03-06-2016, 11:37 AM
(02-04-2016, 01:04 PM)the_undecider_imp Wrote: I now work for a powersports dealer and we have a used ST. Also, we have a Concours 14 and a couple FJRs. I rode the FJR and C14 back to back around the parking lot today and they both felt similar at slow speeds where you are going to feel the weight of these bikes the most. I will have to jump on the ST and see how well it hides it's weight compared to the other two. It's been almost 9 years since I was aboard an ST, so I'm a bit foggy, but I don't recall it feeling heavier than my FJR which I had at the time. I suspect the extra 100 lbs is only noticed when you are pushing the bike around in the garage or trying to back it up sitting on the bike.
I actually got to take our used ST home for the weekend due to my V-strom going in for recall work. I've put about 50 miles on it.
It's a nice bike and typical Honda quality. This particular bike is a 2008 with 60k miles. Other than some clutch shudder, it runs and rides like a champ. I have forgotten how much I missed big power and awesome wind protection. Riding home from work, I kept creeping up 90 MPH without realizing it. These bikes were built to eat up the miles.
Whether poking around the parking lot or pitching it into a sweeper, the ST is well balanced and feels lighter through the bars than my FJR. I like the way it handles, despite its extra heft. Suspension is very plush without wallowing.
There are some flaws worth mentioning. The bike is hot which is a known character. Early models were really bad, but this one still has a bit of heat radiating onto my legs. The gas tank gets pretty warm, too. I also find the digital gauges hard to read in full sunlight. Those wouldn't be deal breakers, but the ergonomic just don't suit me. With the seat all the way in its tallest setting, the bars are too low and I feel like I'm sitting on it rather than in it. My wrists got sore after 15 minutes. I lowered it to the mid position which ended up being the best overall. I'd like the pegs lower and back a bit.
Good bike, but the ADV bikes just fit me better. I may be doomed if a used Super Tenere gets traded in...