Sport Touring Bikes...

Willius · 10-10-2009, 09:04 PM

What's your favourite Sport Touring bike, and why is it your favourite.
Give me some info on which Sport Touring moto I should buy.

RVFR · 10-10-2009, 09:21 PM

By the sound of it maybe the new VFR1200. Awe gee I don't know why

if not that one, a VFR800 could do. In reality it actually depends on what you want in a sport touring machine, one with more sport, or one with more tour. LOL any bike can fit the bill to some degree.

UhOh · 10-10-2009, 09:22 PM

FJR1300 has worked for me for 50,000 miles
if buying new I'd also look at the newly announced VFR1200 and decide between those.

If used, either the FJR '06 or newer (heat issue resolved/ABS std), or
a Bandit 1200/1250 can be turned into ST for not much money.

ch3no2 · 10-10-2009, 09:30 PM

11 years in a row as the best sport-tour by cycle world, I love my 00'VFR. I've toured most of the western US and whether you're at sea level or at 14,250ft. in the rockies it is a great all day ride and able to tackle the twisty stuff w/o any problems. 60K miles on the odometer and it runs like a swiss watch.

RedVFR · 10-10-2009, 09:48 PM

I'll throw my suggestion in as a VFR owner that is disappointed with the new VFR. How about a Triumph Sprint ST? That 1050 triple delivers great power and torque by all accounts. And they look sharp too.

ridetriumph · 10-10-2009, 10:10 PM

Owning both an 06 Triumph Sprint ST and an 07 FJR1300, I can say the Sprint is more sport than tourer compared to the FJR. However, the FJR is way more sport than tourer compared to the Honda ST1300.

If you are looking for a sport bike with hard bags, the Sprint is an excellent choice. The 1050 triple motor is great. Excellent gas mileage even with a hard throttle hand. I've done 2k mile trips on the Sprint with no problem, but it's not as comfy as the FJR. Mine has ABS but it is not standard.

If you are more inclined toward a great touring bike to burn up miles but still keep up with the sportsters in the twisties, then I'd look at the FJR. Way more comfortable on longer rides (especially with a custom seat from Rich's in Kingston, WA). Much easier on the pillion if you ride with one, too. Linked ABS is standard.

DRD2 · 10-10-2009, 11:18 PM

My Dad has an ST1300 that I've been fortunate to borrow quite a bit. Compared to my ZX6R it's deceptively fast! It's really, smooth, torquey and has awesome power everywhere.

It's riding position is straight up and it's really easy to ride over long distances. My girlfriend loves riding on the back and really enjoys hittin' some twisties. The only bad thing about riding two up with it is, it's so fun to play with it's grunt and you can't with a passenger.

DRD2 · 10-10-2009, 11:22 PM

Originally Posted by ridetriumph

Owning both an 06 Triumph Sprint ST and an 07 FJR1300, I can say the Sprint is more sport than tourer compared to the FJR. However, the FJR is way more sport than tourer compared to the Honda ST1300.

If you are looking for a sport bike with hard bags, the Sprint is an excellent choice. The 1050 triple motor is great. Excellent gas mileage even with a hard throttle hand. I've done 2k mile trips on the Sprint with no problem, but it's not as comfy as the FJR. Mine has ABS but it is not standard.

If you are more inclined toward a great touring bike to burn up miles but still keep up with the sportsters in the twisties, then I'd look at the FJR. Way more comfortable on longer rides (especially with a custom seat from Rich's in Kingston, WA). Much easier on the pillion if you ride with one, too. Linked ABS is standard.

After spending time on my Dads ST1300, I would definitely want an FJ or the Sprint. The Honda is a fun great bike that works well, but for me, I need more sport.

