2022 Yamaha FJR1300 Full Test and Review (Mini Bagger)

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[@peterblacklin9174]

Fair review. The settings are really T for timid and S for stupid. This machine will run 1,000 mile days easily. Once you are smooth with the power the miles per gallon increase, I get over 50 on a run, 46 around town and commuting. I ride all year. It is an honest machine that has a lot of performance. The brakes are very good. As far as maintenance most can be done by the owner even tire changes if you want to. I get 13 to 16 K out of the sports touring dual compound tires made for this machine. The weather protection is good except at stop lights in a downpour! You can get two cases of beer in the side cases or a week of groceries. Good all round. I'm 72 but feel a lot younger after a ride, could be the FJR grin.

[@mcycleboy1]

What kind of tires yield you that kind of amazing mileage?

[@peterblacklin9174]

I got 16K out of the first set of Dunlop Roadsmart 3’s probably could have got another 3K from the front but the cupping was too much (this is the differential wear due to the hard soft compounds interacting with the read pattern). The rear was good for another 5 to 6K. I put on a set of Dunlop RS4, the front cupping was bad at 10K. The rear was in great shape, again good for another 10K! I am now running Michelin Road 6GT’s. Have about 5K on them, they look new! Great feel and grip dry and wet. I run 39psi in the front and 42 in the rear. The Dunlops tread patter had a noticeable howl at 60 - 65. The Michelins are quiet and smooth into hooliganism speeds (just testing). I mount the tires and static balance, then use Dyna-beads for dynamic balance. I have a $50 Amazon TPMS which is a good addition. Hope this helps.

[@ijaznadeem7269]

I am 66 years old and kind of reluctant to buy Yamaha FJR. I am happy to hear that you are 72. Your video will definitely encourage me to get a 2023 model. What is the overall comfort level for 180 Lbs/ 6 feet person like me on a transcontinental tour ? Is the seat and sitting position comfortable ?

[@peterblacklin9174]

I am 6-1 192lbs. I have put Helibar mount to bring the bars back. A back rest is a good addition for posture, something I’m working on. A Russell day long seat is the ideal seat - saving up for that. A bigger windscreen helps to reduce buffet. If you’re doing 4 to 500 mile days with sight seeing. These dark led are less important. If you are going to get a lot of freeway miles to get to the scenic area of interest 600+ miles then the farckles help a lot. The cruise control helps to avoid performance awards as the FJR will effortlessly go at any sped all day long. Hope this helps

[@johnpejnovich7722]

​ Mr. Blacklin, thank you sir, for the insightful info on the tires. When it comes to safety about tires. Much of us are appreciated.

[@2jerrysapp560]

The Mighty FJR is a Super Sport Touring Machine

[@jerrysmith1887]

I’ve had my ‘03 FJR since new. It’s nearing 85k miles now and has never had one problem, it’s even still running the factory clutch! I’ve ridden across the country on it, hit some track days just for fun, made a lot of passes at the drag strip and it’s never failed me. It’s watched a couple dozen other bikes come and go in my garage, and will probably see more. I’ve never even considered selling or trading it, and never will. That being said, your mpg figures are very low. I’m chalking that up to an engine that’s probably not quite broken in yet. The final drive is NOT maintenance free. You need to change the fluid occasionally, a quart will change the fluid 4 times. The driveshaft has to be periodically removed to lube up the splines as well. None of this requires a trip to the dealer, unless you easily confused by righty tighty lefty loosey. It’s literally the easiest bike to maintain I’ve ever seen. You will never hear an FJR owner complain about anything, except maybe about how many people think it’s a BMW😂

[@Paul-df7jk]

Currently coming to the end of a great ride from Malaga to Calais on the awesome FJR1300. Cruising at a constant 80 mph, this machine hasn't missed a beat. It feels solid, comfortable and has stacks of power with loads of luggage space. 80% of touring bikes I see on the road are BMW's and although they are nice, in my humble opinion they don't come close to the mighty FJR. Bikes are a personal choice and all are great. But i feel the FJR is at the top of the list for, power, reliability (check the internet), comfort, looks etc, etc, ect.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, even at 100mph it’s barely breaking a sweat. I have to be careful I don’t lose my licence on bikes like these.

[@johncasteel1780]

@@DifferentSpokesTV Funny you should mention that. A few years back, I crossed South Dakota south to north at a steady 100 mph on a 2013 FJR. The only thing I slowed down for was the three or four small towns. Midweek, clear sunny day, flat open country, great visibility, and absolutely no traffic on the road. OTOH, that was one of about only three or four times that I missed the 100 mph cruise control limit of the 2014s.

[@leoturley1024]

I have a 2021 FJR after trading in a 2018 HD Softail Deluxe. I think that the FJR is the best bike in the market when you consider HP, torque, seating position, price, etc.

[@stevesmith756]

2007 FJR and 100k miles later. Still going strong and eating up the miles. Much better and lighter than the ST1300 I had

[@usmcesu6]

Good video. How do they give you an FJR with no bags? Supply shortage. So I buy the bike and later and they mail you the bags?

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I’ve heard several manufacturers are doing this out there. It’s a cluster **** out there these days.

