2008 ST1300 Announced

[Mellow]

http://www.st-owners.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=22337&stc=1&thumb=1&d=1189078377No major changes this year but I don't think anyone was real surprised.

A new Candy Dark Red color (same as 2005 Color?). Typical $100 Price increase.

Honda 2008 ST1300 Site. (http://powersports.honda.com/motorcycles/touring_sport_touring/model.asp?ModelName=ST1300+ABS&ModelYear=2008&ModelId=ST1300A8)

[AzDesertRider]

Sweeeet looking bike right there.... yes sir, that's just a fine looking machine. Can't say I've seen one I didn't like, no sir!

[STindy05]

Another fast one! I bet ACL will have the first one available!

[Mellow]

So, if you follow the link below - you might have to press shift and click the refresh button at the same time if you've been there before - The Dream Machine is actually the Truck pulling up with 2008 models... NOT a new bike.. LOL

http://powersports.honda.com/2008models/index.asp#home

[krivanj]

Did I miss seeing any Goldwings?
I didn't even see them under Additional?

[Mellow]

The goldwing changes, just new colors, were announced a few months ago and people have already taken delivery of some if I remember.

http://powersports.honda.com/motorcycles/touring_sport_touring/model.asp?ModelName=Gold+Wing+Airbag&ModelYear=2008&ModelId=GL18B8

[STBNE]

Hmmmm not a bad color,but they didn't address any of the wishes of the riders for more creature comforts or a bigger engine etc...So it would seem that Honda is just resting on its laurels.It doesn't look like they are listening to their customers...nor are they upping the ante vs.the other competitiion.All in all though the ST13 is still a decent ride!The V-4 still lives!:cool:One thing I dont understand is why they only offer it in one color?Other bikes like the GW have a choice.I really think the ppl at Honda are asleep.:eek:

[Mellow]

Well, the issue is Honda doesn't sell as many STs as they do Wings... if you sold 10 or 20 times the volume on one model as you do another, you'd offer more options on the larger volume one to help push that volume even more.

That being said, you'd think Honda would have additional colors to help push the volume of the ST in the U.S.... Hey, I'm not a marketing guy, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

[STBNE]

Maybe the Honda ppl should stay at a Holiday Inn Express as well LOL:crackup

[Coop]

Bennie, Bennie, Bennie! What would Honda have to do to get you to buy a 1300? LOL!! I'm really tickled that Honda doesn't mess with it every year because before long they would have the same screwy tiered system they now have with the Goldwing. It's just about perfect as it is. I can't wait to see the new color up close.

[Mellow]

This is what the Candy Red Wing color looks like, not a huge difference from the '05 but just a bit brighter.. also can't wait to see it in person.

http://bigbikeriders.com/photopost/data/501/32962005_0204GL1800A0004.JPG

[Austin city limits]

Well,,, after about 13 sleepless nights waiting for this,,,

:::::actually,,, it was from the pain of his bicycle accident where austin fell down and went boom,,, and staying up to late reading IBR stuff:::::

I have to admit,,, I am,,, perplexed...:mad:

Is this the same color as 2005??? :confused:

How do we know that these were not made in 2005 and have been setting on a dock on a storage container all this time???;)

No changes at all??? Ok,,, I admit I expected it but,,, dang... How hard would it be to add a cruise control??? THROW ME A BONE HONDA!!!:p:

Well,,, 1 plus this has is,,, they will be discounting these,,, and they are proven to be great bikes... BUT,,, I am still going to wait and see if the Connie comes in Red,,, first... :duck:

Though,,, it would be cool to have a matching bike like Putt's because,,, me thinks this will be the next Putt Mobile... :D

[Mellow]

Well,,, after about 13 sleepless nights waiting for this,,,

:::::actually,,, it was from the pain of his bicycle accident where austin fell down and went boom,,, and staying up to late reading IBR stuff:::::

I have to admit,,, I am,,, perplexed...:mad:

Is this the same color as 2005??? :confused:

How do we know that these were not made in 2005 and have been setting on a dock on a storage container all this time???;)

No changes at all??? Ok,,, I admit I expected it but,,, dang... How hard would it be to add a cruise control??? THROW ME A BONE HONDA!!!:p:

Well,,, 1 plus this has is,,, they will be discounting these,,, and they are proven to be great bikes... BUT,,, I am still going to wait and see if the Connie comes in Red,,, first... :duck:

Though,,, it would be cool to have a matching bike like Putt's because,,, me thinks this will be the next Putt Mobile... :D

You know what... it just may be the SAME 2005 color...

New for 2005

* Available in Candy Dark Red.
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/493/releases/2230

They will have a vin that shows when they were actually manufactured and I'm sure they will be actual 2007 models.

You know... with the ST1100, the colors were repeated several times, consecutively http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12224 the Wineberry color was repeated between 2000-2002.

[NCrider]

My biggest fear is that they will give package options.

If you want ABS, you also get cruise, some type of radio, heated grips, heated seat and it's a $3-4000 package.

I for one would rather them just leave it alone.

:duck:

[STBNE]

Bennie, Bennie, Bennie! What would Honda have to do to get you to buy a 1300? LOL!! I'm really tickled that Honda doesn't mess with it every year because before long they would have the same screwy tiered system they now have with the Goldwing. It's just about perfect as it is. I can't wait to see the new color up close.

Coop one word...YELLOW:bannana

[Mellow]

My biggest fear is that they will give package options.