SoHTyTe · 10-11-2009, 02:51 AM

I have been looking in to Sport Touring because I want to be traveling extra long miles, and haven't seen this mentioned. Kawi Concours 14. (great topic BTW) I like it just cuz it's big and beefy! (not cuz I was kawi born) I have only been on 500's and 600's sport bikes, but when ever I read about the Concours14 it just keeps calling my name. I can't explain it, but I will be gettin one some day when i'm not broke! Anybody been on the Concours 14, thoughts?

james1300 · 10-11-2009, 03:47 AM

Yamaha FJR1300~67K. Lots of power. Comes with bags, bag liners, and electric windshield. Shaft driven. Low maintance intervils, water cooled, fuel injected. Good fuel range (250 miles). TON's of accessories available. A GREAT web-site www.fjrowners.com. Proven performance.
I can ride from the TriCities to Reno, NV in a day and still feel like going to Reno's Bike Nite that same evening.
Pm me if ya want to know more. I don't want to start sounding like I'm bragging about a world class machine!

kirkcdl · 10-11-2009, 05:46 AM

I guess I'm just a "Vintage" type of guy,but I really like my 84 V65 Sabre.25 years old and still enough power and handling to keep up with more modern bikes,with an almost-straight-up riding posture.Aftermarket goodies are not that easy to find,but Ebay is my friend.Best of all,I got it in mint condition for under $2K,so no payments,(I hate 'em)...

Robusto · 10-11-2009, 05:58 AM

Originally Posted by james1300

Yamaha FJR1300~67K. Lots of power. Comes with bags, bag liners, and electric windshield. Shaft driven. Low maintance intervils, water cooled, fuel injected. Good fuel range (250 miles). TON's of accessories available. A GREAT web-site www.fjrowners.com. Proven performance.
I can ride from the TriCities to Reno, NV in a day and still feel like going to Reno's Bike Nite that same evening.
Pm me if ya want to know more. I don't want to start sounding like I'm bragging about a world class machine!

Naaaa.

You ARE bragging!!!!!

LOL.

My interest in this class has really peaked recently. I have found that my GSXR is great....on the track. And after riding my GSXR, something a bit more sporty than the RoadKing would be nice, for longer trips.

ducatichick · 10-11-2009, 07:32 AM

Ducati ST4s. You'd have to buy used though since they stopped making them in 05. I had a yellow 2003 with the 996 motor - looked like this: (I lost it in a divorce

)

For new, maybe a Multistrada 1100s - you can get side bags + tailbag for it that are sooooo nice. Could probably get a good deal on a new or demo 2008. The Multi would be my 2nd choice after the ST4s.

Since you're in Seattle, stop by for Ducati Seattle's Happy Hour on Thursdays 4-6pm.

Lone Rider · 10-11-2009, 09:42 AM

Uh

My opinion you ask?
<------------- see photo
Richs custom seat, lowered pegs. handlebar risers, soft luggage, tall screen.

2010 Concours is tops on the List.
FJR 1300

Or the Triumph if you like smaller.

mjn · 10-11-2009, 10:17 AM

I'd have to put the FJR at, or near the top of the list. It'd be tough to beat that bike for an all around machine.

Willius · 10-11-2009, 02:50 PM

Thanks for all the great responses. Seems like the Sprint ST and the FJR pop up a alot in this discussion. The Sprint is at the top of my short list. Time for a test ride!

Who wants to loan me one?

RVFR · 10-11-2009, 03:38 PM

Originally Posted by mjn

I'd have to put the FJR at, or near the top of the list. It'd be tough to beat that bike for an all around machine.

Pfff..

I tell ya man, you best check out the VFR1200 at the show..sounds like they are gunning for the FJ and a couple BMWs and by all accounts it could be the one to have..

RVFR · 10-11-2009, 03:42 PM

Originally Posted by Willius

Thanks for all the great responses. Seems like the Sprint ST and the FJR pop up a alot in this discussion. The Sprint is at the top of my short list. Time for a test ride.

Yep that St is a sweet heart, is what Honda needed to make the vfr as back a few years, but no they had other ideas. IMO the ST is definitely more sport than the FJ, I'm not ragging on the FJ by no means, it is what it is FJ has it market niche, but now there's a new player.

motorcyclemom · 10-11-2009, 03:42 PM

I love my VFR Interceptor. Great bike.

