I collected my 2009 ST1300 from the dealer earlier today, then went to a friend's place less than 4km down the road. On leaving a few hours later the battery was too weak to start the bike, I had to find another way home. The battery either needs a charge, or it's due for replacement (probably the latter).
I'm not so sure about this bike anymore. It's heavy and at each traffic light/stop street I hoped it wouldn't fall to the right or left. During the afternoon I practiced and perfected getting it onto the center stand (it's all in the technique), leaning safely (while stationary) past the point that previously felt safe, and maneuvering the bike around the driveway (while on the seat). At 1.87m I also raised the seat to its highest point (both feet are still firmly on the ground), which seemed to help with the shins knocking the lower fairing.
However, having limited ankle movement due to club feet directly affects control of the brake pedal and gear lever, to overcome this I partially lift my left leg to change gears, or move my right leg around to brake. This directly affects riding safety, especially in an emergency. This is also the main reason why I never got into off-road riding, I would be unable to change gears and brake while standing.
It was my mistake to buy this bike without a test ride. What do you guys think, should I return the bike, walk away and chalk this up to experience; or hang in there a little longer? I can always sell it at the price I paid a month or two from now, then again, we're also heading into winter.
