Honda ST1300 Pan European Bike Overview
The original ST1100 Pan European was one of Honda’s best-ever machines, launched in 1990 as a heavy sporty tourer with a 1,085cc transverse V-four, shaft drive, full fairing and hard luggage as standard. It was also the first bike with an optional safety-biased traction control system and ABS, available from 1992-on.
By 2002 though, the 1100 was getting on a bit, so Honda replaced it with the fuel-injected STX1300 Pan European. Power was up from 100bhp to 125bhp, engine capacity went up to 1,261cc, it lost 10kg or so, and it got a full restyle. But the basics remained the same – a fast, comfy, practical tourer with a sweet transverse V-four motor that can waft you gently across continents, but also hustle like a sports bike when you want it to. There’s an electrically-adjustable windscreen, ABS and a massive 29-litre fuel tank, good for over 300 miles at pace, but the overall tech level is basic, with no traction control or other goodies.
Early bikes had a few recalls and problems with corrosion and build quality, but later bikes all sorted this. More worryingly, there were some stability issues with the first STX1300 police bikes, which actually resulted in some nasty crashes. That was found to be down to the heavy radio and other special equipment installed though, and hasn’t been a problem for non-police Pan Europeans.
Take a look at the Honda ST1300 Pan European…
Honda ST1300 Pan European Bike Spec
- Capacity1261cc
- Top speed141mph
- Engine16v, V4, liquid cooled, DOHC
- Weight287kg
- Average fuel consumption45mpg
- Seat height805mm
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Owner Reviews
Pros
This is a very large, comfortable and powerful long distance tourer, that is very reliable and well built. It is easy to ride and gives the rider a very good feedback from the road. It has some good luggage capacity and a good fuel tank capacity for long journeys. The down side is it is very wide when negotiating city traffic and is a little heavy for the average user when popping down the the local shops for supplies.
Cons
Having ridden this machine for many years through various models. I have always felt that the gearbox could have had a sixth gear to improve motorway riding.
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The Pan European is a large comfortable and very stable machine. It gives excellent confidence for the pillion passenger. It has a long wheel base but once on the move its low centre of gravity makes it very easy to handle in the corners. It has a very relaxed seat position which combines the ability to be a long distance tourer with a performance bike character. It is a classic mile eater capable of taking the rider on long journeys with a great deal of confidence.
The Pan European is now an outdated design. However the build quality is that typically of a Honda. It is very well built with a good finish to paint and body work. The machine is very reliable and never let me down. I have had some issues with the wiring loom behind the headlight through corrosion. These were simple faults to correct when they were found after the charging system had failed.
It is a very heavy machine, but the ABS linked braking system supplied by Honda means that the machine can stop very adequately under normal riding conditions. The rider should always consider the machines large stature and weight in his riding techniques. It is always advisable to inspect the double front disc pads as these are put to maximum work load. The wide tyres on this machine always give the rider the feeling of confidence.
The bike has a long frame and the v four engine gives it a very smooth power delivery. The gear box is classic Honda engineering that gives a smooth delivery of power. The V four 1300 cc engine gives the machine a very low centre of gravity that transposes to a large machine that gives the rider confidence and control in the corners.
The V four 1300cc engine provides ample power at the rear wheel. Its power delivery is very smooth and progressive which is the difference between the normally aspirated fuel delivery on the previous model of the ST1100.. For a large and relatively heavy motorcycle, this machine can be ridden at a very challenging pace comparable to some sports bikes. It also performs quite close in the corners to other smaller and more nimble machines.
The bike doesn't cost a great deal to run. The V four Honda engine is pretty bullet proof and just requires the usual servicing intervals. The huge power delivery of the engine means the bike is always working well below its potential. It does require a rear tyre on frequent occasions as its the buffer between the heavy machine and the power delivery. The brakes also need regular inspection for the same reasons. If ridden at sensible speeds the Honda V four will return a fuel consumption in the mid thirty's, but if ridden hard this will drop significantly.
Pros
Comfort and luggage carrying ability
Cons
Make it easier to service without having to take all the plastics off
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Heavy to manhandle but once moving no problem
Torquey engine perfect for touring two up
Make it easier to service without having to take all the plastics off
Ultra reliable
Dual braking system using cintered pad
Pros
The ride is superb, good turning circle.
Cons
It is a heavy bike to move around.
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Stable and a great screen.
Power if you need it.
Big bikes are generally not frugal but the Pan European has a great range.
Honda....say no more.
Sharp when needed. Just right at all other times.