DrDave · 10-11-2009, 03:52 PM

I am ready to replace my Goldwing and Interceptor. The FJR1300 is on the top of my short-list. If it turns out as fun and sporty as others have stated I will probably sell the SV as well. Appreciate the input as I am just as curious as the original poster.

Dave


10-10-2009, 09:04 PM	#1
Willius Peg Dragger Joined: Jun 2005 From: Seattle, WA	Sport Touring Bikes... What's your favourite Sport Touring bike, and why is it your favourite. Give me some info on which Sport Touring moto I should buy. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-10-2009, 09:21 PM	#2
RVFR Pilot in Command Joined: Dec 2005 From: Olympia, WA Blog Entries: 11 I Ride: Honda............Ducati?	By the sound of it maybe the new VFR1200. Awe gee I don't know why if not that one, a VFR800 could do. In reality it actually depends on what you want in a sport touring machine, one with more sport, or one with more tour. LOL any bike can fit the bill to some degree. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-10-2009, 09:22 PM	#3
UhOh Streetfighter Joined: Apr 2006 From: Tri-Cities, WA I Ride: Hither, Thither and Yon ... mostly day rides	FJR1300 has worked for me for 50,000 miles if buying new I'd also look at the newly announced VFR1200 and decide between those. If used, either the FJR '06 or newer (heat issue resolved/ABS std), or a Bandit 1200/1250 can be turned into ST for not much money. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-10-2009, 09:30 PM	#4
ch3no2 Licensed Joined: Apr 2008 From: Westminster, CO I Ride: 03 Aprilia Tuono Rsv, 00 Honda VFR, 83 Honda V65 Magna	90-01 vfr 11 years in a row as the best sport-tour by cycle world, I love my 00'VFR. I've toured most of the western US and whether you're at sea level or at 14,250ft. in the rockies it is a great all day ride and able to tackle the twisty stuff w/o any problems. 60K miles on the odometer and it runs like a swiss watch. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-10-2009, 09:48 PM	#5
RedVFR Fast, Easy, and Old Fashioned Joined: Sep 2006 From: Spokane I Ride: DR650	I'll throw my suggestion in as a VFR owner that is disappointed with the new VFR. How about a Triumph Sprint ST? That 1050 triple delivers great power and torque by all accounts. And they look sharp too. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter Last edited by RedVFR; 10-11-2009 at 08:29 AM.. Reason: Added picture.


10-10-2009, 10:10 PM	#6
ridetriumph Permit Joined: Aug 2008 From: Vancouver, WA I Ride: therefore I am	Owning both an 06 Triumph Sprint ST and an 07 FJR1300, I can say the Sprint is more sport than tourer compared to the FJR. However, the FJR is way more sport than tourer compared to the Honda ST1300. If you are looking for a sport bike with hard bags, the Sprint is an excellent choice. The 1050 triple motor is great. Excellent gas mileage even with a hard throttle hand. I've done 2k mile trips on the Sprint with no problem, but it's not as comfy as the FJR. Mine has ABS but it is not standard. If you are more inclined toward a great touring bike to burn up miles but still keep up with the sportsters in the twisties, then I'd look at the FJR. Way more comfortable on longer rides (especially with a custom seat from Rich's in Kingston, WA). Much easier on the pillion if you ride with one, too. Linked ABS is standard. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-10-2009, 11:18 PM	#7
DRD2 Knee Dragger Joined: May 2006 From: W. Kent I Ride: 03' ZX6R	My Dad has an ST1300 that I've been fortunate to borrow quite a bit. Compared to my ZX6R it's deceptively fast! It's really, smooth, torquey and has awesome power everywhere. It's riding position is straight up and it's really easy to ride over long distances. My girlfriend loves riding on the back and really enjoys hittin' some twisties. The only bad thing about riding two up with it is, it's so fun to play with it's grunt and you can't with a passenger. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 02:51 AM	#9
SoHTyTe Training Wheels Joined: Mar 2008 From: Renton, WA I Ride: zx6r	I have been looking in to Sport Touring because I want to be traveling extra long miles, and haven't seen this mentioned. Kawi Concours 14. (great topic BTW) I like it just cuz it's big and beefy! (not cuz I was kawi born) I have only been on 500's and 600's sport bikes, but when ever I read about the Concours14 it just keeps calling my name. I can't explain it, but I will be gettin one some day when i'm not broke! Anybody been on the Concours 14, thoughts? __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 03:47 AM	#10
james1300 Track School Dazed Joined: Oct 2005 From: CENTRAL I Ride: When I can	Yamaha FJR1300~67K. Lots of power. Comes with bags, bag liners, and electric windshield. Shaft driven. Low maintance intervils, water cooled, fuel injected. Good fuel range (250 miles). TON's of accessories available. A GREAT web-site www.fjrowners.com. Proven performance. I can ride from the TriCities to Reno, NV in a day and still feel like going to Reno's Bike Nite that same evening. Pm me if ya want to know more. I don't want to start sounding like I'm bragging about a world class machine! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter Last edited by james1300; 10-11-2009 at 03:53 AM..


