I drive about 80 miles in California traffic everyday.
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Does anyone have experience doing this on either an ST1100 or ST1300?
I'm inclined on suggesting to also have a look at "big scoots"... despite the auto-tranny, some 600~700cc models haul *** at traffic lights, literally... also free-way/I-state riding comfort and weather protection aren't that bad... excellent gas mileage, insurance and tax might be another argument...
Cons:
their short wheelbase and small wheels (good for scurrying through dense traffic though) might make the buffeting/wake of semis, RVs, etc... a bit too noticeable...
limited payload space...
visually not impressive/less noticeable by other traffic participants...
not the ideal choice of some serious w/e touring with pillion an luggage...
I would not like to get hit by a car on them... a rear tourer line an ST does provide better impact protection due the fairing, panniers, etc...
Comparing the 1100 with the 1300 in dense urban traffic, I'd actually prefer the old 1100...
visually its appearing more "massive", therefore better seen/recognised/accepted by drivers (the stance of the 1300 seems to suggest "scooter", so drivers don't take it as serious...)
especially at low speeds the 1100 handles more stoic, more stable, untouched by longitudinal grooves/steps in the deck (seams, gaps, tar snakes, white-lines...), so less risk of a sudden, unintended side-"jolt" just while passing by stopped cars in close proximity...
The mirrors are the widest part of the bike, if they fit though, so will crash bars and panniers...
Better visualization of head- and especially: tail-lights/rear turn-signals...
Black anodized end weights and clutch/brake levers won't cause flashy reflections in the rear-views during daytime...
Easier access to side- and main-stand pegs... (the 1300 gives me a hard time to sort them out...)