First Ride Expectations

[nofinishline]

Hello everyone,

I'm new to the board, and to ST1300's. My husband and I visited a local Honda dealership a few weeks ago, and I noticed a beautiful blue 2004 ST sitting on the showroom floor. I currently ride a 2001 Shadow Spirit 750, so I always thought that I'd move up to a more powerful cruiser. That was, until I sat on the ST and fell in love. When we returned to the dealer last week end the bike was gone, and there wasn't one to be found (in pristine condition, that is) in the bay area. Yes, I know, there are lot's of 2005 red models available, but they're just not "right" for me. Fortunately, my husband found my dream bike at a dealership in SoCal and we're picking it up this week end.

Here's my question....when you all took your first ride on your ST, what was your initial impression regarding handling, power, visibility, speed, etc.? Do you have any recommendations for a first time ST rider? I'm just trying to get as much information as possible, so I'll know what to expect when I first twist the throttle.

Any advice will be appreciated! BTW, I'm still a "green" rider. I've only been riding solo since October '04.

Thanks and cheers!
nfl

[Mellow]

nfl....

Bet you won't get much sleep the rest of the week LOL

The first thing people complain about on the ST is the seat and handlebar position... one thing that helps lots of ex-owners of cruisers, wings and other bikes that have an upright seating position is to relace your arms, keep elbows bent and try to keep your posture straight by keep your Abs tight. That will help you get used to the riding position and determine if you need a custom seat and/or Heli-bars.

As far as handling and power, you won't believe how easy the bike flicks around and the power will surpise you... You can pop a wheelie on this bike if you try to be aware of that but it's nowhere near as easy as a sportbike so don't worry.. it's something to remember but not something you have to constantly worry about.. You can hit the throttle pretty hard and it will stay on the ground..

If you don't already have one, get a full face helmet and some ear plugs, you'll need the ear plugs as the wind noise is excessive compared to a Wing...

[Hewhois]

Congrats!

Coming from a cruiser, even a 750, you will be very surprised how sensitive the throttle and brakes are. You will take off faster and stop faster than you expect. *Highly* suggest taking it to the closest safe parking lot near the dealer that you can and get a feel for the bike and how it brakes and handles. Also, don't forget to look at the speedometer on a fairly regular basis, it may feel like you are only going 45mph...but your probably really going 85+mph ;) The first time you pass someone be aware of this. Triple digit speed passing is very easy, even if you are taking it easy and aren't trying to go that fast.

Have Fun and Welcome!

[Killtimer]

All good advice, but here's my $.02 (CDN) :) Don't dismiss the stock riding position as bad until you've spent some time on the bike. I know many people who are fine with the stock set-up. You'll find that you're using a different muscle group for balance and posture, give those muscles time to strengthen. A friend of mine has about 40k miles on the stock saddle and is fine for 750 mile days. As soon as you try and duplicate the "sit up and beg" cruiser posture you sacrifice feel and control. Remember.... this is a Sport Touring motorcycle. Enjoy and welcome to the mad house.

Steve

[Mellow]

Oh yeah... While touring with your husband on his Wing... try not to pass him too soon or out run him in the twisties too badly... leave him with at least a little manhod....

[Carl_T]

I would mention to any first time rider of the ST to pay extra attention to walking speed turning (and anything you do with it at that speed or when stopped), particularly turning full lock into a hill.

The bike feels super controlled like a bicycle at those speeds and is easy to maneuver. However if you are mentally casual about it because of this, and let it lean a bit to far going out of balance to the inside of your turn. If that happens do NOT think a foot dab will help the situation. Small throttle increase and steering are what will pick it back up not muscle.

The STeed gets suddenly VERY heavy past a certain point and then all there is to do, is get your foot out from under, let it go kerplop, and stand up on the outside peg. Past a certain out of balance inside lean, no one is going to hold her up with muscle and it will be heavier than your cruiser in that situation.

The ST is beautifully nimble and steers great when moving along, and the fun factor never seems to end with this bike. Be progressive in rolling on the throttle and squeezing the brakes. When you sit with the stock bars lean to them with a straight back not slouched and it will be comfortable (you can squeeze the tank with your knees and use peg pressure to take weight off the bars when you want).

Plan your parking so you can drive forward out of the parking spot. Look for good footing when you come to a stop.

It is an easy motorcycle to ride and control, don’t let that fool you into thinking it is really the 200lbs. lighter that it feels when it comes to stopping.

Most of all enjoy the fact you were smart enough to find this great bike… ENJOY!

[creakyneck]

Can't add too much to what's already been said, except that my last bike was a CB-550F with a Windjammer fairing about 15 years ago. Like you, I fell in love immediately with the ST (yes the Blue One :D).

Like so many these days, my test ride came right after the salesman already had my money :rolleyes: Fortuneately for me my salesman also rides an ST and gave me some pointers first, which helped.

If possible, set the seat height so that you can get "flat footed" on the ground as much as you can.

As stated the throttle is very quick, but a couple of small "blips" of it will give you a good indication of how much to apply when starting out.
For me, starting out felt much the same as my old 550 years ago, and the bike will feel very light and nimble from fairly slow speeds.

As mentioned when manuevering at very low speeds, use the clutch and throttle instead of trying small "foot taps" to keep yourself upright.

The brakes are quite smooth and very effective, just a light touch in most situations will stop you quickly.