If you want ABS, you also get cruise, some type of radio, heated grips, heated seat and it's a $3-4000 package.

I for one would rather them just leave it alone.

:duck:

I agree 100%.. as much as I like my Wing... when it's time for another bike, and if Honda still has it's current pricing/package structure. I'll be on an ST w/ABS as my next bike.

The VFR didn't change so, maybe those waiting on a change now will be looking at the used ones more... good luck! I can't wait to see you on an ST, I know you've been patiently waiting.

[Sink]

I think Honda doesn't want to mess with Goldwing sales, so they don't really push the ST. That's the way it is at my local STealer anyway. I'm sure they make more on the Goldwings than they do on the ST's. We are just a niche market. They keep us happy but concentrate on the big dollar bike. Maybe next year.

That looks a lot like Candy Glory Red to me!!!! WOO HOO!!!!! FASSSSST!

They really didn't come out with anything that great this year.... I'm not impressed...... OK... Big Red (being from the Big Red State) would be fun around the acreage.....

[STeve1300]

I got a confession... I almost didn't buy my 05 in 2005 because I just could not warm up to the red color.... however, I just took a 10 second break from typing this to peek in the garage just to admire it??? I love it now.... especially under artificial light at night!!! The ST is a "different" kind of bike, and going with a less mass-produced color sorta fits just right for me.

[sirepair]

Well, it's still purdy! And I've heard that the red ones are the faSTeST.... So Ma Honda just opted to go faST! :P

Just can't say so from experience!

[tkresler]

Darn. I have a red 97 ST1100. I like it, but I don't love the color. I was really hoping for Yellow... like the yellow wing. Or maybe the burnt orange color. Then I'd be able to justify getting one of those awesome hi vis jackets like ACL wears.

Oh well. We'll see what next year brings. Cruise control would have been nice, but I didn't expect it.

[Blue STreak]

Well, the issue is Honda doesn't sell as many STs as they do Wings... if you sold 10 or 20 times the volume on one model as you do another, you'd offer more options on the larger volume one to help push that volume even more.



Actually, Honda sells a ton of ST's in Europe, and we get whatever they get. But Honda hasn't made any real updates to the 'wing in years, either (the one exception being the air-bag). Honda's always been a pretty conservative company, but I think they may have become TOO conservative. Other companies are seriously into the sport-touring market now, with shaft-drive machines that offer significantly more performance than mother Honda thinks we need. If Honda doesn't pay attention, they're going to see their market share begin to shrink.

Sure, Honda could completely give up on the ST in the states without much impact to the bottom line. But that's not true for Europe.

[Austin city limits]

Darn. I have a red 97 ST1100. I like it, but I don't love the color. I was really hoping for Yellow... like the yellow wing. Or maybe the burnt orange color. Then I'd be able to justify getting one of those awesome hi vis jackets like ACL wears.

Oh well. We'll see what next year brings. Cruise control would have been nice, but I didn't expect it.

Take it from me,,, my Hi Vis would NOT,,, look so great on a Yellow bike!!! Color Clashing you see... ;) But,,, good news,,, it looks wacky on EVERY other color,,, and it gets you noticed... :D

[Finewest]

Well, I was close.

[Gonzo]

When I decided that the ST was my choice, and since it only came in one color, I was OK with it. Color is my last choice when I buy. I was just lucky because black is my favorite color. Had it been is some other color I still would have bought.

I do believe that Yellow would have been a much better choice for Honda and would have had that eye-catching appeal. Of course one always has the option of painting it.

Nobody has said a word, but I surmise that all the standard features we have come to know and love are still offered? You know, wobble, heat, leaks, etc.

gonzo

[Mellow]

When I decided that the ST was my choice, and since it only came in one color, I was OK with it. Color is my last choice when I buy. I was just lucky because black is my favorite color. Had it been is some other color I still would have bought.

I do believe that Yellow would have been a much better choice for Honda and would have had that eye-catching appeal. Of course one always has the option of painting it.

Nobody has said a word, but I surmise that all the standard features we have come to know and love are still offered? You know, wobble, heat, leaks, etc.

gonzo

Well, we won't know 'til someone gets one... LOL

[PLCBithead]

Well, the issue is Honda doesn't sell as many STs as they do Wings... if you sold 10 or 20 times the volume on one model as you do another, you'd offer more options on the larger volume one to help push that volume even more.

That being said, you'd think Honda would have additional colors to help push the volume of the ST in the U.S.... Hey, I'm not a marketing guy, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

Hey, what happened to "if you build it, they will come.." The reason that goldwings outsell ST's by 10-20 times is because the Morons that market the ST, don't feel its worth taking a chance on the North American market.

They could easily offer 3 color choices, factory installed option packages, improve the heat problem, etc. The market for sport touring bikes in a America is brimming with potential, if only someone would step up to the plate.

Even Hardley Davidson offers multiple color choices on the lowly sportster 883

[gec343]

I just purchased a used Kawasaki 1500 Vulcan to get me by until the 08 ST's arrived, but I think that I'll ride the Vulcan for another year and see what happens in 09. Anyway, I'm starting to like this Vulcan:eek:

[Coop]

Coop one word...YELLOW:bannana

I might go for a yellow one too. Shhhhhhhh! "Red" might be listening.

[Sink]

When I bought my Candy Glory Red '97, I was thinking I'd have to paint it.... I really do love it now.... matches my jacket and helmet....

