ST newbie -buying to tour in Europe?

[plynroo]

Hi all, I'm looking to buy a cheap ST1100 in France to do about 6 months touring.

Any thoughts on what I should look for on either of these?  Mileage too high? Things to check that have been done?  Asking way too much??

The ads are in French but are pretty self explanatory.  2,200 Euros is about $3,200 AUD.

http://www.rivegauchemotos.fr/product_info.php?products_id=2411

http://www.leboncoin.fr/motos/653009303.htm?ca=4_s

All ideas and advice gratefully accepted.

I suppose I should come clean and admit I've never owned an ST but ridden several lately (research, you know) and think they're absolutely sensational.

Cheers

PC

[Biggles]

That one is in remarkably good condition for its mileage.  At that number, I'd like to know whether the timing belt has been inspected or replaced.  It may not be an issue if you're only planning to put 10,000 kays on it.  They've been known to go beyond 200,000 but should be replaced at 150,000.
You can do a search in here on "timing belt" for more info.
That's the main issue.  Beyond that they're bullet-proof!

[Brock]

At around 130000K, they are coming up for a timing belt change, and as 92/98 models, they have a 28Amp alternator. There is a possibility that they may have rusted swing arms due to salting of roads in winter (not sure if France does that or not).

Its a bit hard for an Aussie to give opinion on bikes in Europe, but the ST is a solid ride, and reliable.

[plynroo]

Thanks gents.

Will check on swingarm and timing belt (that could be a tricky translation......).

Is the 28amp alternator an issue? I wasn't planning on adding a pile of accessories. Maybe heated gloves and maybe a GPS (probably just my phone).

Cheers,

PC

[Brock]

In Oz, the lower rated alternator can be an issue, as we usually fit driving lights, heated grips two way radios, AM/FM radio and other power hungry devices. Heated grips and a couple of chargers should be ok.