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Honda CTX1300-Based Sport Tourer Rumored to Replace the ST1300 Pan European

Honda has retirement plans for its long-standing ST1300 Pan European sport-tourer, rumor has it. With a wonderful 12-year history, the ST1300 Pan European was introduced back in 2002, as the natural evolution on the ST1100 platform, but retaining the basic cues and character of the initial machine.
Honda ST1300 Pan European 3 photos
Photo: Honda
Honda ST1300 Pan EuropeanHonda CTX1300
However, it looks like the new Honda paradigm of using a base platform for developing several models will cause the good-old Pan European to become phased out, most likely replaced by a new tourer born in the (future) CTX1300 family. Most riders agree that the new CTX1300 is in fact an ST1300 spin-off, receiving new styling and in a way following the pattern which led to the creation of the F6B from the Gold Wing flagship.

While this is sort of true, we should not forget that Honda’s new CTX bike is a stand-alone machine, with a completely new frame and is powered by a new revision of the V4 engine in the Pan European. The new machine is definitely a step up from the ST1300, in terms of both looks and works, even though might argue that the new frame is not that much of an improvement.

The twin-spar chassis of the Pan European is made from cast aluminium, while the CTX1300 has a tubular steel frame, but this is only a matter of material preferences, as both bikes weigh pretty much the same, with the ST1300 tipping the scales at 730 lb (330 kg), while the CTX1300 is a 724 lb (328 kg) haul.
We tend to believe these rumors because of two main reasons, the first being that Honda has not announced a new model year for the ST1300, and most likely never will. It’s worth hoping a “last call” special edition to surface, though Honda has been rather shy in this field.

The second reason is that such a move would be a natural alignment to the current business model for the Japanese manufacturer. The phased out model would be replaced by a similar, but newer and better-performing one, built on an already-existing platform. This means less development costs, as they would be limited to upgrading the existing bodywork and making some revisions in certain places. A new seat for long-range touring comfort, an (electronically) adjustable windscreen, roomier panniers, optional navigation, maybe even an audio system can also be considered.

Traction control is already present, and so is the ABS. Dual-mapping for better mileage in the city with reduced power and full-on touring grunt would not hurt, either. As much as we love the ST1300, it may be that its successor will not be bad at all. Stay tuned for more.
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