[@diyeveryday67]

When I am ready I will buy a “sport” tourer before a v-twin bagger. Bikes like the FJR offer great value and performance.

[@SaiRulez1]

Thanks for this review. I have a 2018 FJR ES in Matt Blue and absolutely love the bike. It came with 3000 miles on it, the 50 L Yamaha top box, 2 Brothers racing exhaust and few other goodies. I changed out the “comfort” gel seats with some real Seth LAAM touring seats, handlebar risers, PIAA high decibel horn, and crash bars and is now set up perfectly for me. While I wish Yamaha had updated the bike with modern screens and cornering ABS and TCS (maybe radar ACC?), I don’t have much to complain about. It’s a rocketship when you need it to be and a comfortable mile muncher when you want to just cruise long distance at legal speeds. . I don’t have the business case to switch to an RT 1250. It will be a shame if Yamaha kills this bike off!

[@assessor1276]

I had a 2007 ST1300 and loved it….except for the weight. At just over 700lbs with nearly 30 litres of fuel way up high, the bike was a handful while paddling around parking lots. All of that disappeared once you were moving though - it was like the weight melted away. Now, the FJR is somewhat similar but with more power and less weight - lovely for a long trip but heavy and cumbersome at low speeds. The Honda was a sport-TOURER while the Kawi and the FJR are very much SPORT-tourers.

[@eyeballs50]

I've logged over 30,000 kms on my 2019. Oil changes and tires. One major recall that was done by Inglis Cycle. I find my fuel consumption is better than what you got. I do ride somewhat agressively at times, but at sane highway speeds I can get 400kms on a tank. I've added a Corbin Seat, VStream windscreen, crashbars & highway pegs(T-Rex racing). The bike meets my needs quite well. I traded my Concours 1400 for this bike. The Connie lacks cruise control and electronic suspension which were must have features for me.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, cruise especially is a must have on a touring bike.

[@Busa0069]

Can’t be beat both in value and performance. Enough power to keep the inner child happy yet versatile enough for everyday use. My bike is now 20 years old and most people can’t believe it when they ask. Very maintenance friendly plus parts are cheap and plentiful.

[@kevintaylor31]

I've had mine since 2008 and it's still the best bike I've ever owned. I've done thousands of miles on it and it still amazes me with the power delivery. Admittedly I've tuned mine but even so there's nothing I'd change it for on the market now.

[@larrybassett5559]

I bought my 2008 FJR in 09, was on sale as last years model. Best bike I've ever had, still ride it daily. If I had to replace it, I'd get another FJR without hesitation.

[@Davan514]

I switched my Road Glide for a BMW R1250rt and discovered a new world.

[@kingkrimson8771]

Don't you miss dressing up like a pirate? 🏴‍☠

[@furr666]

How comfortable is the BMW on long rides (100miles +)?... I currently ride a Honda ST1300 that isnt the most comfortable for long rides & seeking to upgrade

[@themayorofdipshittery3646]

I’ve had 3 FJR’s and they cover miles for fun and in comfort, with a good rider it’ll shock a few sports bikes. Before my FJR’s I had a Super Blackbird which was an awesome tool for touring 👍

[@lovelessissimo]

These bikes eat tires at a preposterous rate. The Concours will square a Michelin Road 5 in 3k miles.

[@danielwittmotorycle6541]

PR4GTs = 20,000 km set here in Vancouver, BC

[@DavidM2002]

I rode coast to coast in Canada once on my 1984 Goldwing, 3 times on my 2000 Kawasaki Concours, and 5 times on my FJR's. I'll take the FJR any day for long days and fun days on just about any paved road you care to throw at it. The only issue that I ever had on any of those FJR rides was burning out both headlights on the same trip.

[@Thesaurcery4U2C]

Can you really be as all day comfortable on the FJR as a goldwing of similar year? I'm digging the idea of the FJR and am planning on buying something bigger than I have now for some longer trips

[@squiddly-diddly]

Have just acquired a 2003 FJR, 44,000km equivalent US$3750... personally I think it looks better than the later models... I think the dash is prettier and functional with the big analogue speedo in the middle....It does have a seperate screen button.. Just about to add some heated grips and utility socket for another trifling us$150 ....it was a 2 hour bus trip to go pick it up.. somehow I got lost on the way home and it took 5 hours....👍👍

[@erocnw1341]

The bike does a lot of things well at a good price and great reliability.

[@almulakimaalimalriadiat9068]

You are a bad man DS.. you got me seriously thinking about FJR. I am on my 4th bike and have it for 3 years for the first time... and I thought I would keep it for few more years. But You got me thinking.. I mean in Canada we can always use more wind protection in fall... FJR looks like second best choice afther goldwing.

[@croscoe333]

The FJR does look very sharp in black with gold wheels.

[@edmundcano521]

I owned a 2006' put 48,000 miles, yes, a fine bike, no complaints really. And three Connie's, which I liked even more. I now own a 2018 Honda Gold Wing 6 speed, , . Maybe not as fast (140), but much more refined in every other facet, I would never go back to the Yamaha or the Kawasaki, both fine steeds on their own . But once you've rode the Wing for a weekend, the others just don't add up . Took me over 40 years to finally lay a leg over the Gold Wing. The 2018 (Hondas newest design ) I've finally found my favorite, and I may be getting older, (72), but the Gold Wing certainly checks all my boxes. And 140mph top speed, and sport mode when needed, and all that comfort. There's really no comparison. Hands down. For all day riding my choice is the GW. THANK YOU Honda, sincerely,. Fasteddie....

