| I've only ridden a VFR once on a test ride but from memory...
1) performance, compared to the vfr, other tourers, or the 996.
An ST2 is a pretty fair match for a VFR, making up for the loss of a few horses with low down grunt. The ST3 road tests reckon the engine is a peach, keeping all the low end of a two valver with better top end. I've ridden two ST4S's now and they will wipe the floor with a VFR, it's not described as a comfortable 996 for nothing
2) ground clearance - will I be able to crank it over a decent way without grounding out ?
Yes! Again, any ST will outperform a VFR by miles on the twisties. The magazines reckon the centrestand will ground out but I've only ever done that two up with full panniers when caught out on a really bumpy 90 degree bend. Otherwise I did 4 track days last year (inters) and never had a problem
3) I have read the ST2 headlight was cr@p. How good/bad is the ST4S light ?
It's not too bad, although the new ST3/ST4S is twice as big and a lot better apparently.
4) Luggage. What are they like with the hard luggage fitted (e.g. light front end at speed) ?
100Mph + No problem
5) how many miles can you get to a tank of fuel when riding enthusiastically ?
My ST does about 160-180, the 4S should be about the same
6) how comfortable is the seat for long trips ? (we do a lot of 10+ day europe trips, so this is important)
Standard seat is fine. Sat on the new ST3/4S at the NEC and it was really comfortable. What with that, a higher screen to reduce windblast and adjustable handlebar risers for angle and height and it should be all day comfort
7) reliability.... Are there known issues to keep an eye on ?
Only as other 4 Valve dukes the ST3 is a bit new to know
8) Abs or not abs ?
Not IMHO, just a personal choise though
9) Anyone tried the ST3 and know how that compares ?
Trying to get a test ride, but the road tests are good, peachy engine keeps ahead of the 4S until 100 MPH + speeds, but that's mainly down to the 4S being very overgeared, a 14T front sprocket or a few teeth on the rear would see the 4S ahead
Ride magazine have got a road test this month which reckons the ST3 keeps with a Kwack 1200 in top gear roll on  |