Seriously wanting a Sprint ST

[03cruiser]

Howdy fellas! I currently own a 2003 Speedmaster and really want to add a Sprint ST to the garage. I know it's an awesome bike, but am curious as to what the negatives of the bike are. In what ways do you believe the Sprint is lacking? If you were the engineer, how would you improve it or have done differently? Would you have added belt drive?
I hear and see only the best about the Sprint, but am realist enough to know that there are some negatives as well. Please share your thoughts.

[Palle]

If you were the engineer, how would you improve it

I would make a better fork. Feels too soft, but I also have to say that I havent had time to play with yet. It can proplerly be fixed with heavy oil or other springs.

Brakes ... My front brakes are absolutly horrible and I have got an update to a 5/8" M.C... Still not good, but the dealer will have a look next thursday.

So, my suggestion for 2 fixes.

1. Better suspension in the fork
2. Coated pistons in the calipers

[airrider03]

Welcome 03cruiser!
I've had my 06 Sprint for a little over a year now and thoroughly enjoy it (12500mi). Transitioning from the upright Tiger to the forward riding position on the Sprint took a little getting used to, but after you've done a few 12 hour plus rides, you can see how it works to your benefit. At first, the suspension seemed short-traveled and harsh, but then I realized that cranking the pre-load adjustment front and back can make for a very plush and sporty ride.
The only engineering gripe I have about it is the seat removal method...two little hidden screws instead of the more common key lock or latching system. I've learned how to put the screws in in less than 1 minute, but others have spent the whole weekend and then tossed them. Relatively minor gripes on my side along with a few build quality issues, but the sheer design will leave a smile on your face after each ride.
Which model year are you looking at?

[03cruiser]

Looking at the '06-'07 right now. Would go for earlier model if the right deal moneywise landed in my lap. However, I like the thought of a 1050 over the 955....

[Palle]

On 2007-06-07 08:59, 03cruiser wrote:
Looking at the '06-'07 right now. Would go for earlier model if the right deal moneywise landed in my lap. However, I like the thought of a 1050 over the 955....

Go for the 1050... Completly diffent bike, not only the engine. I had an RS before and it's just a diffenrent bike.

[AZWildcat]

I would have gladly paid more money for a "higher spec" Sprint similar to what Ducati has with the ST3. I would like to see an upgraded model include the following;

Fully adjustable high quality suspension front and rear.
Better headlights.
Better heat insulation from the vertical exhaust pipe behind the riders right leg.
Adjustable windshield.
Adjustable seat.
Adjustable pegs.
Marchesini wheels.

[03cruiser]

Outstanding Inputs! Please keep them coming.

[Palle]

Better heat insulation from the vertical exhaust pipe behind

I've orded some insultation "tape" today, plus a plate that can fit under the seat...
This is surely a fix that need to be done to the bike... It's awesome in december, still keeps you right foot and a** nearly 20C (70F ?) (I dont drive in december, i live in scandinavia )

Also, I've orded the sportsexhaust as it should have better airflow and be colder than this..

[airrider03]

+1 for the better headlights.
...solve mine w/ motolights 2x50w

[LoVel]

If you think all the stuff on this sight is positive you obviously are not reading. Lots of us have had different problems but almost all of us still love our Sprints.