2013 FJR1300 revealed

[CheesyRider]

It's official: http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/products/modelhome/180/0/home.aspx







The weight is down seven pounds!!!  Looks like the jokes about weight will finally end.

[Cablebandit]

Cruise appears to be standard.

[chesthing]

Cruise appears to be standard.

About f'n time.

[Hickey]

Electronically adjustable suspension, traction control, and heated grips too. Nicely loaded machine.

[Hickey]

Anyone else see the LED accents around the headlights? I don't know what they're for, but they look cool.

[Carbonero]

Electronically adjustable suspension

 

[Carbonero]

The weight is down seven pounds!!!  Looks like the jokes about weight will finally end.

I didn't realize it had lightened that much. I kinda remember my '06 being ~660 wet.  

[Rogue]

The weight is down seven pounds!!!  Looks like the jokes about weight will finally end.

So instead of 700 it's now 693 lbs.?  

I keed!   I honestly don't know how much an FJR weighs but it can't be less than 600 lbs. wet.  It's tough to have a luxury liner that weighs anything close to a sportbike.  Only the BMW F800ST comes close to achieving that.

[ConPilot1]

Still in the glorious Drab Fucking Silver.  

[Carbonero]

So instead of 700 it's now 693 lbs.?  

I keed!   I honestly don't know how much an FJR weighs but it can't be less than 600 lbs. wet.  It's tough to have a luxury liner that weighs anything close to a sportbike.  Only the BMW F800ST comes close to achieving that.

Right there in the specs. 637.

The California version is, of course, heavier (2 lbs).

And agreed; weight comes with size, features, carrying capacity, stouter frames for 2-up, etc. The only people that bitch about this bike's weight are girlie men (*cough*County), and people who haven't ridden it(*cough*County).  

[Cablebandit]

So instead of 700 it's now 693 lbs.?  

I keed!   I honestly don't know how much an FJR weighs but it can't be less than 600 lbs. wet.  It's tough to have a luxury liner that weighs anything close to a sportbike.  Only the BMW F800ST comes close to achieving that.

Clicking on the nifty Specifications tab says it's 637# wet unless you travel to CA, then the camera adds 2 pounds.


SCOOPED!!

[Ack535]

I loved my FJR, but I am disapointed they did not bump up the motor to 1400cc's and give her a 6th gear.

[Cablebandit]

I loved my FJR, but I am disapointed they did not bump up the motor to 1400cc's and give her a 6th gear.

I was kind of shocked by a lack of 6th gear as well.  It seems like a plastic freshening and a couple electronic doodads.

I kind of like the color though.  

[Carbonero]

... and give her a 6th gear.

Why?

It's geared very nicely. I don't see the point.

[ConPilot1]

Why?

It's geared very nicely. I don't see the point.

Superslab overdrive. Another 40 miles tank to tank if slabbing it hard.

[Cablebandit]

I wonder if the drive mode switch acts similar to the C14.  Meaning if you are tooling along in economy mode and then stomp on the throttle it switches back to POWAH!!!! until you roll off the gas to cruise again.

[Hickey]

 

"While the FJR1300A gets reworked fork internals and rear suspension settings, the AS has bigger news as it catches up with rivals from BMW with the addition of electronic suspension adjustment. A bar-mounted switch allows the rider to select pre-sets including “one-up”, “one-up with luggage”, “two-up”, or “two-up with luggage” to instantly alter the set-up. There's also scope to switch between “soft”, “standard”, or “hard” damper settings, giving a total of 12 instantly-accessible options. The rear preload and the damping at both ends are adjusted by the system."

Read more: http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-news-new-bikes/intermot-2013-yamaha-fjr1300a-as/21526.html#ixzz28AmGTmkX

[Hickey]

Oops. Wrote too soon. It doesn't look like the US is getting the AS/AE version that has the electronic suspension.

[motormike]

The weight is down seven pounds!!!  Looks like the jokes about weight will finally end.

Did the fuel tank capacity decrease?  

[chesthing]

MCN list the wet weight of the 2006 FJR at 673 wet, so 40 lbs sounds like an impressive drop - also sounds like bs, I'll wait for an independed source to actually weigh one before I believe any numbers.

[FJR1300]

Anybody want to buy my CBR 250...?

Looks like I might need to get another FJR...!

[UFO]

Why?

It's geared very nicely. I don't see the point.

There were two things I disliked about my 2nd gen FJR

1)  Heat
2)  5 speed

A bike with that much torque could benefit from a 6th gear to make for uber mileage during endless slabbing, especially now with cruise control.  That being said, it doesn't NEED a 6th gear...but would be nice.

