How about an FJR comparison?

[Marcf]

I noticed a lot of GT vs LT comments but nothing about comparing a GT to an FJR1300.

I've been riding an LT for almost 3 years now and am ready for something sportier that I can also tour on. I've probably read everything available on both the new GT and the 06' FJR. The big difference seems to be the price of these two bikes. The FJR can be had for around $13k out the door (tax, shipping, etc. included) with heated grips as an option. Of course, no factory cruise control, heated grips, ESA, etc. In comparison, a new GT will run a hair over $20,600 out the door with only heated grips as an option (so that it is comparable in accessories to the factory FJR).

Anyhow, I say all that to pose the question of whether it is truly worth the extra money for the GT when it will likely handle comparably to the FJR or perhaps a bit better due to more advanced suspension. For some the money is not an issue and it boils down to marque preference and fit and finish which in my opinion, no one measures up to BMW. However for me this price differencial of almost $8k means the difference between buying and FJR and keepint my LT or buying a GT and having to sell my LT.

Then again, being the retard that I am I would end up getting every available option on the GT such as ESA, heated seat, heated grips, top case, liner bags, GPS, etc and end up paying $23,500 out the door... so the real difference is about $10k.

You get my drift here. Any opinions as to a comparison of the two bikes in fit/finish, handling, bang for the buck, etc?

Thanks,
Marc

[Big_E]

$8,000 differance, I would go with the Yamaha.

[maward]

I sold my 2003 LTE an switched to a 2005 FJR. Sold it at the end of the riding season and ordered a 2006 FJR. Should be here soon.

[wardenross]

Marc,

According to the specifications:

.................Yamaha FJR1300.................BMW K1200GT

length..............88.2 in..........................91.3 in
wheel base.......60.6 in..........................61.8 in
dry wgt*...........582 lbs........................578 lbs

Note that the dry weight was listed at all sorts of lbs. from different sources.

The GT seems a bit more roomy and longer than the FJR. The handle bar reach is less on the GT.

Make sure you add in the extra price of the ABS on the Yamaha.

Personally, IMHO, I prefer the GT. I belive the wind protection is better.

After owning at least seven Yamahas. I now refer to them Yama-ha-ha's.

[tarheel_rider]

You may have already done so, but check out the Honda ST1300. If I hadn't brought the LT, that's the bike I would have gone with. The LT is the right one for me and my wife, but it had been just me, the ST would have won over the GT. www.st-owners.com can give you some background. Joel

[eljeffe]

If you can get past the fact that the translation from French to English reads like a set of stereo instructions, you can read this (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6970)

[BEJ]

Make sure you add in the extra price of the ABS on the Yamaha.
According to the Yamaha site, the FJR comes standard with ABS for '06.

[maward]

Marc,

According to the specifications:

.................Yamaha FJR1300.................BMW K1200GT

length..............88.2 in..........................91.3 in
wheel base.......60.6 in..........................61.8 in
dry wgt*...........582 lbs........................578 lbs

Note that the dry weight was listed at all sorts of lbs. from different sources.

The GT seems a bit more roomy and longer than the FJR. The handle bar reach is less on the GT.

Make sure you add in the extra price of the ABS on the Yamaha.

Personally, IMHO, I prefer the GT. I belive the wind protection is better.

After owning at least seven Yamahas. I now refer to them Yama-ha-ha's.

Wow, all that for just $10,000?

BTW, the ABS is not an option, standard on both models. My 2006 cost me $12,199. I like the GT also (at leaset in theory as most of us have not ridden or even seen one), but not that much.

Also, how did you come to the conclusion that you like the wind protection better on the GT (which is not out yet and you have not ridden), compared to the 2006 FJR (which is not out yet and you have not ridden)?

[Malki]

@ Marcf - I can confirm that the FJR is a very capable touring bike two up.
Comfortable, quick, reliable. I was all over Europe on mine 4 times in 2 years.
Only thing that disappointed me was the paint finish. It is extremely soft and easily scratched and marked. Durability of the finish is not a patch on either honda or BMW.
The power when ridden solo is outstanding, UK model (2002) had 145bhp.

