Yamaha FJR1300

Note: my review pertains to the US model.

Year, Make and model: 2008 Yamaha FJR1300, ABS

Purchased: December 2008 in Arizona, $13,900 USD

Current odometer: 11,093 miles

Good points:

-adjustable suspension, front and rear

-precise, predictable handling

-strong motor enables quick passing maneuvers

-6.6 gal fuel tank helps to make it a real touring motorcycle

-50 avg mpg using 87 octane. Note: US gallons are about 20% smaller than imperial gallons.

-hard bags (panniers) are easy to detach from bike and hold a full-face helmet

-height adjustable, electrically operated windshield

-headlight adjusters on dashboard

Bad points:

-engine heat transferred to the rider's upper legs and crotch can be a problem, especially when ambient temps are above 85 deg f.

-glare from sun on the speedo and tach gauge covers when sun is behind the rider

-no cruise control option

-no heated grips (2011 models have this option)

-side stand doesn't swing far enough forward when down. It's at only about a 90 degree angle to the bike when it's down, and the spring doesn't hold it firmly in place. I dropped the bike once, when I failed to make sure the stand was all the way forward. My fault, but IMO this is a design flaw. Other owners have mentioned this in an FJR forum.

-speedometer reads 9% too fast. I've used two different methods to check this.

Would I buy another one?

If this bike was stolen from me or totaled in a crash, I probably would buy another FJR to replace it. If Yamaha equipped the FJR with cruise control, I definitely would buy another one.

Nice review solo.....

I smile when you say about the cruise control......not really much need of that on our little island over here....

Nice review solo.....

I smile when you say about the cruise control......not really much need of that on our little island over here....

even on the motorway... would not use it.

fjr 1300

January 2008

30,000 miles to date

3 Alps tours

Scotland and various other destinations in UK

good points

engine is fantastic

handling for a big bike is good once you dump the yamaha rear shock

all day comfort both rider and pillion

good weather protection

very good brakes

headlight that are up to the job on unlt roads

good road presence (big enough to be seen)

good tank range 200-270 miles

comes with fitted panniers

shaft drive

not so good points

engine heat in summer

rear linkages are a pain to do (and they do need regular maintenance)

can be heavy on tyres if your ham fisted with the throttle

heavy to push around

had my bike for four years and it's never missed a beat and been ridden in all weather

would i have another one ? no because of the hight new price and my requirments have changed

would i recommend one to someone else ? YES if they wanted to do big miles in comfort and have fun whilst doing it.

Next bike - Triumph 1200 explorer

Mine is a 2003 model and now has 40k on the clock

Handles indecently well for a big tourer and munches up the miles

Did a two up, 9 country in 17 day tour in 2012,racking up 3650 miles. Never missed a beat.

If anyone knows my partner, we do not travel light either.

Would I buy another........No, because I have no intention of selling mine. Even thought the new one is £1500 cheaper than the outgoing model, I would still need to find another £10k to change and cannot see the point.

I have a top box and panniers, heated grips, radiator protector, fender extender and a baglux tankbag system, all fitted by the original owner who racked up a staggering 14k in five years.

The only downside is making sure the driveshaft and suspension linkage are regularly greased as a failure of the latter can have you in the ditch.

The old girl is rock steady up to 130 two up and ready to tour.(allegedly!!)

If you are in the market for a tourer, well worth considering.[album]46[/album]