First Ride Review of a 2017 Yamaha fjr1300

My review of a 2017 Yamaha fjr1300 at a Yamaha demo ride event

[@rudolphwinston2440]

I lucked up and bought a lightly-used 2010 FJR 1300 from a colleague at work last year -- less than 11,000 miles on it at the time. 2010 makes it a "Gen II" version; in 2014 (if memory serves), Yamaha updated it fairly significantly with the Gen III, and further updated in 2016 with the 6-speed gearbox. That's where the FJR is today. Fuel mapping and EFI have changed in Gen III for smoother response, and a number of other enhancements as well -- but this engine is fundamentally the same torque monster it was when the FJR was launched in 2002. A ton of good things to say: while not a race-replica, power and handling are excellent. Gen IIs will pull in top gear from about 2,000 rpm (40mph) smoothly; Gen III versions are supposedly even better. From about 4,000 rpm and up, it's like a 2-wheeled missile -- with excellent stability and very predictable handling. Definitely top-heavy in slow-speed maneuvers, like U-turns and parking lot speeds. This is something FJR riders really need to practice, and for this reason, I would NOT recommend the FJR for a first time rider. Even if you're returning to biking, as I was, this aspect of the FJR will assuredly take some practice to get comfy with. Brakes are superb (2010s have conventional ABS and linked braking; Gen IIIs at some point added cornering ABS). Suspension definitely on the firm side, at least on my bike -- although it is fully adjustable, front & rear (that includes compression & rebound damping adjustments). Other great points: • Gas mileage is great, for a 650 lb. bike with this much power -- MPG is normally upper 40s on the highway, maybe lower-to-mid 40s in urban riding. Taking it easy with the right hand, on the highway, I've gotten over 50mpg at times. I don't ride hard enough, or live around canyon roads, to tell you what a morning of canyon-carving, at high revs in gears 1 thru 3, would deliver. • Gas tank is big -- 6.6 US gallons. And, it runs on regular grade gas (this is according to Yamaha, not just me being cheap at the pumps!). • Valve adjustments are called for at every 26,600 miles -- that's not a typo. It's a major job when the time comes, but the good news is that it won't be as frequent as on many DOHC bikes, especially with shim-under-bucket valve actuation. • Shaft drive is an obvious long-distance bonus. • Tall gearing -- on the 5-speed Gen II, 5th gear gives you almost exactly an indicated 20mph for every 1,000 rpm (in other words, it's turning 4,000rpm at an indicated 80mph). Between this and the torque I mentioned a moment ago, this is not a bike you have to do tons of downshifting on during typical road riding, even on tight, twisty secondary roads. • Ground clearance is excellent; I've never touched anything down. Maybe that says more about the way I ride than about the undercarriage clearance, but worth mentioning anyway. • Wind protection: previous owner put a slightly taller, official Yamaha "touring windshield" on the bike; I've never ridden it with the factory-standard shield. That said, windshield on all versions is electronically controlled for height (very convenient, it can be done from left-side control with the bike in motion). I'm about 5 feet 9 inches, so not super-tall -- easy to see over the screen in its low position, and not a ton of wind-blast to the helmet. Raised near the highest position, there's a big reduction in wind from shoulders up, less wind noise, and (fortunately) little to no turbulence behind the rider that I can detect. There's enough windshield height adjustment range that in its highest position, unless you're the size of an NBA player, you will be looking through the screen. (The electronic height adjustment is stepless, so you have some fine control over shield height as you ride.) Wind protection for legs and hands is good, too. Dressed for it (in layers), with the screen raised, I'm comfy on this bike for several hours at temps down to upper- or mid-40s, Fahrenheit. • Tires: no right or wrong answer here; I replaced the original (from first owner) Bridgestones with Michelin Road 5 GTs, which many reviewers praise to the max. They seem superb on this bike. Wet-weather performance is supposed to be perhaps their strongest point on a big sport-tourer, but I have to admit I've done little rainy-day riding. Not much I can complain about, but nothing's perfect. A few niggles: • On my Gen II, vibration through the seat, beginning right at about 4,000 rpm. Good news is that on the highway, that's about 80mph, and at least in the north-east USA, you can't really ride legally (for long, anyway!) at much faster than that, without risk of an impromptu meeting with police. Under 4 grand, it's pretty smooth -- you can feel it running, so I suppose it'll never be confused with a Gold Wing, but vibes are not a problem if you can keep it at about 75mph or under. (And as noted in the video, supposedly the later Gen III bikes, 2014 and later, are better in this regard -- with essentially the same engine.) • Heavy low-speed handling, combined with a definite top-heavy character -- this is NOT a bike you want to even start to tilt off-center at a stand-still, or crawl speeds. FJR riders will be rewarded if they consistently practice for 5-10 minutes a week, in an empty parking lot or similar place. • My 2010 was slightly lowered in the rear (change in two of the rear suspension links) by maybe 0.5 to 1 inch, by the previous owner. Easier to flat-foot at a stoplight, but everyone says getting the FJR onto the center-stand is a bitch with the stock height; with the lowered suspension, I simply cannot do it. Maybe a big ex-football player could, but I cannot. • Riding position -- for an older guy like me, this will put some weight on your forearms and wrists. Stock bars are user-adjustable (you need tools, ideally including a torque wrench, but it's about a 10-minute procedure -- search it on KZbin) forward and back, but even in the rear-most position, my hands need a break after several hours of riding. Seriously considering bar-risers, like Heli-bars or similar, in the future. The good news is that the slightly forward riding position makes you feel even more "at one" with the bike, and obviously is a plus on curvy roads. • Especially considering the hand pressure just mentioned, it would be cool if it had cruise control. 2014 and later Gen III FJRs do have it. • A little thing, but noteworthy: Yamaha equips these bikes with standard, straight-up tire valves. Because of the size of the brake rotors, and the presence in the rear of the hard cases (pretty easily removable, BTW), checking tire pressure, or worse, adding air, is a bitch. This bike desperately needs right-angle tire valves, like some recent Hondas are factory-equipped with. I'd strongly suggest ordering a compatible pair, and having them installed at your first tire change. That's pretty much it. Again, I got a crazy-good value on a mint-condition, truly low-mileage 2010 FJR, and have really enjoyed it for the year-plus that I've owned it. The durability of these engines and transmissions, for the most part, is superb -- if the price was right, I'd be all over a used version even if it had 50-60,000 miles on the clock, and was otherwise in good shape. Consider that in Europe and some other parts of the world, this is a VERY popular police bike. Like any bike, you've gotta do the maintenance, but these bikes really chalk-up the miles, and I can strongly recommend it -- among an admittedly strong field of competitors. Definitely worth a strong look, even if 2021 turns out to be the FJR1300's final year of production, as is sometimes rumored.