[tmgs]

I noticed a lot of GT vs LT comments but nothing about comparing a GT to an FJR1300.

You get my drift here. Any opinions as to a comparison of the two bikes in fit/finish, handling, bang for the buck, etc?

Thanks,
Marc

Yes, I can't ride the FJR the leg position is way to agressive someone had to unfold my legs off them foot pegs, they were way to far back and up for me. I was in pain in no time on one. I ride with a friend up here on a FJR I don't like the ground clearance on it. It needs to be raised.

it did have plenty of power though. bike shifted nice.
it is a fine bike for those that can bend thier legs <g>

Tom


Tom

[tmgs]

Wow, all that for just $10,000?

BTW, the ABS is not an option, standard on both models. My 2006 cost me $12,199. I like the GT also (at leaset in theory as most of us have not ridden or even seen one), but not that much.

Also, how did you come to the conclusion that you like the wind protection better on the GT (which is not out yet and you have not ridden), compared to the 2006 FJR (which is not out yet and you have not ridden)?

the '06 FJR is the same as the '05 as far as wind protection correct?

if so the gt has better wind protection, I got to demo the new GT and I have roiide a FJR,

i'm not dowing the fjr mind you, just stating how I felt about it. the FJR seems to be a fine bike for sure.

Tom

[maward]

the '06 FJR is the same as the '05 as far as wind protection correct? Tom

No.

[bmwhd]

I'm in the same place. My next bike would be between these two if I was buying today (with the RT a close 3rd). I'm likely a year out on my next purchase but I don't see anything in the pipe that would displace these two(three).

I love the idea of the GT but in the real world, there's going to be a $10K price difference new. That's a whole lot of farkles. Heated grips, heated Corbin, aftermarket electronic cruise, better windshield and you're still $7K to the good at least with the FJR.

Now, 2 yrs out when there are both used '06 FJRs and used GTs, that's a different story...

[maward]

the '06 FJR is the same as the '05 as far as wind protection correct?Tom

No, see this: http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/airManagement.aspx

[tmgs]

Wow it sure don't look different if at all on thier website.


what's different about the wind protection?

[hoog62]

Click (http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/airManagement.aspx)

Oops, sorry. I see Marc already posted that link.

As far as wind management (not heat management) the fairing is a little wider, the wind shield is wider and taller, it raises back and up now as opposed to just swinging up, and there is venting to reduce the back pressure/buffeting.

[wardenross]

...Also, how did you come to the conclusion that you like the wind protection better on the GT (which is not out yet and you have not ridden), compared to the 2006 FJR (which is not out yet and you have not ridden)?

Why Marc……… whatever do you mean? I thought we were friends. You really
presume that I haven’t ridden the new GT? Oh, I’m forever slighted! How can
we go on and share our great enthusiasm for the two-wheeled industry, when you
have such reservations about my credentials?

Well, you know Marc; between close friends, I will license your method of
reasoning! Why should I make the termination that the GT has a trivial edge
over the FJR in wind protection? How ridiculous of me. A wind tunnel,
unquestionably, would be the solitary scientific means to determine this
dispute. My donning an open-face Arai and testing the wind from the rider’s
posture, certainly could not discern the difference and be conclusive.
Emphatically, not in a court of law! How childish of me!

Oh, but don’t be disheartened Marc. I empathize that sometimes individuals
soar to conclusions and articulate without first assessing! You evidently do
not acknowledge my correlation with motorcycle commerce. I can forgive you
Marc! In truth, as a peace offering, I have attached my autographed photograph
at the substructure of this post! Yes, you may share it with your associates
and such!

See! I think we can both go on!

[black1200lt]

One can't argue with that!:D

[maward]

Blah, blah, blah...

Whew! Lotsa words.

