Voted most helpful review
Reviewed on July 13, 2012
After debating the purchase of a new motorcycle for over four years, I finally decided that a sport touring bike would best suit my needs. As I am unwilling to trump up the 2012 ST1300's sporting abilities and remembering it is a sport-toruing motorcycle leaning more toward the touring side of...
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After debating the purchase of a new motorcycle for over four years, I finally decided that a sport touring bike would best suit my needs. As I am unwilling to trump up the 2012 ST1300's sporting abilities and remembering it is a sport-toruing motorcycle leaning more toward the touring side of the equation with abundant power and very agile handling. Although it took some getting used to, the combined braking system which links the front and rear brakes to the brake pedal and lever works excellent along with standard ABS. I cannot say enough about the smoothness of the V4 engine. It revs so easily, it's rpm. redline comes up very quick because of its smooth whirring sound power is deceptively quiet and vibration free. Open the throttle and about the time it starts to growl, you are approaching triple digits! It has great range with over seven gallons of fuel capacity and very economical averaging a little over 40 mpg. It is a sporting bike that you can ride in a comfortable position for long distances. I also like the electronic adjustable windshield which offers excellent protection and also does a great job of wind buffeting. A low center of gravity that is well balanced inspires confidence in its handling. Although I must add the fact of the bike is more capable than I am a rider at this point of ownership, but with each ride I am more confident in its abilities and mine. With its weight of over 700 lbs., this is a very comfortable machine to ride and easy to maneuver. There are similar models that have more power and some that cost more but there are not any that are better in my opinion. I'm glad to be a part of the Sport Touring community, I have not been disappointed and I am very happy with the purchase of my ST1300ABS. At 55, I love the experience of riding again and I have no complaints. The only cons I have are the lack of a gear indicator and no self-cancelling directional signals and minor engine heat, but the pros more than make up for the drawbacks. Otherwise, it's simply an awesome machine. I want to ride.
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