[TRICKYRIC5474]

Personally I'm glad they didn't make any improvements and went with the Red color. All for selfish reasons.

If they had made significant upgrades to the bike or had gone with that Pearl Yellow they put on the '01 & '02 Goldwings I might have had an overwhelming desire to trade my brand new '07 ST1300A on one. This way I have no reason to even be tempted.

BTW, I remember that Candy Red from the GL1800's. It's a beautiful color in the sun, very much a Candy Apple Red similar to what my Illusion Red Wing looked like at noon time on a sunny day....very pretty color, somewhat lighter than the '05 ST Candy Dark Red.

I see a trend with Honda ST colors when they repeat...Silver in '03 then the repeat Silver in '07, just a lighter Silver. Red in '05 then the repeat for '08 just a lighter red. A lighter blue will be possible, but I wonder how Honda will pull off a lighter black ???:rolleyes:

[Klackey]

Just a thought, might Honda be working on an updated ST and they are just not ready to realese it yet.........? I still think somthing is comming down the road but it will just take a little while longer then we would like to get here.

[tkresler]

Just a thought, might Honda be working on an updated ST and they are just not ready to realese it yet.........? I still think somthing is comming down the road but it will just take a little while longer then we would like to get here.

Oh, goodness... please don't start that kind of rumor yet. Give it a week or two.

Tim

[Indy1096]

I know that everyone wants to see a new ST. But I bought mine because it had not been changed in years. I knew what the performance record was and what problems to look for. I had the first year of a model change with my HD. 700 miles on it I get a nail in the tire. Dealer did not have any tires for it and had to go to an outside vendor. Took them a week to get a new tire on my bike. Keep it it unchanged for a few more years. Build on it and bring out a new one. A few years after they get all the problems worked out I might be ready for a new one.

[Blrfl]

Just a thought, might Honda be working on an updated ST and they are just not ready to realese it yet.........?

Anything that's being sold into police service is going to be the equivalent of the Ford "E" platform: it's not going to change much. Customers are going to want to unbolt their stuff from a dead one and bolt it straight into the new one.

--Mark

[TOM BOGNAR]

Take it from me,,, my Hi Vis would NOT,,, look so great on a Yellow bike!!! Color Clashing you see... ;) But,,, good news,,, it looks wacky on EVERY other color,,, and it gets you noticed... :D

You get noticed where ever you go ACL. The HI-VIZ just confirms it.:)

[STBNE]

I know that everyone wants to see a new ST. But I bought mine because it had not been changed in years. I knew what the performance record was and what problems to look for. I had the first year of a model change with my HD. 700 miles on it I get a nail in the tire. Dealer did not have any tires for it and had to go to an outside vendor. Took them a week to get a new tire on my bike. Keep it it unchanged for a few more years. Build on it and bring out a new one. A few years after they get all the problems worked out I might be ready for a new one.

All valid arguments I am not really interested in a new engine design but defintely would like to see more color choices and perhaps some other comfort goodies..like electronic cruise control,even a reverse gear like the GW has would be nice too.I am in agreement that new is not always better and I never buy a new and untried design..until it has proven itself over the years.:)

[Indy1096]

would like to see more color choices and perhaps some other comfort goodies..like electronic cruise control,even a reverse gear like the GW has would be nice too.


I agree. I would like to to see a 6-speed and cruise. A friend really likes my bike and was thanking of waiting until next spring to get one of the 07 after the 08 are out. I told him Silver is all they have for 07 and now he is thinking of something else. He thinks we would look silly on the same color bike. I argued only if we had matching jackets and helmets. Then again we could call are selves a M/C gang. Any silver ST want to join? :mcrider:

[pablowablo]

forest green would have been better

[gec343]

I agree, green would be my choice!

[tccox]

Nice

Hopefully , I'll be selling the Bonneville next spring and replaceing it with a new ST, or who knows, a new VFR ????? Nawwwww , a new ST

[ekcwmi]

This look like a different "RED" then the 05 (?) DARK Red. Is this just the high quality pictures or my imagination? I really want an ST-1300 in a 1996 ST-1100 Red. REAL RED!

Sorry I ever sold my 96.:biker:

[Highrider]

for 2008 I believe the tool kit has changed ....
now it is just a piece of foam.

FWIW, I like the new 08 red better than the 05.

[ligito]

You get noticed where ever you go ACL. The HI-VIZ just confirms it.:)

Maybe ACL should paint his ST in Hi Viz, then he could more easily find the pieces when he breaks it.:)

[Austin city limits]

Maybe ACL should paint his ST in Hi Viz, then he could more easily find the pieces when he breaks it.:)

:crackup

BEST,,, POST,,, E V A R ! ! !:bow1:

And,,, sadly,,, well warranted too... :o:

[Mark]

Jeff pointed out that the '08 color is named the same as the '05 color...

Mark

[Austin city limits]

SWEET LOVE OF MARIA OSMOND AND EVERYTHING THAT IS HOLY!!!

I have found an "Update" on the newest ST-1300!!!

Improving heat management??? I know it will add at LEAST 7 mph to top end...

[Mark]

SWEET LOVE OF MARIA OSMOND AND EVERYTHING THAT IS HOLY!!!

I have found an "Update" on the newest ST-1300!!!

Improving heat management??? I know it will add at LEAST 7 mph to top end...

