Advice ST1300 or FJR1300? and where to buy

[vsubra66]

Ok guys, I have been riding an K1100LT since 1997 and the bike finally packed in. Narrowed down to 2 bikes...I am 6ft 4in so my choices for now are ST1300 or the FJR1300, both seem good fits.

Question - any advice? more specifically on where to buy? have heard horror stories on GST, special fees for loans, insurance etc

 

subra

[endlessloop]

I owned Honda STX1300ABS previously. Owned Yamaha Fazer1000 before that and now FZ1, so hope my opinion is more neutral.

 

Both bikes are good for they are designed to do--long distance touring mixed with sport touring. Both 1 up and 2 up. Good for daily commuting.

 

Really it comes down to which looks you prefer, and which brand you prefer.

 

Here are minor points (not enough to stop you from buying any one)

 

I will share my experience on the STX:

- V4 engine. What's the great deal?

Super refine, smooth and quiet. Gives better grip when cornering. A change from the typical inline4 feel.

- ABS linked brake

Linked brakes allows you to nail the bike to a stop with only one hand without any alarm. Non instrusive ABS.

- Good riding position. Instantly familiar, yet good for sporty riding.

- Very good front end suspension setup. Good feel. Rear is slightly softer than front for comfort.

- Greater agility for U-turns and for twisty turns (it u-turns smaller radius than the Fazer and FZ1). FJR will probably be more stable at speeds beyond 200kmh.

- Wing tips that will minimise scratches should you drop the bike.

Yes, the bike will balance on just the wing tip when fell over.

- Integrated side boxes.

Narrower and also more roomy than FJR. STX side box can put one helmet and one full rain gear. Yam box can put one helmet, and half rain gear.

- FJR has higher peak hp. So in a long drag race, the FJR will win for top speed. But in reality, on the road and in the twisty, somehow the STX just goes slightly faster and with less rider effort than FJR.

- Electronic adjustable screen. Note some early FJR is manual adjustable.

[Infernalwar]

FJR are known for their over heating issues? Correct me if I'm wrong. What about the STX something something? But still I think outlook wise FJR more fierce. With the 2 side boxes, fuhhhh... drooling man... Hahaha...

[vsubra66]

Thanks for the advice..I went with a ST1300 Pan...because I felt more comfy...I do have a 100Kg, 1.95m (6ft 4' frame) to fit, and somehow, I felt more at ease on the Honda..and I like the smoothness of the Honda....maybe its showing my age...plus I don't think I will ever test 200Kmh...ever!

....now I seek advice on helmets....

 

cheers - subra