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Who's owned a sports tourer? (like FJR, etc.)

16K views 69 replies 22 participants last post by  somanyroads 
#1 ·
I want to get into long distance touring…

And my priorities consist of: Agility, Speed, nimbleness, basically a bike I don’t have to manhandle on every turn.

So I’m thinking swapping one of my cruisers for a sports tourer. The FJR1300 is probably one to look at, if I can find one used, but I’m willing to consider anything really. Just want something nimble and comfortable.

So, has anyone here had or have a sports tourer? Am I in for a complete shell shock coming off a cruiser?
 
#59 · (Edited)
Those are good points on both bikes.

Ducati likely has a lot of "nice to have" stuff, but not "must have". Chances are, if I didn't know I could have those extras, I wouldn't know I needed them.

I did see the concept for a new Wee and I agree with what you said. If I was buying new it would definitely be worth while to see what this new bike brings to the table before signing off on the older model, especially since the older bike isn't likely to keep its value well, as you suggest.

I just hope I can keep myself from temptation to buy something sooner than planned. That is the one problem with looking too early...
 
#60 · (Edited)
Well, I'm really glad I'm doing lots of homework before jumping into the next bike. Just hoping to make it work is not the right approach anymore. I guess after owning two bikes, you kind of know what you like and don't like. My extensive search has led me to a bike I didn't even know existed, the Yamaha Super Tenere. Would have never even looked at it twice before, but reading extensive accounts of poeple comfortably covering insane distances and hitting paths through woods and dirt roads in the process got my attention. I'm pretty infatuated with the bike, just sitting on it makes me not want to get off, it's so comfy! I feel right at home in that cockpit. Before i get one, I need to make room in the stable though, so hopefully sometime this spring. I'm pretty excited about this bike. :D
 
#64 ·
I had a Honda ST1300 for about six months before I traded it in and went back to v-twin cruisers. It was fun to ride for about 45 minutes or so but I could not get comfortable. I had tried a few different seats, had handlebar risers, even had aftermarket engine guards that poked through the plastic side covers and allowed for highway pegs. I still wasn't comfortable enough. I did enjoy the power, agility, braking and overall sports bike aspect but it wasn't for me in the long run. I would be interested in renting one of the new (2012-2013) Kawasaki Concourse's for a day. I think the latest revisions have made that bike quite comfortable but that does vary from person to person. Unfortunately a typical test ride won't tell you much of anything hence the need to try to rent something.
 
#65 · (Edited)
I initially thought a sports tourer was the answer, but the more I sat on all the different ones (concourse, fjr, honda VN700) the more I couldn't stand them. They all felt too big, and not comfortable enough. Then I got on the Yamaha Super tenere, which is a standard bike with a completely upright seating position, and I felt right at home. I admit, it's not the prettiest thing I'd ever seen but for the comfort, agility and long range capability, I'll take it! Besides, I actually really dig the bike in blue.

I have not bought the bike yet, I need to wait till tax time. Can't wait thought.
 
#68 · (Edited)
Miss my sport tourer. I push my kingpin like a sport touring machine. The frame shows this. I really enjoyed my sport tourer. If I could figure a way to get more ground clearance I would be more happy.
 
#69 ·
I've owned two older FJs and they were awesome rides. Seating position leans you forward but that kept my back feeling great after six to ten hours on the road. I seriously considered the FJ1300 before I bought my XC but I have to say that I am a Victory fan for life! The handling is light and quick and I have NEVER been more comfortable on a bike. I did 7000 miles from SC to Seattle, WA this summer on my XC (four days out, four days back in the HOTTEST summer on record!) and can't say enough about how well the bike handled. My response to you would be RIDE THE BIKE and buy what appeals most to your personal preferances and needs. cheers
 
#70 ·
I had a Honda ST1300 for many years. I rode it across the country and loved it. I have bad knees and have to straighten my legs out constantly . I found a company that made great highway pegs and had a Utopia backrest for my bad back. I was able to stretch out when I needed too. The bike handled, braked, and ran incredible. It had a gas tank that held 7.7 gallons . I got 40-50 MPG all the time. I just saw the Victory Vision and had to have it. :)


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