When parking, "shuffle mode" keep a couple of fingers on the brake to make sure the bike doesn't "get ahead of you". If it does, that 700 lbs + will make itself known real quick :o:

One last note, is that although I haven't personally experienced a front tire lift-off, the weight that hides itself so well at most times, has the horsepower to match so be prepared :eek:

[CruisingDog]

I went from a Heavyweight cruiser (1500cc) to the ST and the first thing that struck me was how light the bike felt. I took it around the nearest parking lot and couldn't beleive how much easier it was than my Kaw. Vulcan 1500.

For reasons unknown to me, I was extremely familiar with the bike before I'd even riden it! Made the first ride a real pleasure. I'm sure you'll find the same thing.

Congratulations. You'll love it. BTW, look out for me in the bay area!!

[AZST]

My first impression was how well balanced this bike is and yes brakes take some getting used to. Overall, the bike is very forgiving and a joy to ride--albeit relaxed cruising or agressive twisties.

Carl T is dead on about the weight factor with this bike. Past a certain point...look out. Bike can seem real light but don't forget you are pushing around 648 lbs. Play with the throttle until you find your comfort zone. Again, the bike is forgiving...to a point.

My .02

Good luck.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
STOC# 5197
:04biker:

[sherob]

I'll add one more thing... :crackup It's going to take you about 5-10 minutes of riding to get used to the controls being under you instead of being forward like your Spirit, at least it did for me coming from a Shadow Sabre :D All the other advice is absolutely correct!

Enjoy the best ride you'll ever have... and don't let him get on it or you'll never see it again :crackup

Welcome and ride safe,
Robert

[Kennedy]

Female riders do rock.
I came from a Honda Magna V65 and think the biggest thing I had to get over when I went to pick up my ST because I had never road a bike with a faring was visually you see the bars, wind screen and every thing in you field of vision turning in front of you on a cruiser that you do not on the ST. The bike feels very heavy getting it off the side stand but that is the only time you will feel that weight. Well first corner I pulled I realized this bike was riding its self home and I was only along for the enjoyment of it. This bike will also take you drivers’ license with in a few minutes because it’s just so smooth you will find your self well over the speed limit every time you ride it. Take some time to get used to it, ride safe and enjoy.

[sherob]

hmmm... wonder where she gets that from? :rolleyes:

[tccox]

Hello everyone,
Here's my question....when you all took your first ride on your ST, what was your initial impression regarding handling, power, visibility, speed, etc.? Do you have any recommendations for a first time ST rider? I'm just trying to get as much information as possible, so I'll know what to expect when I first twist the throttle.

Any advice will be appreciated! BTW, I'm still a "green" rider. I've only been riding solo since October '04.

Thanks and cheers!
nfl

Well my first ride was a real shock to my system. I'd just come off 11 years on BMWs and to be honest the ST I bought was not only the first one I'd ever ridden, it was the first one I'd even seen in the flesh. First impression ??
Amazing Power
Amazing Smoothness
Totally amazing brakes, far better than BMWs
huge saddlebags
Totally amazing handling, I refuse to believe this bike weighs close to 700#
The heat problems I'd read some folks had complained about did not exist (And I picked it up on a Hot July day.
And I LOVE LOVE LOVE the stock riding position. Folks this is a Sport Tourer not a Wing. The bars are suposed to be that way
The Seat ?????Well to be fair its a two hour seat, ok up to two hours, really painful after that. My daughters graduating from App State in two weeks, maybe I'll be able to afford that new Sargent seat now.
Oh and the electric windshield is totally awesome, one of the bikes best features.

Overall, love the bike,,,,,,,,

[Carl_T]

Pay attention to the guys who are mentioning the need to keep an eye on speed at first.

I rode my trade in 1400cc Cruiser to the dealership, which is located on a 45mph speed limit road. I dropped it off, got on the ST, pulled out to go home, and accelerated to what I thought was 45mph (mind you I had just gotten off a bike and we'd taken that same road). When I looked down to verify the 45, I saw I was over 70mph (78).

Man, I would not have wanted that ticket (really Officer I thought I was doing the speed limit)!

Which reminds me the speedo seems to read about 6 to 10 percent higher than actual.

[beastie]

Welcome nfl,

Well by the time I got here, almost everything has been said. I won't let my wife see this, or let her know another girl ;) is riding. I prefer to have her behind me and only have one bike to maintain and insure. But she is "Swambo" so I have to tread lightly here.

One thing I do want to add to: the beaST has a small "lean angle of no return." If and when it leans too far, it is going down. Once beyond that point, unless you are 6'8" and can dead-lift 500 lbs., you cannot stop it - let it go! :eek:

The good thing is, unless there are other obstacles or you are near a curb, it will make a nice 3-point landing. The 2 tires and the tip-over wing are all that will touch and no real damage will occur. It is a great design feature.

Oh - and did anyone mention Wheelies :22yikes:

And read the forum. You will enjoy all the info and humor here. :)

[Actionfigurejoe]

I returned to biking after 19 years away. I rode 'em all for test rides. The ST1300 captured my heart. I took delivery of my "05 on April 4th. Currently have 1000 miles. Everytime I ride it it brings me more joy and fun. Weaknesses include the seat and bar position. I installed riser plate, lower pegs, and have a leather Russell seat on the way. I'm 5' 9" with a 32" inseam. I have no trouble handling the bike. As stated, it does get heavy when tipped. Once underway the weight disappears. The bike does have a lot of torque. It accelerates quickly and hides it's speed well due to the refined, smooth nature of the chassis and motor. It didn't take me long to realize that I needed to install my V1. :p:

[nofinishline]

Wow! I want to thank you all for your responses. Sounds like I'm really going to have to roll gently on the throttle <gads....the thought of me lifting the front wheel off the ground makes more than my palms sweat! :eek: > and get used to the brakes.

