Considering a VFR

(I never understand the complaints about the VFR saddle...but then again, my other transportation is pedal powered so I guess I am used to a tiny bicycle saddle... therefore the VFR is as comfy as a couch to me. LOL!)

 

ST1300 versus VFR...
I know this is a silly thing to mention but so many VFR owners talk about how much they love the VFR engine/exhaust sound (stock). I do too. I have a neighbor with an ST1300 and it sounds waaaaay different. It has more of a transmission sound...kind of a gear-meshing sound that is kind of cool in its own right but it is not much of a MOTOR sound. So, IF this matters, take it into account.

 

LOL yeah thanks. Always thought the ST sounded (and honestly, LOOKS) like a scooter on steroids. I'm not one for loud, I had a tricked out Honda Sabre a while back that was straight piped, got that out of my system. The VFR sounded nice without being loud or even noticeable unless I really paid attention.

 

They are both excellent bikes but they do have different looks and purposes. I'd love one of each!
(Are you listening Santa?)

 

Yeah I'm getting the same thought as well. A test drive of the ST will solidify whatever decision I make.

 

In love with the matte black color. Kinda like a dark asphalt. Was that for '04s only?

 

as an ex ST1300 owner i can tell you that the seat is wide and this has the effect of shortening your leg. the seat is adjustable but it still means that
you may find manouvering it more challenging.

if i was comparing the ST13 to the VFR i would say that it comes down to the type of riding you dothe most of.

The St will excell at long distanmce running in comfort and with excellent performance. as a city commute its ok and a a canyon carver you need to pace your self. its certainly adept at cornering but a VFR, it is not.

the VFR is opposite, far more sporty, compromised ,compared to the ST on long distance work.

personally i liked the sound of the ST but its not like my VFR, in fact it sounds a little like a beemer flat twin to me.


i did a ride impression on the ST 13 a couple of months back, have a search in the forums funder ST 1300 and it should pull it up.

If your more sports oriented the VFR is the way to go, the ST is more similar to your concours.

on the ST11, make sure its a goodun, the 13 is waaaaayyy ahead of it most departments.

 

i would also add to your list, for comparative purposes:

Suzuki Bandit 1200-fully faired version

Triumph Sprint ST1050

the triumph is very VFR ish in concept.

food for thought...

 

Hey thanks for the additional bikes! I hadn't considered the bandit, altho it doesn't make the cut as it doesn't have two things that i have at the top of my list for my next bike: fuel injection and ABS. Eye was drawn to the triumph, but man I don't want to deal with (or pay for!) the maintainence.

Thanks also for the heads up on the ST1100, I've nixed it from the list due to the above requirements.

 

I believe that's the actual name of the paint: Asphalt Black

 

Beauty! Any clue if it was only for 2004? Haha, if I'm gonna be this specific (ABS, asphalt black) I'm probably gonna have to do a fly and ride to find one! Can't think of a better way to get acquainted with a new bike.

 

Gotta agree with most abouth the difference between the ST and the VFR. I put 44K on my ST13 and now have 9800 on my 07 RWB since April. Best thing about the VFR is it stops way quicker than the ST. I'm a little biased since I totaled the ST a year ago by rear ending a Buick at 45 mph (2 up). You can do 1000 mile weekends on the stock seat if you wear the right gear. The VFR will out handle the ST every time with equal riders... there are some ST pilots I can barely keep up with. Both bikes are great...

 

Hey thanks! Brakes are huge, but I figure it's to be expected that the VFR will stop quicker than a full out sport tourer. Can't wait to get my hands on an ST, but dang if I can find one at a dealership!

 

The vfr is awesome. You need to ride one then you will know, unless you are looking for a full tour bike or race replica. Good luck..

 

Thanks! Anybody else have opinions or experience touring 1-up on the VFR? On the Concours I'd easily pull 600 mile days, usually average 700.

 

Ha. Came up with another question. VFR's ability to handle heated gear? I've never had heated gear, but I ride year round and with the definite lack of wind protection compared to the old connie, it might be a consideration! I don't run GPS, and probably only XM on long trips when I wouldn't need the heated gear...

 

hmmm. I take by people's silence that i can? I can't see why it wouldn't be able too.

 

You can MOD as much as you can if you have the money, Check out NCB bike.....One of the finest bike I saw so far.

 

Thanks guys. I gotta get my GF on the back for a test ride, see what she thinks.

how do I find the NCB bike?