10 Reasons To Choose The Yamaha FJR1300 For Your Next Touring Adventure

Although both sport touring and adventure motorcycles have seen significant global demand as a result of the recent boom in the two-wheel touring category. But they have quite different features and capabilities, with sports tourers offering superior comfort and performance when compared to ADVs. One such sports tourer is the Yamaha FJR1300, which stands out as a touring powerhouse by combining powerful performance with comfort and versatility.

Yamaha, a Japanese manufacturer renowned for innovation and dedication to performance, designed the FJR1300 to cater to riders who like long-distance trips without compromising sportiness. From its potent engine and cutting-edge technology to its ergonomic design and touring practicality, the FJR1300 epitomizes Yamaha’s commitment to providing an outstanding touring adventure.

The sports tourer has been around since 2001 and has a large loyal and supportive fan base all over the world, with many online forums, clubs, and groups dedicated to exchanging bike-related tips, experiences, and stories. The FJR1300 community is also friendly and helpful in extending guidance, support, and assistance to fellow riders.

Whether you are carving mountain passes, cruising across the country, or simply taking a weekend trip, the FJR1300 delivers the ultimate sport-touring performance. So here are ten reasons why you should consider the FJR1300 as your next touring partner.

To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Yamaha’s official websites and reputed online websites like www.hotcars.com. The reasons for choosing FJR1300 on this list have been arranged based on their significance, starting with the least, and working their way up to the most significant.

10 Over 20 Years of Legacy

A Decades-Long Reputation As A Lightweight Sports Tourer.

With over 20 years of history, the Yamaha FJR1300 has carved out a unique niche in the motorcycle world as the true king of sports touring. It was first launched in Europe in 2001, and then in North America in 2002 as a 2003 model with only the non-ABS variant. It offered an exciting sporty performance while being extremely comfortable on long rides. This combination of sportbike performance and touring practicality was unmatched at the time, making the FJR an instant hit. However, it has evolved and gotten better with every new generation, providing more power, refinement, and technology to cater to the demands of modern touring riders.

Significant Models Over The Years:

• 2001 Model RP04 – The FJR1300 was launched as a lightweight sports touring bike.
• 2003 Model RP08 – Improved windscreen and fairing, with an integrated small storage box.
• 2006 Model RP13 – Significant changes and redesign, including new adjustable fairing and windscreen, combination brake system, standard luggage cases, and the introduction of an automatic variant, the Yamaha FJR1300AS.
• 2009 Model RP13 – The standard model receives an improved clutch with a lighter feel, while the automated variant receives updated mapping for the YCC-S control system.
• 2013 Model RP23 – New bodywork, advanced electronic control systems such as traction control, cruise control, YCC-T, and D-mode. Automatic models offer an automatic clutch shift system and electrically adjustable suspension.
• 2016 Model RP28 – New transmission with sixth gear and Assist & slipper clutch system. Along with LED lighting and front adaptive cornering lights.

9 Advanced Electronics & Rider Aids

Fully Equipped For Comfort And Safety While Touring.

Following many evolutions over the years, the Yamaha FJR300ES is a well-equipped sport-touring motorcycle with a host of advanced electronics and rider aids to make your ride more comfortable and relaxing. It features a unique Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) ride-by-wire system that provides smooth throttle response, as well as other advanced systems.

Advanced Electronics:

• Yamaha D Mode adjustable engine mapping.
• Traction control system.
• Cruise control.
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS).
• Combined braking system (CBS).

Rider Aids And Convenience:

• Advanced LED lean-angle lighting system.
• Assist and slipper clutch.
• Adjustable ergonomics.
• Push-button adjustable windscreen.
• Adjustable heated grips.
• Adjustable footpegs.
• Fairing mounted storage.
• 12V charging outlet.

8 Accessories & Customisation Options

Standard Hard Cases Are Provided For Touring.

Another reason why the Yamaha FJR1300 is an excellent choice for touring enthusiasts is the storage capacity. It includes quick-release luggage mounts for easy access to the standard fitted large hard side cases, which are linked to the ignition key.

Additionally, it provides a three-part instrument panel that is user-friendly and informative, displaying all necessary information such as trip computer functions, riding modes, and other essential data. You can additionally customize the dot-matrix multi-function display with the handlebar switches.

Each rider has their own aesthetic preferences for their touring bike, as well as additional features they could use for long-distance trips. Thus, Yamaha provides an extensive selection of customization options, such as saddlebags, top cases, taller windshields, touring seats, and many more aesthetic accessories, to personalize the motorcycle to your specific requirements.

7 Superior Riding Ergonomics and Comfort

The Seat Height, Handlebars, Windshield, And Suspension Are All Adjustable.

With its ergonomic design and excellent suspension system, the Yamaha FJR1300 promises a comfortable ride even after long hours of riding. The plush seat is extremely comfortable and can be adjusted in height by more than 0.8 inches without the use of tools. For better rider ergonomics, the handlebars can also be adjusted to one of three options, and the windscreen has an electronically adjustable range of more than 5.1 inches.

Additionally, it features an electronically adjustable suspension system that allows you to customize the quality of the ride to your liking and the terrain. With a touch of a button, you can choose from four preload settings, three damping presets, and seven damping tuning adjustments.

