I've been a loyal Honda rider since I was like 10, and have been riding an ST1300 for several years now, but I think it's time to finally look for a replacement. I've always had my eye on the FJR. The dealer has a new, much too expensive one, which I throw a leg over every time I head to the parts counter.
Hope to find a gently used one this spring, but in the meantime thought I'd introduce myself and start asking questions.
Greetings to all.
Ah yes, the venerable ST. Have had 4 of them over the years, first an ST1100 without ABS and then relaced that for one with ABS. Later did the same mistake in buying an early ST1300 w/o ABS. Later changed that as well. Loved those bikes. I actually organized a fall long distance ride for ST owners for 22 years around Texas and Arkansas called TexSTOC. STOC is the ST Owners Club, unofficial but worldwide.
We were not strict about who could attend, just so long as you liked to ride long distances and loved good roads. Over the years, fewer and fewer STs were showing up. More BMWs, Concours', and of course FJRs. Even some Harleys and Ducatis on occasion. Once we dipped below 50% of STs, I decided to go test ride an FJR and loved it.
I do agree there is better coverage on the ST, including the geometry of their windshield. For some odd reason, I found myself needed two different windscreens with the FJR (sport for the summer and touring for the winter). On the Honda, my experience was, one stock windshield seemed to work fine in either season.
Honda made a rock-solid touring bike that just never kept up with the competitors in upgraded technology. For whatever reason, their marketing folks must have decided the big bike touring class was more important. Considering how many add-ons and after market accessories are available for the Gold Wing, sort of like the Harley world, they made their choice long ago.
The FJR rides just as well and accelerates a little better than I remember my ST. It is pretty comfortable though I think I would have preferred a single seat rather than the two piece, but otherwise quite pleased in my replacement (2017).
Keith Quigley
Bedford, TX
