"FJR1300 vs ST1300: Unleashing the Powerhouses of Sport Touring

THanks to ‪@MotoRoUsa‬ for letting me ride his FJR1300. Check out the process he went through on his channel.
Ah, the Honda ST1300 Pan European and the Yamaha FJR1300, two titans in the world of sport-touring motorcycles. The Pan European, also known as the STinker1300 by its loyal fans, is like that old, reliable friend who's always there when you need them. With a face only a mother could love, it's not winning any beauty pageants, but what it lacks in looks, it makes up for in comfort and practicality. It's the motorcycle equivalent of your grandma's armchair - perfect for those long-distance rides where you'd rather not feel every bump on the road. Just don't expect it to turn heads at the local bike meet.
Now, the Yamaha FJR1300, on the other hand, is the hotshot of the sport-touring world, often affectionately referred to as the FJRRRRRR (for that unmistakable sound it makes when you open the throttle). With a design that screams "I mean business," the FJR is the bike for those who want to arrive at their destination looking like they just escaped an action movie. It's got the power, the agility, and the looks that make you wonder why you'd even consider the ST1300 - unless, of course, you're into that whole "practicality and reliability" thing.

[@freedomisntfree131]

Nothing gets my heart pumping like my FJR. It's comfortable, smooth, powerful and stable.

[@robells6759]

I keep coming back to the FJR. I'm on my 3rd. The thrust is addictive.

[@SusanWillan]

IV owned 2 FJRs an 06 and the 012 the only difference is heated grips My 1st is 164000 KMs without any issues I honestly believe these bikes are practically bulletproof IV even seen gen 1 models with over 600 thousand kilometres on the clock

[@spiest78]

Agree. I've driven other big bikes and am always surprised how slow they are (or rather: how I am used to the speed of my FJR)

[@pdx650]

MotoRoUSA, I frequently get compliments on my silver (non-ABS) '07 ST1300. After coming out of shops, people approach me and ask about it and I am happy to oblige in conversation about it. I bought mine in N.W. Washington state last year with 45,XXX miles on it and I felt it was a good deal. New tires, oil and filter. I was and am very happy for my purchase. Now, I need to sell my '98 Honda VFR800 (5th gen). I don't want to sell it, but I need to in order to get a mid-'90's BMW R100GS. If I could afford to, I would have all three.

[@Ridinbear]

I own that same bike that you do! She’s a winner for sure - I have about the same mileage and probably will keep it for the rest of my riding life. Keep the rubber side down, man.

[@mikerogers1216]

I bought my '04 ST1300 in 2017 with 34k miles, I'm now at 107k miles with no issues. Love this bike!

[@braikka]

I have an FJR & I love it😍

[@roberthampton8682]

One reason you are sitting more upright on the ST1300, is because you have a raiser on your handlebars. For me, I found that the HELI Gen 3 raiser makes me comfortable with one of my Russel Day Long saddle(s). Basically you need to "tune" your riding position on any bike, to make it comfortable. And since EVERYONE is different, what makes me comfortable, may not work for you. Also, for me I was looking for a Sport TOURING bike and not a SPORT Touring bike. ;)

[@motardsquid]

Good point. I removed my risers and it indeed puts me in a more sporty position.

[@MLZ1957]

I have a 2014 Yamaha FJR1300A And LOVE it. Best bike I have ever owned. Fast, Sporty, and reliable. I have an eye on the 2023 FJR 1300A (new). Most likely gonna buy it. Still, I am looking at all my options

[@mightyjoe3849]

The 6th gear on the newer FJR's are great on the highway!

[@revelationdetailers894]

The ST is a more refined gentleman's sport tourer. The FJR and Kawi are all sport bike history put to a tourer. The ST is heavier as well so the power on the FJR should correlate to a quicker response on the throttle. You just have to pick the tourer that best suits your riding style. Wished the ST was still made with all the refinements and creature comforts!

[@a.r.t.4611]

The Pan European is 125bhp, the FJR is 145bhp so will feel sportier. Plus the Pan is 10kg heavier.

