Maybe I should explain my reasons a bit more for contemplating a change away from the ST1300. I am 70+ and still throw my leg over the ST1300 with gusto and tackle twisties with the best of them and I don't see this stopping anytime soon. My main reason, however for getting the ST1300 in the first place was to do some extensive touring with my lovely wife Ros on the back. Since we bought the red rocket over four years ago we have travelled over 60,000Kms on the ST together around our great country. I doubt there are many places in Australia (that can be reached on bitumen) that we have not been too on the ST at some time over the past four years. I had a little mishap recently where a bit of untidy parking saw the combined weight of my pillion, our fully packed panniers & top box and the 300kg+ of the ST give my pillion a very quick dismount. Not a big thing if you are solo (probably a bit of swearing, pick up the bike and on your way). In fact one of our illustrious members carries a forum name for his ability to do just this with aplomb. This is a totally different, however when you are carrying the love of your life on the back. She certainly does not see such dismounts in the same casual light. This has now caused me to look at other options that will allow us to keep touring 2up through my 70's. We are still riding the ST however and will be at Toowoomba in 2015.
Incidentally, we went on an extended test ride today on the latest (1300cc) Can Am Spyder. They are certainly an acquired taste but I guess you could get used to them. There is no way we can come at their $40k price tag for a new one although there are some of the older, smaller 1000cc engine versions available second hand in the $20k to $25k price range.
I think I would rather give up riding altogether than to adopt the jockey wheel suggestion.
The big scooters are an option but not ideal for long distance 2 up touring.
Watch this space.