As far as the riding position....that's what I really love about this bike. I have two friends who have sports bikes, and I had an opportunity to ride them a couple of weeks ago. Jen is an experienced rider and owns a small, light crotch rocket (can't remember the make) with a radical forward riding position. She went on and on about how natural it felt leaning over the bike and swears that it's the most natural positon for female riders. When I finally could find the foot controls waayyyyyyyyyy the heck back and up, and got going, I could see what she meant. It did feel very natural! Now, mind you, I wouldn't want to sit in that riding attitude for more than an hour at a time, though. Jamie's bike was heavier and not so radical. The first thing that sort of freaked me was that I couldn't see the front wheel because of the faring <the same thing that bothers me about Mike's Goldwing>. But once I started out, I forgot all about that....after all, the road is still there, right????? So, after the test rides, I knew that a forward riding position is more comfortable for me than my cruiser riding position. Plus, I can really hug the tank on the ST. Which I love. Very much :grin:

After your posts I also realize that I'm going to need to spend time in the parking lot practicing slow speed maneuvers. Hopefully I will never dump my ST, but that is HIGHLY unlikely...heh heh. I've gotten rather good at droping bikes. Also, her weight does cause some concern. I'm tall (5'10") but light (125 lbs). With the seat in the lowest position I can flat foot, but the higher center of gravity will take some getting used to.

Now regarding speed....I have a feeling that I'm going to really have to be careful here. Even though I'm a very conservative rider, after having experienced the Goldwing at high speeds and wondering why Mike doesn't go faster, I know that I'm going to look down at the speedometer and get a shock from time to time.

What I am looking forward to is riding next to Mike and watching him pull into a gas station.....see ya later, sweetie!!!

Again, thanks for responding and for your warm welcome to the boards. If ya'll can think of anything else, please let me know. I'm soaking it all in!

Cheers,
Carole

[beatlejuice]

dont miss the sargant seat group buy on this board

[Carl_T]

I'm tall (5'10") but light (125 lbs). It wouldn't help to be 5'10" and 325lbs of muscle. There is a sweet easy going, no sweat, balance range at no speed to walking speed on the bike (way better than the cruiser I had). Beyond that she's history though. So, if you keep attentive, you should do just as well as any of us do. :)

[sherob]

Actually, she'll do better for 2 reasons... Women have a better since of balance than men... and if she did drop it, rather than having a bunch of guys laughing their :butt1: off, they'd be running over each other to render aid :D

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ :biker:

Oh and Carl... see the new Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy movie is coming out? The trailer looks GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Carl_T]

I just saw it last night. I am going to get hold of my Brother in Law and clue him in. I hope they did it well.

[sherob]

I just saw it last night. I am going to get hold of my Brother in Law and clue him in. I hope they did it well.

Keep your eye open on PBS... they will probably run the old BBC version soon now too... it is classic! :bow1:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ :biker:

[EdsST]

Like most here my transition to the ST took some getting used to. I came from a GW and the new riding position had me straining soe muscles that Ihadn't used in a while. But now I think its the only way to ride. I really like the ST's riding position

[tdeboeser]

funny, most seem to have come from big bikes. I've come up from a sportbike (SuperHawk). I gotta say first that all the info given is spot-on, esp the posts on how well the ST is balanced.
The ST's postion is probably the best for most riding, its close to MX style - alot better for the street at most any speed. Sportbike's ergos only really help at 90+ in a corner, otherwise that position is almost useless on the street - even for "sprited" riding :eek: !

my $0.0247071 (CAD) :p:

tom de '03
va

[Carl_T]

Thanks for the tip Rob. :)

[Fastraveller]

I would like to add that you should be very wary of the new tires (as well as parking lot gravel). They may be very slippery since they will be brand new. It only takes about 50 or so miles to scrub them in, but I've read several posts from people that have dropped their brand-new bikes in the parking lot of the dealership as they were pulling out for the first time. I nearly did that myself except I was able to catch it and upright the bike before it hit the ground but I don't ride an ST either (holy herniated disc batman!!). I want to re-emphasize what Kennedy pointed out, that the physical/mental perception of the bike turning and the fairing not follwoing the same angle that you are used to is very strange. I have never owned a bike with a fairing and this was definitely a different feeling when I test rode a Gold Wing. I try to exaggerate turning my head into the curve/turn far enough to take the junction of the fairing and the steering head/handlebars out of my peripheral vision. This way my brain is only getting signals from what my body feels and NOT what my eyes are telling me the bike should be doing. It really helps.

Congrats on the new bike, I hope to be in the same place that you are in the next year. Please give us a great ride report after your first ride and your initial impressions.

David

[Gug]

Listen to everything you have heard here. It's all Right!!! Just be careful (can't put enough emphasis on that) the ST1300 is powerful. Watch the brakes (particularly the front) and the throttle. It stops and handles amazingly well for a bike it's size.

When your comfortable doing a handlebar lock turn you should be in good shape.

