MSTA Forums
Main Forums => General Discussion => Topic started by: TN2Wheeler on May 02, 2014, 01:02:29 PM
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I received my June issue of Rider magazine a day or so ago. They tested and reviewed Honda's new CTX1300 "touring cruiser". Is anyone else as saddened as I am but what they've done to the ST?
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I visited the Honda tent at Bike Week this year. They were proudly displaying their CTX models. I try to keep an open mind on all bikes. Just because it's not my taste doesn't mean there is not a market out there. That being said, I just can't figure out what Honda has in mind with this line if bikes. They even had a black ST1300 on display. I asked the Honda Rep why it was there. He said "we are still making the ST." Yep that's a quote! I said let's check the VIN and I'll bet that's a 2012 model. He seemed surprised that I would know that.
I walked away shaking my head. -JEP-
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Got a postcard type mailer from a local Honda dealer having an open house and those kind of bikes, along with some cruisers a dirt bike and a baby CBR were all featured on the add. I guess Gold Wings (not the F6B), ST1300s, VFRs, and the bigger sport bikes are not where Honda wants to focus. Maybe they're all about attracting a new market with new riders, and these are the bikes that interest them.
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I received my June issue of Rider magazine a day or so ago. They tested and reviewed Honda's new CTX1300 "touring cruiser". Is anyone else as saddened as I am but what they've done to the ST?
The ST1300 is still shown on the newset Honda website (along with all their latest models) so they may still be sellimg that model. Not sure if it is still being manufactured.
They really need to update it if they want to compete with the latest models from the other manufacturers.
I just don't see the CX1300 selling well, it just doesn't seem to fit in any of the established categories.
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This bike reminds me of the Magna. A power cruiser that didn't fit the norm. The way I see it is that Honda is looking for a new market.
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Got a postcard type mailer from a local Honda dealer having an open house and those kind of bikes, along with some cruisers a dirt bike and a baby CBR were all featured on the add. I guess Gold Wings (not the F6B), ST1300s, VFRs, and the bigger sport bikes are not where Honda wants to focus. Maybe they're all about attracting a new market with new riders, and these are the bikes that interest them.
Well I'm sure that's their plan. They pay somebody big bucks to make these kinds of decisions. And while it's true the ST1300 was a bit dated it was still a fine motorcycle. Not only have they changed the riding position to the awkward feet-forward configuration, they have detuned that sweet engine substantially to make it more "cruiser-like". Stupid.
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Jim,
It doesn't make any sense to me either but neither you or I are the intended market. Life will go on regardless. :-)
Tosh
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I don' think that it was intended as a replacement for the ST1300. Rather, it is an expansion of the CTX series, as Honda indicated when they brought out the CTX700. While most of us prefer sport touring and adventure touring bikes, there is a market for that other segment. Our local dealer has done well with the CTX700, several for first time riders, women riders and those that don't feel comfortable with heavy or tall bikes. The cruiser market is a lot larger than the market for our favorite style bikes and I guess they are aiming at that, adding it to their F6B, Valkyrie, class, etc. I guess the CTX1300 may appeal to those riders that want that style bike, but want something a bit larger than the CTX700, but smaller than the 1800 offerings.
I rode the CTX1300 and if I had to tour on that, my trips would be very, very short. Not comfortable at all for me.
OTOH, our dealer has sold one ST1300 in the last several years, and he ordered that for a customer who wanted one, as he didn't stock them. They have neglected to upgrade that fine bike, but have continued to raise the price to unreasonable levels.
As one who has owned 1 ST1100 and 3 ST1300's, I see nothing in their line that interests me as a sport/adventure touring bike, which is why in 2011 I bought my first new Yamaha since 1973.
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I wish we had a "like" button for some of the above comments.
Maybe Honda is going back to the basics where you "meet the nicest people....." and they want to attack the new rider market? Sorry to hear they are leaving their loyal customers behind. -JEP-
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I know that "we" are pro sport-adv-touring and anti cruiser around here but I'm not sure why everyone is so offended by the CTX13. If ya don't like it don't buy it.
I think they shouldn't have ripped the balls out of it (ala Yamaha Royal Star) but I haven't ridden one yet. I would cut/swap those handle bars though.
And Fred said, it's not a replacement for the ST but an expansion of the CTX line and a use for a good motor they are already making. my .02 TM