I put "hundreds" of holes in the cowls (see pictures). By doing so, I figured I would be able to retain as much of the structural integrity as I could versus putting in large holes, or just taking them out altogether. I use the 'holey' ones during the warm/hot months of the year, and then replace them with a set without the holes during the not so hot months. I've had my 2004 ST1300 since new, and I hardly give it a second thought in swapping the cowls as needed. I also "Jet Coated" the exterior of my headers. Not sure how effective that was for heat management, but they sure look cool. I tried using the neoprene "saddle", and that probably worked... But what a pain in the ***** that thing was to deal with when it came time for maintenance on the bike. In short, after 13 years with my bike, I've just learned to deal with the heat. If I were ever to test ride a 'modern' day bike, like a new Yamaha FJR, or a BMW R1200RT, both of which are said to have the heat thing managed very well, my wallet will likely suffer in that I would replace my ST. Who knows...I read about the engine heat prior to buying this bike, and it is indeed a true statement. Anything under 55mph, and i could feel the heat soak on my legs and crotch. So ive been doing some research, and there are two things im considering.
1. Instead of removing inner cowl completely, id like to add a bunch of holes with a hole saw. Does anyone have any pictures of this cowl removed with the holes in it and verified it made a difference? Where would be a good place to put the holes? Id rather not pull the whole thing out in fear of the side cowls floppin around more, and also the need to relocate the oat probe.
2.purchasing the fairing deflector kit. Seems spendy at $200. Also, not sure imlike the look of the black rubber/plastic against the candy apple red. Has anyone painted these fairing deflectors and then istalled them? Any pictures of that?
Thanks.
Good luck!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Last edited: