Honda ST1300 ABS Pan European
Why mess with a good thing? Updated in 2002, the ST1300 Pan European received
all of Honda's latest advances in technology and innovation. Although the
existing model - ST1100 Pan-European provided excellent riding satisfaction
it was decided that the time had finally come to develop an all-new Pan-European
infusing it with all of Honda's latest advances in technology and innovation.
Honda ST1300 ABS Pan European Design Concept
Although the current Pan-European continues to provide excellent riding
satisfaction, the primary goal in its redesign was to completely surpass
it with an entirely model that can provide even sportier performance,
higher reliability and greater care for the preservation of the world's
fragile environment.
Early in the design stages of the Pan-European, the development concept
'Vantage and Prestige' was formulated as a guide to achieving the most
comfortable high-speed sports touring with unrivalled power and handling
for its class, and the longest touring range between fill-ups. In assessing
what improvements should be included in the machine, the Pan-European's
development team singled-out its vehicle weight as being in need of a
slimming programme. Riders, especially recently, are looking for lighter
weight that translates to more responsive acceleration and overall handling.
An advanced aluminium frame and swingarm were thus called for, as were
lighter, more advanced components such as the latest Dual Combined and
Antilock Brake Systems, all of which add up to an astounding 15kg weight
reduction, a 50mm shorter wheelbase, and more centralised mass for sportier
handling.
Stronger power, a longer touring range and greater concern for the environment
were also desired changes, and these were achieved with a complete reworking
of the Pan-European's unique longitudinally mounted V4 engine, the addition
of Honda's most advanced, high-efficiency PGM-FI fuel injection system
and, in a deluxe model, its ultra-clean HECS3 catalytic converter system,
which combine to ensure the lowest emissions in the Pan-European's class.
And although the same basic V4 engine configuration as the original Pan-European
was maintained, extensive modifications were made to make it more compact,
more efficient, more powerful and even more attractive when stripped of
bodywork.
In regards to its touring range, to really live up to the Pan-European
name in terms of 21st Century performance, the team set as its goal the
sort of fuel economy that would make possible a non-stop, high-speed cruise
from the German heartland capital of Frankfurt to the foothills of the
pinnacled glory of the Alps-or approximately 380km-on a single tankful
of fuel. As the current Pan-European was only designed to make it as far
as Munich, this sort of range would indisputably reassert the Pan-European's
claim to European touring pre-eminence.
More luxurious touring comfort and better wind protection were also primary
design objectives for the Pan-European, with the sports riding potential
of the VFR on winding roads and Gold Wing levels of comfort on the autobahns
confirming that the Pan-European is not only a fantastic tourer, but also
delivers swift and exciting sports bike performance whenever the mood
or situation calls for it.
With all this and exciting features like its 3-position adjustable seat
height and push-button adjustable windscreen providing quick and easy
response to changing riding conditions, the Pan-European is proudly positioned
to zoom to the head of its touring class with an easy twist of its throttle,
and stay ahead from one end of the Continent to the other for many years
to come.
Honda ST1300 ABS Pan European Features
Rock solid performer
The Pan-European is a comfortable high-speed tourer with unrivalled power
and handling for its class, and with an impressive range between fuel
fill-ups it is the perfect touring machine.
Greater performance
The Pan-European's new 1,260cm3 engine with increased bore and stroke,
realises a breath-taking thrust of roll-on performance. New aluminium
cylinders and pistons contribute to the engine's sharper response and
acceleration while the high-efficiency PGM-FI fuel injection system and
ultra-clean HECS3 catalytic converter combine to ensure stronger power
and the lowest emissions in its class.
Distinctive design
The all-new Pan-European's dynamic new integrated, full-coverage bodywork
features an 'Aero-Ellipse' form to accentuate its look of speed while
contributing to the machine's feeling of stability at high speeds.
Equipped to go the distance
Designed to provide excellent protection against the wind and elements
the new Pan-European is perfect for both long-distance rides or crowded
urban traffic conditions.
Advanced technology
A new aluminium frame and swingarm with lighter, more advanced components
translates to more responsive acceleration and sportier handling.
ABS model
A deluxe version of the Pan-European features Honda's famed Antilock Brake
System working in seamless combination with its Dual Combined Brake System.
Luxurious amenities
The Pan-European's new 3-position adjustable rider's seat and well designed
cockpit area are at least as comfortable and luxurious as its bodywork
is sleek and beautiful. Featuring broad, compliant rider and passenger
seating, the Pan-European provides long-term riding comfort.
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