Looks like a nice evolutionary update.  Why mess with success?

Now, if the C14 comes out with a ZX14R powered update....

[dorklord]

MCN list the wet weight of the 2006 FJR at 673 wet, so 40 lbs sounds like an impressive drop - also sounds like bs, I'll wait for an independed source to actually weigh one before I believe any numbers.

Common discrepancies include: does wet mean a full gas tank, or just full of other fluids? With or without bags?

[Smoker]

My 05 FJR is in contention for the longest length of ownership for me (former bike whore) 2nd only to my SV650. My eye wanders a lot, but after riding many different bikes in the last 2 1/2 years I'm always happy to get back on the FJR. Yes it's hot, yes it's a pig, but I find a certain satisfaction out of riding a heavy bike fast in the twisty bits. Plus I'm a power junkie. This new one addresses everything I wish mine had. I wonder if they addressed the heat issue? That would be a possible deal-breaker for me. (If I wasn't too cheap to buy a new bike) Maybe when it's time to trade up I'll find a decent used one.

[Hickey]

From Yamaha:

***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisons with other models.
©2012 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.

http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/products/modelspecs_pdf.aspx?ls=sport&mid=180&showprevmodel=0

[Silverbird]

At least it lost weight instead of (In a Chris Farley voice) GAINING IT LIKE EVERY OTHER JAPANESE BIKE ON THE MARKET!!!!!

[staedtler]

[bungie4]

Why?

It's geared very nicely. I don't see the point.

If you read the tech blurbs on the site they allude to revised gearing with 5th being a bit taller.  It would appear their was quite a bit of refinement done along with electronics and styling.  I'm with you Carbonero, the bike doesn't need a 6th gear or even another 100cc.

I've got a call out to my dealer for a quote. My 04 is VERY close to 100,000 miles and have been test riding other bikes all summer for.. when the time comes Now it's just looking like the FJR retained a customer for Yamaha.

[DosEquis00]

The 5 speed must not be an issue with Yamaha's customers or they would have updated the trans after all these years. Still a good looking bike.

[UFO]

[Carbonero]

Superslab overdrive. Another 40 miles tank to tank if slabbing it hard.

Not necessarily. Engines run most efficiently when they're operating at peak-torque RPM.

Yamaha got it pretty darned close to right.

[Carbonero]

"While the FJR1300A gets reworked fork internals and rear suspension settings, the AS has bigger news as it catches up with rivals from BMW with the addition of electronic suspension adjustment. A bar-mounted switch allows the rider to select pre-sets including “one-up”, “one-up with luggage”, “two-up”, or “two-up with luggage” to instantly alter the set-up. There's also scope to switch between “soft”, “standard”, or “hard” damper settings, giving a total of 12 instantly-accessible options. The rear preload and the damping at both ends are adjusted by the system."

Read more: http://www.visordown.com/motorcycle-news-new-bikes/intermot-2013-yamaha-fjr1300a-as/21526.html#ixzz28AmGTmkX

I wonder why that isn't on Yamaha's site...?

I'll believe it when Yamaha touts it. Which, from what I read on the site yesterday, they are not.

[Carbonero]

If you read the tech blurbs on the site they allude to revised gearing with 5th being a bit taller.  It would appear their was quite a bit of refinement done along with electronics and styling.  I'm with you Carbonero, the bike doesn't need a 6th gear or even another 100cc.

I've got a call out to my dealer for a quote. My 04 is VERY close to 100,000 miles and have been test riding other bikes all summer for.. when the time comes Now it's just looking like the FJR retained a customer for Yamaha.

It's a great bike, through and through. I regret selling mine pretty much every day.

Oops. Wrote too soon. It doesn't look like the US is getting the AS/AE version that has the electronic suspension.

Ah, that doesn't surprise me. The previous AE sold like a turkey here.

Like Honda did with ABS in the NC700X auto trans, packaging more features into bike with the f'd up transmission is a dumb, dumb idea.  

[Windblown]

MCN list the wet weight of the 2006 FJR at 673 wet, so 40 lbs sounds like an impressive drop - also sounds like bs, I'll wait for an independed source to actually weigh one before I believe any numbers.

Weights on bikes are always a bit mysterious. Manufacturers typically define wet weight as the bike complete with the battery and all required fluids, minus gas.

Anyone besides the manufacturer who wants to know what a bike really weighs checks it with a full tank. That's likely  a large chunk of the missing 40 lbs.

