Yamaha FJR1300 Reviews

★★★★★
4.7 / 5
95% of users recommend this
  • Build quality

  • Reliability

  • Value For Money

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Latest Reviews

★★★★★

“Raw-Agile-Fast”

Written on: 07/11/2012

I have owned my 2003 Yamaha FJR1300 since last March (2012). I have always been a BMW fan and my previous bike was an R1100RS with ABS and Russell All Day Saddle. While my wife loved the comfort of 2-up touring and the seat on the Beemer, I have to say that the FJR is the best bike I've ever owned. Where it comes alive is in the twisties. For a big, powerful bike that you can jump on and ride from Boston to San Francisco, it is amazing the way it handles the back roads and twisties. I have... (read more)

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★★★☆☆

“SPORTS Tourer Extraordinaire”

Written on: 12/09/2012 by yamfan

Great motorcycle, in power, performance, handling and looks. As a tourer, it is, in my opinion, let down by a lack of long distance comfort. It is a pity it doesnt have standard handlbars, which can be changed and/or adjusted to suit the rider. The minute adjustment available is not sufficient, and combined with the narrow hard handgrips is a pain for long trips. I know some find it ok as is, but many such as I need to search for hdbr risers and softer grips to prevent sale of the bike.... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Confidence generator”

Written on: 29/03/2012

I bought my FJR in 2009. An absolute dream, but be weary because you will easily surpass your own ability without realizing it. Fantastic brakes, fast!, RELIABLE. I put 30K on the clock within 24 months, only weekends. Wonderful not to have to put up with 6 gears. (read more)

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★★★★★

“Bee. Emm beater”

Written on: 25/09/2011 by 1200rt (1 review written)

After 15 years on BMWs of all types, I was getting fed up of the same old stories of corrosion and failures and being fobbed off by the usual apathy (they all do that sir). The final strw came whem my 2 year old 1200RT started having the paint peel off the engine, cylinder heads and rear drive. So i traded it in for the FJR. And what a revelation. Forget all the gizmos of the BMWs, this is proper riding on a properly built and finished motorcycle. I have had not one corrosion issue or... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Awesome the ultimate for long distance traveling in...”

Written on: 22/09/2011

I bought my first FJR in 2001 after I got divorced and enjoyed it tremendously.I married again and my wife who also bikes but with a cruiser next to the FJR I got frustrated and traded my FJR for a cruiser twice can you believe it? My current and fourth FJR a black beauty gives me a lot of pleasure at the age of 61 years as I have retired in the most beautiful part of the world the western cape in south africa with the ultimate roads one can desire. To anyone out ther with a FJR do not... (read more)

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★★★★★

“After the last 15 years on sportbikes the time had...”

Written on: 15/03/2011

After the last 15 years on sportbikes the time had come for something a bit more comfortable. After considering all the big sports tourers, the FJR was far and away the best looking, which, being a vein sort was very important. The FJR certainly has plenty of comfort, but the surprise was that it is also ballistically fast which I was not expecting, and it handles superbly,like a proper motorbike rather than a comfy settee, what a bonus!

I've been riding for 37 years and when all things... (read more)

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★★★★★

“I acquired the dark blue Yamaha FJ1300A in 2003. It...”

Written on: 20/01/2011

I acquired the dark blue Yamaha FJ1300A in 2003. It does what a big tourer should: fast performance, excellent lights, effortless top gear; good (adjustable)screen protection. 200 mile tank range, comfy seat; good ABS brakes. It also handles well for a large beast. Full stainless exhaust still looking good. Only peeling paint on the shaft drive has let the cosmetics down. The only caveat was an overly soft shock two up. Upgrading to a Hyperpro has sorted that nicely. Tyre wear is reasonable... (read more)

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★★★★☆

“solid machine with lots of comfort. even after a...”

Written on: 27/11/2010

solid machine with lots of comfort. even after a couple of hundred miles you can easily get back on and do similar. lots of power, good acceleration even in 5th gear. would love a larger fuel tank. that would make it a proper grand tourer, although 200 miles per tank is achievable. (read more)

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★★★★★

“The bike looks fantastic, rides like it is solid and...”

