Buying a new bike - FJR1300

[postoak]

One thing I find interesting is that most riders around here ride Harley's or other big cruisers -- and a lot of them just cruise around on them but nobody says anything about that.

The FJR is 87.8 inches long -- only 1.3 inches longer than the CB1100! Sure, it weighs 100 pounds more but the engine gives it acceleration that far exceeds the 1100. I know Texas isn't like the rest of the country in what we ride -- the FJR will still be considered a somewhat "small" bike around here.

But, if I find its too big for me, I'll let you guys know. I don't mind admitting I'm wrong.

[Rboe]

(07-08-2018 03:39 PM)postoak Wrote:  Interesting post Rboe, but I bought the 2014 FJR. The owner is bringing it to my house tomorrow.

Bugger! I skimmed the posts to see if you mentioned already buying the bike - didn't want to pile on if you had already got it. Sorry about that.

One of the Guzzi guys bought one and they seem to have a very dedicated fan base so it the bike does not click with you I don't think it's because of the bike. They seem to be good machines. You'll have to check out the owners forum for all the nitty gritty. From what I have been told the older ones have a few weak spots that need sorting, the newer ones come pre-sorted.

In the mean time I do hope you'll give us your riding/owning impressions; especially long term impressions. I know the CB was love at first sight, then there was a period where I was less than thrilled, but the love meter has gone back up again. It will be interesting to see how you and the bike click. Good job!

[postoak]

I am absolutely loving my new FJR! I've had four bikes: 1999 Honda Nighthawk 750, 2013 Honda CB1100, 2014 Honda GL1800C Valkyrie, and now this Yamaha 2014 FJR1300A. This is very much my favorite of the four. My legs don't feel cramped (I'm 6'1"), and it has just a bit of forward lean -- a little more than the others -- but I wouldn't mind a little more. The handlebars are adjustable and I plan on moving them to their most-forward position.

It has the solidity of the Valkyrie at highway speeds and almost the maneuverability of the CB1100. Sitting on the bike I never feel like I am on a "big" bike but those panniers give me a welcome road presence. I think of this bike as a female because she certainly has some hips!

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Since I got her I've removed the sticker from the tank, put on new tires, changed the oil and filter, and flushed the brakes and clutch.

[The ferret]

All set up for a Givi top case too with the stronger Givi SR 357 rack. Good deal.

[postoak]

Oh, it came with the top case. I just have no intention of using it except when riding two-up.

[Cormanus]

Good looking bike, postoak. Glad you’re enjoying it.