Yamaha FJR1300ES Suspension Setup

Source: Yamaha

6 Aerodynamic Sporty Design

A Supersport-Inspired Design With A Sporty Feel.

Over the years, the FJR1300’s bodywork has been regularly changed to stay up with modern design language, with several upgrades for each version. However, the sportiness has remained consistent with each subsequent model. Despite being a massive sport tourer, the FJR1300 has a sleek and aerodynamic design with a streamlined fairing that lowers wind resistance and increases fuel efficiency.

The fairing, inspired by a supersport design, features integrated airflow control, keeping the rider comfortable, and protecting against all weather. Additionally, similar to supersport bikes, it has a robust aluminum frame that balances rigidity with feedback, and a long swingarm for better traction and rear suspension movement.

Yamaha FJR1300 Dimension Specifications

Source: Yamaha

5 Safety Features & Secure Braking

Advanced Electronic Safety Features And A Powerful Braking System.

The safety of riders is paramount when embarking on long-distance journeys, and the Yamaha FJR1300 doesn’t disappoint in this aspect either. It includes multiple electronic features that improve both performance and safety. One of these is the D-Mode (Drive Mode) system that allows the rider to choose between two modes: T (Touring) mode for smooth and relaxed riding, or S (Sport) mode for faster and more exciting riding. Another feature is the TCS (Traction Control System) that prevents wheel spin when accelerating on slippery terrain.

It also includes advanced braking systems such as ABS (anti-lock braking system), cruise control, and cornering lights, providing riders with added confidence in various road conditions. Additionally, the 320mm front and 282mm rear disc brakes provide great stopping force and are linked via Yamaha’s Unified Braking System to ensure balanced braking power.

Yamaha FJR1300 Brakes

Source: Yamaha

4 Reliable & Versatile

For Years, FJR1300 Owners Have Sworn By Its Reliability.

Yamaha’s motorcycles are world-renowned for their quality and reliability. Similarly, with decades of background, the FJR1300 stands out as one of the most reliable and durable sports tourers on the market. Although it is one of Yamaha’s longest-running models, it has proven to be tough in all kinds of weather and terrain conditions, as well as heavy use.

While the FJR has received numerous awards and accolades, its true legacy resides with its passionate rider community. Owners swear by its reliability, comfort, and versatility, with miles of riding experience across countries. Thus, the FJR1300ES is a sport-touring bike that offers both sportbike performance and touring comfort. It’s practically two motorcycles in one, making it a versatile option for riders who want to do it all.

3 Sporty & Agile Handling

Its Lightweight Aluminum Frame And Adjustable Suspension Make It Nimble.

Although the Yamaha FJR1300 is designed for comfort and touring, don’t be fooled by its large frame and dimensions. This sport-touring beast packs a punch when it comes to sporty handling and agility, making it a joy to ride on winding roads and twisties. Compared to its steel-framed competitors, it has a lightweight and robust aluminum frame, which contributes to its agile handling.

Additionally, its fully adjustable front forks and rear shock let you tweak the suspension to fit your riding style and handling preferences. So, while the Yamaha FJR1300 is not a purebred sport bike, its lightweight construction, agile geometry, powerful engine, and advanced technologies make it surprisingly sporty around curves.

2 Powerful & Smooth Engine

Horsepower: 146 HP & Torque: 102 LB-FT

The FJR1300 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1,298 cc inline-four engine that produces 146 horsepower and 102 pound-feet of torque. The engine has been tuned for low-end and mid-range torque, making it effortless to cruise at highway speeds or accelerate quickly when required. Even with a passenger and a full load of luggage on board, the engine is always ready to provide strong power. Also, it has a slant-block motor design that uses stacked, tri-axis transmission shafts to minimize engine size while improving chassis geometry for perfect weight distribution and superior handling.

Additionally, the sport tourer features a compact six-speed transmission with ratios that are evenly spaced gearing for aggressive riding, as well as a higher sixth gear for relaxed highway cruising. It also includes a quiet and highly durable shaft drive to the rear wheel, which is designed to handle high mileage while touring.

Yamaha FJR1300ES Engine Specification

Source: Yamaha

1 Ultimate Sport Tourer Performance

Top Speed: 154 MPH & 0-60 MPH: 2.7 Seconds

The FJR1300 is regarded as one of the most powerful sports tourers on the market, with a 0-60 MPH acceleration time of just 2.7 seconds. It offers an outstanding mix of power and agility, making it ideal for a high-speed touring adventure, with a top speed of 154 MPH. Not only does its powerful engine provide smooth acceleration and easy overtaking power on the highway.

It also has a larger 6.6-gallon fuel tank, which provides a range of more than 230 miles with a claimed fuel efficiency of 36 MPG. Another advantage of choosing the Yamaha FJR1300 for touring is its impressive fuel efficiency.

Additionally, it has a competitive price, starting at $18,299 MSRP for the 2024 FJR1300ES model, that offers excellent value for money. While it is not the most expensive sports tour out there, it can easily keep up with the competition on the highway.

Yamaha FJR1300ES Performance Specification

Source: Yamaha