2008 Honda ST1300 Review

Intro

The Honda ST1300 first debuted in the sport touring category in 2002. While the 2008 Honda ST1300 may look conservative to some, it has plenty to offer within this category, starting with its powerful 1261cc engine. The V-four engine is longitudinally mounted on the sport touring bike and provides 109 horsepower at 7700 rpm, and 83 lb-ft of torque at 6200 rpm. The engine may seem less powerful than some inline-four engines on competitors' bikes, but it provides ample power for quick acceleration of the 2008 Honda ST1300.

As well as being quick to pull away, the fuel-injected engine provides additional power for travelling at speed on the highway. Even when cruising, a twist of the throttle gives that additional thrust needed for passing and maneuvering, and turns this bike from a touring bike into the sport touring bike that it is. In addition to the powerful engine, the 2008 Honda ST1300 is nimble and agile when maneuvering. The standard 2008 Honda ST1300 is equipped with a linked braking system. If the anti-lock brake system (ABS) model is chosen, ABS brakes combine with the linked braking system to provide more braking and steering control options.

The high-performance handling of the 2008 Honda ST1300 is down to its twin-spar aluminum frame and premium suspension. The frame features a huge steering head casting, as well as triple-box-section spars. The engine is solidly mounted to the frame, and the use of specialized handlebars and mounting bolts limits the engine vibration felt by the rider while still maximizing road feel. Its low center of gravity aids in making those low speed maneuvers successfully.

The 2008 Honda ST1300 is a touring bike so rider comfort is of major importance. The rider’s seat has a three position adjustment range that allows for movement of the seat up to 1.2 inches vertically and 1.0 inches horizontally to allow riders of all sizes to feel comfortable and confident while seated on the bike. An adjustable windscreen is motor-driven and can be adjusted by 7.4 inches and 13 degrees to provide optimal wind protection while riding. The windscreen motor is operated by a thumb switch on the left handlebar. The windscreen can be manually adjusted for an additional 2.3 inches if the windscreen is mounted on mounting brackets.

Integrated saddlebags are included with the 2008 Honda ST1300. Each saddlebag can hold up to 35 liters of gear and are lockable and detachable. Straps can be found within the saddlebag to limit the opening to only 90 degrees so that contents are better secured when riding. Plastic-covered, body protector stays extend outwards on the bike to increase protection of the engine in case the 2008 Honda ST1300 tips over. The seating area is roomy and the ergonomics ensure that both passengers have plenty of seating space and comfort for those long rides.

New For 2008

  • The 2008 Honda ST1300 is available in candy dark red.
  • The 2008 model remains unchanged from the previous year model of the Honda 1300ST.

2008 Honda ST1300 Specs

  • Model: Honda ST1300
  • Engine Type: 1261cc, liquid-cooled, longitudinally-mounted, 90 degree V-4
  • Bore and Stroke: 78 x 66 mm
  • Compression ratio: 10.8:1
  • Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder
  • Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enricher circuit, four-36mm throttle bodies, eight-holes per injector
  • Ignition: Computer-controlled digital with three-dimensional mapping and electronic advance
  • Transmission: Five-speed
  • Final Drive: Shaft
  • Fuel Capacity: 7.7 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): Dual full-floating 310 mm discs with LBS three-piston calipers
  • Brakes (Rear): Single 316 mm disc with LBS three-piston caliper; Optional ABS
  • Suspension (Front): 45 mm HMAS cartridge fork
  • Suspension (Rear): HMAS gas-charged single shock with five-position spring preload adjustability
  • Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
  • Rake: 26 degrees
  • Trail: 3.9 inches
  • Seat Height: 31 inches
  • Curb Weight: 719 lbs.; 730 lbs. with ABS
  • Tires (Front): 120/70ZR-18
  • Tires (Rear): 170/60ZR-17

Accessories

  • A removable saddlebag liner set and scuff-pad set are available to prolong the life of the 2008 Honda ST1300 saddlebags.
  • A mirror air-deflector set, fairing air-deflector set, and heated grips all add to the comfort of the rider, particularly when the weather turns colder.
  • A custom Honda bike cover is available to protect the 2008 Honda ST1300 when parked, and is large enough to cover installed saddlebags.

Key Competitors For The 2008 Honda ST1300

  • Yamaha FJR 1300
  • BMW K1200GT
  • Kawasaki Concours 14