[@chadgruver4423]

It's a shame Yamaha and Kawasaki haven't updated these. But consumers have shifted to adv sport tourers. I believe the best FJ to buy is used with modest miles.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, people seem to be turning to the Tracer 900 type bikes. Two up for long distance the FJR is still the better bike.

[@joeln6861]

@@DifferentSpokesTV probably, but 3K less for the Tracer 9GT is a pretty significant savings.

[@weirdlifeofrob]

@@DifferentSpokesTV I have one. It's an absolutely amazing ride, but it lacks a lot of what the FJR offers. If I'm ripping twisties on a fun day ride, the Tracer is my go to, but the FJR does touring and distance far better. The FJR is also way smoother.

[@lp6wo]

Unfortunate Yamaha hasn’t updated their big adventure bike either. The super tenere hasn’t seen an update since 2014 and even that update was pretty minor. The super tenere is still an awesome bike, I love mine, but when compared to the modern adventure bikes it looks pretty boring. Nothing beats Yamaha reliability though and that’s why I have one. It is as capable a tourer as an fjr just not as fast. The ability to do gravel roads and trails wins over speed for me though.

[@zeke2566]

@@weirdlifeofrob reality sets in-Fjr is a wolf in sheeps cothing-just like yamaha designed it to be!

[@kemer1977]

I'm on my second FJR. You make a lot of good points. The stock seat is not that comfortable for my liking. Had a upholstery shop put a gel pad in it, and that's a bit better. The cluster I actually like quite a bit. Analog tach with a digital speedo is easy to read on the fly. As far as the menus go, once you have the initial setup done, I keep it on the windscreen setting and adjust as needed. Great bike, love it, and currently there's nothing I would rather have.

[@kingkrimson8771]

A Sargent seat would probably make your bum happier still. I put one on my Tracer and it was a big improvement over stock.

[@cadman9615]

I own a 2014 FJR1300ES and has been a very reliable bike. Everything you've stated is true. The FJR engine has a long stroke design for low end torque. Even with my wife on the back, the FJR has NO problems thrusting us forward, even up hill. I was so impressed with the handling, braking & low center of gravity I traded my 2010 Concours 14 for it & paid like $13,700ish. It was an end of season clearance with some heavy rebates to move the bike. With my trade I paid around $8k OTD. I do look at the new bikes and have done some demo rides on Indians, HD's, Suzuki's & BMW, but I always keep coming back to my FJR. Overall great bike, my favorite so far in 20+ yrs riding....although the new Hyabusa was absolutely fantastic

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

That’s a pretty sweet deal. It’s hard to beat that engine for usable power.

[@CactusJack252]

I have a concours 14 and I’m not entirely happy with it. I originally wanted a FJR but got a hell of a deal on the concours. I still long for a FJR

[@seatime674]

Cadman and Cactus Jack need your opinions as we're triplets. I had the '03 FJR 1300 5 speed loved it, then replaced it with an '11 Concours 14Abs 6 speed. First thing I noticed is annoyingly close gears and was shifting all the time on the Connie verses not so much on FJR, wider gears. Have you noticed that?...Connie's 6th was awesome on freeway though I think at 3700rpms at 80mph... I think the Concours looks better though but always noticed a very heavy clunk going into 1st gear on FJR from a stop.. Do you guys agree?

[@tomassoyweyvon4902]

OGR ✌

[@dumptrump3788]

Great video, it brings up a very often overlooked sector, the big sport tourer. Since Honda ended the St1300 the FJR1300 is all out on its own, which is sad. I'll never buy a Gold Wing, they are too big, too heavy & way way too expensive. Now, with the ST1300 gone & FJR1300 production ending, there's nothing under the Gold Wing & this is a huge mistake. I'd really like to have seen newer versions with lower weight & better electronics.

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

I love the fjr. It oooks how a bike should! But… it’s a bloody licence loser here in Aus. Too many speed cameras and mobile radars to nab you having some fun. Big bike days here are over.

[@danielwittmotorycle6541]

In the 8 years since buying my FJR (2012 new in the crate), I've also owned stablemates Hayabusa, DR650 & a Moto Guzzi Griso 1100. Owned many bikes since 1966, Goldwing, HD, Brits, Japanese.... If I could only keep one, it will be the FJR♥. As of today, 80,000 bulletproof kms, lots of passenger space, great handling, awesome brakes and plenty fast enough for this 68 year old. No recalls 2012, no valve adjustments needed, love my 5 speed. +Seth Lamb seat, saddlebag guards, Givi E55 w/357. Thx for the review. 🙏Cheers from Vancouver, BC

[@D-Almighty]