[Red Ryder]

Oh you'll love it!!
I went from a BMW 650GS ABS to my ST1300 ABS. There is such a difference in ride from the 650 to the 1300.
I agree with the other posters. Go somewhere quiet and practice. The 1300's throttle takes a little getting used to as it is very sensitive. I change gears at a lower RPM with the 1300 compared to the 650 and I don't change gears as often, rather use the throttle to control my speed instead of relying just on my gears.
If you turn the front wheel too sharply while coming to a stop, the bikes weight works against you and you will drop your bike.
Take it easy at first as with all new motorcycles you ride. Get to know the bike before any serious rides.
Most of all have fun and be safe. :biker:

[sokay]

Given that slow speed maneuvering s the tricky part, these are the two techniques I've come to rely on after two years and more aboard: (1) In tight cornering, like a u-y from a dead stop, I keep a few revs on the throttle and adjust my speed only with the clutch. This seems more precise than the throttle and works better for me. (2) If making a tight turn while slowing down, like to begin a u-y in a driveway, I find myself gently pulsing the front brake. :)

[Hewhois]

(2) If making a tight turn while slowing down, like to begin a u-y in a driveway, I find myself gently pulsing the front brake. :)

Try using a touch of rear brake and no front brake. Bet you'll like the results. Using the front brake while turning could potentially get you in trouble quick.

Of course, with the ST1300's linked brakes, even if you are just using the rear foot pedal some of that goes to the front anyway, but not as much as if you had used front only.

[sherob]

Try using a touch of rear brake and no front brake. Bet you'll like the results. Using the front brake while turning could potentially get you in trouble quick.

Of course, with the ST1300's linked brakes, even if you are just using the rear foot pedal some of that goes to the front anyway, but not as much as if you had used front only.

I use my rear brake all of the time... slowing for traffic, cornering, parking lots, coming to a stop before switching to the both. Front is for my quick stops... I still cover front brake on the above situations. It's funny... I never used to use the rear brake when I started riding... now can't ride without it :D

[dond]

I saw our neweST ST rider this morning, she was at the shop to pick up her bike. Very nice to meet you and hubby. Give us a holler when you get home.

[sherob]

I saw our neweST ST rider this morning, she was at the shop to pick up her bike. Very nice to meet you and hubby. Give us a holler when you get home.

Cool! It may be awhile :D

[nofinishline]

Don, it was great meeting you today! Thanks so much for helping us locate our baby. Here is a pic about 10 minutes after we talked to you. I'll have more to add tomorrow. Its been a long day... well, short day... well, you know... a new bike and all, but 4am was awfully early even if it was to get the new ride.

http://pages.prodigy.net/dorian-blue/_images/ST/nfl_1st.jpg

Cheers to you all,
nfl

[AgSTreak]

nfl looks like the two of you were made for each other. Niether you or the background was blurred so I'm assuming you were still in the parking lot. Take your time, get used to the weight, speed and handling. I still can't believe some think the ST is a slow touring m/c. Enjoy and ride safe. :bow1: :04biker:

[doveboat]

Looks great, I am a bit jealous as you are at my local dealer in Thousand Oaks. I was in there looking for an 04 and they had none, I assume the bike is new.

Enjoy, and look up the Thousand Oaks Riders Club if looking to ride in S Cal.

Don, do we know each other yet, I am sure we have Gog as a common point.

Ed

[dond]

Looks great, I am a bit jealous as you are at my local dealer in Thousand Oaks. I was in there looking for an 04 and they had none, I assume the bike is new.

Enjoy, and look up the Thousand Oaks Riders Club if looking to ride in S Cal.

Don,do we know each other yet, I am sure we have Gog as a common point.

Ed
Ed...The bike is new. You didn't ask the right person :wink:

[Carl_T]

You and the bike look like you were made for each other. You will now have that permanent ST grin to carry around with you :)

[nofinishline]

Carl T, you're so right about that permanent grin!!

I had a chance to get lots of parking lot practice in today before I took my first street ride. All of you who told me about throttle sensitivity were so right. My husband is an ex-MSF instructor (he actually helped to develop the CA curriculum and course) so he put me through the paces. LOTS of stops, putting my feet up then accelerating, just to get a feel for brakes and throttle. I also did a lot of turns from a stop, while accelerating through the turn. Oh man, it was so much fun!

After a while we took a ride to San Jose. For those of you who warned me about watching my speed....I see what you mean. This baby GOES and the trouble is....I don't want to slow down!!

Oh yeah....I dropped her in the parking lot. No way could I have picked her up by myself. I even have some trouble putting her on the center stand (but I'll get the hang of it).

So, all in all, success!!! Thanks again to all of you for your advice and input. Ya'll are a very helpful bunch of nice folks!!

Cheers,
nfl

[sherob]

:D He may never see you again... "No honey... I'll run by the store... no honey... I'll run and pick it up..." The problem is he'll catch on to those 2 hour runs real quick... probably like he used to do to you :D :D :D

Enjoy... but don't let him on it or you'll never get it back :crackup

[nofinishline]

LOL sherob! Yes, the storage on this bike is going to come in handy for those 1/2 day market runs! My husband is up to all of my tricks, though. He invented most of them!

As I mentioned, he rode her home yesterday and broke her in for me. I followed/led in our car. He says that the "yahoo" factor is really great on this bike. He rides a GL1800 normally and says the difference is that he works in partnership with his bike, where he felt like he was a part of the ST. He has nothing but praise for this bike. Quick handling, like a bullet on take off, helluva lean factor. He loves her!