Edit: Yep just checked - 6.6 gallon tank * 6 lbs per gallon = 39.6 lbs. LOL

[Carbonero]

Also, if you mean MCN of UK, it's easier to count the things they've gotten right over the years than those they've gotten wrong.

They're only marginally more viable than Raptors & Rockets.

[staedtler]

[chesthing]

Also, if you mean MCN of UK, it's easier to count the things they've gotten right over the years than those they've gotten wrong.

They're only marginally more viable than Raptors & Rockets.

No, I quoted Motorcycle Consumer News.

[UFO]

Apparently the AS (clutchless version) gets upside down forks and electronic suspension.  But it may be Europe only.

http://www.yamaha-motor.eu/eu/products/motorcycles/sport-touring/fjr1300as.aspx?view=features

[ConPilot1]

Apparently the AS (clutchless version) gets upside down forks and electronic suspension.  But it may be Europe only.

Apparently Europe gets the better colors too. Pretty in the chocolate brown. I hate silver.

[FJR1300]

I just got off the phone with D&H in Alabama and they have at least one scheduled to arrive this month. OTD price is $14,299 - so I might have to find some warm clothes and take a few days off work.

[bungie4]

I just got off the phone with D&H in Alabama and they have at least one scheduled to arrive this month. OTD price is $14,299 - so I might have to find some warm clothes and take a few days off work.

Over $3000 cheaper than Cdn list price ($17499). Unless the dealers up here are willing to significantly discount from that, I'll be visiting Barbers, and, D&H.

[Carbonero]

Over $3000 cheaper than Cdn list price ($17499). Unless the dealers up here are willing to significantly discount from that, I'll be visiting Barbers, and, D&H.

How can you adequately compare Canadian LIST price with D&H's always-reduced USA pricing.  

[SLK50]

How can you adequately compare Canadian LIST price with D&H's always-reduced USA pricing.  

  Today's exchange rate is near parity.

[Carbonero]

  Today's exchange rate is near parity.

What's the fee/tariff to take it North of the border when purchases outside CDN?
What about taxes paid to the USA/Alabama if there are any, and then (again?) to Canada?

Plus, Canadian MSRP (17,499) and USA MSRP (15,890) are different for more than just exchange rates, I'd imagine.

I'm curious if it's really worth it to go outside the border to buy it. Interesting thought.

[UFO]

Holy shit, sorry....  


See image below, this one too massive.

[tomek]

Not necessarily. Engines run most efficiently when they're operating at peak-torque RPM.

At WOT - yes , but highway cruising  is usually done at 5-10 % of throttle on bikes like FJR . They benefit ( mpg) from lowered  rpm - up to the point of course .

Having said that 6 speed is overkill  on big bore multies with very wide powerbands . 5 is more then enough , closely spaced gearboxes are for the race track .

[staedtler]

 

[EdSidders]

Think about it-----If you cram a 6 speed tranny into the space used by a 5 speed you are asking for a weak transmission....

I hope this new bike has a slightly wider ratio 5 speed transmission,it is not a drag bike but a good solid SPORT TOURING MACHINE..If you cam it a little hotter or ride 2 up most of the time the existing ratios are perfect..

[2RR2NV]

if everyone else is doing 6 speeds, then yammy can do it too.  when i had my FJR, took me a while to get used to NOT having a 6th gear. eventually it wasn't a big deal breaker, but still wished for it sometimes.

not really liking the looks of the new FJR....

guess i'll just tour on the 750..  installed the battery tender and Cold weather gear hookups tonight. WOOOT!!  now i just need tires that last.

[UFO]

Europe always getting the cool stuff (3 color choices).  US gets...silver only...surprise!!

[David Morrow]

What's the fee/tariff to take it North of the border when purchases outside CDN?
What about taxes paid to the USA/Alabama if there are any, and then (again?) to Canada?

Plus, Canadian MSRP (17,499) and USA MSRP (15,890) are different for more than just exchange rates, I'd imagine.

I'm curious if it's really worth it to go outside the border to buy it. Interesting thought.

There is an import fee payable to the Registrar of Imported Vehicles of a couple hundred bucks but otherwise, it's just the usual sales taxes.

Is it worth it ? Generally, yes. I imported my 2003 FJR and my 2007 350Z.

We are just over par today.

[Baz]

I have to tell you, other than a few cosmetic plastic changes, it looks like the same bloody bike to me.  

I am also with most here in saying that the 2nd gen FJR is geared quite nicely.

[Carbonero]

At WOT - yes , but highway cruising  is usually done at 5-10 % of throttle on bikes like FJR . They benefit ( mpg) from lowered  rpm - up to the point of course .

Having said that 6 speed is overkill  on big bore multies with very wide powerbands . 5 is more then enough , closely spaced gearboxes are for the race track .

 

[gritsngravy]

Very nice updates.  More features and less weight.

[bogfro]

The 5 speed must not be an issue with Yamaha's customers or they would have updated the trans after all these years. Still a good looking bike.

I like having 5 gears.  This bike doesn't need any more than that.  It would just be more shifting to have to fiddle with.

[BlueRidgeKat]

Some nice upgrades for the FJR. That is one stupid ass video for it though.

[Prubert]

I hear that the info center on the dash is configurable by the user.  I don't know what is available, but you can pick what you want to see.

[Carbonero]

There is an import fee payable to the Registrar of Imported Vehicles of a couple hundred bucks but otherwise, it's just the usual sales taxes.

Is it worth it ? Generally, yes. I imported my 2003 FJR and my 2007 350Z.

We are just over par today.

Sweet.

Understand, I'm not trying to dissuade; I simply don't know.  

[xcsp]

if everyone else is doing 6 speeds, then yammy can do it too.  

Just because everyone else is doing it, doesn't mean Yamaha needs to or should do it, same for those who say it should have went up to 1400cc, why?  

[Carbonero]

if everyone else is doing 6 speeds, then yammy can do it too.  when i had my FJR, took me a while to get used to NOT having a 6th gear. eventually it wasn't a big deal breaker, but still wished for it sometimes.

not really liking the looks of the new FJR....

guess i'll just tour on the 750..  installed the battery tender and Cold weather gear hookups tonight. WOOOT!!  now i just need tires that last.

Meh... I rather enjoyed not having to tickle the trans on every pass or speed change. The bike has an amazingly flat torque plateau and enough gears to keep the engine in sane revs at all speeds. I think it's a wasted point to discuss.

$.02/IMO

[1KPerDay]

The new nose/headlights look abbreviated and stubby... the fairing looks like an amalgamation of a few different design ideas (like the Suzuki SV1000 full fairing option a while back)... me no likey.

Yeah, we really need the BROWN paint option.


I'm sure it's a great bike, though.  

[Flying W]

Revised version of same bike.... too bad, I was really hoping for something new. With the new BMW 1600 and rumors of the Concours getting a version of the new zx14 motor I think Yamaha didnt go far enough to reclaim top dog status in the ST class.

[Cablebandit]

and rumors of the Concours getting a version of the new zx14 motor

I think those rumors all come directly from the farts on the various Concours forums.  I don't see any reason for them to do that and predict bold new colors for at least the next 10 years.

[Carbonero]

Revised version of same bike.... too bad, I was really hoping for something new. With the new BMW 1600 and rumors of the Concours getting a version of the new zx14 motor I think Yamaha didnt go far enough to reclaim top dog status in the ST class.

Realistically, what does the bike *NEED* that it doesn't have?

Show your work.

Be prepared for me to say "why" on every point.

Impress me.

[Smoker]

Realistically, what does the bike *NEED* that it doesn't have?

Show your work.

Be prepared for me to say "why" on every point.

Impress me.

Better suspension.

Better heat management.

That's it.

[UFO]

Realistically, what does the bike *NEED* that it doesn't have?

Show your work.

Be prepared for me to say "why" on every point.

Impress me.

There are only 3 things you need in life:  water, food, shelter (and the last is debatable)

Everything else is gravy, including a 6th gear on the FJR.

[Carbonero]

Better suspension.

Better heat management.

That's it.

Agreed. Though the gen-2 (and presumably this new gen-3 model) is a little better sorted on the heat thing.  

[bungie4]

Agreed. Though the gen-2 (and presumably this new gen-3 model) is a little better sorted on the heat thing.  

They're also touting revised suspension settings on both the A & S models. As it is, I don't get the complaint. The stock bike already has  adjustable preload and rebound/compression front and rear as it is. It's also got a wide range of adjustment from the factory. I've got a full Ohlins setup on mine by Cogent Dynamics. It's awesome, but that's only because the original suspension went 65,000 miles before it needed to be rebuilt. What exactly do you mean by 'better suspension'. Perhaps you should learn how to properly setup a suspension first?

As far as heat goes, I've got a Gen 1 which is supposed to be the heat. Ya, I notice it when it's 90F+, but then again, I notice it at those temps on my CBR250 too. The upside is when you live 'up north', having a bike that throws a bit of heat is a good thing

It's evolutionary, not revolutionary. The basic package was just fine. It doesn't need a 6th gear, and an extra 100cc? Why? Otherwise they gave it the features and tweaked what needed to be tweaked (incidently, some of the literature mentions revised gear ratios 'for smoother hwy cruising'. I'm reading that 5th and maybe even 4th have tweaked slightly.