Yamaha fjr1300 ALL DAY BABY (2016) I bought my first street bike last fall. I been riding dirt bikes since I was a teenager and I never wanted a street bike until I seen the FJR1300. I must say it is heavy, but once she starts to move, it's very manageable. I took the side bags off to make it look sportier, and put dual Coffman shorty exhaust on it, baffles out of course and she SCREAMS!!!!!!!. I am a little biased, I always loved and rode Yamaha dirt bikes and so this beauty was definitely the right brand and size. 6'4" 300lbs and she can get my big butt up and around at ease. All riders stay safe and ride responsibly. Peace ✌️

[@guit156]

Like your channel and the thoughtful reviews and opinions. As a former FJR owner, I agree that it is a phenomenal touring bike, and I rode it as my daily commuter for quite some time. Although I ride other bikes, primarily my Super T, I very much miss the FJR. It is, hands down, the best bike I've owned. Agree with all you have said, and for me, the lack of a glitzy display and oodles of buttons (I had a 2004), very much appealed to me. I like simple, and the one thing mine had that the new ones miss is a simple button on the left grip for the wind screen -- easy up, easy down, great protection, especially in the rain. The FJR is rock solid, with a virtually unbreakable motor, incredible sport bikish handling and power, all day comfort, and great luggage. It is, as one of my friends commented, the bike for the serious rider. Agree, and here in Minnesota, it was capable year round. There's a reason John Ryan (the famous Iron Butt rider immortalized by Melissa Pierson in several books), rode an FRJ -- fast, capable, reliable, fun. Cheers.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks for the comment! The FJR is definitely a perfect Iron Butt bike.

[@JBK647]

@@DifferentSpokesTV If it was the best bike you owned why'd you get rid of it?

[@user-tx5dy1fz4g]

I sold my 1250Gs Rallye because I test ride the 2021 FJR 20th anniversary. I’m lucky enough to buy the last one on the floor!

[@westondifranco9313]

I'd buy one. I have an 03 fz1. Which is sportier and more sport than touring. But when I get to be 50 or so I'd buy one. Comfy, inline 4, bags, wind protection, cruise control and comfy ergos. It's my fz1 but way less sporty and much heavier

[@philiplaurell1163]

If you are thinking of buying this bike, here’s what they don’t tell you: I had the 2006 model. That year the model received a number of improvements and updates. Here is my impressions of my 2 years of owning the bike: it is very heavy. It is not sporty at all. The engine is great. Silky smooth, yet powerful. I loved the shaft drive and not having to fiddle with maintaining a chain. For the life of me I don’t get the ever repeated mantra that this bike is so comfortable. It isn’t. I have never been in so much physical pain on any other motorcycle. The seat is rubbish and the bike is very heavy and needs manhandling to stear. On longer rides this means pain in the shoulders like nothing I have ever experienced. And I’m 187 cm or 6”2 inches and pretty strong. Another completely missleading thing thing reviewers keep saying is that it is a sporty bike. It isn’t. It’s a power cruiser. It has poor lean angle and the tank has you spreading your legs wider than a hooker and that might have something to do with why the stock seat is so uncomfortable. Ass gets sore and numb after about an hour or two, so forget all you heard about ”all day comfort”. It isn’t there. I grinded the hero blobs under the footpegs - or angstnipples, as the germans call them, down in no time and with little effort by just normally leaning the bike in corners and had started eating away at the gear shifter when I got rid of the behemoth. Unless you are a rather short rider, you will have to ditch the stock wind shield for a taller one as well as the stock one is pretty useless. But it’s cool that it is button operated and reverts down when you shut off the ignition. The one complain some of the reviewers have about the bike is also wrong, they complain about the it only having 5 gears. Not a problem at all. That is a problem on the original Hinckley Bonneville. Not the FJR. City riding is horrible on the Feejer. It’s so heavy it can easily cause you to fall over if you have to make an unexpected stop while cornering at slow speed, as I had to when a lady stepped out from the sidewalk right in front of me as I was slowly coming around a corner. I couldn’t keep the bike upright as I had to stop at a small angle, and just had to let it go. On any other motorcycle I’ve owned this situation would have been no problem at all but the FJR is not only heavy, it’s top heavy. Especially with a full tank. It is not good for veering through traffic either. It’s too heavy. Quality is good though. I took it on 2 long trips and used it quite a lot over the years I had it and I had zero issues with it. It had 20000 km on it when I bought it and I put another 20000 on it. A cruise control would have been nice but it lacked that. The handle bar is like on a scooter and difficult to fit gps and phone mounts to. I bought the bike after having watched a number of videos like this one, praising the bike for all the wrong reasons. These are my impressions, I hope they can help balance all the praise this bike gets

[@arthurfoyt6727]

I picked up a pristine '08 model a few years ago with 2000 miles on it for 4 grand. The bike surprised me with how well it's planted on the highway regardless of wind conditions. The bike seems well built but it does drink gas when having fun. Really nice BUT I would never spend $18K+delivery+tax on a new one; that's way over priced for a 2 wheel highway toy.

[@gatordave8428]

I just completed a week long trip with the gang through the mountains of NC and Tennessee on my 2016 and we had a blast. They all have various BMW bikes and they kept praising my nimble beast in the twisties and just the way it handles every situation well. Especially the guy on the KLR1600 (that thing is a tank), I can say only one thing and that is after 40 years of riding them all this is the perfect bike for me. I take it to work often and more importantly on all of my bourbon hunting trips! I can fit more bottles in that thing then I can afford to buy that is for sure :)

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Nice? Yes, this bike would be fun on the Tail of the Dragon.