10-11-2009, 05:46 AM	#11
kirkcdl Chicken Strips Joined: Apr 2009 From: Roseburg,OR I Ride: 1984 Naked Goldwing 1200,1993 ST1100	I guess I'm just a "Vintage" type of guy,but I really like my 84 V65 Sabre.25 years old and still enough power and handling to keep up with more modern bikes,with an almost-straight-up riding posture.Aftermarket goodies are not that easy to find,but Ebay is my friend.Best of all,I got it in mint condition for under $2K,so no payments,(I hate 'em)... __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 07:32 AM	#13
ducatichick Wench Joined: Jul 2009 From: Corvallis -> PDX I Ride: the one in my avatar	Ducati ST4s. You'd have to buy used though since they stopped making them in 05. I had a yellow 2003 with the 996 motor - looked like this: (I lost it in a divorce ) For new, maybe a Multistrada 1100s - you can get side bags + tailbag for it that are sooooo nice. Could probably get a good deal on a new or demo 2008. The Multi would be my 2nd choice after the ST4s. Since you're in Seattle, stop by for Ducati Seattle's Happy Hour on Thursdays 4-6pm. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 09:42 AM	#14
Lone Rider Streetfighter Joined: Feb 2009 From: Pennisula backroads Blog Entries: 1 I Ride: A ZX14 in the rain...., OMG!!	Uh My opinion you ask? <------------- see photo Richs custom seat, lowered pegs. handlebar risers, soft luggage, tall screen. 2010 Concours is tops on the List. FJR 1300 Or the Triumph if you like smaller. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 10:17 AM	#15
mjn Joined: Jul 2005 From: Tri-Cities Blog Entries: 1 I Ride: '05 Busa, '03 KLR 650, '81 Seca 550, '78 Hawk, '71 SL 350, '69 Z50A	I'd have to put the FJR at, or near the top of the list. It'd be tough to beat that bike for an all around machine. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 02:50 PM	#16
Willius Peg Dragger Joined: Jun 2005 From: Seattle, WA	Thanks for all the great responses. Seems like the Sprint ST and the FJR pop up a alot in this discussion. The Sprint is at the top of my short list. Time for a test ride! Who wants to loan me one? __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 03:42 PM	#19
motorcyclemom Licensed Joined: Mar 2007 From: Olympia I Ride: VFR800	I love my VFR Interceptor. Great bike. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


10-11-2009, 03:52 PM	#20
DrDave Endorsed Joined: Jun 2009 From: Bothell, WA I Ride: XL1200, KZ1000P, CX650T, VFR700F, CB700SC	I am ready to replace my Goldwing and Interceptor. The FJR1300 is on the top of my short-list. If it turns out as fun and sporty as others have stated I will probably sell the SV as well. Appreciate the input as I am just as curious as the original poster. Dave __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter

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