And did I mention that we look damn fine side by side? The GL1800 and ST1300 are like peas and carrots (to quote Forrest Gump). I am really looking forward to our first long ride.

Cheers!
nfl

[Putt]

Carl T, you're so right about that permanent grin!!

Oh yeah....I dropped her in the parking lot. No way could I have picked her up by myself. I even have some trouble putting her on the center stand (but I'll get the hang of it).



Cheers,
nfl

NFL,
Check out this site... You might be able to get her back on 2 wheels all by yourself...
http://www.pinkribbonrides.com/dropped.html


Putt...

[Carl_T]

Just in case yours is the same as mine delivered I'll add this.

Mine came with a lot of free play in the throttle before the cable actually started moving. I turned the cable adjuster so there was very little free play left, about 1/16 in. max. Started it up let it idle, and turned the bars lock to lock to be sure the engine RPMs didn't rise (from a too tight adjustment), then went for a ride. The throttle while still sensitive was 300% more controllable.

A bit of the slack occasionally felt while riding is the ST driveline play.

The following I adapted from my old dirt racing days. What I do so I can pick up the throttle super smooth in turns (or whenever I want) is ride with one finger covering the front brake. I cover with two fingers in town.

With just a tiny bit of pressure (pushing top down, not pulling brake in) on my pointer finger my hand is far more stabilized even on rough roads. I can move the throttle the tiniest amount perfectly, and dial in the most miniscule increment of throttle smoothly. That allows me to take up the throttle easily without any jerk whatever in a turn, even at high RPMs.

After awhile with this bike I got to just leaving my pointer finger resting on top of the front brake lever at all times, unless I'm in traffic covering with two fingers.

Two benefits have emerged from this one finger coverage. It is completely possible to emergency brake this bike with one finger if needed as the ST brakes are quite strong, so reaction time is always at a minimum since the brake is constantly covered. Also smooth throttle applications when needed have become very easy to do. 3 fingers to operate the throttle is plenty as you can also easily operate it with controllably with only 2.

Lastly remember to adjust the front brake lever all the way in toward the bar with the little turn button on the lever. That will make covering the front brake far easier and more comfortable.

Pay attention to where is the best place for your throttle hand on the grip is in regards to out towards the end, or more centered. I tend to ride with my hands out towards the end for that incremental amount of extra leverage, but it will depend upon the size of your finger reach and grip type. You can gain a fraction of reach by holding on towards the inside a bit, away from the grip ends, but only if needed.

You can run this by Hubby and see what he thinks. It works very well for me after my MX racing experience, where we held onto a wildly bucking bike 100% of the time, always covering the front brake with one or two fingers (number of fingers depending upon the bikes braking strength).

[sherob]

Carl... you da man for advice :) We ought to start a "Dear Carl" column :D

[Carl_T]

Rob,

Nobodies right every time and infallible though. :banghead: :spank1:

Someone writes to Dear Carl:
Dear Carl,
Should I buy an after market seat or fix the Honda shape myself?
Signed Anonymous

Answer: Dear Glowing Butt,
Do Not fix it yourself even if you buy gel and memory foam to get a nice kind place for your backside. After grinding a decent shape out of it and changing the angle of the top foam, routing out a pocket for the gel, and covering that with memory foam, and getting everything nicely stapled back in place, you may well end up with a nice, quite comfortable seat, that looks like you stuffed lumpy pillows in it. :eek:

When all that is done after a sleepless night of seat Farkling, you will still have to drop the big $$$$ on an aftermarket seat so you won't be embarrassed to take your red :biker: beauty out into public. :nuts1: :(

No one ask how I know this! :crackup :crackup :crackup

Dear Carl is just NOT FALLIBLE after all you know, and would never admit this. :croc: He would never make his seat look like Aliens were growing inside it, since he is an Artist used to fine work with his hands. Besides, high-speed automotive grinders slip when biting into foam from time to time. It's hard to see the shadows in light foam that you see when the dark cover is on, and the cover will not flatten out little tiny steps and lumps like someone thought it might. Also a 1/4 inch of top foam covering will not do it either.

OK, I confess... Dear Carl FABOOZLED it big time on this one. :cool: :Chair1:

Well, it doesn't look like pillows, but it is not acceptable and is somewhat uneven. With lots of extra time and some more work, I could fix it, and both seats are way more comfortable, but it isn't worth the large amount of time, extra material, and effort to get it to look even and smooth again, when you can buy a better looking seat from Sargent... at what I now consider dirt cheap. :crackup

:( God I hope I get the new seat before EASTOC :( I couldn't survive all the ribbing from John, Steve, and Bones otherwise. :o4:

This also in to Dear Carl:
Dear Carl,
After he made his "snowtire" comment in another thread, should I admit to SHEROB that I started out without enough clothes because the temp was not all that bad. Then froze my :butt1: off in 35 degree weather last night, after deciding to take a long ride in the early NY evening?
Ice Sickle

Dear Ice Sickle,
Buck it up man, those Texas boys all have square tires from riding those unendingly "straight to the horizon" gravel roads in 80 degree weather anyway. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ :biker:

[Dorian]

Dear Carl,
I just recently bought a new ST1300 for my wife. She was apprehensive at first and asked me to drive it home for her. (370 miles on a new bike rightfully intimidated her not-yet ironbutt posterior) It was fun, but I'm not quite ready to give up my GL1800. However, the next day we were riding in a staggered formation along the expressway when she decided to pass me. She took off like a banshee before the cappuccino maker on my Goldwing was done brewing! Then, to put the icing on the cake, at the next stop light she asks me, "Does this bike make my butt look big?"