I like the GenIII, lets just hope they fixed the damn electrical on it! If they did, I'm in. Otherwise, I'll be looking for another Gen 1 and move all my mods over.

[Smoker]

Agreed. Though the gen-2 (and presumably this new gen-3 model) is a little better sorted on the heat thing.  

Man you're easy.  

What exactly do you mean by 'better suspension'. Perhaps you should learn how to properly setup a suspension first?

As far as heat goes, I've got a Gen 1 which is supposed to be the heat. Ya, I notice it when it's 90F+, but then again, I notice it at those temps on my CBR250 too. The upside is when you live 'up north', having a bike that throws a bit of heat is a good thing

I've spent many hours trying to get the rear where I like it. I set the sag, then go for a ride and adjust by how it feels. Maybe I'm not doing it right, but I'm at 42K miles on the bike, with 24K on a second OEM shock, and it's starting to wallow again. Had the forks rebuilt with heavier weight once already, it's ok. I just can't seem to get the rear set up properly. If you have suggestions above that, I'm all ears.

As far as heat, I've got the Gen I as well, and at anything above 93* or so I've just conceded to parking it till it cools down a bit. I took my wife for a ride on her birthday in July, it was 97* when we left for breakfast and 102* when we pulled in the driveway, I had red burn marks on my inner thigh from the tank burning through my riding pants. Not my idea of a good time.

[2RR2NV]

Agreed. Though the gen-2 (and presumably this new gen-3 model) is a little better sorted on the heat thing.  

someone didn't say "why"...    

[JReazor]

Yeah, we really need the BROWN paint option.

What? That color looked great on the '82 Volvo that it came off of.

[coho]

I like the brown one better than the bland silver one.

And if you call it 'Candy Rootbeer Metalflake' it's retro.  

[Hickey]

I'm really liking the idea of cruise control. Being able to rest my arm might enable me to start riding further again. And the color is fine to me. I've had a truck that was a very similar color, it didn't show dust, and changed hue under different light in a cool way. It isn't an exciting color, no, but I don't think it sucks.

[Carbonero]

someone didn't say "why"...    

Dammit.  

What? That color looked great on the '82 Volvo that it came off of.

 

[2RR2NV]

What? That color looked great on the '82 Volvo that it came off of.

and here i thought it came off the ole '82(?) diesel Chevette

[staedtler]

 

[2RR2NV]

well if you read Diesel mags, one of them had a diesel chevette painted like the FJR. Icky poo.  

[atadaskew]

I like the brown one better than the bland silver one.

And if you call it 'Candy Rootbeer Metalflake' it's retro.  

Hard Candy Rootbeer Metalflake.
But then it would also have a 6 speed transmission....
 

[ConPilot1]

As far as the grey/silver color goes, I read the summary of a study that was done several years ago about silver/grey being the top of the list for accidents out of all auto/bike colors available.
Blends in with weathered asphalt/concrete/drab skies too much, and is the least noticeable color visually.

[SLK50]

As far as the grey/silver color goes, I read the summary of a study that was done several years ago about silver/grey being the top of the list for accidents out of all auto/bike colors available.
Blends in with weathered asphalt/concrete/drab skies too much, and is the least noticeable color visually.

Yes. This exactly!

[Huron52]

I've spent many hours trying to get the rear where I like it. I set the sag, then go for a ride and adjust by how it feels. Maybe I'm not doing it right, but I'm at 42K miles on the bike, with 24K on a second OEM shock, and it's starting to wallow again. Had the forks rebuilt with heavier weight once already, it's ok. I just can't seem to get the rear set up properly. If you have suggestions above that, I'm all ears.

What you should have done was come to the EOM in Hendersville and talked to the Ohlins tech...(we got a plant tour)
your bad for not  hanging out with more FJR owners/ events

[mcrider007]

Man you're easy.  



I've spent many hours trying to get the rear where I like it. I set the sag, then go for a ride and adjust by how it feels. Maybe I'm not doing it right, but I'm at 42K miles on the bike, with 24K on a second OEM shock, and it's starting to wallow again. Had the forks rebuilt with heavier weight once already, it's ok. I just can't seem to get the rear set up properly. If you have suggestions above that, I'm all ears.

