Early morning, after workout and before work
In 2010 I picked up my first non-cruiser, the Yamaha FJR 1300 (pre-owned with only 751 miles). I posted my initial impressions seven days later. I was impressed and excited about a new style of riding and a bike with a lot of power and smooth handling.
From Cruiser to Sport Tourer
Six months and 6,000 miles later another "review" of the bike was posted. I had taken the FJR on only one multi-day trip and I was still learning a lot about riding a sport tourer. The performance of the FJR was very different than the Yamaha Venture I had owned.
After 734 days and 33,249 miles I enjoy the FJR more than ever! I have ridden in multiple states, dry roads, wet roads, hot days and cold days.
Actual miles - September 19, 2012
FJR 1300 trips
Here is a little background that has influenced my thoughts on the bike:
(I live in McKinney, Texas)
Trip to North Carolina/Tennessee state line - seven days, five trips on the Tail of the Dragon, and a lot of miles in the Smoky Mountains
One trip to Florida and back
One trip to southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana
Four trips to Arkansas and the Talimena Drive
One trip to Colorado/Northeast New Mexico - Camping off the bike, several miles on gravel, numerous mountain passes, Million Dollar Highway, Silver Thread Scenic Byway, and Enchanted Circle (NM).
Five days in Texas Hill Country
A lot of days commuting to work
Numerous benefit rides, dinner rides, breakfast rides, ice cream rides (see a pattern :) )
Loaded down for the camping trip in Colorado/New Mexico
Power, Performance and Fun
There are several scratches and signs of use, but the performance has been nonstop awesome!
The acceleration of a 1,300 in-line 4 is exhilarating. It has immediate snap and torque with every roll of the throttle. As I have gotten more familiar with the bike and the riding style I have enjoyed the "take off" a lot. The 144 horses provides so much power in every gear. Passing a vehicle is so easy and quick, I have to be cognitive that the riders following me may not be able to pass as quickly.
Following Hugh on the Honda Saber improved my gas mileage
The economy is good. When on longer trips the highway mileage can get as high as 55 mpg. This past summer my friend on his Honda Saber lead 90% of the time on the Colorado/New Mexico trip. He did not accelerate aggressively and maintained a good speed. Up until I had a day of riding by myself I was getting 54.5 mpg! Most of the time with a mixture of city and highway miles I am getting 42 mpg.
Riding the Silver Thread Scenic Byway reduced the MPG, but sure was fun!
Comfort of the FJR 1300
Comfort of the FJR 1300
I get a lot of questions about the comfort of the bike. I readily admit the FJR does not have the same creature comforts of the Venture. I have a harder time extending my legs and the Corbin seat is harder, but I have done well on the trips and I am not ready to change. The "grin factor" of the ride out weights any of the minor discomforts.
The adjustable windshield is great. Being able to adjust it while riding has been very helpful, especially when encountering rain. The detachable luggage is great. I love being about to carry the saddlebags and truck to the room or campsite.
It is fun to leave the bags at home and taking the FJR out with the sport bikes and it looks so good!
Hard to tell it is a touring bike
Handling on the road
Handling on the road
The handling is very impressive. I am sure that I have not pushed the bike to its limits, but I have leaned into some corners at high speeds with easy. When riding the Tail of the Dragon it was easy to maneuver through the curves, even when I had a passenger. Several times the peg feelers kissed the pavement. It took me a while to learn how to "shift a cheek and drop a knee" and roll through the corners, but the FJR makes it easy. Best handling bike I have owned so far.
Maintenance has not been difficult. Both the oil and final drive oil is very easy and straightforward. The radiator flush and change took some reading and careful work with the fairing. Spark plug change was not difficult other than learning how to remove the appropriate fairing parts. When I changed the plugs (later than recommended) I found the plugs in great shape. They looked almost unused. The engine is so efficient.
I did not attempt the valve adjustment, that was too involved for me, but my mechanic friend said they were still in range.
The two major "cons" of the FJR for me are: high center of gravity, especially for a short guy, and tire wear. I do realize riding aggressiveness has a great impact on the life of a tire, but it sure is difficult not to "get on it!"
Enjoying the cornering abilities of the FJR
Accessories and Maintenance
I added the J and M CB/Audio system, GenMar handlebar risers, grip puppies, and the Cobin seat. The Corbin lowered the seat 1.5 inches which was good since I am only 5'6".Maintenance has not been difficult. Both the oil and final drive oil is very easy and straightforward. The radiator flush and change took some reading and careful work with the fairing. Spark plug change was not difficult other than learning how to remove the appropriate fairing parts. When I changed the plugs (later than recommended) I found the plugs in great shape. They looked almost unused. The engine is so efficient.
I did not attempt the valve adjustment, that was too involved for me, but my mechanic friend said they were still in range.
The two major "cons" of the FJR for me are: high center of gravity, especially for a short guy, and tire wear. I do realize riding aggressiveness has a great impact on the life of a tire, but it sure is difficult not to "get on it!"
I love the bike and I hope to have her for years to come. I highly recommend the FJR for anyone who enjoys touring and great performance.
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