How can I maintain my dignity? Is this the "new woman" everybody in the media keeps talking about? How do I get her back in the kitchen? Or better yet, how would you recommend I sauté that crow I now have to eat?

Sincerely,
Clipped Wing

[sherob]

Dear Carl,

Since I can ride 12 months of the year :) , I have a jacket problem. I have a Cortech GX Air for the summer... heavy leather lined for winter... but I need something for those in between days. What would you suggest... I prefer real armour by the way if not leather.

Signed,
Living good in Texas

Square tires... with all of the construction going on I-10 out my side of town, exits moving/changing, lanes moving/changing... I don't need to worry about twisties :crackup

[sherob]

[B]"Does this bike make my butt look big?"

I guess you could have said " No Baby... but you gotta do something about those saddlebags though." :crackup

And to get her in the kitchen... put her ST in there... :D It'll be a pain to cook sitting on it, but she'll be in there :eek:

[jackpine savage]

...with a radical forward riding position. She went on and on about how natural it felt leaning over the bike and swears that it's the most natural positon for female riders. When I finally could find the foot controls waayyyyyyyyyy the heck back and up, and got going, I could see what she meant. It did feel very natural! ...

Cheers,
Carole

Sportbikes aren't as uncomfortable as many people think. The wind coming off the low windshield pushes your chest up and back so you actually don't have alot of weight on your arms. You will get the same effect on the ST when the windshield is down. Plus you have complete control of windshield height so you can vary the wind force at will.

Also, If you like the forward lean you probably won't want any bar risers. I haven't found a need for them at all, but I would like a different seat.
David

[Carl_T]

Dear Clipped Wing,
It is with deep regret that I inform you that you now belong to that group others only speak of in hushed tremulous tones. The group is named “The Most Wretched of Men”. :( :( :( I’m sure the newspaper will point you to a local MWM support group, that meets evenings in your area. Mellow (Joe) will be heading one up in the Texas area very soon now, as he is letting go of the STeed. It may be worth the gazillion mile trip (do it alone) to Texas and back, to gain much needed emotional healing weekly.

You are in for endless, excruciating embarrassment, as soon as your “Sugar Plumb” becomes intimately familiar with the ST. :04biker: Most notably whenever the road turns in any direction requiring lean angle, or whenever it goes straight allowing acceleration.

You will have some minor, brief amounts of respite in parking lots however. Consequently, you may just want to spend riding days with your “Snukums”, sitting around on your bikes, in the parking lot of your choice 99% of the time. Just make it a P lot near your house so no traveling is involved, remember twisty=trouble, straight=trouble, away from the parking lot and you are hosed man, cling to the P lot for your life!). :crackup

Clipped Wing, I have only one additional suggestion for resolving your egregious plight.
1.) While sitting on the bikes in the lot, break out about 50lb. of chocolates from the wings copious, humungous, mind bogglingly sized, backside luggage. Absolutely refrain from eating any yourself, and offer her the chocolates often, and in big handfuls. Make believe you are eating them also, and mutter frequently “Hon, these are as good as sex.” :eat2:

Do that every time you take the bikes out to sit in the parking lot (after all there’s not much else to do while sitting still in the blazing sun, trussed up in full gear). Soon, amazingly, you will find her butt is indeed growing quite large. Before you can say Jack Sprat, her butt will actually grow too large for that pitiful ST saddle, and she will willingly trade bikes with you while asking, “hey, where is the closest Dairy Queen?” :D

Then you will be the one singing “does my butt look big” and she will have to go to “Most Wretched of Women” support groups during the week.

Well, if you don’t want to do that, you could buy an ST yourself I suppose.

PS. NoFinishLine... STAY AWAY from any chocolates Dorian offers you, IT’s a TRAP!!! Dear Carl would treat you right, and never do that to you. I’d follow your butt anywhere! Leave the ****** and be my Girl instead!!! (sorry Dorian, I love you man, but her butt looks so fine).

As Alf the Alien on TV used to say… HAH!!! “just kidding”! ;)

[Carl_T]

SHEROB,
Cheeky Monkey... Dear Carl has the perfect riding outfit suggestion for you're troublesome Texas climate! However Dear Carl is certain it would seize the sensibilities of 80% of this list, while causing bad cases of the vapors or coronaries to the other 20%.

So, if you have a high-speed connection I have a 1.4MB bike riding video to email you. It details the outfits worn in a new joint Texas/NY Government "Rider Training" video. This gear will be perfect for the conditions you outline. I'm sure all of Texas will be falling over themselves to get these new riding outfits, so if you offer them for sale, you stand to make some serious $$$ from Dear Carl's generous offer, either that or a long stay in a Texas Chain Gang. :crackup

I warn you the vid is non violent, but a bit disturbing in a strange fashion. I still haven't stopped laughing about a week after seeing it though.

[sherob]

[QUOTE] Dear Carl would treat you right, and never do that to you. I’d follow your butt anywhere! Leave the ****** and be my Girl instead!!! (sorry Dorian, I love you man, but her butt looks so fine).[\QUOTE]

Your wife asked me to let you know she want's to have a talk tonight .... :crackup

[STCher]

Hey nfl

Good to have another gal in the fold.

