Obviously no one has told KTM there is no market for ST's. Personally I think a Monster with a fairing is the way to go....wait a minute, doesn't the picture above look a little like a Monster with a fairing?
You don't get 103 lb'ft of torque at 6750 rpm with a Monster though.. You don't with a Multistrada either come to that...
Agreed, mega power isn't what you want to tour with. Torque....yes. But a top box!!!!!! Come on? I know they're useful but I just can't stand them.
A top box should be an optional extra and it would be nice if someone came up with quick fitting top plate.
I prefer a top box to panniers. Don't like filtering with panniers and hate seeing a gap I could fit through without them
It was with the original ST, panniers & box are removed or fitted very easily. I have both, but don't find the top box necessary unless we need an ice box for our beer once stopped.
30 seconds to remove both panniers and top box in my case, is that fast enough? I have found that a top box on its own when ridden solo gets a little "weavey" when pressing on. The panniers never cause this
One thing that seems to be getting missed by everyone - maufacturers and customers alike - is that a good sport-tourer needs a decent pillion seat. Hardly any bike, in any class, these days seems to have a decent back seat. Doesn't anyone ever carry a passenger anymore? ( Apart from BMW, obviously,,, And I'm not old enough for one of them yet... )