Let us know how it that 'heat management' works... and does the TLC know that you'll be buying a new bike?
:D

Mark

[Mellow]

You know.. I can see Terry there, after printing out the image 20 times larger and putting it on the side of the garage... then, with magnifying glass in hand, going over every inch... LOL

[Mark]

You know.. I can see Terry there, after printing out the image 20 times larger and putting it on the side of the garage... then, with magnifying glass in hand, going over every inch... LOL

Printing? He's probably got it displayed on the 52" HDTV in the 'work area' and is just using 400x magnification... :D

Mark

[agia]

for 2008 I believe the tool kit has changed ....
now it is just a piece of foam.

What? No vinyl pouch?!
:crackup

[Lou65]

This definitely does not look like the 05 Red to me
...dang I think I like it a little better...

No matter really since the Ride is Sooo Sweet.

[Finewest]

SWEET LOVE OF MARIA OSMOND AND EVERYTHING THAT IS HOLY!!!

I have found an "Update" on the newest ST-1300!!!

Improving heat management??? I know it will add at LEAST 7 mph to top end...

I just got back from the Honda Powersport site and looked at their pics of the new '08. The ABS model has that cover, but the non-abs doesn't? What's up with that?

[WestFLDon]

Rats ! No changes = No sale

It's back to the drawing board for my new bike plans this year.

BMW final drives, old fogies on wings (apologies to those who are young- it's just an image thing), Harleys without soul, the "[COLOR="Red"]New[COLOR="Black"]"ST

What's a guy to do? Keep farkling the old K-Bike and wait. :roll:

.............. Don

[DJPotter]

Aw, crap. Now my choices just got easier (harder?). I love red. Color doesn't make my decision (OK, it's about 5%), except I really really really dislike silver (seems everybody does silver these days), and I really like red. And black.

The BMW K1200GT doesn't come in red. The blue is OK.
The Concours 14 is only silver. Bleah.
The FJR1300 is a VERY pretty Black Cherry for '07... but dunno about '08. And then silver on the AE. Bleah again.
Now this baby is red... and the '06 was black, right?

Dammit. Hurry up and sell, Harley, hurry up and sell... :)

[electrajoe]

Agreed, WAKEUP Honda.

They really disappointed me, again.

On the GoldWing, you have to spend an extra $3-4K to get ABS equipped with the crippled Navi system.

On the ST1300, no options for cruise or top box.

Another year for my 1991 ST1100 ??

[ST/SV]

My prediction was right, color only. Love the red, when it came out in '05 I was ready to trade up a year. But red again, give me a break. Heck, they should have gone with the blue again before red, they have done silverish twice. Count me in with the disappointed on no changes, seems like the competition is marching forewards faster than Honda. Don't get me wrong, I love my bike and probably will keep it a few more years but if they would throw me a bone more often I might be willing to trade up along with others. :confused:

[msbrill]

My 2005 red is still the best color they've come out with on this bike!!

[jdpfms]

Aw, crap. Now my choices just got easier (harder?). I love red. Color doesn't make my decision (OK, it's about 5%), except I really really really dislike silver (seems everybody does silver these days), and I really like red. And black.

The BMW K1200GT doesn't come in red. The blue is OK.
The Concours 14 is only silver. Bleah.
The FJR1300 is a VERY pretty Black Cherry for '07... but dunno about '08. And then silver on the AE. Bleah again.
Now this baby is red... and the '06 was black, right?

Dammit. Hurry up and sell, Harley, hurry up and sell... :)

You live in Sturgis and want to sell a Harley. Will you have to move when you get the ST? :) .

Just leave the Harley on main street and maybe someone will just steal it. I posted an 06 black ABS I saw listed on a V-Strom forum that was well farkled for sale in Colorado. Go get it.

JDP

[RibsST1300]

How about these pics....? There is a second side pic with revised shape around the rear shock adjuster! Looks like the area around the shifter and rear brake are also sealed up a little better.

http://londonbikers.com/galleries/gallery/0116f83d-e8df-4c4a-b5b4-7fa118b80fe9

[DJPotter]

If I keep the ST hidden, I won't have to move. I may have to keep my HD sticker on my Silverado just so I don't blow my cover. Hah!

Unfortunately since the Twin Cam 96 and six-speed, Harley's marketing has pretty much tanked used TC88 sales. Luckily the Ultra seems to be holding well. If I could afford two bikes, I'd keep the Ultra and add an ST, but ... hey, I'm not a doctor. And I need the pickup for wintertime and all the honeydo/build me this thing stuff. I *have* considered selling the Silverado and buying a beater, though, then using THAT money for a 2nd bike... :eek: hah.

Colorado, you say!?? Another good excuse to head down to my favorite riding country!

My bike goes on HDTrader.com tomorrow, unless some of you have had better experience with eBay, CycleTrader, etc.?

[George]

I just finished reading my October issue of Cycle Word. There is a very informative road test article in it regarding their staff's road test of the new Kawasaki Concours 14. The bike got great reviews except for heated grips and cruise control not being available.

Honda needs to take heed and update the ST soon, as the ST is starting to lag back in comparison with bikes like these. Granted I like my ST and would not consider a trade, but that's just me, not the general public. Wake up Honda!

P.S.

I would not want the new keyless ignition feature. Looks like something else to fail in the middle of no where! What's wrong with using a key anyway!

Interesting to note that the ST1300 was _not_ mentioned in that Cycle World article, only the BMW GT and the FJR by comparison. I think Honda are falling down on the ST job.