Written on: 27/07/2010

The bike looks fantastic, rides like it is solid and safe. It does not get blown around on the open road like some sport bikes, i am 5 foot 7 and the screen is excellent for me but maybe a 6 + foot fellow may find it to short even extended. I actualy like the way it retracts when you turn off the bike. The panniers fit my Aria Vector helmet no problem. Room for 40 cans of beer!
I added a set of staintune mufflers and the bike sounds like it looks, not to be messed with! This is one of... (read more)

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★★★★★

“after owning pan europeans for a number of years, i...”

Written on: 10/07/2010

after owning pan europeans for a number of years, i broke the bank for my 50th birthday and bought a new fjr1300 in stunninbg black. got a great deal from Chorley yamaha, the bike rides like a dream , it pulls like a train and im the envy of my mate who has a pan. Ajustable screen is great and gives me 53 to the gallon on a recent trip to france and belguim with my 16 year old son on the back. travelled all the way down with no discomfort or cramp, bike is dead comfy. I would recommend the... (read more)

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★★★★★

“This bike maybe the best overall bike on the street! ...”

Written on: 13/05/2010

This bike maybe the best overall bike on the street! It handles great, lot's of power, comfortable and still gives great mileage...I get about 52 mpg! There's lots of guys at work who ride and they all comment on how good my bike looks (Blue with silver accents). I really appreciate the adjustable windscreen on the ride home at 5:00 a.m as it gets a little cool in the spring and fall. About the only thing I would like to see added is a 6 speed tranny and self cancelling signals. ... (read more)

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★★★★☆

“The FJR1300A is a blast to ride...plenty of power and...”

Written on: 03/04/2010

The FJR1300A is a blast to ride...plenty of power and great maneuverability! Gas mileage has been great, as I average 45 MPG on the highway. I did have to lower the bike, due to my short legs, but this has not affected how the FJR performs. The only thing I don't like about the FJR, is that the blasted windshield retracts each time the bike is turned off - making the rider find the adjusted sweet-spot each time he/she rides. Overall, I'm very please with this bike, and would recommend it to... (read more)

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★★★★★

“After 20+ years of riding countless makes and models...”

Written on: 25/03/2010

After 20+ years of riding countless makes and models of machines I can put my hand on my heart and say the FJR1300 is the best bike bar none for sports touring. Yes it's pricey but you get what you pay for!
The motor is a gem. It pulls like a freight train and is a smooth as silk.
Suspension and handling are very reassuring and the bike can be pushed along with some gusto when needed. It's not a light weight at 265kg but the weight disappears once you get on the move and can be quite a... (read more)

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★★★★★

“After coming back to biking in 2001 following a 30...”

Written on: 18/03/2010

After coming back to biking in 2001 following a 30 year lapse, I started cautiously on a Piaggio X9 (125), moved on to another X9 (500 this time), then a Suzuki Burgman 650. The more astute of you will notice that these are all twist-and-go machines.
Wishing for something more traditional, suitable for touring, with a bit of speed, but still cautious about manual gears after (now) a nearly 40 year lapse, I test rode an FJR1300 AS (auto clutch) and couldn't get my chequebook out fast... (read more)

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★★★★☆

“An excellent sport-touring motorcycle...nimble, full...”

Written on: 23/02/2010

An excellent sport-touring motorcycle...nimble, full of power and options. Shortcomings include a windshield that retracts each time the bike is turned off - annoying after getting just the right adjustment. This motorcyle is designed for individuals with a long inseam. I have a 31" inseam and had to lower the bike and shave the seat to get on the balls of my feet. Bottom line, I enjoy riding this bike and like the Yamaha reliability... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Wanted a larger bike (previously had a VFR) that I...”

Written on: 10/02/2010

Wanted a larger bike (previously had a VFR) that I could tour on, have a Sunday balst and take a pillion in comfort. This thing is fantastic. Build quality looks good (although I'll let you know for sure in a few years), purrs along motorways at a rapid rate of knots and just feels so stable.
Brakes are good, handles well at slow speed and has so much grunt you can hook it into top and ride it like a twist and go scooter from 30 to 130.

Will have a pillion on board this summer, but at... (read more)

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★★★★★

“ I have had my 2005 fjr1300 for 5 yrs. and 60,000...”