[@st1300dougg]

Bought a '06 ST1300 new. Put 94 trouble free miles on it. Then bought a 2008 DJR130 AE, the electronic paddle shift. 95% of your analysis is right on. 120hp for the Honda. v.s. 145hp for the Yammy. Smaller frontal fairing protection from the FJR. The ST gives 25% more windshield height. 7.6 gal. on the ST v.s. 6.6 gal on the FJR. Premium gas for the Honda. 87RON /regular unleaded for the FJR. 42-45 mpg for the ST, 46-48 MPG for the FJR. Approx. 720 lbs. for the ST & 650 lbs. for the FJR. Larger rear tire for the FJR suspension more silky on the Honda. I have MS so my foot was not allowing me to shift properly The AE- Electronic Shifter is flat awesome. 0.002 tenths a second, NO clutch lever. NO- NOT A AUTOMATIC......you must engage the paddles. I now have over 50K on the FJR. Love it. BUT sure miss the plushness of the ST1300. BOTH bikes may be bought in the '03-'09 range for well under: $2700-$5900 price range. YOUR CHOICE!!!

[@mightyjoe3849]

I've had 3 FJR's and I'm searching for my 4th! Such amazing bikes!

[@motardsquid]

Where are you located? selling one :)

[@lofty3417]

There's a handle under the seat on the left side to help with putting on centre stand.

[@rolandgeorges960]

FJR is the ticket.

[@stevesmith756]

I rode a ST1300 for my duty bike for 6 years and I have an FJR1300 for my private bike. The FJR is a much better bike. They both have good and bad about them but the FJR much lighter and just the best all around sport touring bike. I would say the FJR is def more reliable. 102k miles and zero issues. The ST had alternator go out at 30k. That’s a common issue. Coolant tank blew and then had a valve go at about 90k. But still the ST is an awsome bike

[@YTubFan]

Agree - had two ST's and now an FJR

[@mikerogers1216]

A duty bike lives a much harder life than a civilian bike... None of the issues you had are common, especially in civilian models.

[@cosmyccowboy]

I drove 2 1/2 hours with the intention of buying a ST1300. I had never driven one before. I read all the reviews about heat on the legs but no one ever said why. As soon as I swung my leg over it I realized the V4’s head configuration was not inline with the bike but both heads were sticking out by my knees. It felt like I was riding a barrel, I didn’t like it at all and rode back home in the car. Looking at a FJR now

[@loopertrooper6671]

I had an 04 ST1300 and it was literally the best all around motorcycle I’ve ever owned. I rode with friends on the FJR and the Connie14. The ST wasn’t even close in power or top speed which drove me nuts riding with those guys. I’d say handling, braking and acceleration all went to the Connie14. Top end to the FJR. Comfort and range were the only category’s the ST won. I miss that bike. Wish Honda would update and give it more power and top-end.

[@wwb7091]

Yup.... the C14 performance can best be described as "brutal". I had a C14 for 70,000 miles - the only mods were bar risers and a throttlemeister.

[@iananderson1422]

Comfort and range is what a sports tourer is all about. I have owned both. adding an ST back to the stable.YMMV

[@lesgraham2578]

❤ my st1300. First liter bike I’ve owned, handles so well. My daily commute lots of turns then a bit of hwy. The heat is something though, I’m going to wrap the headers, should bring that temp down a bit.

[@Jack-kt8bs]

I had the Honda. I kept it less than a year. I could just not get comfortable. No matter the mod.. Never miss it. went to a Wing

[@2mpoida]

I'm amazed you have the nerve to go this fast on a road with that many concealed driveways...dangerous

[@autonomousindividual7780]

Grandma.....is that you? Are you making an apple pie again this Christmas?

[@2mpoida]

@autonomousindividual7780 there's nothing in your helmet worth saving

[@autonomousindividual7780]

@2mpoida Guaranteed mines bigger. Likely both brains. No sense of humor hugh.

[@2mpoida]

@autonomousindividual7780 nah I get it, I thought I made a valid point but everyone's different aren't they

[@rodneypennington1086]

Good video. I'm on the same bronze FJR but clutchless. I had a KTM 1290 which was a bit too brutal so it went. Wife prefers the FJR so I've had 4 of them and quite a few other bikes. Only a SuperGlide was as good. GoldWing was more comfortable but a bit big as was the Vision. ST 1100 had a very smooth motor but the seat was a plank, not as good as your ST 1300. A palm rest is the cure for the heavy throttle. Only about 10 bucks in Australia.

