Things to know

ST1100's are quality machines, but they have a few weak points that require consideration. Two things that can add a lot of cost to the purchase of a used ST1100 are the exhaust and the swingarm, both are prone to rust. Checking the swingarm for rust requires removal of the rear wheel and dirt from the swingarm. The weak spots of the exhaust system are the collector box and the points on the silencers close to where they attach to the collector box. Properly checking for rust requires taking the exhaust system off the bike. Neither removing the rear wheel and/or removing the exhaust are normally an option when you go and inspect a potential purchase. In the case of the exhaust it is unwise to even attempt removing it due to the likelyhood of seal damage and seized clamps.

The best approach is to get a feel for the likely condition of these parts. Swingarm condition is more likely to be a problem on high milage versions, exhaust wear varies greatly, sometimes it needs replacing after as little as 32.000 km (20,000 miles), but you could also find a bike that has done close to 160.000 km (100,000 miles) with the original. Usage in wet weather and especially winter usage on salted roads can greatly accelerate rusting. Typically the state of the center stand is a good indicator of the condition of both the swingarm and the exhaust because it's located close to both these items and subject to the same conditions.

Significant value can be added if Stainless Steel collector box and silencers have been fitted.

Odometer reading (milage)

ST1100s can clock up in excess of 320.000 km / 200,000 miles when they are well cared for, so there is no need to shy away from a high milage ST1100 if it's in good nick. A good service record is important when considering a high milage copy. Personally I don't think much of the quality of the average motorcycle mechanic, and I would not hesitate to have more faith in the work done by a mechanically skilled owner who has done the maintenance himself.

Prices (local taxes can add value)

Pan-Europeans generally hold their value well, old copies in good condition can fetch high prices. The 1991 low milage bike pictured on the right sold in December 2003 for € 5.500 / £ 3,700, looking at the picture shows that this bike is in great condition, Silver bikes are especially sought after. ABS/TCS on 1995 or earlier models approximately adds € 300 to the value of a bike. On 1996 and later models the ABS option was enhanced resulting in a beefed up front fork and front brakes, these models also feature CBS, the system as a whole is commonly referred to as ABS2. ABS2 ads approximately € 700 to the value of a ST1100.

On the spot checks

• Check the center stand for corrosion to get a feel for the state of the exhaust and/or swing arm. (see first 2 paragraphs)
• Remove both plastic crash bar covers (they are fixed with a single Phillips screw), a scuffed crash bar indicates that the bike has had a slide crash. A slide crash does not necessarily result in further damage thanks to the protection provided by the crash bars, but be extra aware of further damage. Also check for scuffs on the lower part of the pannier lids and the silencers.
• Check for gaps on all front fairing parts towards the false tank and side covers. Gaps could indicate that the bike has had a significant crash resulting in a bent "cowling stay" (the frame that holds the entire front stuff).
• Check the service history.
• Check if the serial numbers match with the vehicle registration documents.
• Check the rear shock absorber, it's exposed to spray from the rear wheel and thus prone to corrosion.

Additional check for machines equipped with ABS

• Check to see if the ABS electronics are working correctly via the ABS indicator light.
• Check if the rear ABS modulator works by taking a test ride and activating the rear brake until the ABS kicks in. If the modulator does not work then it will likely have to be replaced, this is very expensive (+/- € 1500).

Extras that add value (estimated added value)

• GVI 35 liter Top Box. (€ 200)
• GVI 20 liter Top Box. (€ 130)
• Honda Top Box. (€ 120)
• Original Honda heated grips. (€ 130)
• A good quality alarm & immobiliser. (€ 200)
• Front mudguard extender (Fenda Extenda), helps to keep dirt out of the radiator. (€ 30)
• Wind deflector kit (plastic bits that divert wind away from hands and knees). The wind deflector kit comprises of 2 separately available parts, mirror deflectors (€ 20) and fairing deflectors (€ 30).
• Pannier inner bags, after market types can be preferable over the original Honda bags. (€ 50/pair)
• Higher replacement windscreen. (€ 150)
• After market saddle. (€ 200 - 400)
• Hazard lights. (€ 30)
• Fog light. (€ 30)

Model revisions

The ST1100 has undergone 2 model revisions, the three types can usually be identified quickly by looking at the side panel grip plastic and/or the colour of the undercowl plastic:

Pre 1995		and
1995		and/or
1996 and later		and