My opinion,

[Larry]

ST 1500 V5 Will be blue. Why would you make a V5 1500 in a slower coler?

[dmulk]

George,

You know the only reason you want the ST-1500 to come out is so you can finally pick up an ST1300 at a smokin price.... ;)

<D>

[CrashTestDanny]

You know what... it just may be the SAME 2005 color...

New for 2005

* Available in Candy Dark Red.
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/493/releases/2230

They will have a vin that shows when they were actually manufactured and I'm sure they will be actual 2007 models.

You know... with the ST1100, the colors were repeated several times, consecutively http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12224 the Wineberry color was repeated between 2000-2002.


I don't think it's the same color. The '05 color is "Candy Graceful Red." However, this color looks like a match for my left saddlebag cover and my left mirror cover. When I ordered R-151-CU from color-rite, they sent it with a Gold base. However, the base on the original parts was clearly silver when I sanded them down. Consequently, in proper lighting, a few parts of my bike stand out as having been obviously repainted.

[Coop]

Friends and neighbors out there in cyberspace. Let us not fall victim to the words of the people from Madison avenue. Every new model year does not require change just for the sake of change. My 2005 ST is the most awesome motorcycle that I've ever owned. It does not require much maintenence, it does not leak oil, it's capable of much higher speeds than I'm capable of riding, it will go a very long way on a tankful of premium, and once I found the seat for me, it is a very comfort ride. It does not have all the whistles and bells that some other bikes have, but that is not important to me. I thought for awhile that I might like a cruise control, but would that make a ride as boring as driving a cage? I think for me it would. So I'll just be happy with my '05 and enjoy the ride. See you there!!

[TMUS2122]

What happen to blue, if the 07 was the same as 03 than 08 should be blue like the 04 not red like the 05.


I'm so confused :hyp1:

[dteel]

I like it, yep like it a lot. I think that it's a slightly lighter and brighter red than my '05. Am I planning on making a change? Nope, not on your life. I love my red '05 and I'm sticking with it (just went over 35,000 miles yesterday!).

[CrashTestDanny]

What happen to blue, if the 07 was the same as 03 than 08 should be blue like the 04 not red like the 05.


I'm so confused :hyp1:


The blue was so slow that they knew they would never be able to sell enough of them, so they dropped it! :D

[Mike]

Sure, Honda could completely give up on the ST in the states without much impact to the bottom line. But that's not true for Europe.[/QUOTE]



So true! That's what Honda did with the Blackbird. The bike is still a best seller in Europe but the last one imported to the USA was back in 03.

I have given up on a Blackbird replacement from Honda and have switched to Ducati. It's to bad as Honda used to be right out front there with the best stuff. I have to say that the Ducati fit and finish is as good if not better then current Honda stuff.

[LDR1]

Anyone notice they closed up the gap in front of the bags and around the knob for the rear suspension? I have heard they worked on the heat problem or { not heat problem } has anybody heard the same?

[ligito]

The blue was so slow that they knew they would never be able to sell enough of them, so they dropped it! :D

For your own safety, do not ride in the Sacramento area, having made that statement. You may get Ray gunned.:D

[motorcyclelarry]

Oh thank God no changes. I can still sell the same old parts for the next model year. Now if they could only do this for what, 18 years, like Kawasaki did with the Concour's, a parts make dream come true.

Larry

I love, same old, same old

[fredz43]

I don't think it's the same color. The '05 color is "Candy Graceful Red." .

Perhaps Colorite called it Candy Graceful Red, but Honda didn't. Check the Honda site with specs of the 2008 and 2005 and see that they are both listed as having Candy Dark Red.

http://hondanews.com/categories/494

[Finewest]

OK, it's making sense now, at least to me... The 2009 model will be a blue, then the 2010 will be a black and so forth...

[dhuber]

Although I have an 05 red, my favorite colors in order are Blue, Red, Silver, Black. As far as upgrades, it does not matter to me being I will not change out the ST for another 6 years at the soonest. My wife is not into riding, if she was I'd go with a Wing. I do wish cruise was standard on the ST. Someone mentioned a 6 speed transmission but I really like the 5 speed. The bike has enough torque to lug in the lower gears and it seems the engine likes to run at 4500 RPM which around 75 mph and that's just right for me.

[JZH]

Perhaps Colorite called it Candy Graceful Red, but Honda didn't. Check the Honda site with specs of the 2008 and 2005 and see that they are both listed as having Candy Dark Red.

http://hondanews.com/categories/494:rolleyes:

Unfortunately, American Honda often just wings it, re-naming things (bikes, paint colors, etc.) for the US market for reasons only they can fathom. If you look up the paint color code for the '05 (in the Parts Catalog/microfiche), it will say "Candy Graceful red" (R-151C-U), not "Candy Dark red". If someone relies on American Honda's quite possibly misleading information and, for example, purchases a "matching" top box for their on-order '08 from David Silver Spares in the UK, they may be rather disappointed... (You're actually lucky they didn't just call it "red"!)

I found this topic because I was looking to see if Mark had said something here about his notation on STWiki that the '08's color is actually Candy Glory red (R-101C-U), a color that has featured on several other Hondas in recent years, including an ST1100. :shrug1:

The paint color designation can also be found on the bike, on the paint code sticker under the seat, and also on the bar code sticker usually found on the rear fender under the license plate, so if anyone happens to see an '08 in the flesh... :)

Ciao,

[Lou65]

I am picky about esthetics and the 05 Red was the only
ST color I could live with...it is definitely not the same color
as the 2008 (which I think I like a little better).