[@wp9409]

'06 ST1300. So far so good. Your video is ok. Maybe concentrate on a script that conveys some info. I'm just getting key words like sporty, kick, wheelie, nice sounding. Etc.

[@jimrowe4177]

These are "Gentlemen's" bikes that are very quick.

[@Motorcyclemeanslife]

For us in Europe is hard because of restricrions.....I love FJR❤

[@tjhessmon4327]

The FJR is designed by engineers from the sport bike racing industry, therefor their designs are going to be relative to that arena, including straight cut transmission gears, which can sustain higher pressures than helical cut gears. Which is why you say the gear box is "Clunky" ... it's designed that way. The FJR is as much Sport Bike as it is a Touring bike. ..... If you desire only to cruse about on a land yacht, without the ability to ride aggressively, taking full advantage of the twisties, and fun roadways, then buy a big, heavy, Harley touring bike or a Gold Wing, and go ride the interstates.

[@ambroseceschin1518]

Risers on the fjr and having it lowered make it and even better than the superb bike it is . Its still the best tour bike, two up and fully loaded it doesnt even notice

[@paulwhite7924]

One of 1st things he mentioned seat is wider, so true but rarely said. I rode a ST for 5k, they handle so nice. I test rode 2 FJR's it will straight walk away ftom the Honda all day, incredible torque. Would love to test one(FJR) with the Heli bars that put the bars 1" higher and up to 3" inch back, that could alleviate some of the wideness of seat.

[@Motorcyclemeanslife]

This is pure eenrgy mate

[@Bora_H]

Why not both? They are such a good deal. I ride with my son and we swap off.

[@ぶーーぶー]

fjr1300aのオーナーです 良いバイクですね

[@8tavian999]

Cant wait to buy my Concours 14.

[@michelbrown1060]

I love the sound. . yet My previous triumph Sprint S/T , was a triple. . .More low end pull then the FJR and a way better sound 🥰

[@michelbrown1060]

You control the power mode with your right hand, .☺ .

[@benney7520]

Love my st. Both great bikes.

[@sparkypdx]

I rode my FJR today after several months of riding my newest one BMW K1600. Hands down the BMW is better in every way. I will never give up my ST1300 though. Might sell the FJR.

[@motardsquid]

That is high praise for the st1300.

[@TurnerDavide]

Good luck with maintenance costs 😂

[@stevesmith756]

We called the BMW a 1900 dollar bike. Every time it goes in for service it’s 1900 dollars 😂

[@stevesmith756]

My FJR. 102k miles zero issues

[@TurnerDavide]

@@stevesmith756ahahah😂 it’s true!

[@billbonu1639]

Love my fjr gen 1 with 35,000 miles.I don't have any problem with the five speed I wish they would put reverse and a windshield wiper on it then I might have to upgrade.I ride everywhere every day and where I live it rains a lot and I have to be careful where I park because it's hard to push backward.yeah, reverse,a wiper and defrost would be awesome!I have my eye on a concourse and a st because eventually I'd like to have all 3 just becuz.

[@michelbrown1060]

For a 1st gear wheely, rev it to 4500 close throtel then twist wide open. . it rises very easelly 😁

[@douglasgrosch228]

Still Concours 14 KING ..

[@michelbrown1060]

I saw 245 km/h on mine at 8600 rpm, , in about 8 / 10 seconds. 😅I had an exact same one, 2007, dark cherry red The prettiest of them. .

[@Necrasmash]

Can a woman around 5,11ft or as in ( 155cm ) drive ST 1300 ? i am thinking FJR for myself and ST 1300 for my wife btw i loved this video so so much, Good voice,good engine sound and good content ☻

[@FixingAndFlipping]

I was thinking getting FJR or Concourse for highway riding. Thanks for the video!

[@brothermanv]

I have a '13 FJR. It crushes miles on the highway.

[@FixingAndFlipping]

@@brothermanv I will definitely try it one day... Or better a week😁

[@motardsquid]

@motorousa had a concours before and he really liked it. I wonder which he prefers

[@GodzillaGoesGaga]

I’d like to see them put to a long ride test through all weather. ST is likely the winner there. It’s made for the crappy european weather!!