[@marshall3498]

Holy cow thank you for watching and for writing a very long and detailed comment. I have owned a 2016 Yamaha fjr1300es now for almost two years. I have alot of motovloggs on it now on my channel. The only negative I have found with my fjr is that like you said it is a little bit top heavy at slow speeds but that is less thank 5 mph for me once the clutch is let out all day most of that is gone for me. Also getting it on the center stand is a little bit difficult but it properly form and technique is used is actually not bad with a stock ride height fjr is what mine is. If you look up a video on putting up a 2018 goldwing on the center stand there is a guy putting a goldwing on the center stand with two adult men on it . It is a very interesting video.

[@jivadaya6439]

Thank you for sharing this INFO :D I am currently looking for my first FJR and I appreciate your thoughts.

[@alp3781]

Best bike for dollar. I was going to get almost new K1600GT and when I heard the charges for service and yearly maint, it shut me down. Also, after riding the Kawa Conc, I came to conclusion that the FJR will be the ticket for me. I took the last 17 in the showroom and I am glad I am glad I did. If you are in the market, do not hesitate. Very comfy, very sable, more then enough power and everything is located were it should. I am 6'4"/190 and it is perfect. Moreover, sooo easy to work on and to reach everything on it. Headlight like daylight. 6th gear, great addition to an happy engine. i just wished it came with the rear top 50L box. Yamaha sales it for 650 + 250 bracket + 120 back pad on it. I LOVE THIS BIKE. It is going no where !!!!!! Happy riding.

[@marshall3498]

Al Petel yeah I'm going to try get one in about 3 months what mods did you do to yours?and did you get the es model

[@alp3781]

Hey man, I ride via Soft/-3 and the Damping - Single rider with luggage. All 17 models are ES. I do lots of Hwy rides so the Softest is perfect for me. It is a pleasure to ride.

[@marshall3498]

Al Petel ok I didn't know all 2017 fjr1300 were all es models?Did you stick with the stock windshield and seat?

[@alp3781]

Marshall 3498 yes, according to the dealer. I would not buy the A even if was available. Touring bike must have the shock adjustment. I do ride stock seat and windshield. For an hour commute each way to work, the seat is fine. The windshield, I might get a larger one later on. I do like the looks of the stock. If it raised all the way up, it blocks the wind pretty good. Also, as soon as I got it home, I raised the seat to the higher level. It takes mins to do. Everything is so simple and clear.

[@marshall3498]

Al Petel ok about the es only I was going to get a es anyway the windshield I find it to work very well for me as I'm only 5foot 10 inches tall I'm probably going to get a sargent seat for mine quickly and a aftermarket exhaust I'm really looking forward to doing some touring on it cause I live close to wonderful places to ride

[@2008fjr]

I have a 2016 FJR ES (my second FJR). I sold my 2008 after riding it for 6 years and 52,000 miles and regretted it, so I bought another FJR. Love this bike and I think it is great for what it's designed for. Its not for everyone, but it works great for me.

[@marshall3498]

Chuck Boylan awesome I want to get one after the first of the new year in 2018 I want a 2017 fjr

[@mikefisher7574]

I had a 1990 fj I bought new rode for 5 years. Regretted it immediately. Years and life passed. Got a new 2018 fjr. This one is never leaving.

[@mikefisher7574]

Regretting selling the fj1200

[@JP1970]

Great video! I have a MT-07 and an FJ09, but I'm looking at what else is available. Great video--thank you. I subbed!