I should have been more specific...my question was simple, but I shall try again.

Have you ridden both the new GT and the new FJR1300? If so, I completely accept your opinion. I realize that you were putting forth your opinion, and that's fine. Just wondering on what basis you came to that conclusion.

By the way, I think when you said "...Why should I make the termination that the GT has a trivial edge..." you meant DETERMINATION.

[tmgs]

Click (http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/airManagement.aspx)

Oops, sorry. I see Marc already posted that link.

As far as wind management (not heat management) the fairing is a little wider, the wind shield is wider and taller, it raises back and up now as opposed to just swinging up, and there is venting to reduce the back pressure/buffeting.


Just saw that thanks

[tmgs]

No, see this: http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/airManagement.aspx


Ok cool, explains why it looks the same from the pics too

Tom

[wardenross]

By the way, I think when you said "...Why should I make the termination that the GT has a trivial edge..." you meant DETERMINATION.
Marc!

Oh forever go on! YOU question my control of the language!

ter-mi-na-tion n. [L ternimatio] ...a thing's outcome or result/friendly termination of a dispute.

It seems you did not accept my peace offering. What shame!

But wait! I shall now claim the FJR has superior wind protection to a new..............let's see.............oh!...a new Super Glide! Yes that's it! A new Super Glide! See, we can now both agree!

How is that Marc? Yes, you may have noticed, but I did insist that Willy remove the dated "boat tail" (ough!). I do love the thirty-fifth anniversary attitude. Don't you?

[Shane Stump]

While I can't comment on the BMW, I have had my FJR1300AE for about two weeks now (only have 1500 miles on her because of time constraints). I also have a Honda GL1800/A.

I have everything I want on the FJR now with the exception of cruise control (I am still looking into it).

I have my 2006 FJR1300AE configured as follows (all prices include taxes if applicable).

1) 2006 FJR1300AE - $14,200
2) New Windshield 200
3) Audicomm 210
4) Corbin front seat 400
5) Corbin Smuggler 700
6) H&B Top Case / Rack 380
7) GPS Mount 120
8) New Horns 50
9) 4 Year Extended Warranty 400

Total $16,660

As you can see, she is pretty fully loaded!

EXCELLENT bike!

Best Regards,

Shane

[rmg08057]

Doug Hines did an excellent comparison GT-to-FJR. As a long-time FJ'r and LT'er his reporting takes some beating. ElJeffe, do you know where the link is?

[DRothermel]

For those of you wanting a comparo test between the FJR and the GT, there's one in my MCN mag that just came in the mail today. Unfortunately it was the FJR1300AE vs. the GT. IMO it should have been the FJR1300 in the test not the AE model. FJR won, by the way. Dick

[ansonk1200lt]

If money is no object, get the GT. If money is a concern, you get more bang for the bucks with the FJR. I used to have a FJR and the only complaints I had were in how the fit and body material seemed inferior. The skin is cheap but functional; do not expect to realize any "wows" from other bikers, but the performance is superb, especially at under $14K for brand new. You can also purchase the transferable extended warranty that will cover the bike completely throughout its life or your possession. It's a good selling feature if you ever intend on selling down the road. My 2004 FJR ran beautifully and did not have the much-complained about ticking and surging, but I missed the "status," styling, and commaraderie that came with owning a BMW. I am only 5'7" so the electric OEM windshield provided adequate wind protection. The front lights were awesome and very bright, a defininte plus over the BMW; that is why many BMW owners install additional lighting. The OEM seat is nothing to write home about, but neither are the BMW seats, so that is a wash. All-in-all if money was a big concern for me, I would own a FJR instead of my K1200LT. Hope my comments help your decision.

[t_bski]

I picked up my new 06 FJR on Saturday. All I can say is "WOW!!!" I also have included, a 4 year unlimited milage warranty and all service work for the next 3 years, also unlimited milage. is free.

