Triumphrat

06-10-2005

I'm 55 and looking for a used ST or RS in No. California. Lots of deals on the RS; not so on the ST. Not sure if the RS is too sporty. thoughts? experiences?

:hammer:

Stlakid · 06-10-2005

You're not much older than I and this is the best 'Real World' bike that can be had! Period. You can do anything a Sprint would do, just with less engine heat (on your legs) and a little more air in your face. I would try to get a 2002 or newer to get all of the last upgrades to the 955i motor. Alternator, gearbox, cylinder head, Oh yes, that extra HP and the torque at the most usable points too. You really can't go wrong with one of these, IMHO. I almost want to get another one, as I'm racking up the miles faster on this bike than on any bike I've ever owned...............and I have not taken a single road trip yet!!!

welshrob · 06-10-2005

The clue is in the name, ST - sports tourer. It has a more comfortable riding position that the RS, more creature comforts as standard, plus excellent hard luggage options. It still has a sports pedigree though and is never going to be as comfortable as something like a GTR1000 or an R1150rt.

stevecro · 06-10-2005

hi there TJWoods,
I'm 52 and chose the RS because of the run-out deals and the fact that I like to see the motor on a bike.
I had a sore right wrist for a month or two mainly because of later braking mixed with the lower bar height than my GSX14. I also got a little sore between the shoulder blades for a time. I'm used to it now and suffer no ill effects at all, even for a 400 mile day.
I guess it depends on your fitness too and injury history. Fortunately i don't have a bad back and I'm not overweight and I think that helps.
The RS is about as sporty as I'd want to go at our age if you want to pack some miles into the day.
All the best on your choice

dolson · 06-10-2005

Welcome tjwoods,

I'm 54.5 and have not one bit of trouble with my ST. I agree with the above. I'm probably the exception with most though as I have not had or needed to do most of the mods. that others have done here. Things like bars, etc. Actually I wouldn't mind having a more RS type reach. The seat I had an upholster adjust a little bit and added different grips. The screen, I changed out to a MRA racing.

I've done 400 miles without getting off the bike, just gas and go. And have had 500-600 mile days. The main trick is to use your body from your abs down to support yourself and not your wrists, arms and shoulders.

My typical riding is either Hyper-touring through the Cascade Range or rat racing out in the boonies on the logging roads in the hills with my idiot close friends. I avoid the super slabs like the plague.

There's probably many good deals to be had on '03 and '04s out there.

I too would stick to looking in the '02 vintage on up.

I don't think you could go wrong on either the RS or ST though you might find the ST a bit more user friendly.

Good luck,

Don

Eclipse_Blue · 06-10-2005

Well I am a kick in the arse of 50 and the RS suits me perfectly. I have had it out on 400 mile runs and don't have any problems even with two up. Would not give this baby up for anything - well apart from a Speed triple, Rocket III, Daytona, another RS! The ST is a bit tamer looking and as already said, it is good to see what is sitting under you! :upthumb:

OldSwede · 06-10-2005

I’m well over fifty and I think the RS is a very nice bike and a good all rounder, maybe it’s a little to easy to go fast and risk your licence or worse. But that’s just a matter of self-control.

Most of the difference between RS and ST is in the front, more fairing and higher bars on the ST. Back is the silencers adjustable for better pillion comfort/easier bag fitting and the passenger footrests lower on the ST.
The RS has a sportier feel with its low bars and steeper steering angle, but I don’t think the difference is noticeable in the real world.

I got a little tired in my arms in the beginning but that’s a technique thing, don’t feel it any more.
Don’t forget to buy an off road silencer and enjoy the howl and the extra hp, that’s my suggestion.
I also agree with the boys above, buy a -02 on and get the updates.

06-10-2005

To All Who Answered--

Many thanks for your helpful comments. I'm over my indecision re ST vs RS, and will buy the first one I can afford--preferably '02 or newer. I deeply appreciate your thoughtful comments.

stevecro · 06-10-2005

more than welcome
and Dolson's comment re using the lower part of the body when riding is spot on. Keeping the upper part relaxed and loose is a recipe for long hours in the saddle.

Another benefit of riding that way is the body fitness it maintains compared to slouching loose stomached in the car

I just this morning fitted a sheep skin seat cover to maintain more air flow and comfort so touring should be even better :-D

ST-ern · 06-10-2005

TJ, minor differences in bike ergos can make major differences to your comfort. It's a matter of bike-body match.

I'd strongly advise you to beg, borrow or rent one for a day and see how it feels.

[ This message was edited by: ST-ern on 2005-06-10 19:47 ]