2013 Yamaha FJR Review

The 2013 Yamaha FJR 1300A receives a welcome update that improves the design and performance. This sport-touring bike is designed to give the rider as much comfort and amenities as possible while improving distance capabilities, performance, and reliability. The FJR 1300A is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-cylinder, 1298cc engine with a five-speed transmission and a wet, hydraulic clutch. It also has a dual overhead camshaft valve train, is fueled by an electronic fuel injection system, and has a wide bore of 79 mm and a short stroke of 66.2 mm. This gives the bike 101.8 lb-ft of torque at 7000 rpm and 144.1 hp at 8000 rpm. The new engine offers reduced friction, improved heat dissipation, lighter weight, and better performance with a three-horsepower and three lb-ft of torque gain. The bike has decent handling due to its suspension design and big power output, which are both helpful since it is a bit heavy, weighing in at 644 pounds. The dual front discs are very powerful and have an antilock braking system that functions during all weather and road conditions.

The hard-locking, weather proof side bags are capable of holding a helmet in each, lock with the ignition key, and are removable by hand if need be. The rider’s seat can be adjusted to one of two positions and the handlebars can be set in one of three positions, giving six different combinations to maximize comfort. The electronic adjustable windshield can be height adjusted at the touch of a button to reduce wind resistance on the face or keep the body dry during a sudden down pour. The FJR comes with 17-inch, tubeless, aluminum wheels and dual hydraulic disc brakes.

The biggest change for 2013 is the new Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T). The YCC-T incorporates a motor and throttle position sensor to meter out fuel delivery. The YCC-T also allows for cruise control, traction control, and the ability to switch between two settings: Sport and Touring. The Touring engine map particularly offers a smooth ride and good handling.