[Dick]

I picked up my new 06 FJR on Saturday. All I can say is "WOW!!!" I also have included, a 4 year unlimited milage warranty and all service work for the next 3 years, also unlimited milage. is free.
Hey, Tom - good on ya. Next time I need a vehicle, I'm gonna hire you to negotiate the deal, OK??? ;) :)

What'd you do with the LT? You keepin' it? Trade? What? Maybe some Satiday, we can do a breakfast at the Blue Bonnet and do a show-n-tell of your FJR. BTW - you know if someone makes the brake light module to fit the FJR like you had on your LT.

Take care, Tom. See ya soon.

[t_bski]

Hey Dick, the LT is gone, traded in. I'll still check in from time to time. I'd love to get together for breakfast sometime and yes, I've already got a line on the brake light mod for the FJR

[Dick]

Hey Dick, the LT is gone, traded in. I'll still check in from time to time. I'd love to get together for breakfast sometime and yes, I've already got a line on the brake light mod for the FJR
Yup, Tom - stay close by here. Always enjoy your company. Holler when you wanna do breakfast on 'almost' any Saturday (next one is another pet vet morning, so 15th is out :( ).

[bmwhd]

I've only got 1,500 miles on my '06 FJR as yet but I freakin' LOVE it.

One big shocker for me was the riding position. Despite my little Triumph experiment of late, I still consider my old LT as my last "real" bike. I expected the FJR to be a bit tough on the old body on long rides...NOT. I still can't get over how natural the riding position is (I'm 6', 210 lbs, 32" inseam).

Now, I got a chance to try out the Doug Hines risers and I plan to keep them as they make it even better but it was not a crying need.

Seat is the best I've had on a stock bike and same for the windshield. Fast, smooth, high quality, looooong maintenance intervals, great dealer network, linked brakes done correctly, what's not to love for the price? BTW, the Audiovox electronic cruise control is a slam dunk install for $99. Not as nice as the BMW factory unit for sure but good enough.

[tmgs]

I noticed a lot of GT vs LT comments but nothing about comparing a GT to an FJR1300.
Marc


ok , there isn't one..............

the new GT is MUCH better!

[McRuss]

Yup, Tom - stay close by here. Always enjoy your company. Holler when you wanna do breakfast on 'almost' any Saturday (next one is another pet vet morning, so 15th is out :( ).

I wanna come too!! Maybe I'll bring my 'old' '04 FJR so's can see the diff close up. I too think MCN did Yamayha a deservice by comparing the AE version with the GT. The only diff though was quarter mile speed and time, the '03 FJR had better times than the '06 GT! And after seeing Jeff's GT and riding my FJR, I'll stick to the yammie meself. Course I can always jump the LT for a leetle more luxury....even if the Feejer is more comfy for me solo.

Say, heard anything about a RTE for July? My weekends are in short supply this month so might's well not be one.

[Dick]

I wanna come too!! Maybe I'll bring my 'old' '04 FJR so's can see the diff close up. I too think MCN did Yamayha a deservice by comparing the AE version with the GT. The only diff though was quarter mile speed and time, the '03 FJR had better times than the '06 GT! And after seeing Jeff's GT and riding my FJR, I'll stick to the yammie meself. Course I can always jump the LT for a leetle more luxury....even if the Feejer is more comfy for me solo.

Say, heard anything about a RTE for July? My weekends are in short supply this month so might's well not be one.
Russ - I'll letcha know soon as somethang is firm for a July RTE. Andy is trying to drum up one so he can bring his visiting son along. And there is a tech session up at Grapevine on the 29th, so maybe the 22nd for the RTE?? Stay tuned.

[t_bski]

I'll be watching the posts for the 22nd RTE. I think I'll be able to make it to this one.

[McRuss]

The 22nd is one of my free weekends! Maybe we can combine the viewing of the '06 GT killer with Andy's son's trip.

[t_bski]

GT killer. I don't think I want to go there. I bought the bike that I liked for many reasons others will pick the GT.