's (though I wear them anyway).

In the rain, I've certainly been above 120 mph with the full top on. No issues in my case.

daylorb

Thanks guys - really appreciate this feedback!

christallon

I Love the way Pete Stout describes P cars. I had forgotten about this article.... Thanks for sharing the link. I think he nailed the 987.2 Spyder experience right off the bat, and it's only gotten better over the past 7 years. Love this very special P-car!!!

f4 plt

Great car , GT3’s and a GT4 have come and gone and the Spyder remains. Just a fun and unique car to enjoy driving. A great autocross ride. Not a bad cross country traveler either. 38,00 enjoyable trouble free miles and still smiling

jammaljc

Great info on the top at speed. I just picked up one of these (still being shipped to me) and was wondering how one would fit a harness bar and what options exist in the market? Are harnesses required by PCA if the top is up? I plan to attend a DE or two at COTA....

zedcat

With the top up you can use the 3 pt belts. My understanding is if you have the top down you must wear arm restraints.

daylorb

I have bring them with me, although this operation does not require them. I ran half the sesions top down, half top up. Hit 132mph, next time will be faster... Top stayed in place!