Well today was finally the day that we picked up our new '05 ST.
Right off the bat I have to say that this bike is awesome.
When I test rode my '99 ST in December 2000 I fell in love with it.
The same happened with the '05. This time my 6ft frame actually fits
perfectly behind the fairing and my knees are thankful.
My first impressions:
This bike is big.
(Perhaps thats exaggerated by the fact that I had just jumped off a
'92 CBR600F).
It has a more 'sit on' rather than 'sit in' feel than my '99.
The riding position feels a little more on the aggressive side, but it
is comfortable. Once underway I'm well impressed with how silky smooth
this machine is. I feel right at home, despite my nervousness at
riding my first ever new motorcycle. I'm restricted to 3500rpm, but I
can feel the potential that lies within. All the controls are light
and responsive. The gearbox is the smoothest of any bike I have ever
ridden. I'm looking forward to the end of the running in miles.
I was very keen to experience the much talked about heat issue. I was
in full leathers, with thermal undergarments and the temperature today
was a chilly 17C. I know this may not sound very cold for those from
snow bound winter climes, but for Sydney Australia, its a cold day.
I have to say that its about the same as my '99. A lot of heat comes
from the engine and today it kept my feet toasty warm. Above 80kph
there is enough airflow to take the heat away. Interestingly I noticed
nothing in the way of excess heat effecting the seat. Even in winter I
got a warm butt on the '99 with the stock seat.
One thing I will be getting as soon as possible is a rear hugger to
keep the crud off the swing arm.
There a few styling points that I am critical of, but overall I really
like the look of it.
So far my dealer is unaware of the recall issue with the cooling
system that has been mentioned on this list.
The full three box system with inner bags in on order, due to arrive
around the end of July.
So far I am well impressed. I hope this lasts once the novelty wears
off and I can start exploring all that potential.
Brett
Sydney
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