The OEM FJR shock is a dual spring shock with 2 different spring rates depending whether you pick the "soft" or "hard" setting.  In spite of what you might read from Yamaha, the soft/hard lever does not compress the spring (s), therefore it is not a preload and you can't adjust the sag....you have 2 different non-adjustable sags.  The soft setting is very soft, about a 460 pound spring rate, maybe suitable for a 150 pound rider and empty saddlebags, the hard setting is 690 pound spring that would work pretty well for a 200-225 pound load (rider plus luggage).  Unfortunately, the damping seems to be set up for the soft spring setting so you are always going to get a harsh ride when using the hard setting.  The OEM shock is Yamaha's attempt at one size fits all and the end result is a shock that fits very few.

[Smoker]

The OEM FJR shock is a dual spring shock with 2 different spring rates depending whether you pick the "soft" or "hard" setting.  In spite of what you might read from Yamaha, the soft/hard lever does not compress the spring (s), therefore it is not a preload and you can't adjust the sag....you have 2 different non-adjustable sags.  The soft setting is very soft, about a 460 pound spring rate, maybe suitable for a 150 pound rider and empty saddlebags, the hard setting is 690 pound spring that would work pretty well for a 200-225 pound load (rider plus luggage).  Unfortunately, the damping seems to be set up for the soft spring setting so you are always going to get a harsh ride when using the hard setting.  The OEM shock is Yamaha's attempt at one size fits all and the end result is a shock that fits very few.

Interesting. I didn't know that, thanks. What I get from this is to tell the OEM shock to piss off and "spring" for a Penske. (They're 20 minutes from me)

[bungie4]

Regardless, the stock rear shock is usually pretty much toast and needs replacing after about 30K anyway.

[mcrider007]

Interesting. I didn't know that, thanks. What I get from this is to tell the OEM shock to piss off and "spring" for a Penske. (They're 20 minutes from me)

That's what I would do.....I have a Wilber's on my FJR but Penske is a better option.....and that's what I have on my C14.

[Huron52]

Regardless, the stock rear shock is usually pretty much toast and needs replacing after about 30K anyway.

If it lasts that long!

[SkooterG]

That's what I would do.....I have a Wilber's on my FJR but Penske is a better option.....and that's what I have on my C14.

Why do you feel the Penske is a better option?

[mcrider007]

Why do you feel the Penske is a better option?

Penske has a much larger dealer network than Wilbers (who only has 1-2 dealers in the US) and I think they are lower cost if you want to have both compression and rebound damping adjustments.  The Penske comes with ride height adjustment (an option on the Wilbers) and a spring preload design that not only makes it relatively easy to manually change the preload, it is also easy to change the spring without a spring compressor.  Penske also seems to do a better job of selecting the spring size for the rider weight and their springs are the size advertised.  I think my Wilbers (which lacks compression damping adjustment) is a big improvement over the OEM shock (after GP Suspension bumped the spring size from 644 pounds to 800 pounds) but is not as good as the Penske setups I have compared it to.

The only negative with the Penske is that they do not have a remote preload option so if one switches from solo to 2-up riding on a frequent basis that should be part of the purchase decision.  If it were me, I would stick with the Penske with a spring size appropriate for 2-up and change the compression damping when riding solo.

[st2sam]

I'm looking to replace my C14 this winter and the FJR is looking mighty fine.
It has all the right stuff, kinda like the Three Bears, not to little, not to much, just right.
I also think Yamaha made the Three Bear changes, just right, and for me all the changes (and additions) important to me. They kept the cost down and most important it lost weight.
If I can believe what I'm reading it'll be about 40-50lbs lighter than my C14...

I stopped by my local dealer and was told Yamaha is only releasing 500 bikes. They said most dealers won't get one and weren't sure if they would get one.   Ya right.
Anywho, I've got first dibbs on one when it arrives later this month.
We'll see..........

[Carbonero]

Sam, your dealer is a lazy SOB. They're going full production, full release. They've never had a problem moving these bikes since they hit these shores in '04. The updates are welcome and expected, and as you noted, right in line with the community. Not too much, not overly laden with technology, and it retains all the stuff that makes it, IMO, one of the greatest machines ever built.

 

[st2sam]

Sam, your dealer is a lazy SOB.

That dealer would be N.A. Warhorse.
I have two other dealers I'm going to visit this Sat., one 20mi. North the other 20mi. South.
It'll be interesting hearing what they have to say about the "2013 Limited Edition Production Yamaha FJR".  

[Bouts]

Oh no, just when I thought I had sorted out the Moto Guzzi, Kawa C14 options to replace my C10, Yamaha does this!!!!   Well, back to the 3 possibles I guess!!