I too moved from a cruiser to the ST last year. It is the best move I have made, I love the bike. From April until October I put 19,500km on it, half of them riding across Canada. For 1 month, every morning we got to ride and when we made it home, I still hadn't had enough.

Enjoy that first long trip and all the other little trips before and after.

Cher :04biker:

[Carl_T]

Your wife asked me to let you know she want's to have a talk tonight..... Oh **#$$%^^^*&*...............Busted :(

You have broadband somewhere where you can get a 1.4MB vid file? Dear Carl, always comes through when a distessed rider writes. You should have the clothing info.

[STPilot]

Hey Carl, thanks for the tip on the "finger on the brake" technique. I discovered this awhile back when I first picked up my ST. It really works well. The problem is, I can't get anybody else to try it. The MSF instructors are screaming "NO, don't cover the brake!":eek:

:04biker:

[sherob]

Oh **#$$%^^^*&*...............Busted :(

You have broadband somewhere where you can get a 1.4MB vid file? Dear Carl, always comes through when a distessed rider writes. You should have the clothing info.

Send it to sherob@houston.rr.com Can't wait to see my next riding gear :D

[sherob]

Hey Carl, thanks for the tip on the "finger on the brake" technique. I discovered this awhile back when I first picked up my ST. It really works well. The problem is, I can't get anybody else to try it. The MSF instructors are screaming "NO, don't cover the brake!":eek:

:04biker:

If I'm cruising along and don't feel the need for it, then I don't cover... once I start getting into traffic, I have my old trusty dirt riding 2 finger cover going and my foot covering the rear brake, and hand covering the clutch as well. Makes for quick stops, gear change, and avoidance :)

[sherob]

I don't have Godzilla strength hands like you... :D I'll be getting the CBR lever so I can move it closer too :)

[Carl_T]

Oh man Rob, it is on the way. You will surely make this your next riding gear purchase, and perhaps launch a small entrepreneurship clothing firm, to market gear for Texas riding conditions.

Tim,
Wow, God forbid you cut a half second to a full second off of your braking reaction time AND get smooth throttle take up in turns as well. :rolleyes:

The method has been tested under extreme duress, by many people (including professional riders) during decades of dirt racing, so it will not compromise your ability to hold on or operate the throttle.

Do you know what the objection is?

[STPilot]

I was told, "to avoid inadverant brake application":confused: :mad: I don't really get it. I too used this technique on dirt bikes as a kid, and I don't remember crashing as a result. :cus:

[sherob]

Oh man Rob, it is on the way. You will surely make this your next riding gear purchase, and perhaps launch a small entrepreneurship clothing firm, to market gear for Texas riding conditions.

I think this was givin to you by Mistress Gina wasn't it :D Thongs just don't work for me... now the whip, that can work :crackup You have just risen up my respectability chart :D

[Hewhois]

I almost always have 2 fingers on the brake lever. Especially useful while commuting in city traffic.

The "rest your finger on the lever for stability technique" is one I use as well. It is especially usefull while going over big speedbumps at 25mph while standing on the pegs. Then watch the cruiser following you try the same... :crackup

Seriously, I've found it to be a great technique for fine throttle control.

[Carl_T]

Inadvertent brake application????? :crackup :confused: :confused: :confused: MAN if someone’s coordination or seizure twitches are that horrific, they surely do NOT belong riding a motorcycle, or even tricycle!

If people never experience inadvertent brake applications, on a flat out bucking bronco of an MX bike at full chat, from covering with a finger... then you surely aren't likely to experience that on the smooth street.

It's not like you go around with the brake lever partly squeezed or your finger even wrapped around it. If you do it correctly on the street, it's just a fingertip resting over top of the lever. Or it's putting mild pressure downward on fingertip while taking up the throttle, without wrapping the tip around. Also the pressure is too mild to apply a brake and just enough to brace the beginning increment of throttle application.

That means you would have to purposely bend your fingertip around the lever and pull it back to apply the brake. That's a lot of squeezing, lever travel, and two different movements to get done by mistake. You are constantly operating the throttle from that hand position while riding the bike, making the proper movements well grooved into subconscious mind. Braking remains a separate mental set of moves. You just don't have to take time to unwrap a finger or two and reach for the lever.

Also I hope no one grabs the front brake with all 4 fingers and squeezes :D

I always two finger it in town, or whenever I'm unsure of needing to emergency stop for a situation. One finger the rest of the time for the dual purpose earlier stated. I find it a very useful safety enhancing technique.

Personal experience tells me "inadvertent brake application" is simply a mistaken concept, at least for me it is.

What in the world would these guys think of Lee Park's road racing method of trail braking into a turn and taking up the throttle as the brakes are let go? Which makes the throttle slightly getting applied at the same time as the brakes (which are almost all released, but not quite fully 100% released)? The theory being there are miniscule amount of throttle going on while miniscule amount of brakes are going off. Which makes for a super smooth transition from brakes to throttle.

Of course that is a very advanced technique, and you would NOT want to mess up, EVER, doing that with either the throttle, brakes, speed, or traction.

I wish the MSF guys would rethink this, as it is a big help with some powerful fuel injected bikes with touchy throttles like the ST.

