Can the Honda ST1300 Pan European still compete in 2020/2021?

[paulbwatertownct]

One thing that struck me while watching this rather long video (43 minutes) was that the rider lists off his extensive experience (38 bikes owned or ridden extensively during his life - he'd worked as a test rider for various manufacturers in Europe, as well as a SuperSport and Motocross rider) was that this was the first four-cylinder bike he had ridden for any length of time, owning it for about two months when this video was made. As a lover of two-strokes, Ducati and Aprilia sport bikes etc, as well as the others mentioned above, he gushed about the ST1300's power, specifically the power in every gear right there every time you need it. That surprised and pleased me that a guy with extensive racing experience would notice that.

Scarce, I came across the video as I’m in the market for a ST1300 and was hoping to get some real world reviews. In watching the video he mentioned it was his first experience with a V4 engine, not simply a 4 cylinder engine, and a lover of V-twin sport bikes, not two-strokes. Anyways, as an ST owner, do you agree with his review as compared to your experience?

I also find that while test drives are fine, you have to take a 2-3 hour ride to really judge the touring capabilities of any motorcycle. I don’t think anyone is going to let me do that so I’ll likely have to just buy an ST1300 and take my chances. I‘m new to this site and hoping to gain some insight. Thanks.

 

[Sadlsor]

It could be argued, too, that you have to live with a bike for weeks or months, to "know" it.
As one who performs my own maintenance chores and farkling, I for one take this approach.
Why?
Because it's easy to appreciate the comfort, the ease of handling, the power delivery, and more.
But some time, you have to change a tire -- rear wheel removal -- and change the engine oil, the brake pads, bleed the brakes, and much more over its lifespan.
When you have to get under the hood, does it still keep its allure?
Couple of examples:
1. Rode my former KTM 950 Adventure -S home from out of state. Awesome! The seating position, the nimbleness, the RUSH of the power delivery! Amazing motor and fully adjustable suspension.
OOPS! I gotta do WHAT to change the oil? And the battery, the battery is WHERE?! I gotta do all THAT?! Seriously?
2. The little bundle of joy ya bring home from the hospital, how cute! And what a blessing!
But wait, I now have to change the diaper? What, ...HOW many times a day? And feed it HOW often? Really? Do I ever get to sleep again?
So, yeah.
Gotta live with 'em before you can be sure ya "really" love 'em.
Because infatuation comes easy, don't it?

 

[Sadlsor]

Faster? FJR?
If you only wanted speed, you wouldn't be here.
There are forums for Kawahonsuzuyama's if you look. Even for KTM Dukes.
600's are for "fast".

 

[diferg]

in my experience, the ST 1300 is faster than most and slower than many! If i simply wanted to go fast there are many that are MUCH faster than this ageing sports tourer. however the ST 1100 & ST 1300 both are greater than the sum of their parts. the 1300 fits my expectations better than anything i have found so far. just my opinion, yours very well may differ.
dan

 

[Sadlsor]

however the ST 1100 & ST 1300 both are greater than the sum of their parts. the 1300 fits my expectations better than anything i have found so far. just my opinion, yours very well may differ.
dan

Well stated. Greater than the sum.
And for those whose opinions differ from yours, well... they're just plain wrong.