Hi from the UK

[nisbeam]

I have just joined (UK member), having read a number of interesting threads. It seems the ST (Pan-European over here) has a very different market position in the US, below the Goldwing as far as Honda is concerned is that a correct assumption ? It's very different here where the Pan is viewed as a large, expensive prestige model, more or less top of the range. Yes the Goldwing is on sale here, but the roads - and parking spaces - :) are more suited to a more "nimble" machine. The Pan is used by most Police forces, and even as Taxi-bikes - though mainly in London to get people through the traffic in style (weather permitting I suppose). I use mine for fun but mostly commuting and have done almost 7K miles since new in mid-Dec 2004. I also have a Fazer 1000 (FZ1 to you) that I have had for 2 years and is extensively modified. But it sits mainly unused now I have the Pan so I am thinking of selling. Trouble is over here most riders use their bikes for fun and high mileage is unusual (I have done 73K miles) so I will have to drop the price to about £3000 to get a sale. Pity as it is a great bike. But now I am used to the comfort of the Pan I am spolit, and I just love the character of that big V4 engine, so different from all those in-line 4s. Look forward to "speaking" to you all soon. Cheers, Andy.

[Killtimer]

Welcome Andy

Yes the Pan (Europe) is viewed much differently than the ST1300 (NA) by Honda and the MotoPress as well. If it's two wheels........ it's good.

Steve

[Keith_UK]

Hi Andy

We've met before on a different forum. But I didn't realise then how much we have in common:

1. Both born in 1954 - a really good vintage! We would have been in the same class at school too (you born in March, me in July);

2. Both live in the Westcountry; and

3. Both have 2004 Pan STeeds (although you may re-call that I registered mine in January to get a 2005 V5C Certificate.

Big difference between us in quantum of rideouts though, as I've only clocked-up 350 miles so far. S'pose I must admit that I'm just .... another fair weather rider!

Keep in touch.

Ride on

KEITH

[nisbeam]

Hi Keith,
Yes, I admit I think this forum looks easier on the eye, but interesting in the different content. Have you noticed the number of complaints & recalls mentioned on the MSN site ! As you will know this is not the case in the UK, I think the bike must be shipped from Japan and the the final assembly, or PID at least done in the country of "origin". This is the only reason I can think of for the differences. I have also seen the same on UK and US Yamaha Fazer/FZ1 sites where different tips or problems are experienced.
No problem with fair weather riding, I wish I could afford to but with two kids and to support... still not too many years before they leave school.
On the mileage side, you will be amazed by the difference mileage makes to the bike. It gets much smoother, perhaps faster (but I dont thrash it), and the MPG increases dramatically. I can now cruise at 90 and still reach 240 miles before the light flashes - best has been 271, and that is with reserve still to go ! This engine just gets better and better. Andy.

[Pansmiker]

Welcome from the mainland :D

You will like the folks here...a nice bunch of :03biker: :04biker: :biker:



Paul :1st:

[rob.uk]

Hi Paul Keith and Andy,

I'm yet another Brit currently living in Felixstowe Suffolk, but born on a farm just outside Gloucester, and spent 3 happy years in Bristol - funnily enough using a Honda C90 as a commuta-mobile up and down Bishop's hill.

After several different motorcycles I now ride a Red ST1300 (the one with bones on it). Have just had a great ride with the Ipswich Triangle club to Brandon Forest Cafe today. I'll try and post some pics.

Hope to meet you somewhere in the UK, maybe Brands (BSB round 1) or Oulton Park (BSB round 3). Remember - look out for the bones!

Best regards,
Rob

[CruisingDog]

NisBeam, Just wanted to comment about the recall situation here in the US. I think that the UK will probably get the recall notices after the US does for a couple of reasons:

1) The US has more legal representation (and hence lawsuits)
2) The US market is probably smaller than the UK/European market and hence is probably easier to deal with first.

I may be incorrect in these assumptions but so far the recalls have been (2004 Model):

1) Wire Harness rubbing and possibly shorting [Recall #: P53, P59]
2) PCV (Proportional Control Valve) leakage on LBS [Recall #: P65]

[SteveST1300]

Welcome Rob I spent 3 wunderful years in Suffolk. From 1976 - 1979. I was stationed at RAF Milldenhall. I lived in Brandon with my ( British ) wife. I loved the UK and tried to stay longer but the Air Force said no! I will be back over there in July for my nieces wedding. Somewhere outside London, then on to Wales for a visit with the wifes brothers. Wish I could bring my STead with me.


Steve
STOC #5079

[rob.uk]

Hi Steve, nice to meet you online. Funnily enough just this Sunday I went on a ride to Brandon (see Ride reports "Riders in the Storm Part 2"). I expect you know the cafe well from your days there! Enjoy the pics ...

Rob