Hi All....Just a follow up to my my OP.
I ended up taking the ST (2014 ES) and all I can say is wow, what a great long distance touring bike. It has great ergonomics, wind protection, range and the suspension is like riding on a cloud. The handling and braking were also very good. The bike had all the power I needed loaded solo for a steady 75-85 mph cruising and I will never purchase another bike without cruise control. I know the bike has been accused of being a little on the heavy side but for long distance work the weight makes it very stable even in significant cross winds.
The sargent i installed before leaving was a nice improvement over the stock seat. Its wider, harder and I get about 5 hours before my butt begins to fall asleep. Not a cheap upgrade but if you value your comfort it is well worth it.
I know that most of your are already aware of the virtues of this bike. It is sometimes easy to forget how good the ST is with al the new and improved bikes that all the manufacturers are tempting us with. It may not be the most powerful or the best looking adventure bike but its strong all around and I wont be trading mine for quite a while.
Also looking forward to riding in Florida a few times over the winter months. Are there any members from central Florida area that could recommend some good rides? Im not down for the winter just whenever I can get tome off work and will be in the Four Corners area.
Ride Safe Guys!
Regards,
Peter
I ended up taking the ST (2014 ES) and all I can say is wow, what a great long distance touring bike. It has great ergonomics, wind protection, range and the suspension is like riding on a cloud. The handling and braking were also very good. The bike had all the power I needed loaded solo for a steady 75-85 mph cruising and I will never purchase another bike without cruise control. I know the bike has been accused of being a little on the heavy side but for long distance work the weight makes it very stable even in significant cross winds.
The sargent i installed before leaving was a nice improvement over the stock seat. Its wider, harder and I get about 5 hours before my butt begins to fall asleep. Not a cheap upgrade but if you value your comfort it is well worth it.
I know that most of your are already aware of the virtues of this bike. It is sometimes easy to forget how good the ST is with al the new and improved bikes that all the manufacturers are tempting us with. It may not be the most powerful or the best looking adventure bike but its strong all around and I wont be trading mine for quite a while.
Also looking forward to riding in Florida a few times over the winter months. Are there any members from central Florida area that could recommend some good rides? Im not down for the winter just whenever I can get tome off work and will be in the Four Corners area.
Ride Safe Guys!
Regards,
Peter