Please note up front that I may be posting this in the wrong forum, since the functionality check described may apply to ST1100 models with linked brakes (aka combined brake system) as well as ST1300s.
Also note that the steps described below are in no way anything near a comprehensive check of the LBS, but merely an easy way to verify that the system is functioning. I'm fully aware of the SM procedure of checking the SMC with the bike on its center stand and rotating the front left caliper CCW while the rear wheel is being rotated. I've done that many times.
The method I'm describing here is something that I assume anyone who has ridden an ST1300 for a month or more is already familiar with, so it may be useful info only to LBS newbies. This is a very easy check that is done while riding the bike, and is very simple. When approaching a stop on dry pavement, stop the bike using the front brake lever only - no rear brake pedal application. The last few feet before coming to a complete stop, apply the brake lever hard enough to cause some front-end dive and unloading the rear end, and KEEP PRESSURE on the brake lever for a second or two before releasing it. If the LBS is functioning, the bike will remain "hunched forward" after stopping until the brake lever is released, then return to its normal resting stance. There is no real significance to how long to wait before releasing the brake - I stated "a second or two" just so the rider will be cognizant what's happening with the bike's stance when the brake lever is released.
Don
Also note that the steps described below are in no way anything near a comprehensive check of the LBS, but merely an easy way to verify that the system is functioning. I'm fully aware of the SM procedure of checking the SMC with the bike on its center stand and rotating the front left caliper CCW while the rear wheel is being rotated. I've done that many times.
The method I'm describing here is something that I assume anyone who has ridden an ST1300 for a month or more is already familiar with, so it may be useful info only to LBS newbies. This is a very easy check that is done while riding the bike, and is very simple. When approaching a stop on dry pavement, stop the bike using the front brake lever only - no rear brake pedal application. The last few feet before coming to a complete stop, apply the brake lever hard enough to cause some front-end dive and unloading the rear end, and KEEP PRESSURE on the brake lever for a second or two before releasing it. If the LBS is functioning, the bike will remain "hunched forward" after stopping until the brake lever is released, then return to its normal resting stance. There is no real significance to how long to wait before releasing the brake - I stated "a second or two" just so the rider will be cognizant what's happening with the bike's stance when the brake lever is released.
Don
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