On the subject of changes I like the idea that the basic bike
is soo cool that it does no need to be messed with too often
....I don't mind the idea that we each get to farkle it
individually....

My only minor complaint is with the stock seat....

All things considered I could not be happier.

wish I got to say that more often.

[John Ephlin]

I for one do not like the red color, it is just plain red with no pigment, therefore I will ride my 05 with 56K miles one more year, then if Honda does not get there heads out of their buts and make some changes, I think I will buy the new Buel.:biker: :biker: :biker:

[fredz43]

:rolleyes:

Unfortunately, American Honda often just wings it, re-naming things (bikes, paint colors, etc.) for the US market for reasons only they can fathom. If you look up the paint color code for the '05 (in the Parts Catalog/microfiche), it will say "Candy Graceful red" (R-151C-U), not "Candy Dark red". If someone relies on American Honda's quite possibly misleading information
Ciao,

Very intreresting, thanks. BTW, I also saw the 05 called Candy Dark Red on a Canadian Honda site, so they must follow American Honda's lead. Guess we'll just have to see an 08 in person.. If it is the same as the Candy Glory Red of my 93 ST1100, I would like that. I also had a 04 GL1800 that they called Candy Red and it was a perfect match for my Candy Glory Red 93 ST1100.

As soon as the fiche is available at my dealer I want to check the parts for the frame cutout heat shield type thingies, so it sounds like we should also be able to see the paint code there too.

Take care,

[mlheck]

From pics on this page it looks like the 08 it is NOT the same color as the 05.

http://www.hondanews.com/categories/494/photos

I will have to take a look at one in person though.

[Mellow]

ugh... if that's truly the candy red color.. that's gonna be tough to resist... hey, it's wednesday.. gotta get a lotto ticket.

[Austin city limits]

I have word from "My People"...

:::::whenever you see a Ford LTD/Taurus setting along a road or in front of your house,,, this just might be his people::::::rolleyes:

The 2005 was the 50th Anniversary Red from the Corvette...

http://www.corvetteblogger.com/images/content/020807_1.jpg

The 2008 is the Magnetic Red from the Corvette line...

http://aylstock.com/corvette/images/2004-03-27_149.jpg

The car on the Left is 50th Anniversary Red,,, the car on the right is the Magnetic Red...

http://www.kerbeck.com/kerbeck/kerbeck.nsf/f/mont2/$FILE/IMG_0325.JPG

I luv the Magnetic Red... :D

AND,,, in the right light and the proper distance,,, would MATCH,,, my Corvette and TLC Honda CRV!!! :duck:

[Jefro]

Here are the press photos from the Honda Motorcycle site.
Looks like the 08 is a little brighter red color. And the wheels and frame are a darker gray color.
Jefro.

[SteveH]

I'm a new guy, so what do I know. But, while the Candy Red is nice, I'm glad I got lucky with a great '04 in Metallic Blue. I also like the fact that ST's have powered windshields. Haven't seen that on the Wings. Do they even offer that as an option?

[Mellow]

I'm a new guy, so what do I know. But, while the Candy Red is nice, I'm glad I got lucky with a great '04 in Metallic Blue. I also like the fact that ST's have powered windshields. Haven't seen that on the Wings. Do they even offer that as an option?

Not yet however, you don't really need one on a wing. I've had two and the thing is with your seating as upright as it is you can get your shield set and it pretty much stays there. Now, that's from someone that rides solo most of the time. Someone riding 2-up might raise their shield for passenger comfort and find an electric one a great option.

On the ST, you have to keep your posture constant in order to not need an electric shield and that's pretty much hard to do with the slight lean forward. Even those that have risers and different seats will have more of a variable in their head height when on the ST than someone on a Wing.. so, the elec shield is a necessary option.

[UNTMatt]

Not yet however, you don't really need one on a wing. I've had two and the thing is with your seating as upright as it is you can get your shield set and it pretty much stays there. Now, that's from someone that rides solo most of the time. Someone riding 2-up might raise their shield for passenger comfort and find an electric one a great option.

On the ST, you have to keep your posture constant in order to not need an electric shield and that's pretty much hard to do with the slight lean forward. Even those that have risers and different seats will have more of a variable in their head height when on the ST than someone on a Wing.. so, the elec shield is a necessary option.

I don't know if I agree with that about the electric sheilds. I think on the Wing it would be nice to lower it to allow more airflow to the riders in warmer weather.

On the ST, mine stays down most of the time. The only time it gets adjusted is during rain and/or cold weather.

[Mellow]

I don't know if I agree with that about the electric sheilds. I think on the Wing it would be nice to lower it to allow more airflow to the riders in warmer weather.

On the ST, mine stays down most of the time. The only time it gets adjusted is during rain and/or cold weather.

Whether it's 110 degrees or 24 degrees my shield stays at the same height which allows me to look about 3-4 inches above it.

Unless you are well over 6ft tall (and nether of us will ever have that problem) you can't lower the shield enough to matter with respect to airflow. The windshield vent and aftermarket baker mirror wings will do 99% more for air flow than the shield will at it's lowest setting.. and, I have a clearview which is a little lower than the oem shield.

