ST1300 rider - Considering the "6"

[MinnetonkaMike]

Hello everyone,
I've been smitten by the F6B and mostly like the looks of the bike. I commute on my motorcycle for about 8 months a year here in Detroit. I take about 3-4 road trips a year - one up with camping gear. I average about 10000-13000 miles a year. I think this bike will suit my style. I currently ride a ST1300 with Russell seats, heated grips, AudioVox cruise and a top box. I'm 6"1 and can flat foot the ST with the seat at the highest setting.

Going to F6B the things I may miss the most are the adjustable shield and ABS. Is there anyone here that has transitioned out of an ST1300 that can offer their opinion of both these machines?

just my 2 cents...

while most of the feedback you get from the F6B community will be positive I will play the part of devils advocate since I too came from an ST1300.

Considerations
1. Weight - it sounds like the use for your bike is primarily commuting? The F6B is heavier and harder to maneuver (also, longer wheelbase) in tight spaces/parking/traffic etc.
2. Helmet Storage - Can't fit a full face helmet in the saddlebags. My ST could fit my Arai full face with no issues - my F6B cannot.
3. Comfort - no doubt that the F6B has plenty of room and is comfy but I would argue that for us taller riders, I'm 6'2" the STs riding position and adjustable windscreen is more suited for tall riders in stock form.
4. Speaking of windscreen, as you'll probably read that is easily the most complained about part on this bike. I've ridden bikes w/ and w/o full fairings, windscreens, shield, etc. and this bike has a fixed windscreen that in stock form doesn't offer much for wind protection.

All that said, aftermarket parts make some of these pain points fixable but at your expense. I absolutely love my F6B and consider it one of the nicest bikes I've ever ridden. Luckily for you the F6B are not making as big of a splash on the bagger market as Honda would have liked so they can be picked up well below MSRP, so if you do your due diligence you can pick one up at a good price.

[motoman]

just my 2 cents...

Considerations
1. Weight - it sounds like the use for your bike is primarily commuting? The F6B is heavier and harder to maneuver (also, longer wheelbase) in tight spaces/parking/traffic etc.
2. Helmet Storage - Can't fit a full face helmet in the saddlebags. My ST could fit my Arai full face with no issues - my F6B cannot.
3. Comfort - no doubt that the F6B has plenty of room and is comfy but I would argue that for us taller riders, I'm 6'2" the STs riding position and adjustable windscreen is more suited for tall riders in stock form.
4. Speaking of windscreen, as you'll probably read that is easily the most complained about part on this bike. I've ridden bikes w/ and w/o full fairings, windscreens, shield, etc. and this bike has a fixed windscreen that in stock form doesn't offer much for wind protection.

All good points.

I am 6'3 and I originally bought my ST1300 because I could close my eyes and my hands would just naturally fall on the grips, with a slight lean forward. The F6B sits me pretty much upright, which I don't care for, but if I bend my arms I can lean forward a little.

There are adjustable windscreens available for the bike but not electric.

I upgraded the suspension on my ST front and rear so it handles great. I suspect I'll have to do that on the F6B at around 8K-10K miles...

The ST does look more sporty and athletic than the F6. I would describe the F6 look as 'majestic'. However, the F6 will get up and go if you need it to...no trouble passing anything.

[bigdawg]

If it is an option I would keep them both. Both are great bikes.