[@danny7954]

Had both, fjr, fjr or fjr Unless you like a logging truck for a bike

[@eriksoer]

I get a little nauseous from the camera movements. Good review t

[@raghnallmacaodh3220]

my wife loves her '07 FJR and I'm not giving up my '14 FJR...

[@gregdineen1635]

Is that a Russell seat on the ST?

[@marshalmercer594]

Does your ST1300 have a Rick Mayer seat? If so, that's why you have such a "comfy" ride.

[@cokomattekudassai]

How about vfr1200f vs fjr ?

[@El_chico26121]

i friend buy a fjr and say the bike not protect the legs very good from air and he say me whem rain the bike is not so much protective. good video 👍✌️🤙

[@motardsquid]

Yes the fjr doesnt have as much protection in the legs. The St makes a better winter bike for sure. You feel like you are in a bubble from the outside while riding it.

[@wretchedrider]

Is the ST1300 an upright position? Maybe not totally vertical but is the weight like...75% off your hands/wrists? Thanks!

[@motardsquid]

yeah very upright it feels a bit sporty, but there is no weight on the wrists. Very comfortable position. Also no vibration through the handlebars.

[@wretchedrider]

@@motardsquid nice, thanks! Gotta find one to test out. Have had a Concours14, little too sporty, and an F6B, little too touring, was thinking the st1300 may be a good compromise! Still have yours?

[@stevesmith756]

You def need bar risers on both the ST and FJR

[@somedude1590]

Get yourself a gen 1 FZ1 if you like that FJR boy. I'll tell you what it's the same power as that FJR 1300 and a 509lb wet bike.

[@antman3055]

BMW k1600 Gt…hands down

[@JenniferMartinez-z9v]

Cormier Mission

[@GodzillaGoesGaga]

If you’re afraid to go over 100mph on the ST you’re not loading it correctly. It’s a solid bike after 100mph. Just pack your heavy stuff low. The FJR Rider seems to understand this. Also balance out the saddlebags.

[@hogueraleksander5868]

Such hard choices. One its ugly as sin and slow and less reliable. The other the FJR.... 😅 All joking aside i did a trip with my 14 Honda VFR800 w/panniers from California to Miami.. and some dude on a FJR was doing a similar trip since i saw his bike everywhere. His bike wasnt as pretty a mine, but man, it looked like that dude was super comfortable and could easily go 8000 miles on it. 😅

[@SueannReisinger-o4r]

Lemke Mission

[@joshmoore6165]

I take it you're back home?

[@jamesringler987]

Your forgetting the k1300 gt

[@civanyi9277]

Sure, the FJR will walk away from an ST, but I'm not sure that is the point with these bikes. Face it, a Hayabusa is actually a pretty comfy bike and will walk away from an FJR, but apples to apples. FMM, the ST is the better sport tourer.

[@theodosiseirini5493]

YAMAHA ❤❤❤

[@GunnyPhillips]

The ST is plain ugly, with or without the bags. It also sounds horrible, thanks to the V4 design. I rode it once and never wanted to again. Honda has the Goldwing, which is the undisputed king in it's segment but the ST13000 did nothing for me. Meanwhile, I'm on my 2nd FJR and each ride still feels exhilarating and puts a long-lasting smile on my face.

[@randythayer8440]

Each to their own, right?

[@GunnyPhillips]

@@randythayer8440 Absolutely! No disrespect intended. It just wasn't for me.

[@burgman7682]

Fjr rides better without the side cases. Handling and power is much better

[@MotoRoUsa]

🏍️💨

[@motardsquid]

do you like your concours more than the fjr?

[@MotoRoUsa]

@@motardsquid hard to say but I’d say yes lol

[@stevesmith756]

Maintenance is a bitch on the Kawasaki. FJR is a breeze

[@ChereZachman-i4k]

Leland Stravenue

[@5440bubb]

crappy camera

[@stephenarcher8929]

so its sportier. repeat sportier. legs further back sportier 🥱🥱

[@motardsquid]

slightly back and sportier ;)

[@randythayer8440]

Also less comfortable. Not everyone just wants to race up and down the road as fast as they can, unless you enjoy being chased!