Considering moving from a Honda ST1100 to a Venture

[djzoohelp]

Hi All,

Currently riding a 2001 Honda ST1100. I love some aspects of the bike, but my aging back isn't liking the riding position as much as it might when I was younger. Also, after about 200km, my lovely wife was somewhat 'sit disadvantaged' when she got off.

So, I'm checking out the Venture. Around these parts, they seem to be a great deal compared to a GoldWing - and I've never warmed up to wings.

Any one else make a similar change?

Thanks all,

Keith

[steamer]

Just about every Venture owner feels the same way about the Wing compared to the Venture.speaking for myself,I can say the RSV has more leg room,large comfortable seats with lots of room for two large riders.And it is one sharp looking motorscooter.

[flb_78]

The Venture is a beast of a bike compared to your ST1100, but you'll be hard pressed to find a bike with better passenger accommodations though.

[muaymendez1]

Its a big difference. The st1100 is very smooth and power band goes forever. IMO this is a lifted truck compared to your toyota camry.

[Panjandrum]

I did what you are considering doing. I considered the Wing, saw the Venture, liked the price, and went for the Venture for passenger comfort. I loved my ST, especially in the twisties. However, the Venture is a more comfortable ride and still gets through the corners nicely. I may be less likely to kill myself on the Venture, and I can certainly ride it for longer stretches.

 

I have no regrets about the move!

[Jrichard]

Hey man:---------I"ll give ya 10 "Ben Franklins" fer the ST-------they will EAT those "Ventures" alive and spit em ouT :clap2::clap2::thumbsup2::usa:???????????you 2 "yammer dan"---------put your $$$$$ where ya mouth is???????????????????-------them YamaMamas-------r still dealing w/that 'ole technology"------____I can take that ST "VENTURE'----to well over 100 in 2nd gear!!!!!!:mo money:

[RSTDdog]

I went from a 1992 ST1100 ABS TCS to the Royal Star Tour Deluxe although I had a 10 year hiatus without a motorcycle in between. The Tour deluxe and Venture are similar enough that most of my obervations should apply.

 

I selected the RSTD because it provided the widest array of features and comfort including passenger comfort and likely to be best suited for Florida riding. The roads here in Florida are basically straight with some limited exceptions( 11 turns in 318 miles). I looked at the FJR1300 and the ST1300 also.

 

On a trip last year to the Moto GO at indy from Atlanta via NC, Tennesse, Deals gap, Cherola Skyway, Kentucky, etc. I was missing the ST in the mountains. Not that RSTD was bad, but as my skills improved, I found scraping floorboards to be un-nerving and distracting when I wanted to push a little harder than the bike would let me. I was riding by myself on that trip though. Two up riding with a passenger is more relaxed, at least for me. Depends how sporting your passenger is. Do not misundertand the RSTD is no slouch in the mountains but its no ST either.

 

The ST1100 is Light compared to a Tour Deluxe or Venture. 5 gallons of fuel on top of the engine in front of you is heavier than 7 gallons behind the engine and below you. Once rolling though these bikes lighten up quite a bit. The weight does add to the highway performance and stability. I do miss ABS and being able to grab a Handfull of front brake inthe rain without recourse.

 

Its been over 10 years since I had my ST so I don't know how my back would fair on one now. Have you added handle bar risers to raise your seated position??

 

If I had the luxury of two bikes, I would have an ST (or FJR or FZ1 even) and the RSTD. For passenger accomdations for my wife the former choices are no longer a realistic option. THe RSTD is the minimalmist version of the venture but you still get the electronic cruise control (Someting I wish they had put on the ST or FJR). The 2005 and UP RSTD has the same engine and horsepower as the venture.

 

The good thing about the Venture/RSTD engine is that it is a proven bullet proof design basically unchanged for nearly 30 years (1983). The bad thing is that it is an engine that is unchanged for 30 years and as such lacks a bit of refinement compared to the Honda engine. That being said there is no timing belt to change in a Yamaha V4 although I have never heard of one breaking in the Honda.