[@danielweatherford3243]

I’ve been an FJR1300 A pilot since 2013. I hopped of a 2010 FZ1. I’ve never looked back. She is an excellent handling bike I’ve ridden dragon Great distance touring Nike I rode from PA to the tail of the dragon. She loves to breath deep. Sport mode is a beast. I highly recommend Generation 3 bikes

[@stevesmith756]

Don’t forget the maintenance is way easier on the FJR1300

[@mikebreen2890]

The venerable FJR has nothing to prove. Try it and if you like it, buy it.

[@marklloyd4153]

Yamaha has better build quality than Kawasaki and way more reliable than the BMW

[@llwellyn1]

Great review. I'd add that the menu system for the electronics isn't a big deal at all. Once set up for the ride, the only thing I was really adjusting was the windscreen height or power level for the heated grips. Being more old school, I had no problem with the display. It was easy and intuitive to understand. The motor was a beast, an absolute gem for sure. The handling was amazing, with no il effects from the shaft drive. I loved the looks too. My only gripe was during certain riding scenario's. With the Mrs on the back, cruising the slower, twisty, country roads in the deep woods (15-25mph zones), my lower back would ache by the end of the ride. The sportier bars don't offer as much leverage as the adventure bikes or pure touring machines. On faster roads, where I could use more body language to control the motorcycle, I had no problems. The Mrs loved the perch and was upset when I sold the bike. I thought I was ready for the "sport-touring lifestyle" but traded it in on a 2018 GSXR1000. It was a fun bike and I have no regrets. I'm a sports bike guy at heart. I guess if I go the "comfort" mode again, it will be on something fully dedicated to that description. That being said, I highly recommend this motorcycle. It had great build quality, reliability, useability, and mucho gusto power for fun riding.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks for the great comment. Great to hear from someone who has practical experience with the bike.

[@tvdinner325]

A scooter, is better than a bagger. Especially when you add the D-Bag.

[@erniecolussy1705]

I had a Concourse 1000. The high large fuel tank made it very top heavy. In some ways heavier touring motorcycle felt lighter even though they weighed more. The weather protection was great. Rider and passenger comfort was good. Fuel mileage was about 42 mpg (17.8 km/l). But due the the large tank the range was good. An couple hour long ride on an unpaved road loosen many fairing screws. (I know, it's not an adventure touring bike.) Generally reliable for a motorcycle designed in the mid 1980's. I enjoyed my time with it. I traded in for a Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS. I don't find chain maintenance that big of a hassle. I like the ABS and fuel inject. I have added bags and trunk of decent capacity. The only thing I really miss is the weather protection.

[@weirdlifeofrob]

I've put thousands of miles on FJR's, they're just awesome bikes. Probably why so many of them show up in the IBR every time they run it. Very smooth, quick, and nimble for it's weight. And I never had one break down, ever. My '06 had over 200k on it when I sold it and bought the 11. 11 had 120k on it when it was traded in for the 15 for the updated tech, ran like new. 15 unfortunately got totaled when I was rear ended at a stop light. Just glad I wan on the FJR and not my 1098 at the time, the heft of build of the rear frame on the FJR, plus the luggage, probably has a lot to due with the minimal injuries I had. Also, want to guess why I wasn't on the 1098? Fun bike, but it ran when it felt like it, and that morning was another case of "I'm going to run like poo today", so I jumped on the FJR.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

This anniversary edition looks very nice. A forever bike. Waiting for a nice 2nd hand one. Keep it up.

[@saturnnights2271]

I have the matt blue 2018 and your review of the 2022 pretty much matches what I'd say about mine. Occasional bike lust makes me think that I should trade her on something different and newer, but then I take her out for a spin and realize that I could never let her go.

[@youngboomerragevictim8857]

If I didn’t need the bags I’d have an fz1. The huge glovebox and cases are real luxury

[@888jackflash]

I have a 2nd Gen 2009. ISSUES TO BE AWARE OF: ALL the six-speeds were RECALLED due to transmission issues, and had to be COMPLETELY DISASSEMBLED and rebuilt. Do you trust your local Wrench? Also - Beware of SPIDER BITES - certain "ganged" ground wires COMMONLY SHORT OUT, and can leave you stranded. The fix is to replace the front wiring harness... not a small job. WIND ROAR- Many models of the FJR create HUGE wind noise to the helmet. Some guys go to super-tall screens; I did the opposite and CUT mine quite low, which helped immensely. Other than that - it's a wonderful bike, a big bird, with tons of power... you have to learn to handle the 640 lbs

[@FliGuyRyan]

Are there any short screens made for it, or are they all tall? I'm just having my 2022 20th Anniversary Model imported from Canada...

[@888jackflash]

@@FliGuyRyan There are some "Shorty" screens, (Calsci - California Science).. and some from Europe...problem is that they weren't short ENOUGH to give "clean air" without the heavy buffeting. But mine is a Gen II, (2009), and your Gen III may be different. One thing I found with mine is to place those small, plastic, triangular "vector" fins (cheap on Ebay) on the fairing edges just off the bottom of the screen. These seemed to knock off quite a bit of the roar.

