Okay,, here's my take/opinion and thoughts.<br />
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I can't comment on the 3 degree rake. I have a 6 degree and I love it. Makes steering very easy and I don't find it too touchy at high speeds. (Although my high speeds are usually 65 max)<br />
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I was told my my installer that the accu-ride and/or preloader really wasn't necessary. I've already taken my better half on a few rides and for the life of me, I can't see any difference in the trike body dropping to the point an adjustment is required. (In all honesty, I don't see it drop at all). So, I guess he was right. How-ever I'm sure other RS owners who have these options can share actual hands on experience and observations.<br />
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My service manager talked me out of the progressive springs as I'm not the kind of rider who drives aggressively (twisties and such). He also mentioned that it would give more of a stiff ride up front and my main consideration has always been as smooth a ride as possible. So, I didn't have them installed either.
(More money saved for additional accessories, lol)<br />
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Now as far as the fuel tank. I really wanted that option. But once again, not only my installer but my service manager as well (who I trust 100%) talked me out of the aux tank. The main reason was by the time I need to fuel up with the stock tank, I'd be looking for a break from riding. Another reason was that it's just that much more fuel I have to treat and/or replace if I'm not riding as much as I'd like to. How-ever, if I was planning on some trips out West (which I'll never do) then the aux tank can be a real benefit as in some areas out there, gas stations are far and few in-between. So once again, more money saved adn a great excuse to buy more accessories! <img src="images/smilies/laugh.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Laugh" class="inlineimg" /> (But,,, I still kinda feel I would've liked to have that option).<br />
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So,, that's my 2 cents on why I have my Roadsmith setup as I do. And,, I just love this trike more as each day passes. <img src="images/smilies/smiley-score010.gif" border="0" alt="" title="10" class="inlineimg" />