Triumphrat

Gregness · 12-04-2012, 04:51 PM

Hi All,

I am new to the site. I read some of the comparo threads on the ST vs. the GT, but hoped I could drill down a bit.

I am coming off a 2008 Kawi C14, that I sold because 1) My wife does not really want to ride, and 2) I was bored with it. It was just to big and heavy to really carve with, and more bike than a solo rider needs.

I only have one bike now, my track-day spec 2004 RC51. I want a another bike that will work for the occasional solo SPORT-tour, sport riding and general use. I am leaning towards a 2009ish ST over the GT due to its lighter weight. I am not afraid of having to sort out the suspension and brakes myself, done that alot.

For these purposes, is it worth putting up with the GT's weight, to gain its enhancements over the ST?

Thanks!

G

Tri-oomph! · 12-04-2012, 06:14 PM

If you are riding solo, I am not sure there are any enhancements to speak of with the GT. But it's been so long since I read up on the bikes, I might be forgetting something. The ST does look better and the luggage is fine for one person. I've done an eleven day trip with a duffel on the seat and the luggage and that was plenty of space. I'd put it this way; if they offered both side-by-side as brand new bikes, I'd pick the ST myself. If I carried a pillion, I might choose the GT, but only for that reason.

Billbikes · 12-04-2012, 07:04 PM

I think the headlights are better, but the ST is just as good in pretty much every other category. Much more unique, IMO.

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pmackie · 12-04-2012, 11:03 PM

I'm sure the GT is a pretty similar bike, but the ST has a shorter wheelbase, and a little less weight. From motorcycle-usa.com:

http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/256/50...omparison.aspx

ST - wb-57.4 inch, 578 lbs wet
GT - wb -60.5 inch, 590 lbs wet

Although these items are not the only issues to consider, if you are going to revalve the suspension, the ST should result in a slightly sportier package, still with the ability to tour solo.

GT should have better lights, more comfortable long distance seat, way more baggage capacity, and a few extra things.

I like touring on my ST...YRMV

SLY DVL · 12-04-2012, 11:18 PM

I asked the exact same questions about a month ago, Greg. In case you didn't see it here's the thread I started that netted some great feedback on the two...

http://www.triumphrat.net/sprint-for...-st-vs-gt.html

fredsprint · 12-05-2012, 08:29 AM

Well, I bought a GT because:
I hate the underseat exhaust,
It's more a long tourer to me,
It's more comfy for the pillion.

The GT luggage capacity is huge. My previous one was a 2002 955 sprint ST. The GT is fare less a toy to ride. Probably less fun. You feel the extra weight.
But the additional 8 cm wheel base help to go straight on the long haul. The 6 th gear is longer, and the torque is better and sooner.
To be honest I wanted more comfort for my best half. And she's happy.

If you ride it hot areas like socal or texas, you'll appreciate the low exhaust of the GT.
But if ride alone all the time and it doesn't bother you to have your legs burned in the hot summer then go for the ST. BTW I never rode a ST1050.

Just try them.

Fred

KaptainRat · 12-05-2012, 08:57 AM

One thing to consider weight wise GT is weighed with the panniers on and the ST is not.

toronto_sprint · 12-05-2012, 09:19 AM

I had thought that the wet weight for the ST 1050 was about 530 pounds (without bags).

I recall the weight of the GT panniers being discussed in another thread and believe the estimate was that they weighed about 30 pounds. Also, keep in mind that you can easily shed about 12 pounds from the GT by swapping the standard silencer for a Trident carbon fibre can.

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fredsprint · 12-05-2012, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by toronto_sprint

I had thought that the wet weight for the ST 1050 was about 530 pounds (without bags).

I recall the weight of the GT panniers being discussed in another thread and believe the estimate was that they weighed about 30 pounds. Also, keep in mind that you can easily shed about 12 pounds from the GT by swapping the standard silencer for a Trident carbon fibre can.

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I think this being close to the asphalt, that doesn't count too much in the feeling.

Fred

fredsprint · 12-05-2012, 10:08 AM

BTW:

http://www.triumphrat.net/sprint-for...andlebars.html

The position is more upright w/ the GT. Forgot that. In addition you can add risers.

Those GT higher handlebar were an option in the ST triumph catalog but I think they aren't any more. Might find used one. Or GT handlebars to fit the ST and get rid of the black painting. Exactly same parts.

I am in the process of building even higher handlebars. I just bought used tiger throttle and clutch cables for that purpose. I'll post pictures once finished. But it's a lot of work.

Fred