Faults:

The engine is radiating heat towards the rider's legs; I understand this is a common problem with the FJR1300.

Corrosion in cables under the tank due to water accumulation.

It feels rough at low revolutions (jerking) when decelerating or accelerating, typical of cardan shaft transmission and injection.

In this semi-automatic transmission version, it can get stuck in a gear, which is usually resolved by resetting the ECU.

General Comments:

As for my preferences in sport-touring motorcycles, I like them to have a sporty focus. I used to ride hundreds of kilometers a day on my Yamaha RS100, without its characteristic bikini fairing, so I don't need luxuries to get me where I need to go.

The Yamaha FJR1300 has a traditional design with a sporty touch that prioritizes performance over superfluous embellishments.

I enjoy the FJR1300's ergonomics every time I climb into the cockpit. It feels compact and ready for action; definitely more sport than touring. Yamaha's gauges are easy to read, though I'd prefer a large digital speedometer instead of its distracting analog needle that spins 270 degrees and reads 170 mph.

The Yamaha FJR has a natural cornering entry that allows it to carve turns with remarkable agility for a motorcycle that weighs 641 pounds, including fluids (it has the largest fuel tank of the three). Once you decide on a line, the FJR1300 holds its trajectory with ease, but allows for necessary adjustments depending on the conditions (including rider error).

Entering corners, the Yamaha shines. In addition to superior braking characteristics, the FJR1300 offers a unique unified braking system with ABS: the lever controls six of the eight front pistons, while the pedal activates two rear pistons and the remaining two front pistons. It sounds complicated, but it all works flawlessly. Simply applying the brakes provides a perfectly adequate response—very good brakes.

Although the FJR1300 isn't faster, it feels like it is; it has great responsiveness and acceleration, which is what matters when you're not on a track. However, I wish it had a sixth gear.

But performance isn't everything. The bike also offers exceptional comfort for less sporty stretches of road. Vibrations are minimal, and the seat perfectly balances the demands of sporty riding and touring. Furthermore, the panniers are easily removable, and the FJR, stripped of its saddlebags (reminiscent of the original 1984 FJ1100), transforms into a superb sportbike with a full fairing and an upright riding position.

Faults:

Oversensitive handling.

General Comments:

Looks great, but is very highly strung.

This bike just doesn't hug the road, you have to keep pulling it around even gradual bends, and it really suffers in the wind.

Also, the handlebars are seriously uncomfortable, my hands get numb after 30 minutes. People rave about this bike, but I have to admit I don't get it.