Re: Opinions on the bike...

[Daniel Wallander <triumph99@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

"Dean C. Harris" wrote:

> Wow.  What a great web site resource and an e-mail list to boot.

I'll second that.  Thanks Eric!

>  Anyone with similar build here?

6', 180 pounds, 32" inseam

> When you went about buying the bike what other bikes did you try out and
> what were your short takes on them?  Why did you chose the ST over them?  Do
> you regret your decision at all?

BMW R1100GS (too expensive), Bandit (not enough fairing, too buzzy), Katana (high
insurance, not enough motor), VFR (had a Honda, wanted something better), Ducati
(expensive, more $$ for maintenance).  Call your insurance company for quotes
before you buy the bike.  I think you will find the ST/RS to be less than other
bikes.  For me the ST is $350 per year and the Katana 600 would have been $750 for
the same coverages in New Mexico.

What would  be the average range on a tank of gas?  Does the addition of the
pannier system effect mileage much?

I fill up at around 220 miles with 1+ gallon of fuel left.  I don't have the
panniers, though I don't remember anyone else saying their mileage suffers with
the panniers on.

> What are the weaknesses of the bike?

The suspension can be fixed easily with Race Tech.  My fuel gauge started working
around 10,000 miles though I've never relied on any fuel gauge on any bike.  I've
never found the brakes mushy, though lever travel increases with time.  I fix this
by cleaning the calipers and brake pistons.  I haven't had a single reliability
problem in 17,000 miles.

> Are the stock tires okay or do folks tend to get rid of them quickly?

They will be gone quickly, so I wouldn't worry about them too much.  I found the
stock tires just OK.

> How is the EFI system overall?  Read the dealer can just download different
> tunes into the computer for performance enhancements.  Cool.  ;)  The turbo
> is even cooler.  >:)

Yes, Yes, and Oh Yes

> What is a good 'out the door' price for an ST with the 2 box pannier system
> here in the North Eastern United States?

I paid list price for the bike, but the dealer threw in some new gear for nothing.

> Anything you wish to add to consider for my decision making process is
> appreciated.

Ride the ST last.  It will be your choice.  It does everything very well.

Dan Wallander
'99ST



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