From: bob@csbvax.uucp (Bob Palin)
Subject: Re: ST1100 impressions
Organization: Varian Chromatography Systems
Date: Mon, 31 Aug 92 19:46:52 GMT

In article <1992Aug30.190336.12143@cbnewsh.cb.att.com> wolf@mt.att.com writes:
>about the ST1100.  I was a little disappointed after spending 10 minutes on a test
>ride.  Either I've been spoiled by my previous bikes (Nighthawks 650 and 700) or
>I just don't know how to change gears - literally!  I must've got caught in between
>gears at least 4 or 5 times.  What's worth, the bike is so quiet you can't tell
>WHEN to switch gears (other than looking at the rpm indicator.)  At one point,
>I found myself at 70mph without realizing it - the efficiency of the windshield
>and the lack of noise from the engine robs one of any sense of accelaration :-(
>
>There is also no LCD indicating what gear you're currently in (no small oversight
>to someone as lacking in basic memory capacity as myself...also seems that they
>would throw in such a cheap gadget given that the price of an ST1100 is $11k (w.
>ABS.))
>
>Have others had similar problems with this bike?  It seems like such a perfect
>touring machine (which is what I'm looking for in my next purchase).  I'd hate
>to disregard it only because I had a single bad data point.  Next weekend, I'll
>check out BMW's R100GS - if I can find a dealer in this area that provides
>test rides....maybe my shifting woes are entirely with me?


The gear shift is certainly fairly heavy but you quickly get used to it, I
have never really had problems getting caught between gears but do get
shin splints from riding in the twisties all day.  I think that is a
reflection of my broken down old body rather than the bike though.
(Yes hesh, it was all that moped racing...8-)  I have 25000 miles
on my ST1100 now and run hot and cold on it, sometimes I think it
is great and sometimes I think it is an overweight pig. In truth
it is a fine handling bike for its weight, on the local Classic 100
twisties ride in the SF Bay area I am able to keep up with all
but the full out sports bikes (and a pair of underpowered ancient
German twins who obviously use some hidden technology - I think it's
called ability)  

One point to look out for is knee room, my knees just
touch the fairing when I'm in riding position - I didn't notice
this while sitting on the bike before I bought it.  This does lead 
to some knee aches on long trips, taller riders could have
serious problems with this (I'm 6' with a 32-33" inseam)  I also
find the handlebar position slightly to far forward and a number
of ST1100 owners have replaced the bars with those from a V65 Sabre
which I think are adjustable.  I keep moaning about the problem
but doubt that I will actually do anything - I'd rather ride.

If you are intending to tour on it you don't need to know what
gear you in - this thing is a torque monster, stick it in top
and keep going!  I rarely take it to red line just
because it is so powerful low down and you are right the speed
picks up very quickly with little feedback.

Most owners seem to have replaced the stock windsheild which
manages to place the airflow right at ear level and buffet your
helmet around (suppose this depends how tall you are).  The most
popular replacement seems to be the Rifle line which are made in
at least 3 heights for the ST.  I got the tallest one which is fine
for my height but makes some people feel claustrophobic.  I would
also like a little shorty sheild for really hot days and may cut
down the original to the minimum reasonable height (but I'd
rather ride).

There are after market luggage racks available and Honda makes an
expensive back rest which probably prevents you using a rack.
Don't buy the knee pads - they are designed to protect the bike
from the ravages of your knees, not cushion you.

Valve checks are at 16000 miles which is nice - mine did not need
adjusting at 16000 and the spark plugs looked like new.  The 7.4
gallon tank is great and at 40+ mpg you can go a long way between
stops.  The seat is comfortable though not perfect (is any?)

Would I buy one again ?  very hard decision, I would look very closely
at an FJ1200, the passenger accomodation making the difference.  If
I did not care about twisty handling I would buy a Gold Wing and if
I never took a passenger I would probably get an FJ.

The ST1100 is an excellent compromise, but it is a compromise.

Bob Palin, Varian, Walnut Creek, Ca (510)945-2278, AMA #353696, DoD #257
bob@varian.com {lll-winken,pacbell}!varian!bob     CBR600, ST1100, KLR650