Written on: 06/02/2010

I have had my 2005 fjr1300 for 5 yrs. and 60,000 miles. For 2 summers it sat alot due to work, so that should say a little on how I ride.What an incredible bike, yamaha is to be commended for an excellent bike. I have had cruisers, touring, dirt, etc.... when I got on this bike I have never looked back. For the size of the bike it handles great. I don't even pay any attention to other bikes anymore. I'm glad I dont have the ABS on this one, it adds weight and won't let you brake sometimes... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Truely awesome bike even fully loaded it just pulls....”

Written on: 31/01/2010

Truely awesome bike even fully loaded it just pulls. Most comfortable ride in all weathers if you have the correct gear on. I love this bike. Likes...everything. dislikes.....nothing. (read more)

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★★★★★

“I have covered 11000 miles on this bike, using mostly...”

Written on: 31/12/2009

I have covered 11000 miles on this bike, using mostly A and B type roads, so it gets through front tyres, the most frightening thing is the ABS, that cannot be switched off, this will not allow the the rider to brake as i would like. To explain. I had a fj1200 without ABS but fitted with R1 front calipers, this would allow the application of the front brake, so the bikes weight would be transferred to the front wheel,so more brake effort could be applied up to the point that the front tyre... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Having previously owned two Honda Blackbirds and...”

Written on: 31/10/2009

Having previously owned two Honda Blackbirds and before that an Africa Twin, I was beguiled by the FJR1300 after riding a mates, so I bought a 51 plated, 1 owner bike for £5700 with just 3000 miles on the clock (this was a 5 year old bike at the time)! I think it's a fantastic machine, performance is effortless, comfort is great, handling is very good - I feel more in command on this bike that I ever did on the Blackbirds - and fuel consumption is frugal. The bike is really easy to ride... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Bought this bike from new, it ticks all the boxes for...”

Written on: 30/10/2009

Bought this bike from new, it ticks all the boxes for me. I use to comute to work and travelling around the UK with my wife. With a tank bag, panniers loaded and a tent strapped to the back it still pulls and handles well. Over 200 miles to a tank, I am very, very pleased with it and would buy another tomorrow. (read more)

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★★★★★

“Excelent bike, brought new, only had it for a month...”

Written on: 12/10/2009 by smug (1 review written)

Excelent bike, brought new, only had it for a month but the FJR1300 has certainly left me with a permanent grin. The luggage fits well, no annoying squeeks or rattles typical with other luggage sets. Its very fast and so far has offered great MPG. Not too sure how the ventilation system works ? the ankles do get quite warm in the traffic. Overall best bike i have owned (read more)

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★★★★★

“On my second FJR now and find it a comfortable well...”

Written on: 09/10/2009

On my second FJR now and find it a comfortable well performing tourer.

Smoother and far quicker than the R1200RT I ride the FJR has also proven itself to be far more reliable than the BMW.

(read more)

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★★★★★

“I have only owned the Yamaha FJR1300 bike for a short...”

Written on: 11/09/2009

I have only owned the Yamaha FJR1300 bike for a short time, but am so impressed with it, just been to devon for a few days, from kent rained a lot but the bike was fantastic to ride, we had two up with luggage were doing good speeds on the motorways. The onboard computer said it was doing 58.4 mpg and around the lanes in devon it was 55.3 mpg. So far I can't think of anything bad about the bike. Looks nice, runs great, think I will keep this one a while. (read more)

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★★★★★

“I love this Yamaha FJR1300 bike! While Honda and...”

Written on: 21/05/2009 by S Money (1 review written)

I love this Yamaha FJR1300 bike! While Honda and Kawasaki make you pay extra for ABS, Yamaha was kind enough to make safety standard! TY! I can't wait to ride this bike and wish my ride to work and back was longer just so I could keep riding. Comfort, reliable, SAFE thanks to standard ABS, the 2008 FJR is simply and awesome ride. Go on a group ride and I bet you get a few Harley owners drueling over yours too! Boy that feels good. (read more)

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★★★★★

“The Yamaha FJR1300 is the peer of the BMW K1200 GT,...”

