Less total HP, but it weighs alot less too. Seat of the pants performance is similar. I had a buell S3T before stepping up to the ST1300. The Buell had just as much raw acceleration, I'd say. It was a LOT lighter and therefore more flickable...
Buell Uly was the #2 choice when I was shopping and ended up with the ST. I like the ST and I liked the Buell. I would certainly consider another buell again someday, and I actually still have a Buell Blast in my garage - my wifes leaner bike (at the moment).
Test ride one. Don't worry about dealerships. They are practically maintenence free - and even if a lot of Harley dealers don't service buells, you still have a huge dealer network - even a particular Harley dealer doesn't sell sell buells, they can order parts for you and get them overnight if you are on the road. I've seen good and bad. The best dealership experience I ever had - hands down (car, boat, bike - anything!) was at Danbury Harley Davidson Buell. The good Buell dealers will make you feel like you're riding a Bentley. The bad ones - well, just say - AArrrgh!! and they'll get you your ****.
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Wish I could own both. Good Luck.
PS) I met Erik Buell at Buell homecoming. He's awesome.