[@NoNegotiations]

Why haven't yamaha changed anything or added any new features. The odometer screen looks like it's from early 2000s. The ride is awesome, but this bikes hasn't changed one bit. but price keeps going up.

[@arthurfoyt6727]

Why change perfection? Hell, who looks down at the display when riding hard?

[@rosemont5339]

My money id spend on a used fjr1300.

[@vanislerider7311]

I own a 2006 fjr and I regularly get 400+ km on a tank. That's carving twists or running the highways it consistently gets 50+mpg (imperial).

[@richardgiles2484]

I had one for 14years and only reluctantly sold it recently and it was an amazing bike. Would 100% recommend them 👍

[@rival989]

I bought the 2022 Kawasaki versys 1000 and I like it a lot, just gotta get bigger windshield for winter and some highway bars cause I'm 6'3 and need to stretch out during long rides

[@Mr5Stars]

I have 2006 FJR and the power, acceleration is crazy, sometimes it gets me "lightheaded" , it's too much fun

[@JP6961]

The police in Australia use these as their patrol Bike.

[@easternyellowjacket276]

I had one of these in 2009. My biggest complaint was a lack of cruise control (which it now has), and the throttle pull was really stiff and wore out your right hand and arm within 1 hr of riding. The added updates of suspension adjustment, cruise control and heated grips sound like they round the bike out quite well. Wish mine had those. Fun bike. Oh, and it ate tires if you go into the twisties hard because it was so heavy.

[@dolfandringa]

I just recently rented a big bagger for the first time: The BMW k1200LT, driving it 2up with my wife (which we do all the time on many bikes) Having driven mostly mid capacity bikes and an Africa Twin, i really had to get used to the weight and cornering. The first day i felt really insecure, but by day 3 the bike really grew on me. A big bagger like that is really comfortable. But a few days later I rented a vstrom 650 (solo this time) and boy was that ever a big difference. If felt zooooo much more comfortable riding it around. The big bagger with huge windshield and everything is more comfortable on a highway, sure. But the weight and cornering really limit it too. I really had to think where I'd take it. Really sharp and steep hairpins, or the possibility of some gravel, and the limitations with parking it really detract from the freedom feeling a bike gives me. So a more mid-level/weight compromise sounds really interesting to me.

[@jamesonpace726]

All yer fault - calling 650 lb 1300cc a "minibagger" is why 750s are now "midsize" bikes....

[@twistieslayer3592]

I don’t see the problem.

[@aaronkeown1396]

It is what it is

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

When baggers are pushing 900lbs, 650 seems light :)

[@samuraisteve2775]

I am 53, and 750’s were always called middleweights…so yeah…that’s not why.

[@mikeogden5256]

Sport touring bikes need music

[@loopertrooper6671]

Bought a new 2023 in Feb 2024. I sold a 2018 Harley Heritage Classic. I was considering an RT1250, Street Glide, GsX1000gx, Goldwing, 1390 GT, K1600B and the FJR. I settled on the FJR because of price, shaft drive, weight, reliability and low cost of maintenance.

[@marcnester1202]

How’s the FJR highway wind/noise? I ride 2013 RoadKing looking to upgrade to FJR 70mph + my RK isn’t smooth.

[@nameless5413]

i wonder if the big bagger thing is something similar to (what i heard referred to as) volvo syndrome - the safer the vehicle the more it is going to be pushed by its operator. Hell i always percieved large bikes with uprioght position (and trikes) as strange midstep between motorbike and automobile. If i was gonna get something of that big of a cubature i would probbly prefered to have spitrife healey (or more comtemporary MX-5 or Elise). Viewing bikes as lightweight high HP/KG ratio (i think horsepower per kilogram) i see everything past aletre to be needlessly excessive and am very keen on light sporters of my teens - Gillera 125 CX, SP01; Aprilia AF1, Cagiva Freccia C9, Mito 125; Honda NSR 125 etc. etc. etc. you get the idea .)

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

The FJR is still a pretty big bike, just nowhere near as big as the Baggers.

[@CrusaderGeneral]

In my book, there are only two touring bikes. Goldwing for reliable long trips and H2SX for recreational short ones

[@opichocal]

I test rode the 2019 fjr at a demo day. I was seriously impressed and will own one someday. I only buy used and the prices are too high right now. I found a 2008 wing two years ago. My goal is to see 250k and then look for a deal on the fjr

[@doncardone5410]

Nice review... agree with most of your comments. My first FJR was an '11... my current FJR is a '16 (the latest generation). Also have a '19 BMW K1600 GT Sport (great engine and suspension). Thought I'd sell the FJR when I got the BMW, but can't... IT DOES SO MANY THINGS BETTER THAN THE MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE BMW (buttery transmission shifts, better throttle response, simple oil and rear gear oil changes, while still giving me 48-50 miles per gallon of 87 octane gas over the 100+ thousand miles I've put on these bikes... "the best sport-tourer for the buck... hands down."