Written on: 12/04/2009 by ptf08fjr (1 review written)

The Yamaha FJR1300 is the peer of the BMW K1200 GT, the Honda ST1300, The Kawasaki Concours 14 and the BMW R12 RT. My 2008 was test ridden after an all-day test on the K12GT. The FJR was the equal of the GT in almost every category except price. TH FJR was thousands cheaper. After 5000 kms of ownership I am still very content with my decision to go Yamaha versus BMW. Did not like the ST 13 at all and wasn't as impressed with the Connie 14 when it first came out. THey've sorted the heat and... (read more)

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★★★★★

“The Yamaha FJR1300 is very good for moneys worth, this...”

Written on: 02/04/2009

The Yamaha FJR1300 is very good for moneys worth, this is my fourth fjr 1300. I have had no trouble with any of the bikes, perfect in fact! i would recommend these bikes. (read more)

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★★★★★

“Anyone who says this is the best Sport Touring that...”

Written on: 23/10/2008 by thomastitus (2 reviews written)

Anyone who says this is the best Sport Touring that they have ridden, has never compared it to the 2007-2009 Kawasaki Concours 1400. The FJR is a good overall motorcycle. As an experienced long distance rider, I would have to say it has been one of my favorites. However, the 2007-2009 Kawasaki 1400 Concours is a much better motorcycle for the same amount of money. The Concours has better power at 156 hp, better gas mileage, insulated body parts that vent the hot air away from the rider,... (read more)

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★★★★★

“If you want to travel First Class, then look no...”

Written on: 16/10/2008 by willow100 (1 review written)

If you want to travel First Class, then look no further. I was 'just passing' a dealer when I decided to have a ride on a demo. Wish I had done it years ago - a real revelation. An hour later - with the full support of my spouse (take them pillion on the test ride!) I was the proud owner of a new Black 08 FJRA. £1500 of list as a demo with 0 miles on it. I always thought that you could never get it all in one bike. Well I guess I was wrong. Tootling around town? Easy. Fast country lanes?... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Although for the price, the paint/finish etc should be...”

Written on: 22/09/2008

Although for the price, the paint/finish etc should be far better I smile the whole time I am riding the bike. You can ride it for hours without a stop and it handles so well on the twisty bits you wouldn't believe it. If I stick to around 60mph and enjoy myself on some challenging roads it gives me about 55 - 60 mpg. That's not bad for 140 plus BHP. I find one of the main drawbacks is that you have to be careful not to be lazy with the gears because it pulls without any problem all the way... (read more)

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★★★★★

“Had the bike for 4 months now, having moved from a...”

Written on: 28/06/2008 by rocketrob

Had the bike for 4 months now, having moved from a Yamaha Diversion 600. I couldn't be more happy, I use the bike all year round and have already tested it in the worst downpours and stayed bone dry. It loves to have a run out, no matter what the terrain, from motorways to mountain roads, it can handle them all with power and silky smoothness to spare.
Having done 1300 miles around Scotland in 4 days, I know I made the right choice, with the panniers easily taking my luggage, yet not loosing... (read more)

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★★★★★

“The Yamaha FJR1300 is the best sports tourer I have...”

Written on: 22/06/2008 by FJRboy (1 review written)

The Yamaha FJR1300 is the best sports tourer I have owned. Excellent handling, particularly after Hyperpro fork springs and shock upgrade. Effortless torque. Pulls like a train. Good ABS brakes. Good economy. Around 45 mpg on average. Sharp drive. Adjustable screen. Fully laden two up it still handles superbly. Aim for the mountains on those touring trips! (read more)

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★★★★★

“The Yamaha FJR1300 is a really good ride. I have done...”

Written on: 31/05/2008 by thedrew

The Yamaha FJR1300 is a really good ride. I have done over 600 miles a day and it was a pleasure. The bike has great balance and is very easy to ride (you need to watch your speed). The bike really starts to show it's true colors after 60-70mph. I really like to run about 80-90mph but it is capable of crusing 100 + for as long as you want. WHAT A BIKE! (read more)

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★★★★★

“The Yamaha FJR is one of the most amazing and reliable...”

Written on: 08/05/2008 by TheNomad (1 review written)

The Yamaha FJR is one of the most amazing and reliable bikes on the market. Style, comfort and amazing power from the super smooth engine. I've recently completed 100,000 miles on my FJR and it has never missed a beat. In that time, I've only changed the wheel bearings and a rear disc. Engine has been stripped twice with only a valve shim rotation required. Serviced every 6000 miles. (read more)

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★★★★★

“I bought the Yamaha FJR1300 a month ago after longing...”

