Yamaha riders will certainly welcome the big FJ back into the fold, slotting in where the FJ1200 left off, a bike which incidentally was bought by more motorcycling journalists with their own money than any other.

The FJR1300 is classed as a sports/tourer but priced to sell alongside the Pan Europeans and others of that ilk. At £8485 (Feb 2002) it has come down in price by about £1500 since last year.

The FJR is big, tall, long and quite heavy at 237kgs (521lbs), a full 30lbs heavier than Honda’s Blackbird. More suited to devouring as many miles possible in as short a time possible than scratching round the local round a bouts.

Comfort is not sacrificed in any way, having climbed aboard the 805mm high seat the rider is cosseted and protected behind the electrically adjustable screen from any wind buffeting. The seat pads are separate for both rider and pillion, but nicely styled to look like one single unit.

The 1298cc in-line four cylinder engine is liquid cooled, has DOHC, 16 valves, fuel injection and enough torque to let you use just two of the five gears. 1st to get you rolling then 5th for everything else, pulling strongly in top from 1500rpm. With 145bhp and 92ftlbs torque you would expect no less.

Aluminium chassis is supported at the front by 48mm forks with adjustments for pre-load, compression and rebound damping. The rear single shock has a rising-rate linkage and similar adjustments.

Front brakes are twin 298mm discs with four-piston calipers, while the back has a 282mm disc with twin pot caliper.

The big FJ will top 150mph and return an average 42mpg, giving a range of 230 miles from its 25 litre fuel tank, making it a perfect mile eater for those continental trips.

The FJR has shaft drive, which will appeal to those who prefer to do mileage rather than spending precious time on maintenance or cleaning. The built in small luggage rack also incorporates grab handles for the pillion passenger.

The handlebars are unusual in that the grey alloy lower parts are bolted directly onto the top yolk giving a very futuristic look. Twin headlights are huge and make the bike stick out from the crowd when parked up.

Speedo and rev counter are electronic dial clocks, whereas the fuel and temperature gauges, clock and trip meters are LCD displays on the right hand side of the instrument panel.

Overall the Yamaha is a nicely put together package that is a welcome alternative to the Pan and BMW offerings.  Available in Silver metallic, Blue and Black with matching luggage available as an option.

The steel fuel tank is also suitable for magnetic tank bags giving this Yamaha the capability of carrying a passenger and the entire luggage necessary for a 2-week holiday anywhere you would like to go.

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Last updated 02/06/02