[@fortram]

I own both FJR and HD Road Glide. The problem with FJR is that it's boring riding it within speed limits. It doesn't provide emotions like road glide. The engine works like a gas turbine or an electric motor. For me motorcycles are emotion generating machines. And FJR is just too good. I want to sell it constantly but I can't 😅 I am 30 years old, 13 years of riding experience, owned 4 motorcycles.

[@Little_Raff]

Don't sell it mate. Wanted to change my 2009 FJR, and wondered about RT1250, but to buy it I'd had to sell my other bike Yamaha Stratoliner XV1900. So ended up selling old FJR and buying 2019 model with led, automatic clutch and electronic suspension and didn't have to sell Stratoliner. Couldn't be happier.

[@arthurfoyt6727]

Never had that problem; it gets to those limits FAST!

[@leviefrauim1425]

I've owned 2 FJRs- a '16A model and now a '15A model. It was a mistake to sell the '16 but I'm still very much enjoying the '15 even tho it's lacking the newer tech and 6 speed trans of the +16 version. Overall, it is, IMHO, the best ST available, especially at the prices it's being sold as used or new. At this price range, there's nothing that can compare performance-wise and practicality to the FJR. If you're shopping, buy the newest gen you can afford. Significant upgrades were made to the '13 and up gen, w/more updates on the '16 & up.

[@seatime674]

You say nothing can compare to performance and practicality than the FJR but the Concourse is right there and most would say even a little higher up. Between the 15 and 16 FJR even though the 16 has six speeds do you notice if the gears are closer together and have to shift more often on the 6 or does it literally have less RPMs on the freeway with the 16 6 speed.. in other words they might give you six speeds but they're closer in ratio so you're shifting more often kind of a smoke-and-mirrors thing

[@leviefrauim1425]

@@seatime674 I'm a Kawi guy and I chose 2 FJRs over the Concours. The latter is supremely top heavy and lacks cruise control. On a modern ST, that's inexcusable. As for the 5/6 speed trans, it's a matter of preference really, nothing more IMHO. The 6 speed was smoother, the RPMs lower at cruising speed and it had a slipper clutch, if you enjoy that sort of thing. It worked very well before and after the 2nd gear repair issue. The 5 speed is more agricultural in nature but still highly effective and reliable. I would've preferred another '16 or newer but the prices were ridiculous at the time I was shopping. I've got ZERO issues or complaints about the 5 speed. The engine is the same and not lacking in pep.

[@seatime674]

@@leviefrauim1425 I've had both I have the C-14 now and love it w/6 speed very tall 6th on freeway, 80mph only 3700 rpms..On the contrary I don't think its top heavy at all it feels nimble and lighter to me than it actually is, also the C-14 has 8 more HP with a slighter larger displacement motor. I wouldn't trade the dynamics of an entirely different bike over another if you really like it because of cruise control,no way, when a hand lever and or simple crusie control grip clamp is just fine.. That's like not buying a new Corvette if you want one because it has a manual trunk latch... I loved the FJR to really no complaints and would get another one '16 and up of course I just think the C-14 looks a little beefier and richer looking...Imo....Remember I'm talking about the C14's 2011 and up that was when the major redesign was not before '11..

[@idcraw]

Response to the question I wore out an ST 1300 loved it but no comparable bike from Honda I will go with the Yamaha have owned several Yamaha Star and virago bikes with no complaints great bikes

[@georgenauss2670]

Yes I think it’s a cheaper gold wing.

[@Levish01]

I wish Yamaha would take the time to make a FJR7 as a FJR1300 owner

[@hveguitar]

I have the exact same FJR but from 2013 in black, fantastic bike !

[@rts3613]

Many of these big bikes are going away because of the new emissions requirements not demand. The FJR and Goldwing are two on the chopping block. The FJR has been a money maker for Yamaha, and they wouldn’t stop making it unless they were forced to. As the proud owner of a 2005 FJR, I think it's a shame these great bikes will no longer be made. Hopefully Yamaha will offer something to compete with Suzuki's GSX-s1000GT+ or even Kawasaki's NINJA H2 SX SE+.

[@TURKTURKiYE]

Hugs from Istanbul Türkiye, after your video i decided to buy FJR1300 AE Ultimate Edition 2020 Thank you.

[@halinabiegalski9509]

Love your channel, great video, nice bike 👍

[@rock801]

in the eu it is discontinued for a while.

[@countersteer713]

I’m getting one of these next Sunday. My first bike (and last bike) was a Suzuki C50 that I put 32k miles on in 8 months. It had an engine failure in March and I managed to sell it, and have scraped up enough to finally get back on 2 wheels. Was thinking of a sportbike but this seems like it was made for me. The hard luggage is coming off unless I’m getting groceries or going on a long trip, most other times the storage cubby should be good for me

[@TheBalauru27]

Nice review! I currently own a 2017 Super Tenere but the FJR1300 caught my attention. As I almost do only paved roads ,this can be an interesting alternative. Being same height as you, how do you find the confort level compared to the Super Tenere?

[@andreortiz6593]

I'm hooked. I'm finally returning to 2 wheels and I was strongly considering a road king. As a former LEO that's what I was trained on. Videos like these 😊 make it a no brainier. Thank you guys well done!!!

