Test ride - Triumph Sprint ST

[Highrider]

I had a chance to ride a 06 Sprint ST ABS during the last week and take it through most street & highway situations. Let me start out by saying I have heard a lot of comparisons between the ST1300 and the Triumph, so I was curious about the similarities. These are two very different bikes - I would rate the Sprint ST as 85% sport and 15% touring, while the ST1300 is 40% sport and 60% touring.
Sprint ST ABS pros: smooth power and nice range to the engine - redline @ 10,500 rpm. Good brakes, smooth shifting, nice balance and weight, good controls (I like the passing switch on the left handgrip - most control operations are identical to the ST1300).
Cons: very little protection from the windshield, small seat, high foot pegs and forward sport bike stance.
I could not imagine riding more than 200 miles with the riding position this bike requires. The power and torque is not what I expected, the ST1300 has a more powerful feel, regardless of the weight difference. The Sprint ST is a much smaller and lighter bike that I would consider as a second bike for local riding. I felt like I was getting on a Goldwing when I got back on my ST1300 to head back home after this test drive.

 

[EASt]

Good review; I'm surprised to hear that the seating position on the Sprint is so agressive. I figured it'd be closer to the Hondas.

Good to know, though - I think the Sprint ST is an incredible looking motorcycle...and very tempting!

 

[jbim]

I find it tempting. Didn't know whether it was a real alternative to the ST like the FJR is. However, I think the final drive is chain. My preference is to avoid chains. It is just one more thing to worry about when you are 500 miles from home.

 

[nm6r]

I would be so tempted to go for the Sprint ST if it had shaft drive and electric windshield. The two essentials of a good sport tourer.

Ray

 

[Hewhois]

As some of you probably already know, I'll probably be switching out my ST1300 with the Sprint ST.

There are risers available, but I didn't really find it all that agressive when I demoed a stock Sprint ST. They are clip-ons, but not like a 600rr or 1000rr supersport bike. With risers, should be quite comfy for many. Leg room for my 34" legs was more than adequate.

Here is a pic of me on one, gives you an idea of the ergos:

I actually found the Sprint ST to feel more powerful than the ST1300, especially in the low-end torque area. Felt very smooth through the whole RPM range. Handling in twisties was much better. I like lighter and more nimble

It's all in what you want from a bike.

 

[AZST]

Great looking bike.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
STOC# 5197

 

[Buckeye Rich]

That new Sprint ST has probably the best torque curve of any engine going right now. It is long and flat! That is a very nice motorcycle!

 

[Bones]

It's my understanding the silver ones are fastest. No surprise there.