[1KPerDay]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM67Ibry664&feature=g-u-u

MCN quick ride/report with some nice footage

[Silverbird]

One of the reasons I'd like to have a Penske is to raise the bike up a litle bit.  I've lowered the pegs and love the extra room, but naturally having some clearance problems.  Anyone in a similar situation?

[Smoker]

I have clearance issues with the pegs in the stock position. I'm tempted to take the centerstand off when I'm riding with the Flying Pig crew too.

[f6rider]

Everyone's touched on the more substantial issues but damn...couldn't they have changed that ugly, pointed, spacy rearend. From what I can tell in the pics in this thread, it looks like no asthetic overhaul to it. Everytime I give mine the once over, I think...good lookin bike. Then...I see that ugly backend. But when I hop on it...

[mcrider007]

I have clearance issues with the pegs in the stock position. I'm tempted to take the centerstand off when I'm riding with the Flying Pig crew too.

Your clearance issues are probably the result of the under sprung suspension that is loading too much when you brake or go through a corner.......get a Penske with the right spring rate and your clearance problems will disappear.

[Cablebandit]

He'll make them re-appear soon enough.  

[Silverbird]

Hmmm, yeah probably.  I was also thinking able doing something about the pegs themselves. I really like them but a thinner peg or grinding off some aluminum would also net me a few centimeters.

[Cablebandit]

Body positioning would pay bigger dividends than grinding your pegs away.

[coho]

Put TW200 pegs on it. They're only half as long.
It's all Yamaha, so it should work, right?

[Mac]

Body positioning would pay bigger dividends than grinding your pegs away.

Yeah, but the street cred wouldn't be there for all to see.

[falconati]

If the high-vis vest doesn't scream street cred...

[Carbonero]

Hmmm, yeah probably.  I was also thinking able doing something about the pegs themselves. I really like them but a thinner peg or grinding off some aluminum would also net me a few centimeters.

Grinding hard parts is a clear indication that the rider needs more work than the bike does.

[Silverbird]

On an FJR with lowered pegs?  

If you are talking about hanging off like this asshole, forget it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvBGh2b5WSU

[Carbonero]

On an FJR with lowered pegs?  

If you are talking about hanging off like this asshole, forget it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvBGh2b5WSU

I didn't realize you lowered the pegs. But yes, body position makes all the difference. It's physics.

I didn't watch the video, but moving your weight inside the center line will help considerably.

Here's an example where the guy isn't "hanging off like an asshole", but still has all of his body inside the centerline.

[Silverbird]

I did a couple of things. First I put the shock on the hard setting, this didn't allow the bike to handle as well for my 160lbs, but it did make it quite a bit harder for the pegs to touch down.  Then I took the same road and didn't move my butt, but I did move my upper body to the inside of the corner and this seemed to help almost as much as changing the shock.

So I learned that an aftermarket shock with just a little bit of length added to it + a little rider input and I'll be pretty well happy with the handling of this bike.  As for moving my butt around like in full-on sportbike mode, I understand why but people that do that on the street, but IMO they look stupid and need to save that crap for the track, especially those assholes that stick their knees out...I mean come on people, it's called a trackday.

[dorklord]

I did a couple of things. First I put the shock on the hard setting, this didn't allow the bike to handle as well for my 160lbs, but it did make it quite a bit harder for the pegs to touch down.  Then I took the same road and didn't move my butt, but I did move my upper body to the inside of the corner and this seemed to help almost as much as changing the shock.

So I learned that an aftermarket shock with just a little bit of length added to it + a little rider input and I'll be pretty well happy with the handling of this bike.  As for moving my butt around like in full-on sportbike mode, I understand why but people that do that on the street, but IMO they look stupid and need to save that crap for the track, especially those assholes that stick their knees out...I mean come on people, it's called a trackday.

I'd say leaning the bike until you drag parts should be saved for the track more so than using body positioning...

[Carbonero]

I did a couple of things. First I put the shock on the hard setting, this didn't allow the bike to handle as well for my 160lbs, but it did make it quite a bit harder for the pegs to touch down.  Then I took the same road and didn't move my butt, but I did move my upper body to the inside of the corner and this seemed to help almost as much as changing the shock.

So I learned that an aftermarket shock with just a little bit of length added to it + a little rider input and I'll be pretty well happy with the handling of this bike.  As for moving my butt around like in full-on sportbike mode, I understand why but people that do that on the street, but IMO they look stupid and need to save that crap for the track, especially those assholes that stick their knees out...I mean come on people, it's called a trackday.

Then you're artificially limiting your riding performance potential for the sake of aesthetic.

Body position is a known way to reduce a bike's need to lean. It works.