[@americandude3825]

The motorcycle law enforcement courses are OUT OF THIS WORLD awesome to see.

[@jackbao1231]

I got my first bike last September which is a Honda CB500X 2020, put around 4000 till now, and I'm start to looking for the next bike, have been noticed FJR for a while, thanks a lot for the video, I think this one will work fine with me.

[@brianmosdale5532]

Love my 2013 fjr. So comfortable and quick throttle response. Lots of power and handles great.

[@eyesonly4451]

I've got an '06 AE, the one with the electronic clutch. This is the gen-II version before the tacky dash and all the auto suspension add-ons. I did add an electronic cruise control, Sargent seat, and touring windscreen, and matching top case. That 4-cylinder engine is not playing around when it comes to performance. It will accelerate you beyond your skill level in a second.

[@timbiggs]

What about comparison with Super Tenere? Long days on the road, not interested in gravel/off-road (I have a T7 for that), comfort, fun in the twisties, reliability, low maintenance are important.

[@chloehood6355]

Mini bagger? 1300 145 bhp 160mph. Nothing mini about that , just 200lbs less lard. R

[@justin.s9783]

i agree with you on all points but the dash. i think they are going over board with the TFTs and its driving the prices up. simple is better to me but that is me. good vid

[@orientationandmobilitywith5902]

It is a nice and comfy bike. Not as comfy at the Gold Wing but also not as pricey. Great video 😊

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! 🙂

[@StanleyNewbury-f4i]

Lopez Edward Hall Dorothy Williams Steven

[@freedomisntfree131]

I love my FJR1300. If you keep with traffic, you'll get 45 mpg. If you use the throttle a lot, you'll get 35 mpg. As far as the power, it reminds me of a turbo diesel truck. It pulls hard, the entire time.

[@georgenauss2670]

Love my Yamaha FJR! I like the BMW R1250 RS. The BMW is 536 wet and has a TFT screen! That’s the only advances it was over the FJR. Have to do a test ride to compare. But the Yamaha price and reliability wins in comparison!

[@bcuzicancuellar5478]

FJR 1300 AE, all day long! Great sports tourer…

[@tychormthorp]

My 2003 FJR had much simpler controls (windshield was a dedicated up/down switch for example), and the instruments weren't far off of the 2022 panel it seems haha. If I remember correctly, the "2nd gen" had the best cluster. I'm doing my best to reacquire one, looking at an 05

[@kevincrile9056]

I have a 2016 leftover I bought at the end of 2018. They don’t get updated cause they aren’t a hot seller anymore and that’s a shame. But for aging sport bike riders like me (48) they help us stay sporty and comfortable. 3 weeks ago I took a end of the season ride and put 2300 miles in. The bike just does nothing wrong, good at everything, just not great at any one thing. Lol. It will be with me for a long time hopefully.

[@FliGuyRyan]

I just sent the check to a dealer in Alberta to have this exact model shipped to Ohio. I can't wait... it'll be a dream come true. I've wanted one of these for 15 years (just after I sold my '03 R6 in 2007). I can't believe I'm getting a 2022 20th Anniversary Edition with only 300 km on the odometer. Now to research the best accessories... Thanks for the video! I love the black with gold wheels!

[@rich213sal]

FJR over cocourse, for sure

[@99len]

Huge fan of this bike, but Yamaha could have pushed the upgrades a lot further...

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, it's due for the same upgrades the MT-09 just got.

[@kingkrimson8771]

At least it's not as far behind as the Concours, which still doesn't have cruise control FFS!

[@chrispekel5709]

In Australia these are used by the police. Plenty of them around that are retired highway patrol bikes

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, it would be a hard bike to outrun on the road.

[@blackbuttecruizr]

FJR is a great bike, but indeed is dated. If I was buying in this segment, I'd probably go with the Concours.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, these two are pretty much the only Japanese options in this niche.

[@Scout4x]

I don't know why you say it doesn't have good fuel mileage.... mine averaged 42-44 mpg on every day use and on a trip from San Diego, CA to BC Canada and back I averaged 48 mpg. For a big bike with all that power, that's not bad in my book!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I guess I was riding it like an R1 instead of a touring bike :)

[@davet2555]

Based on the dash, can't get mine below 50mpg but actual fuel versus mileage indicates low 40s when ridden hard

[@johncasteel1780]

And all on regular gas.

[@LanBothan]

Taylor Michael Rodriguez Richard Wilson Thomas

[@Princ1967]

Love, love FJR. I got 2014.

[@rock801]

spokey, if you want a tourer to slam around in the twisties PICK an old R1200RT BMW (boomers, machos and wankers). It has 110 hp 115Nm in its first generation, and the boxer has a low center of gravity for twisties.

[@joelandrade1630]

I agree. Great bike. Concourse is a little ugly. Ninja 1000 sx is cheaper and pretty comparable. The ninja draw back is chain drive.

[@DroneStrike1776]

Bagger? No. You call yourself a bike channel, but failed to understand what the bagger is about. The bagger is about character and styling. This is a sports bike with some boxes. You missed the point completely. What's next, a Panigale V4 is a poor man's GP22?