[STPilot]

WOW:eek: I feel like I opened up a can of worms here. I totally agree with you Carl. When I first got the ST, I thought I was going to kill myself just going over a speed bump because of the twitchy throttle. Your technique (or whoever figured it out) works well. Also, on the subject of MASSIVE amounts of front brake stopping power, the instructors I had did teach the "all four fingers and squeeze the hell out it" technique. Of course the old, beat up bikes we were using for training required this AND throwing out an anchor to stop. I didn't intend to for this to become an MSF beating. I think in general they do a pretty good job, espeacilly with the junk they have to work with. I'm sure like any other profession, there are good and bad instructors who teach what and how they were taught. Good or bad. Anyway, I'm continually surprised and thrilled to here other peoples experiences on the ST and find out how they relate to mine. Thanks for the tips. You and I, and now everyone else who rides the ST knows they work. ;)

[Dorian]

The MSF often takes a stand on safety issues basing their process on beginner newbie rookies. There are a lot of things that are put out there that experienced riders find doesn't work as well as perhaps another technique.

In a basic MSF course you will always have individuals that aren't quite ready to use their fingers independently from the rest of their hand. You will have students that rev up the throttle every time they apply the brake, simply because they aren't used to handling two controls with one hand. Heck, we've all at one time or another started to loose the balance on a bike moving or standing still, applied extra pressure to the right grip and revved her up a bit unintentionally. So having a beginner cover the brake lever while learning what the throttle does can be a recipe for loss of control. Its not a bad thing to learn that you either apply brake or apply throttle, and that it is two separate activities with two separate hand positions.

I've been riding for 36+ years and have always kept one finger on the brake lever. Is it because I "cover the brake?" No, its because I'm a guitar player and its always more natural to have my index finger extended. But I'm used to having my index finger doing something separate from what the rest of the fingers are doing. If covering the brake feels natural, fine. If using the index finger to index the throttle feels natural, go for it. But if neither feels natural and you are just getting started, stick with the basics.

Thats all the MSF is trying to accomplish... teaching the recommended way. No motorcyclist is going to have his license suspended because he covers the brake.

[AgSTreak]

Let me state the obvious, 67 replies and nearly 1100 views in two days. Do either of these numbers mean anything to you! I think we have a record here. The fact that I belong to a board whose membership consists of balding, post middleaged lechers just absolutely disgusts me. Wait a second ??? ...... :o: Uh, never mind.
Cher would you mind terribly if I asked you to, Uh, uh introduce yourself to the membership, this was kind of fun. :)
I'm impressed with the milage you put on last year. I wish I had the time to ride as much as you.

[STPilot]

Well stated Dorian. :D

[Carl_T]

Tim, didn't mean to bash MSF. They are the best thing since electricity in my book. I tell every prospective new rider I run across to take the course, and I love that there are people taking the time to teach it. :03biker: :04biker: :biker:

Thanks for the explanation Dorian, makes more sense to me now. Not working with beginners, one forgets how some things need to be taken in steps.

John, did you have to describe me so durn accurately? :o:

[nofinishline]

Well, ya'll have been having a good time on this thread, eh? I don't think that you're all ready for a "time out" just yet.....you're all very witty :D !!

STCher - It's great to meet 'cha! Some day I'll have as many roads under my tires and you have. I look forward to seeing future posts from you!

"Dear Carl" - LOL!!! I think that you should have your own topic area!

Dorian my love - Don't listen to Carl. Chocolates, no.....flowers, yes ;)

Whoever asked about Icon helmet noise - I don't notice too much noise at all. The helmet is very snug.

Regarding fingers on brakes and/or the clutch - My hands are small, so I tend to roll on the throttle a bit if I'm not very careful when I brake. It's gotten me in lots of trouble on another bike. I need to keep my hand on the throttle when not braking (but I'm a newbie rider, also).

All in all.....thanks to everyone who posted in this thread. I learned a lot!!

Cheers,
nfl

[AgSTreak]

Seriously, I've noticed that all the posts are getting more attention than usual. We have more new ST owners joining and it seems that a number of the quieter members are really starting to get into the swing of things. Used to be I could leave here for hours at a time and nothing would change. Now I have to go into the individual forums to make sure I didn't miss anything. :D
Damn these slow, clumsy fingers of mine :cus: , by the time I finish this there'll be a whole bunch of new posts. :hotpepper :hotpepper :hotpepper

[Carl_T]

NoFinishLine, it was just the occasional tounge in cheek, no harm meant, goofball, Old Fart silliness. How about getting in on the Sargent seat group discount buy? There’s still a tiny bit of time left.

Dorain, definitely flowers, lots of 'em, well timed 'specially when things are going well.

John, It's kind of cool 'eh? We have a real ST movement happening. Honda will have to stay on its toes at this rate and give us new and cooler updates as the years go on. Maybe an ST that levitates.

[AgSTreak]

The more levitation the better as we get older and ... well, more like Mell :D w.

[sherob]

Poor Mellow... he should have just got the GW and not said a thing :D But I'm sure Charlie would have rat'ed him out :crackup

[Mellow]

Poor Mellow... he should have just got the GW and not said a thing :D But I'm sure Charlie would have rat'ed him out :crackup

That's okay... don't be surprised if Charlie shows up on on someday too... All you young whipersnappers will be sorry all of ya... ya hear me! do ya!!... oh, my chest... I'd better sit down...

[sherob]

Those nitro pills and expresso don't mix to well... :crackup

[MikeP1300]

Last word.

From this point on all other bikes will be compared to the ST. :bow1: :04biker: