FJR or DL-1000 (Help pick Baz's next bike)

[Baz]

Hi Everyone:

Well it is now just 3 weeks away before I must give my local stealer a deposit on an in crate 2006 FJR 1300A. I am hesitating a bit as the DL-1000 is also appealing to me (albeit for different reasons) This is sort of a repeat post by the way, but as I am struggling with the decision, I am in dire need of advice.

I think I would love the grunt of the FJR and of course will love the convenience of a ST mount (Currently ride a 2002 B-12). My 9 year old son has decided he will want to come along on rides with me this summer an the FJR equipped with a top box will accommodate a Little safety factor into him being on the back.

Most of my enjoyable rides are highway miles. (I do not use the bike for commuting) Now I love the Bandit's grunt but I am finding it a bit uncomfortable on long rides (leg room is the biggest complaint)

I have always liked the Strom, and on occasion I thought it would be nice to venture on a few gravel roads. A fellow at the dealer (who owns a DL-1000) told me they are quite a handfull on gravel, and he does not do much off pavement riding with his as a result. He loves his DL. but just advises that I would not like it much on gravel.

Here is the thing.

New FJR is $16000.00 with luggage. (Canadian bucks)

DL 1000 is $11000.00 no luggage. and the Suzuki bags are going to run me about 2000.00. I should add that the DL is also a 2006 model.

The price difference is not a big factor with me.

I have test rode a DL. I liked it, but did not love it if you know what I mean. I would sort of compare it to a minivan. It was OK, got me there, but I did not have a smile on my face. I am not really a fan of V-twins, and just found the DL, a little too utilitarian.

I have not rode an FJR but sitting on it, I sort of relate it to being a very luxury like Bandit. I know the weight of the FJR is considerably on the porky side, but like I say, most of my riding is highway, and weight does not concern me much.

I think both bikes would make an excellent highway bike, but feel the FJR might be a better way to see the sights.

[Jetpilot5]

I have test rode a DL. I liked it, but did not love it if you know what I mean. I would sort of compare it to a minivan. It was OK, got me there, but I did not have a smile on my face. I am not really a fan of V-twins, and just found the DL, a little too utilitarian.

Sounds like the FJR is the winner to me.  It would probably make you feel better about it if you could somehow score a test ride.

[sprint_st]

For about a year now I have been looking at ST1300's, R1200GS's, Triumph Tiger's, Multistrada's, and a multitude of others.  Of course I came to the obvious conclusion that one bike just doesn't do it.  Next Wednesday I'm picking up my 06 FJR but I will keep my 02 Triumph Sprint ST.  Probably won't ride the Sprint much but when I need a twisty fix, it should do the job.  To be as polite as possible, let me just say the DL's may be the best thing since buckwheat, BUT it AIN'T purdy.  Tell me the truth, in a beauty contest who would you vote for Woopie Goldberg (DL) or Jessica Simpson (FJR).  In my mind, the FJR is the best long distance touring package for the money currently available.  Maybe, and that's just a maybe the Concours 14 will give it a run for it's money but it still has to prove itself.  Aesthetics aside the only factor that could tighten the race would be what kind of rides do you take.  IMO, the longer the runs, the more the balance shifts to the FJR.  As far as gravel goes, all bikes suck on gravel, it's just how bad.

[mxvet57]

i vote FJR  

  but hey, I'm biased

[jude]

Ooooh, there's a poser, but I think you've answered you won question with your comments about V-2's and the utilitarian factor of the Strom.  Looks like you want the FJR and I can't argue having put more the 40K on mine.  I'll never give it up, but I do want to someday travel off road.  For that purpose, I'll simply get a KLR650 or a DR650 and beat the crap outta them without care.  You'll like the FJR and the kick you get from all that torque will keep you and your kid in giggles for a long time.

[Baz]

Ooooh, there's a poser, but I think you've answered you won question with your comments about V-2's and the utilitarian factor of the Strom.  Looks like you want the FJR and I can't argue having put more the 40K on mine.  I'll never give it up, but I do want to someday travel off road.  For that purpose, I'll simply get a KLR650 or a DR650 and beat the crap outta them without care.  You'll like the FJR and the kick you get from all that torque will keep you and your kid in giggles for a long time.

Poser? who you calling a poser? I ride a Bandit for God's sake!

I do appreciate the comments people!

[VAX]

I ride a Strom and it certainly puts a smile on my face, but it seems that an FJR is in your future.  In truth, these are both excellent choices.  Keep in mind that the Strom's gearing is very high but can easily be changed with a new front sprocket.  The bike has a whole different personality with this gearing change.  Stiffer fork springs are a big improvement too.

[Against The Wind]

Ooooh, there's a poser, but I think you've answered you won question with your comments about V-2's and the utilitarian factor of the Strom.  Looks like you want the FJR and I can't argue having put more the 40K on mine.  I'll never give it up, but I do want to someday travel off road.  For that purpose, I'll simply get a KLR650 or a DR650 and beat the crap outta them without care.  You'll like the FJR and the kick you get from all that torque will keep you and your kid in giggles for a long time.

 

[JimWilliamson]

Commit to the FJR....

....then start looking for a used DL-650 (slightly lighter weight for off-road stuff) to add to the mix - "for play" - yea, that's the ticket...

[Baz]

Commit to the FJR....

....then start looking for a used DL-650 (slightly lighter weight for off-road stuff) to add to the mix - "for play" - yea, that's the ticket...

This is something I have really considered. A DL 650 or KLR. There is just one problem. The beging, pleading I have had to go through to convince my better half that I really need the FJR, is not something I dare repeat in the next couple of years!

Another thing that comes into the equation is that I do not know anyone that I ride with on a regular occasion that has a dual purpose bike, so I would probably not use the off road capabilities very much.

[Barabus]

FJR all the way.  Be prepared to fall in love.

[Against The Wind]

Though I haven't ever done 1,000 miles in a day, the closest I came was ride from Halifax to Ottawa in one day about 1,480 km approx.  

Nice ride eh? I did Fredericton to Ottawa on a DT-250 in the rain in November of 77. My fingers thawed out in the summer of 78.

PS. I want a KLR as a 2nd bike too.

[ChrisZRX]

Re-read your own post.    For you the FJR is the best choice, particularly when you said the DL just doesn't do it for you.

However, I thought the DL was fine on gravel roads.  

A LOT better than a ZRX1200.  

[Canuck]

I've been riding a 2002 DL 1000 for a few years now and really like the bike. My dream bike though was the FJR, and I was pretty certain it would be my next bike. Then the guy I ride with the most bought an 05 FJR. We do at least one trip a summer together, and switch bikes a lot, so I've spent lots of miles riding both bikes. I'm now not so sure whether I will switch to the FJR. I'm thinking of getting another V-Strom when this one gets tired enough. However, if I went for a V-Strom instead of the FJR, I'd fully outfit it from the beginning with all the little extras I've added gradually to the current machine.  I do appreciate the v-twin, and I just love the way the bike handles. The FJR is great too, but I think I'm leaning more to the V-Strom right now. Ask me in a year, and I might have changed my mind again. These are two wonderful bikes, so you can't go wrong with either one. The biggest advantage of the V-Strom is price.

Somebody else mentioned the Givi bags for the V-Strom. There's also a great quick release mounting rack for the Givi bags made by SW-Motech. You can find these at twistedthrottle.com. I think they are the only North American distributor of the SW-Motech stuff, at least they were a couple of years ago. With the SW-Motech racks, you can remove the racks in just a few minutes when riding without bags.

[Baz]

You guys are not making this easy. I can't find either a Strom or an FJR owner who would not buy another.

This may come down to the enie menie moe thing.

[jude]

Let further your confusion...  Shhhhh, but I've been eyeballin' this Wee Strom that a neighbor has up for sale.  Might be just the perfect stablemate for the FJR.  

[sprint_st]

You guys are not making this easy. I can't find either a Strom or an FJR owner who would not buy another.

This may come down to the enie menie moe thing.

Whatever you do, DON'T ride an FJR for more than hour!   If you do you'll be addicted for life.  I went for my first "real" ride yesterday.  I do love my Sprint, but it's going to sitting in the garage A LOT!!!  Seriously, go for a ride on an FJR, and the DL if you can.  "enie menie" will be a thing of the past.

[Bounce]

With the caviets you listed, it would seem that the FJR would be the better solution. You will be amazed at what the FJR brings to the table at the entry price. It's like 2 bikes. Below 5000 rpm it's very tractable and well behaved. Crank it up over 5 grand and the engine wakes up and growls as it jumps, willingly, toward red line.  A very controllable bike at all speeds.  Lots of after market support if you decide to do any fine tuning for personal taste.  Respected by those who expect to put a lot of miles on their bikes without serious down time.

Another thing that comes into the equation is that I do not know anyone that I ride with on a regular occasion that has a dual purpose bike, so I would probably not use the off road capabilities very much.

Then, after the FJR is lassoed, look for a used, beater dirt bike. Look for something mechanically-sound but cosmetically-challenged. Pay bottom dollar for it and beat the hell out of it. You'll get your dirt fix and not worry about the equity loss because someone else already took the hit on that.

If you go with the Strom, I know quite a few folks that moved from the DL1000 to the DL650 and have been glad they did. One thing to consider for bags are the Jesse bags. A bit more expensive but hell-for-stout and become some additional crash protect for when you eventually take a tumble while off road.

[Baz]

Whatever you do, DON'T ride an FJR for more than hour!   If you do you'll be addicted for life.  I went for my first "real" ride yesterday.  I do love my Sprint, but it's going to sitting in the garage A LOT!!!  Seriously, go for a ride on an FJR, and the DL if you can.  "enie menie" will be a thing of the past.

Hey Sprint:

The ST was actually my 2ND choice as a Sport Tourer, but unfortunately, the Triumph dealer sucks in my town. It was interesting to hear though that you like the FJR better.

It's about 2 weeks away from making that 20 year old FJR salesman smile, and so far I am leaning towards the FJR in a big way. The bike show comes to my town on Jan. 12th & I thought I might wait until then to make my final decision. It will give me a chance to sit on pretty much anything available.

As for the dirt option, my 9 year old is very interested in a Yamaha 90 that my boss is putting up for sale, so I may just pick up a second "all dirt" bike for weekend outings with him.

[sprint_st]

Baz,
My Sprint is an 02.  Although the 1050 engined Sprints are excellent, for someone who is actually more tour than sport I prefer the 955 Sprints.  With Triumph, it is an absolute MUST to have a good dealer close and I would never buy one from a dealer that didn't have a super reputation because dealers are everything if you have a problem with a Triumph.

I know I said it before, once you ride the FJR all doubt will go away.
Rod

[FJRmgm]

as an '05 FJR owner who has 38,500 happy motoring miles riding it I can tell you the FJR brings a smile to my face every single time I fire that bad boy up and get ready to ride!!

You might even want to commute with it, as I do, because the fairing and hard bags make it very easy to do so.  Get one.

[alphabet man]

Baz do you have any interst in an St1300? the local stealer in Fernie has a brand new 05 left over I suspect you could pick it up at a good price. If you are interested PM me and I will give you more info

[Baz]

Baz do you have any interst in an St1300? the local stealer in Fernie has a brand new 05 left over I suspect you could pick it up at a good price. If you are interested PM me and I will give you more info

A bit of a story here AM... I was sitting on one in the Honda dealership when the salesman shouted out, that bike makes you look good... My daughter shouted back at the salesman "that bike makes you look old".

I test rode the ST 1300 and it just did not light any fires. I am not bad mouthing it in any way, it was a very comfortable ride. If i was going to travel across the continent, I would probably look a little closer at the ST. Riding the ST to me was much the same as driving my SUV down the highway, it just felt too vanilla. I am not at all a fan of its looks either.

The local dealer has one with a whole bunch of goodies & a 7 year warranty (extended) for slightly more than the FJR. I just can't drink the ST pretty I guess.

[Nesbocaj]

   Who said the FJR doesn't do gravel??  

  I have a friend, that on every ride he leads, we hit dirt and gravel roads.
Nothing like gettin' up on the pegs of an FJR and shooting some dirt off that rear tire!

[forester]

If i was going to travel across the continent world, I would probably look a little closer at the ST V-strom 650. Riding the ST V-strom 650 to me was much the same as driving my SUV down the highway, it just felt too vanilla except with the ability to do some gravel roads with ease and even some light off-roading, a necessity if I want to get off that vanilla place called the highway. I am not at all a fan of its looks either, of course I realize that nobody else is, either.  Since I want a most awesome bike however that is capable of handling twisties as good (if not better) than a Sprint ST, yet has better elemental protection, a WAY better pillion seat and is probably one of the most dependable bikes on the planet, plus it won't barbecue my balls or make that annoying tick-tick-tick sound when I'm riding down the road like a FJR does.     I'm going to be smart and find an 05' in Black with low miles, add a Scottoiler TKC so I don't have to worry about oiling the chain until I am ready to adjust the valves, a JC Whitney Topcase so I can save $200 (compared to a GIVI) and purchase some soft panniers instead of that ridiculously priced Jesse luggage that might hurt like hell if I happen to be picking Acai berries on a dirt track in Brazil and fall off because I'm in such a stupor in my feeling of uphoria due to being able to have one bike that will do so many things so well.  

There, fixed that for you.    No charge.  Oh, I might add that I was looking at the FJR back a few years ago (2004).  I had one job that paid enough for me to be able to pay cash for a blue one out the door.  At that time, dealers weren't stocking them, but our "local" dealer had one in stock.  Instead of purchasing the bike, I put the money into building our home and put the bike thing on hold.  I am very glad I made that choice.  I cannot imagine having one of those bikes now.  From my perspective: Totally overkill and limited, but hey - they are a great choice for a pure sport-touring machine!

[alphabet man]

A bit of a story here AM... I was sitting on one in the Honda dealership when the salesman shouted out, that bike makes you look good... My daughter shouted back at the salesman "that bike makes you look old".

I test rode the ST 1300 and it just did not light any fires. I am not bad mouthing it in any way, it was a very comfortable ride. If i was going to travel across the continent, I would probably look a little closer at the ST. Riding the ST to me was much the same as driving my SUV down the highway, it just felt too vanilla. I am not at all a fan of its looks either.

The local dealer has one with a whole bunch of goodies & a 7 year warranty (extended) for slightly more than the FJR. I just can't drink the ST pretty I guess.

 Yup I know what you mean, wifey and I sat on it and actually found the same thing sort of hohum and my 20 year old daughter had the same response as your daughter

[alphabet man]

There, fixed that for you.    No charge.  Oh, I might add that I was looking at the FJR back a few years ago (2004).  I had one job that paid enough for me to be able to pay cash for a blue one out the door.  At that time, dealers weren't stocking them, but our "local" dealer had one in stock.  Instead of purchasing the bike, I put the money into building our home and put the bike thing on hold.  I am very glad I made that choice.  I cannot imagine having one of those bikes now.  From my perspective: Totally overkill and limited, but hey - they are a great choice for a pure sport-touring machine!

 geez yah to rain on the guy's parade, forester

[roadrailer]

Given your description, I'd say FJR all the way. Get a real dirt bike (or even a dual sport) if you want to do dirt.

[forester]

 geez yah to rain on the guy's parade, forester

If it's raining, it's raining gold!  These are kick-ass bikes!

Should I rain a little more?:

 http://pedroandmaria.blogspot.com/
Can the FJR do this?:  








Dirtbike schmurtbike.  We don't need no steenking dirtbike!  

...The best thing is, the V-strom is WAY more capable on-road!!!  

[Baz]

If it's raining, it's raining gold!  These are kick-ass bikes!

Should I rain a little more?:

 http://pedroandmaria.blogspot.com/
Can the FJR do this?:  








Dirtbike schmurtbike.  We don't need no steenking dirtbike!  

...The best thing is, the V-strom is WAY more capable on-road!!!  

Hehehe Foreester... I know of people that would attempt that river crossing in their mom's Kia. Just remember I come from a place where the most commonly heard thing before motor vehicle accidents is... "Hold my beer, watch this!"

Very cool pictures, in fact a couple of those could be a 2 hour ride from my house, in the Cadomin area of Alberta.

Yes, this is where the Strom would be really nice, I am just not sure how many times I would use it for that application.

[Mr.Awesome]

Can the FJR do this?:  

If a gixxer can....  I would think an FJR could even easier.  

[bluesurf]

I put ~50K miles on an '04 FJR, with upgraded front & rear suspension....That was my ride a couple years back during the Banff run when we met in Nelson.

My principal S-T/large mount these days is a DL-1000.  I miss the FJR, for the additional sport factor, and a bit more protection and comfort overall.  The DL, however, provides a different sense of adventure and charge.  The v-twin configuration is a bit more satisfying around town as well.

The FJR is certainly capable of 10-20-30 miles of gravel/smooth fire road at a time, along with gorgeous power on sticky stuff.  The DL will give you 80% of the same on the paved stuff, and much more on the unpaved, as long as it doesn't exceed 5-6" of travel.  Both bikes are fun, so it really depends on if you want more touring with more power and sport, or touring with more ability to charge off-pavement.  I found myself longing after the "Dinosaur fossils 50 miles" signs too much, and decided to try the twin/aslightly more dirt-capable mount....it's all good so far.  Not sure if it's been mentioned, but http://stromtrooper.com and http://11109.rapidforum.com are good strom sites.  http://fjrforum.com is good for fjr's.

The "FJR/DL-650" idea is a good one, but at that point I'd get a KLR rather than the DL.

[sprint_st]

 geez yah to rain on the guy's parade, forester

Sorry, but in my opinion forester's comments are purely from his perspective.  Overkill???  When you are running 400-500 mile day trips and back to back 600-700 mile days that's were an FJR shines.  The FJR is a no apologies sport tourer.  You can go sport touring on a GSXR with some soft luggage but it is a compromise.  You can run a Gold Wing down Deals Gap too.  An FJR is extremely hard to beat as a balance between sport and touring.

[Baz]

Well kids a funny thing happened today....

I am at the worlds largest shopping mall buying a pair of dress shoes to go with my new suit, complaining to the amazing Betz (my better half) that this was the most expensive week of my life. University tuition, for favorite daughter, insurance for favorite daughters new car, books for this semester for said daughter, expensive new suit, shoes (to find a potential new job so I can afford to support said daughter) Visa bills from Christmas... Then my phone rings.

Barry, the voice says, I have good news & bad news.

The Voice is Chris, the young Yamaha salesman. He says, the good news is, we have a brand new 2006 cobalt blue FJR, the bad news is that we don't have 3 others in inventory like I told you. If you want to guarantee this bike, you had better bring money down today, because my boss wants to know if he can include the last FJR on the salemans inventory list for the bike show next weekend.

As a really. experienced salesman, I asked.. Chris if his sales manager was on his case to sell bikes? he says no, I am not like that, but my sales manger says either you give me some cash, or your FJR goes back into our inventory sheet.

Well to make a long story short, I am now the soon to be owner of a 2006 Cobalt blue FJR. I take delivery on March 31st. (The snow will probably leave here April 30th). Yes, they took some of my money.


They did have a new 2007 DL 1000 on the floor (looks very nice in the black & silver BTW) and so in a high pressure moment I was able to sit and make my decision. (FJR or DL). Well my better half Betz had to give up riding due to a bum knee, and she found the DL very difficult to climb on, and also found the FJR more comfortable.

The price they quoted me on the new Strom was 5 grand less than the FJR. Once I calculated farkle costs that everyone recommends for the DL, the difference shrank considerably. A set of Givi luggage was $1800.00 bucks, new screen, centre stand, & guards etc, the FJR became affordable.

[forester]

I had to raz you a little bit...  

Congrats on the Lay-away!  I wish you nothing but enjoyment of course!  

 

Now, make sure to purchase some ice packs for your skivvies - You'll need 'em!  

BTW, I estimate proper farkles cost me around $1500. TOTAL!  This however is not including my time to install them and the GPS reciever, which is supplied for me by my work.

...and yes, "by perspective" I agree.  Check out what models are most commonly used for Iron butt tools if you think a V-strom is a worse choice than a FJR in a SERIOUS ride.    

[sprint_st]

Excellent choice!!!  I canceled my 07 order to get an 06 just because I love the color (cough syrup red is purdy but cobalt blue is purdier).  I enjoy it as much as I do mine.

Hey forester, I'm happy that you like your V-Strom.  Ya know, if we love what we ride, it doesn't have to be better than other bikes, just best for us.  

[Baz]

I had to raz you a little bit...  

Congrats on the Lay-away!  I wish you nothing but enjoyment of course!  

 

Now, make sure to purchase some ice packs for your skivvies - You'll need 'em!  

BTW, I estimate proper farkles cost me around $1500. TOTAL!  This however is not including my time to install them and the GPS reciever, which is supplied for me by my work.

...and yes, "by perspective" I agree.  Check out what models are most commonly used for Iron butt tools if you think a V-strom is a worse choice than a FJR in a SERIOUS ride.    

Hey Forester:

We tend to get killed up here in the farkle department. I usually use my boss as a cross boarder mule, but something tells me he may have a fun time trying to get an entire set of Givi luggage in his carry on!

But another thing that made me choose the FJR is that I am in grid riding country here and to get to the "off" roads worth exploring, its a 3 hour ride on pretty flat blacktop.

[Against The Wind]

Congrats. See you in Custer.

[cbsnbiker]

Congrats on your new bike! Enjoy in good health.

Here's what I think is possibly the most important factor in your decision:

Well my better half Betz had to give up riding due to a bum knee, and she found the DL very difficult to climb on, and also found the FJR more comfortable.

If she's going to ride with you, and if the FJR is more comfortable for her, then you made the better choice.  

[bluesurf]

If it's raining, it's raining gold!  These are kick-ass bikes!

Can the FJR do this?:  
Dirtbike schmurtbike.  We don't need no steenking dirtbike!  

...The best thing is, the V-strom is WAY more capable on-road!!!  

Nice pics. With the exception of the last two, then yes, the FJR can do that.  As a former FJR and current DL1000 owner, I disagree with your assesment that the Strom is more capable on-road...could be riding style but one is obviously a dedicated S-T mount, and one a compromise/adventure motorcycle.

Baz....congrats on the new ride.  You're going to love it!  

[forester]

Nice pics. With the exception of the last two, then yes, the FJR can do that.  As a former FJR and current DL1000 owner, I disagree with your assesment that the Strom is more capable on-road...could be riding style but one is obviously a dedicated S-T mount, and one a compromise/adventure motorcycle.

Baz....congrats on the new ride.  You're going to love it!  

Just to set the record straight, my point was that the V-strom is more capable on-road than off.

[sprint_st]

Check out what models are most commonly used for Iron butt tools  

Just for curiosity sake, I would like to check what those models are.  I tried on the IBA site but couldn't find anything.  

Just a comment:  If pumping out 1000+ miles in 24 hrs is your thing, absolutely wonderful.  For me, just because the engine is on and the wheels are tunin' doesn't mean you are "riding."  Again, purely IMO, IBA events are more an exercise in stamina or sleep deprivation than bike skills. My curiosity is from the point of view that it should have some indication of how tough the bike is rather than the rider.

[bluesurf]

Just for curiosity sake, I would like to check what those models are.  I tried on the IBA site but couldn't find anything.

2K5 IBA Results, including motorcycles:  http://www.ironbuttrally.com/IBR/2005/RiderScorecardsLeg3.cfm

[Mr.Awesome]

Holy smokes......check out #59 on a ninja 250 , tooo cool.  

[birdrunner]

This is something I have really considered. A DL 650 or KLR. There is just one problem. The beging, pleading I have had to go through to convince my better half that I really need the FJR, is not something I dare repeat in the next couple of years!

Another thing that comes into the equation is that I do not know anyone that I ride with on a regular occasion that has a dual purpose bike, so I would probably not use the off road capabilities very much.

I've got the same problem.   I have a XL650 just waiting for me to take out somewhere nuts, but I'm a little leery of crashing it in the middle of nowhere without back up.

Come on BaZ,  you know you want one.

[Paul Barnard]

I have these two mounts on my short list as well, so let me thank everyone for their replies.  I sat on both of them yesterday.  They just happened to be side by side on the sales floor.  It is a tough decision.  I'm leaning toward trying to find a lightly used one for sale by an individual.  I hate paying taxes.

[Against The Wind]

 I'm a little leery of crashing it in the middle of nowhere without back up.

He prefers crashing in public view.

[veefer800canuck]

Baz: Why buy new when used will do?  


I saved a ton of cash buying my VFR 1 year old with 7,000km.


Plus I got a tankbag, a K&N filter, a Micron pipe, a barely used Shoei helmet, just my size, etc, etc.

16k is a lotta dosh. Think how many farkles you could buy if you picked up an '05 FJR with 10k on it for what? 11 grand, no tax? (guessing here)

[Dreadnought]

New bike smell alone is worth it in my eyes

[Baz]

Baz: Why buy new when used will do?  


I saved a ton of cash buying my VFR 1 year old with 7,000km.


Plus I got a tankbag, a K&N filter, a Micron pipe, a barely used Shoei helmet, just my size, etc, etc.

16k is a lotta dosh. Think how many farkles you could buy if you picked up an '05 FJR with 10k on it for what? 11 grand, no tax? (guessing here)

Hey Veefer:

I could not find a used one locally & they are giving me a fairly good trade on the Bandit. Anyway too late now, they have my money!

[veefer800canuck]

I see what you mean, I checked canadatrader.com and there's a buttload of them in Quebec but none in Alberta.


Couple in Surrey, but they're '03's and they still want nearly 13k for them!!!!

And they're listings from a Stealership, so add GST to that.  

[hig4s]

Commit to the FJR....

....then start looking for a used DL-650 (slightly lighter weight for off-road stuff) to add to the mix - "for play" - yea, that's the ticket...

And I think the DL (1000 or 650) is more comfortable for the passenger than the FJR,,, I love the FJR but seeing as my next bike needs to be more passenger friendly then my current bike it is no longer on my list.  I'll problable go with an ST1300.

[Baz]

And I think the DL (1000 or 650) is more comfortable for the passenger than the FJR,,, I love the FJR but seeing as my next bike needs to be more passenger friendly then my current bike it is no longer on my list.  I'll problable go with an ST1300.

I test rode a ST1300 and even though I would not consider myself an expert canyon carver, the ST really (how can I say this nicely?) bored me. I do have to say it seems much more plush than the FJR, but hey so is a Goldwing.

[hig4s]

I test rode a ST1300 and even though I would not consider myself an expert canyon carver, the ST really (how can I say this nicely?) bored me. I do have to say it seems much more plush than the FJR, but hey so is a Goldwing.

I can see how some might feel that way,, I personally find the ST to be about halfway between the FJR and the Gold Wing..   I was actually considering the Gold Wing, but I would have to keep my current street bike too, just too expensive. Actually in my view, if they added cruise control, stereo, and passenger intercom to the ST1300 it would be great.

 When I test rode the FJR I found my self (without thinking about it) hanging off and sticking my knee out. Great bike, but I would probably just get myself in trouble with it.. I have a motocross bike for when I feel like pushing the two wheel envelope.

[chornbe]

Here is the thing.

New FJR is $16000.00 with luggage. (Canadian bucks)

DL 1000 is $11000.00 no luggage. and the Suzuki bags are going to run me about 2000.00. I should add that the DL is also a 2006 model.

Uhm... could you pick two less similar bikes? Maybe a 'Busa and a Springer, I suppose.

[Tropical FJR]

I owned a DL1000 for 12 months, and I now have a brand new FJR.

Congrats - you will love the FJR.

Just be careful with her at very slow speed - she is a big girl....

 

[feliz]

Congratulations..you'll love your FJR.

I recently traded an 05 DL for an 06 FJR, in my opinion two totally different bikes. The DL is a great bike (ever see a bad review?), very competent, reliable, CHEAP to buy and maintain (first service $100) etc but to me it lacked soul or character and I let her go after one year. Others mileage may vary!!

[Baz]

Congratulations..you'll love your FJR.

I recently traded an 05 DL for an 06 FJR, in my opinion two totally different bikes. The DL is a great bike (ever see a bad review?), very competent, reliable, CHEAP to buy and maintain (first service $100) etc but to me it lacked soul or character and I let her go after one year. Others mileage may vary!!

To tell you the truth Feliz, that is exactly what I was worried about.

[daddysbike]

Are you kidding??
FJR if you have the $$$, Vstrom if you don't
I had a 650 and 1000 Vstrom not to mention a ST1300, CBR600, ZRX1200 and just sold my 2nd 1800 Goldwing and have my '04 VFR for sale here and I can't wait to get my '06 or '07 FJR now that they finally fixed the heat and valve ticking.
The airflow sucks on the Vstrom but should be helped with an aftermarket windsreen (mpcycle design) Also those damn front shocks as bad as my KLR was. The Strom bounces up and down every time you squeeze the front brake, eerrrgghhh I hated that. Other than that I liked the 1000 Vstrom, large seat with luggage rack you can just strap on a $10 Walmart dufflebag and pack for a week or add hard/soft saddlebags, trunk etc. The 1000 has great power/pull and upright relaxed riding postion. I'm just used to fully faired bikes and like the electric adjustable windscreen, adjustable handlebars, seat and headlights on the FJR not to mention the gear indicator (nice), standard ABS, removeable hardbags (bike looks nice with 'em on or off) etc. The overall fit and build quality of the FJR totally outclasses the Vstrom. Two very different bikes. Ride each if you can and you'll find a way to get a FJR.

Steve

[lieu910]

I'll weigh in here.

I owned an ST1300, and then bought a DL1000. After about a year with it, I'm thinking of an FJR.

The DL is a hoot in the twisties. That bike handles as good or better than some "sport bikes" I've ridden. However, the FJR has better wind protection, shaft drive, etc. Also, the FJR can be farkled to be one outstanding long distance machine. What sealed it for me is a 600 mile trip I took where speeds averaged around 85-90 on the freeway. The wind literally licked my butt and the DL was out of it's element where a bike like the FJR will do that all day and not punish you.

I find the ST1300/FJR opinions a bit odd. The ergos on the ST and FJR are very comperable, so I don't quite the whole idea that the ST is MUCH more comfortable. About the only clear advantage the ST has over the FJR is 2 up riding, and better wind protection. However, throw a larger windshield on and it's an even playing field.

 

[Bearly Flying]

Baz; Congrats on the new bike, You'll love it.

I'm just South of you down the QE 2, maybe we will hook up for a ride sometime.

[Mike-H]

Baz; Congrats on the new bike, You'll love it.

I'm just South of you down the QE 2, maybe we will hook up for a ride sometime.

Baz...if you ride with Don....be careful....neither rain nor snow slows him down & he's not even a postie .....

[birdrunner]

Baz; Congrats on the new bike, You'll love it.

I'm just South of you down the QE 2, maybe we will hook up for a ride sometime.

Keep your eyes open for a Pigeon Lake BBQ & Beerbash.  I'm working on it.  It's about time us Alberta riders got together.