Once again, we were pleasantly surprised at how well the other
bikes compared in the Gold Wing’s arena of flat-out freeway cruising. The ST,
although placing the rider in an upright, ready riding position, manages to
deliver comfort for extremely long hauls. In the high position, the electrically
adjustable windscreen provides a decent amount of protection from turbulence.
Despite its smaller displacement, the ST has plenty of power to maintain high
speeds for extended periods with enough additional muscle on tap for overtaking.
Equally impressive, the VTX’s cruiser ergonomics and plush seat are an open
invitation for traversing the Interstate—albeit at a more laid back approach
than its cohorts. However, the ergonomics encourage the rider to slouch,
inviting potential back tweak if you are not careful. The fixed windshield
breaks up the air nicely, but has a tendency in certain conditions to push the
rider forward with swirling vortices at the back. The V-twin powerplant might be
a little behind the other two on the on-ramp, but once up to speed it finds
harmony among the brood. On all three machines, top gear provides decent
overdrive, keeping the revs low, while the shaft drives are quiet and
worry-free.
RIDING STYLE | Helmet: Shoei Multitec; Eyewear: Maui Jim; Jacket
and over pant: Olympia Airglide 2 Mesh Tech; Gloves: Red Wing (prototypes);
Boots: Kushitani Field System.
Detouring through the labyrinth of orange groves flanking Santa
Paula and up through Sulphur Springs’ winding roads, we landed in Ojai, where
the VTX found its place, strutting its stuff, cruising the main drag of the
quaint town as we searched out a place to eat. The VTX carries its weight
extremely low in the chassis and, when combined with the wide handlebars, gives
it extremely competent manners for executing tight U-turns or near-zero mph
maneuvering. Style is the name of the game in town, and although the Gold Wing
and ST1300 have their appeal, the focus of most eyes will be on the masculine
VTX.
We continually swapped mounts at frequent intervals on our
outings, and the exercise revealed more than we expected. With the opportunity
to hop off the cruiser, get directly onto the luxury liner, then swap for the
sport tourer, emphasized not only their radical differences, but in turn allowed
us to better understand and appreciate the diversity of disciplines the machines
represent.
 RIDING STYLE | Helmet: AGV XR2; Leathers: Spidi
Veritek Touring; Gloves: Spidi Sport Composite H2O Out; Boots: Sidi Strada
Evo Te-por. (Click image to enlarge)
As the days unfolded, there was none of the usual vying for
time on the one machine that usually happens as the clear favorite emerges in
multiple bike tests. More interestingly, our common experience was trader’s
remorse immediately after switching, having fallen in love with a mount. But,
after a few minutes of acclimation, a new favorite was born, as we settled into
the appeal of each machine. Unlike boys fighting over the prettiest girl at the
prom, we gladly traded off, always eager to exchange dance partners once we
realized that each machine had its own undeniable charm and grace.
Luggage capacity seems appropriate in relation to the
categories. The Gold Wing has an abundance of space, more than adequate for a
two-up coast-to-coast tour with reasonable expectations about carry-on. By
comparison, the ST is going to demand a little more thought about what to take
and what to leave behind. The detachable bags provide sufficient room for a
night or two, provided you are not dating Imelda Marcos. Stock bags on the VTX
are really only suitable for an extended day trip or overnight romp. However,
capacity is easily expanded with an aftermarket backrest-mounted bag, such as
those from Dowco.
The list of things we did not like is relatively short. The VTX
runs sans fuel gauge, so the rider must exercise due diligence and keep track of
miles traveled. The ST’s lower fairing design, in relation to the foot pegs,
forces the rider to spread-eagle a bit putting a foot down when stopped. In
situations involving tight maneuvering, there is a little uneasiness due the
Gold Wing fuel-injection system’s slight hesitationjust off idle. The trick is
to apply just a bit of gas, then slip the clutch to control speed instead of
nursing the throttle. Once mastered the technique remedies the problem.
 Utilizing different inherent strengths, each
machine confidently tackles the variety of roads found while
touring. (Click image to enlarge)
We enlisted the services of an expert pillion tester to educate
us on the perspective from the passenger seat. The Gold Wing, as expected from
its demeanor, delivered a thoroughly luxurious ride, allowing her to sit back
and enjoy the scenery. Between the wind protection, stereo and intercom, "it was
like riding on a couch," she observed. The seat area encases the passenger in a
little womb created by the backrest, trunk, and armrests, rendering a feeling of
absolute security. Elements such as the heated seat and passenger compartments
(within easy reach for access while on the move) present an unequaled level of
comfort and convenience.
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