 

FOr overall ridng comfort and accomodations the Venture or RSTD is tough to beat. You will give up some handling and fuel economy and overall range compared to the ST.

 

Bottom line Keep the ST AND buy a Venture!! They are not likely to give you much real money for the ST on a trade anyhow.

 

RSTDdog

[jer878]

I just sold my RSV to a gentleman that was riding an FJR. He picked it up on the 11 of June. Got an email on the 18th said he has put on 1000 miles and he's beging to really like it. Said want to spend more time with his wife so got her a more comfy seat. I'm sure he noticed a handleing difference from the FJR to the RSV but didn't mention it. I certianly notice it from the RSV to the 08 Wing I purchased a month ago.

[djzoohelp]

RSTDdog - Thanks for that very considered opinion. Also loved the "Lifted Truck" analogy earlier. Not sure my STella wants to eat a Venture though

 

Wifey and I just did a "Ride for Dad" on Saturday and we were both a bit sore when we arrived home. Mind you, it involved a slow parade through town for about an hour. I was using the stock seat with 2" Laminar Lip risers in place. The risers help, but that seat is cruel on a guy with a lower back problem. I've come to the conclusion that any seat that is narrower than, or equal to, the width of your sit points will cause your hips to hurt within an hour or so.

 

To wit (I'm being pretentious now - impressive wha?) I picked up a really rough used Corbin seat a while ago. It's much more comfortable, but also sits me back about 2" further than stock. That 2" pretty much negates the riser benefits.

 

I grew to love my ST1100 over the last year or so - especially on the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia - the bike was simply amazing. Full lean to full lean in mountain twisties is where that thing shines. And I know I'll miss it during that type of run if I make the change. But I really enjoy long tours and I think comfort should probably be the deciding factor.

 

I know of a good price on an 01 RSV but it has 100,000km on it. Recognizing that the engines last a long time, I'm still a bit put off by that. For another $3500 I can get one with lower mileage and a bit newer, but I'm not sure I'll get $3500 worth of extra value. My ST1100 is low mileage and in excellent shape, so it should get a decent dollar in our market.

 

Anyway, thanks for all the responses. Feel free to keep 'em coming.

[RSTDdog]

I had fitted my ST with a Corbin seat as well. Made a big difference. It had a feature they don't make any more. The passenger backrest was a folding unit and when down made it look like a solo seat and when up made for a nice wide backrest. Best thing was it was functional with the optional trunk. As you can tell I miss that bike.

 

100,000 Km is 60,000 miles if Im doing the math right. Thats nothing for the engine really. If its well taken care of should not be an issue. Lots of low mileage units here in the states, but not sure if taxes/duty would offset any savings. There is currently an 05 Midnight Venture with 5500 miles (10,000 Km =/-) for 8000.00 US on craigslist near me.

 

Have you had the opportunity to ride a Venture yet? Depending on how long distance your riding you may consider the RSTD. A little less top heavy than the venture since there is no trunk or full front fairing. Still comfortable and you can easily remove the windshield.

 

I am Venture-rising my tour deluxe. Have added the pillow top seats and am adding a trunk for longer travels, but will be able to go back easily for daily driving and shorter rides when i don't want or need the added weight.

 

Good luck with whatever you decide. Lots of good help and advice here. You'll have no troubles keeping it on the road.

 

Derrek

[BG Hawks]

Made the switch from a Vstar 1100 to the RSV last year. My wife was never comfortable on the 1100 so I moved up. Glad I did but certainly 2 different bikes. Take it slow and learn about the bike. Quite honestly I was not ready for a bike that heavy especially 2 up. I got through the learning curve without doing anything stupid. Now it feels that the bike and I are one as goofy as that sounds. Also as you see on this site don't be afraid to run those RPM's up. Good luck and keep us posted!