[Reiner Kappenberger]

Not yet however, you don't really need one on a wing. I've had two and the thing is with your seating as upright as it is you can get your shield set and it pretty much stays there. Now, that's from someone that rides solo most of the time. Someone riding 2-up might raise their shield for passenger comfort and find an electric one a great option.

On the ST, you have to keep your posture constant in order to not need an electric shield and that's pretty much hard to do with the slight lean forward. Even those that have risers and different seats will have more of a variable in their head height when on the ST than someone on a Wing.. so, the elec shield is a necessary option.

I like to disagree on that one. The adjustable screen is really very much needed on the Wing. When raining the windscreen interferes with visibility a lot. Having done extensive rain riding on the Wing (i.e. 20 hours of terrential downpoor in the IBR) it's the last thing you want to deal with.

I always ride with the (stock) shield fully down on the Wing. In the rain I wish it could be lowered (and change the angle) so that I can get some wind on the visor to have the rain drops that still get there blown away. Plus without the wind the virsor will almost always fog up - never have that problem on the ST1300 as I lower the shield to get enough airflow to prevent those two problems.

If you only ride in nice weather and when there are a few droplets of rain you won't experience that issue. But I'm an all weather rider (except ice on the road) and the non-adjustable (while riding) windshield is a PITA.

Reiner

[Mellow]

I like to disagree on that one. The adjustable screen is really very much needed on the Wing. When raining the windscreen interferes with visibility a lot. Having done extensive rain riding on the Wing (i.e. 20 hours of terrential downpoor in the IBR) it's the last thing you want to deal with.

I always ride with the (stock) shield fully down on the Wing. In the rain I wish it could be lowered (and change the angle) so that I can get some wind on the visor to have the rain drops that still get there blown away. Plus without the wind the virsor will almost always fog up - never have that problem on the ST1300 as I lower the shield to get enough airflow to prevent those two problems.

If you only ride in nice weather and when there are a few droplets of rain you won't experience that issue. But I'm an all weather rider (except ice on the road) and the non-adjustable (while riding) windshield is a PITA.

Reiner

Reiner, I'll counter your disagreement with another disagreement and a caveat .. LOL

I've ridden in lots of rain and I don't have a problem getting enough air flow to push the rain drops off my helmet shield. Caveat, I also have a clearview shield and I think that little extra shortened height makes all the difference. The OEM shield, yes I agree completely so if that's what we're talking about then I will have to say my original comment on that is based on my current configuration and the fact that I switched shields almost immediately after I got the bike further reinforces that statement.

So, I guess I don't really disagree after all.... okay.. nevermind.. :doh1:

[racer1735]

For those of use owning current ST1300's and not planning to replace it anytime soon, no major changes is a good thing. It means more plentiful parts, if needed, and another year (or more) before Honda stops parts production. Other than the painted plastic pieces, everything else looks to be straight carry-over. That is a very good thing.

[gegundez]

That's the main reason why I picked up an 07 last week for $13k, NO CHANGES. Though I understand the 08s will come with wheel well plastics under the bags. Hopefully in black so i can get a pair and not need to paint.

[Mellow]

That's the main reason why I picked up an 07 last week for $13k, NO CHANGES. Though I understand the 08s will come with wheel well plastics under the bags. Hopefully in black so i can get a pair and not need to paint.

The pics indicate black.. and knowing Honda, they are probably using existing hardware to attach so I would imagine they will out-sell those parts as soon as someone makes the part numbers available.

[Rckymtncol]

Just curious, does anyone know the worldwide and US sales volumes for the ST, by year, going back to 91? Would be interesting to see.
Thanks - jj

[bygdawg]

Not exactly what you're looking for, but I have this:

http://www.mcia.co.uk/_Attachments/568_101CMS.pdf


http://www.mcnews.com/mcn/letters/letters03B.pdf

http://www.mcnews.com.au/NewsArchives/2006/sales_year/topten_touring.htm

[vicramdiesel]

Bottom line is,if Honda doesnt come out with A superior bike over the c14 HONDA will fall further behind....

[snowmoer]

From pics on this page it looks like the 08 it is NOT the same color as the 05.

http://www.hondanews.com/categories/494/photos

I will have to take a look at one in person though.

The color is the same one that was on the 07 VFR. More like the 90 PC 800 and early ST 1100 Candy Glory Red then the 05 dark red.

[STingray]

From the photos, they certainly don't look like the same color (the '08 looks lighter/brighter, right?) But the nomenclature says "Candy Dark Red" for both the '05 and the '08.

I'll be (hopefully) seeing the '08 in person next week at the IMS in San Mateo, CA. Will let y'all know what it looks like (wonder if they'll let me take it home.....or maybe it's just a dead, non-funtional drone bike:p: )

Ray

[STingray]

Can someone tell me two things:

1- Why the '06 1300 jumped 22 lbs in weight from the '05? ('05-637lbs.....'06-659lbs...for the ABS)

2- Why do the mag articles claim "test weight" of the ST1300 as "717lbs" ? Is this weight "wet" (w/gas and oil?)

BTW vicramdiesel, the ST1300 is already superior to the c14. I just read the Motorcyclist shootout article (11/07). So big deal, the testers like speed more than anything else. Throughout the whole article they kept comparing the other bikes to the ST1300. Bottom line, if speed is what someone wants, then let 'em have speed (maybe a c14). If someone wants handling, let 'em have handling (maybe a FJR). If someone wants plush, sloppy handling, and spend lots of $$$ on a Roundel, let 'em have all of that (the RT perhaps?). But if they want a bike that does EVERYthing very well, then the ST1100/ST1300 is the only clear choice. Always has been, always will be.

