Let's compare the triangles on the four models we rode.

VT1300 Ergo Triangle Comparison

This comparison uses the rear wheel as the common reference point to put the differing geometries in perspective. The Fury is in red, the Sabre green, and the Stateline and Interstate blue. (Photo: Honda)

You can see that the Fury (red outline) is the most radical model of the bunch, with the lowest seat and highest and furthest grips from the seat, and lowest and furthest footpegs. You end up in a “C” position on the bike, with feet, torso and arms extended forward.

The Sabre (Green) shares the common seating position and presents the closest and lowest grips (The blue line between the green and red ones on the fork), and higher and most rear-set footpegs. Look for a seating position that leans slightly forward to reach the grips, and your feet comfortably close in. This position is the most natural of the three, and is ideal for cruising in the city, the ‘bubs and short touring jaunts.

On the touring oriented Stateline (Blue), you will sit up straight with the grips close in and your feet also close in to your seat. This is the typical touring position, good for going out to the four corners of the continent, or just up North for two days in cottage-land.

So much for ergos, what about handling? Well, an illustration will come in handy here too.

2010 VT1300 Family Metrics
Measurement Comparison

	Stateline and Interstate	Sabre	Fury
Wheelbase	1,78m	1,78m	1,80m
Ground clearance	130mm	130mm	124mm
Fuel capacity	16,5 L	16,5 L	12,8 L
Rake	33 degrees	33 degrees	38 degrees
Trail	118mm	115mm	115mm
Front tire	140 / 80 - 17	90 / 90 - 21	90 / 90 - 21
Rear tire	170 / 80 - 15	170 / 80 - 15	200 / 50 - 18
Seat height	678mm	683mm	678mm
Weight	308 kg (312 kg)	307 kg	309 kg

The numbers here are eloquent, confirming the mission and feel of each machine: The long and low Fury with a small fuel tank, the high ground clearance and balanced tire sizes of the Stateline & nterstate, and the middle-of-the-road settings of the Sabre.