Hi Desmoboy, they are lovely bike and I hope I don't regret it! My wife thinks I am mad as she doesn't think it can be bettered! Its a 2005, 23,000 miles in Senna Grey with Red wheels. The end of the line sold with ST3 sharper designed fairing, better headlight, digital clocks and better seat. Fitted with carbon Leo Vince cans (I also have the original, which are immaculate) and a tinted screen. Had rear Ohlins shock set up by MCT, they fitted a different spring and set the bike up - a big difference. The belts were last done in June 2020 at 22997 miles. Valves last checked in March 2015 at 21679 miles. New chain & sprockets (DID 525 VXGB Gold X Ring) in June 2015. Let me know what you think.
Yep,had mine set up by MCT as well and yes a big difference. I prefer the ST4S to the multi 1200. Dont regret selling the multi,do regret selling my ST, i did buy the same bike back again after all. Had to sell it when i got made redundant. Does yours have the touring kit? Panniers and top box
Oh no! Don't say that! I do worry I might regret it but I feel the time is right for a change. I haven't been able to ride a Multi yet so what's the difference and why do you prefer the ST4S? No, it doesn't have the touring kit. I did have panniers several years ago but sold them. I prefer a dry back on the Ventura Sports Rack rack and soft panniers - I use Enduristan Monsoon - with plenty of protection on the bike. This works very well for me two up with camping and cooking gear - we travel light!
I'm 6'2, the wind protection works on the ST. No point having 150hp if you cant use it. The engine is epic on the multi,no doubt,but its easier to cover ground on the ST. I dont like the seat position on the multi,too up right. It puts a lot of weight on your cocyx. The slight lean forward on the ST is better. Luggage is better on the ST. I did feel happier with ABS on the multi though.
When I tested the 1200 MTS I found the seat to be horible. I also found it to be snatchy and cramped. The ST4s can also be a bit lumpy but wind protection is good and it is comfy, especially if you can score a DP seat !
Thanks Desmoboy, I am 6'0" so will just have to see when I get a chance to try one! I have sat one one and didn't think it was too upright for me but again need to spend some time on one. Fingers crossed I make the right decision.
H Johnny, interesting you say that, I have sat on both a standard 1200 and also the PP. The seat on the PP was a lot better but again I need to ride one. The ST4S I have has the newer ST3 designed seat and is really comfortable, solo and two up - literally I cannot fault it and have been on trips all over UK and Europe. It must have a far superior foam. I like the lumpy nature of the 996 engine but that is subjective. I agree, wind protection is very good - am I talking myself out of it!
I changed the handlebars on my 1200s DVT, 90mm shorter overall and slightly straighter. Made a huge difference, leaning a bit further forward and a lot easier in traffic, slightly more agressive riding position, works well with the short Puig screen.
I loved my ST4S seat, but it can be improved. Sent mine to steve archer Ooop north somewhere. Transformed it !!. Lower gearing ,1 tooth, gets rid of most of the snatchy thing. The more i talk about this the more i miss it.
Funny, us old timmer ST guys (had it from new 2002) don't mention the gearing as we take it a s read that it shall be changed. It is a must for me. I went 3 up at the rear I think.
Not Steve archer actually, that was my mistake. Its Tony Archer. www.tonyarcher.co.uk Huge improvement on the already good seat. Most noticed by the wife on pillion. The standard ST seat slopes away towards the back and is thin.
Hi Desmoboy, I would honestly never change the seat on my ST4S and my wife thinks its the best as well. I have modified a seat on an old Africa Twin (P&P Seats in Birmingham) and even this is not as good. She thinks i am mad to sell it!