Yeah, you could call me biased, but that conclusion is just what all the rag articles have been saying for years. The December '07 "RIDER" mag will confirm this (again). So will the MCN article.

[Rckymtncol]

Thanks for the info / Jeff

[paulv]

Well, if it ain't broke, don't change it :)
The only thing I can think of is a major overhaul of the aerodynamics for those high speeds (90 mph+)

[mctan]

Heard from local importer mentioning that 08 STX has some changes in the emission. And it actually cause the bike gain abit of weight and lost some power as compare to 06 or before.
Don't know whether is it true?

[Rocker]

Actually, Honda sells a ton of ST's in Europe, and we get whatever they get. But Honda hasn't made any real updates to the 'wing in years, either (the one exception being the air-bag). Honda's always been a pretty conservative company, but I think they may have become TOO conservative. Other companies are seriously into the sport-touring market now, with shaft-drive machines that offer significantly more performance than mother Honda thinks we need. If Honda doesn't pay attention, they're going to see their market share begin to shrink.

Sure, Honda could completely give up on the ST in the states without much impact to the bottom line. But that's not true for Europe.

One has to remember that the ST1100 & ST1300 were designed specifically for Europe by a European design team. It suits our roads far better than the Wing does ( I am an ex GWOCGB area rep) which is why it is badged here as the Pan European

[Black ST]

Can someone tell me two things:

1- Why the '06 1300 jumped 22 lbs in weight from the '05? ('05-637lbs.....'06-659lbs...for the ABS)

2- Why do the mag articles claim "test weight" of the ST1300 as "717lbs" ? Is this weight "wet" (w/gas and oil?)

BTW vicramdiesel, the ST1300 is already superior to the c14. I just read the Motorcyclist shootout article (11/07). So big deal, the testers like speed more than anything else. Throughout the whole article they kept comparing the other bikes to the ST1300. Bottom line, if speed is what someone wants, then let 'em have speed (maybe a c14). If someone wants handling, let 'em have handling (maybe a FJR). If someone wants plush, sloppy handling, and spend lots of $$$ on a Roundel, let 'em have all of that (the RT perhaps?). But if they want a bike that does EVERYthing very well, then the ST1100/ST1300 is the only clear choice. Always has been, always will be.

Yeah, you could call me biased, but that conclusion is just what all the rag articles have been saying for years. The December '07 "RIDER" mag will confirm this (again). So will the MCN article.
Stingray

I have a 1984 V4 Sabre in my barn which I have ridden since 1985. I have thought about getting rid if it many times, but when I would ride a new bike, I always went back to it. It didn't do anything best, but it did everything 98 o/o or better. I feel the same way about my STs too. I would never have gotten rid of the 2001 ST1100 for anything other than an ST1300.

[Terry White]

The biggest improvement,RAISE THOSE BARS 3 INCHES, or at least offer as an option.gtw

[fredz43]

The biggest improvement,RAISE THOSE BARS 3 INCHES, or at least offer as an option.gtw


Yes, if it is offered, please make it an option so that I can pass on it. If I wanted a Gold Wing riding position, I'd buy a GL1800.

[Terry White]

Well I couldn't afford a GL trike..The ST is a "baby" GL to me..Sides, When I bought my first bike in 64 the reach woulda been no prob.Us senior riders ain't as supple as some of the whippersnappers and need some help with the reach....It takes a big tent to cover us all...

[fredz43]

Yep, different strokes for different folks, Terry. That's why I hope the higher bars are an option that I can say, no, thanks to. I tried Gen Mars and didn't like the flex they added to the bars and actually prefer the slightly more sporty feel of the stock bars.

BTW, I ain't no whippersnapper either, just signed up for Medicare. :)

[Terry White]

Rajah that, happy ridin amigo.....

[VRODDRAGON]

I have an 03 VROD and an 03 ST1300. V has 20,000 miles S has 58,000 miles. The ST is the best all around motorcycle I have ever owned in 30+ years of riding. Brakes and tires and an occasional oil change. I would like a six speed transmission, better heat distribution and color choice but other than that the bike is Phenomenal. The V gets a lot of Ooooohs and Aaaahs but I have had multiple problems with it.


ST1300 is the bomb. :bow1:

[mctan]

Does 08 st1300 rear brake light comes in LED or normal light?

[Mellow]

Does 08 st1300 rear brake light comes in LED or normal light?

Normal - the brake/running/turn lights have not changed at all in any year models.

[BHarris001]

I love Honda period. The ST1300 is awesome as is. Having said that I've had some problems. I modified the stock seat myself, now I can ride all day instead of praying for a pit stop after a half-hour. I added MCL's Highway blades, I absolutely love them, although I am 6'3", I mostly drape my legs over them and wish they were longer somehow. Larry if you're listening, please if you find the time, let me know if you come up with a way of having them farther forward. I have the Givi topbox which has great storage capacity, but Mama Bear wants to stay home with the new addition, so no two up for awhile. Anyway I'm rambling on in automatic farkling mode, sorry!

I like the idea of no big changes, maybe they got it right the first time, with some exceptions that it wouldn't hurt to fix. Personally I figure they got some capital in one of these aftermarket seat companies, OY VEY!

Cheers,
Brian :biker: