A 2003 Honda?

Another category that is making a resurgence in popularity is the sport-touring segment. Honda's ST1100 was introduced in 1991 and not a lot has changed on the bike since then, until now. Finally after a 12-year wait, Honda has completely redesigned the bike and renamed it the ST1300 [or ST1300ABS, for the anti-lock brake version].

The name change is due to the significant engine changes, namely a displacement increase to 1261cc. It's still a longitudinally mounted 90-degree V-four, but it's all-new. It now features Honda's latest fuel-injection system with 36mm throttle bodies, combined with their new injectors that feature 12 laser-drilled fuel jet holes for an ultra fine fuel mist. The engine has two gear-driven counterbalancers to eliminate vibration. The crankshaft has been lowered in the crankcase by 20mm to keep the center of gravity lower for improved handling. The ST1100's belt-driven cams have been trashed in favor of new silent-type chain-driven cams, which allow the engine to be 10mm shorter.

The chassis is all-new as well, with an all-new aluminum frame that is 16.5-pounds lighter than the frame on the ST1100. The swingarm is also a new design; it is now made out of aluminum instead of steel, saving 1.9 pounds.

Virtually every other component on the bike is brand new, including the entire braking system, which features Honda's Linked Braking System (LBS), and optional ABS. The wheels and brakes are also considerably lighter, which reduces unsprung weight for much better handling.

The touring features have not been overlooked on the ST1300 by any means, and it features a nice list of amenities. The first is the adjustable seat, which can be adjusted into three positions, with a 1.2-inch range in seat height, and can also be adjusted horizontally by one inch. The bike features a new motor-driven windscreen that offers 7.4 inches and 13-degrees of adjustability. The all-new detachable and lockable saddlebags hold 35 liters each (enough for a full face helmet). The bodywork has been updated considerably and no longer looks like a refugee from the early '90s.