[R Doug]

, I understand why but people that do that on the street, but IMO they look stupid and need to save that crap for the track, especially those assholes that stick their knees out...I mean come on people, it's called a trackday.

I'm one of those assholes and I do it on my RT when I need to.  Body positioning creates a lean angle reserve and helps my bike corner better.  Do I do it all the time?  No.  Do I use it when I'm feeling friskie and want to take corners above the "advisory" speeds but still 75% of what I would do on a track.  Yes.

If someone is dragging hard bits on the road and the rider isn’t making any effort to help avoid it via body positioning, one should fix the rider before trying to fix the bike.  

[Cablebandit]

You can't teach someone who isn't willing, or open, to learning.  

[Silverbird]

WTH? Why do you assume I don't know proper body positioning? I'm just pointing out it shouldn't be necessary to hang off while riding at safe and sane speeds on the street.  

Now, if I was stiff-arming it and sitting on top of it like a Supermoto and refusing to learn good form then yeah, but give me a break. That guy on the ^ GSXR is leaning off and wasting all that energy for nothing on the street. Excellent form for the track, but last I checked they are very different places.   We are still talking about FJR's right? Bikes to tour on? Ride for weeks on end? My sportbike days are over and I'm willing to compromise, so just like I said earlier, those pegs are super low but all it took was some increased ride height (HARDLY uncommon) and some inside shoulder input to fix the problem  

[Windblown]

In stock trim the FJR has never had stellar ground clearance for a "sport-touring" machine so I tend to side with Silverbird on this one. Body position might not be the issue.  

My '05 would touch down the pegs even with me hanging my 175lbs off the bike like a monkey. With even lower pegs I could see where it could be a serious issue at anything above a slightly spirited pace in the twisty bits.  Raising the rear would sharpen the steering a bit as well, might all work out quite well. hard to say without trying it.

As to the 2013 FJR? Looks purty damn sweet I say. I will make a point of NOT stopping by the local Yamaha dealer. I've been known to be an impulse buyer and simply have other cash intensive priorities right now. LOL

[glory racing]

Lean angle discussions are the best!!!

[2RR2NV]

i didn't like the looks of it online, but then i went to a dealer back home this past vacation and there it was... dang that looked nice. but $16k?  OUCH!!!!  not for me.

[Cablebandit]

Who pays sticker?  I'm sure you could get it out the door for less than 14k

[2RR2NV]

Who pays sticker?  I'm sure you could get it out the door for less than 14k

doubt it. when i was looking for my FJR, i tried dealing with the locals in RC, SD and they said that there was no dealing cause they knew someone would come along and buy it for that price. i was actually thinking about going down to Alabama to pick one up and ride it back. i finally settled on a used 07 for 9500.

[dj313]

Check out D&H Cycle in Cullman, Alabama.  Fly in, ride out.  Once they get more in, their deal is VERY sweeeet!  

[2RR2NV]

i think (if memory serves me right - once in a while it works) that that was the dealership i going to deal with. if i had had the time back then, i would have gone for it since it was still cheaper to fly and ride back to SD. but the wife wasn't too keen on me riding the bike that far by myself. no biggie. i'm finding out that she does not like hardbags on a sportier bike than a GW.

[FantasticJapaneseRocket]

I'd buy a leftover 12 if it was me.

The new FJR is nice but it's too much like the same bike.

Different fairing/windscreen.
Cruise control (with a top speed of 80 that has everyone complaining)
Different spring on the shock
Sport Mode/Touring Mode switch (don't see the point in this, I choose Sport or Touring with my right hand)
Different guages.

Other than that it's the same bike!

[Silverbird]

Lots of new '09 AE's out there for $11,500 if that's your thing.

[FantasticJapaneseRocket]

Lots of new '09 AE's out there for $11,500 if that's your thing.

I like to shift....and I just bought a 2008, just saying.

[Hickey]

Currently negotiating a deal on a 2013. I want to start traveling again and the FJR ought to be a fine tool. Comfortable, fast, good weather protection, and a cruise control. We'll see if a deal can be struck.

[Silverbird]

Currently negotiating a deal on a 2013. I want to start traveling again and the FJR ought to be a fine tool. Comfortable, fast, good weather protection, and a cruise control. We'll see if a deal can be struck.

Can't see how you won't love it, what have you toured on in the past?

[Hickey]

Can't see how you won't love it, what have you toured on in the past?

Yep.  I used to accumulate more than 7000 miles per year. I've not been riding far or long for the last few years, but I'd like to get back to it. And on an FJR again, I used to have a 2007.