Written on: 10/03/2008 by adycrane (5 reviews written)

I bought the Yamaha FJR1300 a month ago after longing for one for some time. A 2001 model in silver with heated grips, panniers, taller screen and comfort seat. This bike is everything I've ever wanted. Super powerful drive from very low rpm. Did the Yorkshire Dales last week with a BMW 1200GS and ZZR1100. It got me there in complete comfort and then became a fun bike in the twisties too. When I got a go on the ZZR, of which I've had three, it felt like a 600. Tiny in size with a too peaky... (read more)

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★★★★★

“I have moved to this bike from a Honda Varadero which...”

Written on: 21/02/2008 by adycrane (5 reviews written)

I have moved to this bike from a Honda Varadero which was excellent as an all rounder. i love the shaft drive - so smooth and of course clean. the power is incredible. i bought a very clean 2001 model with a taller tinted screen, heated grips, panniers and the comfort seat. it is everything i have ever wanted from a bike. highly recommended. ordered a baglux tank cover - almost a necessity once you've experienced them. anyway a 1000 miles in a week and chuffed to bits. (read more)

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★★★★★

“I have only owned this Yamaha FJR1300 for about 3...”

Written on: 15/01/2007 by Nickhlx (1 review written)

I have only owned this Yamaha FJR1300 for about 3 months but I already like the bike a lot - there's plenty of power, excellent economy and it's comfortable with a good riding position. I had a 2004 Blackbird before but just couldn't ride it for long due to neck and arm/wrist aches. I plan to do some long miles touring on it in 2007. - 500+ miles per day should be no problem.
Great exhaust note with superb pulling power even from lowish revs which means less cog changing is necessary...... (read more)

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★★★★☆

“I have had my Yamaha FJR1300 for four years nearly and...”

Written on: 30/05/2006 by DoctorWu (1 review written)

I have had my Yamaha FJR1300 for four years nearly and ride it most days as it is my only means of transport. It is a great bike for all occasions and will keep up with sports bikes if you are brave enough! I have been from one end of the UK to the other and loved every minute. I go out for a "spin" and it ends up being a 200 mile journey now I have my sat nav fitted.
I went to Spain last year (my first trip abroad) and wish I had done it years ago. Nearly 4000 miles in 12 days and it was... (read more)

256501_Bramfrank's Response to DoctorWu's Review

Written on: 22/08/2006

This review claims that 'everything missing has been added'.
<br/>
<br/>I submit that:
<br/>
<br/>- Self cancelling turn signals
<br/>- Cruise Control
<br/>- a hard-coated windscreen
<br/>- Factory frame sliders
<br/>
<br/>Are among the bits that are missing that OUGHT to be included with a $13500 motorcycle.

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470314_Kickstarter's Response to DoctorWu's Review

Written on: 01/07/2009

You are so right,here we are three years on and my 2004 model is the best bike Ive had, Im 58 and worked in the bike trade all my life,been to Spain ,Portugal a fair bit of France and use it regular to visit dealers in the U.K

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★★★★☆

“My good lady and I have been riding since we were 17,...”

Written on: 14/11/2005 by rhalesuk (1 review written)

My good lady and I have been riding since we were 17, now at the ages of 40 something we both wanted a Sport Tourer. Following many hours of research and discussions with fellow bikers, we purchased Yamaha the FJR1300 full spec.
In 8 months we have travelled 5,000 miles in all weathers, with total confidence and in comfort. The FJR has lots of storage, and a backrest on the topbox provides added comfort, and an Autocom for comms and music. The only problem that we have encountered is the... (read more)

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★★★★★

“This Yamaha FJR1300 tourer motorcycle is excellent. ...”

Written on: 05/10/2004 by Timbo2015 (2 reviews written)

This Yamaha FJR1300 tourer motorcycle is excellent. Here in the States we have to put down a deposit, then wait 5 months for the bike, without even having sat on one. I took a chance and I couldn't be happier. The engine will pull strongly from 1500 rpm in top gear. Power above 6000 rpm is incredible. 52 mpg on the open highway. (I think that's 22.2 km/liter or 4.51 liters/100km to you Brits, hope I did the math right) The suspension is supple over bumps, yet firmly planted. Brakes... (read more)

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