[@marshall3498]

Sounds like a great combo of motorcycles that you have. Thank you for subscribing and for watching I have several more motorcycles reviews and motorcycle gear reviews

[@JP1970]

@@marshall3498 Right on....Yeah, sounds like we have similar channels. I do some motorcycle videos, product reviews, and some gun/shooting videos. Hickok45 is down there in Tennessee too. Thanks again for the video.

[@jimberger7362]

140 hp at the crank 124 hp at the rear wheel! I have a 2014 the cruise control works great! 655 lbs

[@TheMattManTN]

Good looking bike also.

[@marshall3498]

MotoMattMan oh yeah and a lot of fun to ride and very fast and smooth

[@davidgreve1081]

I'm glad they came out with a 6th gear now. I'm pretty impressed with your review even though the trip was short, but event test rides are only designed tie get your tongue wet. I like the driveshaft part. The Bike has a lot of power too. That 1300 cc engine is no slouch by any means.

[@marshall3498]

David Greve yeah it's a fast smooth comfortable and great handling motorcycle and thank you for the kind comment plz subscribe if you have not already done it

[@NormKohn]

Good review on the FJR

[@marshall3498]

Thank you very much

[@NormKohn]

Marshall 3498 i appreciate an honest real world review and that’s well received.

[@Visionery1]

Great review, I was considering the BMW R1200RT but the shaft drive is plagued by problems and maintenance costs are over the top. 2:30, "cigarette lighter"... with all the info available, do people still smoke these days, I gave up 35 years ago. :)

[@marshall3498]

Thank you very much I really appreciate it. I actually purchased a 2016 fjr1300es this February it has been a amazing motorcycle for me. Please subscribe if you don't mind I would really appreciate it. Thank you for watching and for commenting.

[@comcastjohn]

You do like I do. If they leave me, I just continue at my pace, especially with unfamiliar roads. A lot of people would try to catch up or keep up which beyond their safe capabilities and wind up crashing. Mature, sensible right. 😀

[@marshall3498]

comcastjohn thank you for watching and commenting please subscribe if you haven't already done so

[@us4marine]

Great review. Thanks for sharing.!!

[@Greggspies]

Good review friend

[@marshall3498]

Flatcap007 thank you and thank you for watching and please subscribe if you have not done so already I would really appreciate it very much

[@MrTanker10a]

I have just picked mine up from WV and I am not taking her out of my garage until I have installed all my guards... Unfortunately, T-Rex is back ordered on the luggage guards...

[@marshall3498]

MrTanker10a great what year did you get?

[@MrTanker10a]

Marshall 3498 I have a new 2017 Yamaha FJR1300 ES...RAVEN😎

[@marshall3498]

MrTanker10a wonderful but that's the color and model I want lol do you get a good deal on it cause of being last year's model?

[@MrTanker10a]

Marshall 3498 I had an excellent deal on it. The problem was that none of the dealers around me had one to sell. They are extremely scarce... As per conversation with a dealer rep, Yamaha will cut production on the 2018 due to an excess of 2016...The dealer was offering me a 2016 1300ES for $14,084...Since he could not locate a 2017 Model... Btw-Other than the colors, the 2016-2017-2018 model years are identical. I have made a side-by-side Specs comparison from the Yamaha’s website. There was Zero difference between them...😉

[@marshall3498]

MrTanker10a I know they are the same bikes in those 3 years I want the 2017 cause it's the color I want lol

[@andycrawley8276]

Well done.. i love mine

[@marshall3498]

Thank you very much. I recently purchased a 2016 Yamaha fjr1300es used in February this year in 2020. I have ridden mine for about 3000 miles now

[@andycrawley8276]

@@marshall3498 great... i just got mine. It only has 700 km lol. I love these type of bikes. Glad you like yours. I had a tracer gt before but this is on a different level

[@cavetroll9365]

Lol so why did they call the middle position "what's that truck doing" lol great looking bike. Amd great review.

[@marshall3498]

Cave Troll thanks man once again

[@truthbeknown163]

Marshall, if you haven't already done a cross country trip... do it. I did a multi state 20 day trip on my 13 fjr1300a. That was in 2016, and I rode 7835 miles. What a joy to travel on.... The bike with bar risers and and a good after market saddle(mine is a Sargent), is so comfortable. A couple things I did which also helped make the traveling more enjoyable was to use a tall yamaha windshield(cut down 4"). Also I have a shoei GT Air helmet, and I use a set of Bose noise canceling ear buds, with an amp and music player. My name is Greg, and I'm in the Atlanta area.

[@marshall3498]

Yeah I have never done a long multi day trip yet but I want to definitely get a fjr1300 to tour on and I did put 350 miles on my fz6 to Cherokee north Carolina not long ago and I did a several part trip video series on it check it out and please subscribe I would really appreciate it very much

[@sutous4188]

My stock seat is hard as hell

[@marshall3498]

suto us what year is your fjr?

[@mikefisher7574]

It'll break in. Mine got softer by 5000 miles. Just go ride.