ST1300 or FJR 1300 Sport Touring Replacement for my 1997 Bird

Venus97 · 10-13-2007, 11:56 AM

I love my Bird, was considering replacing my Bird with a 2004-2005 FJR or ST since most of my riding is freeway slabbing and more comfort/wind protection would extend my riding season. (I was dreaming of the new Concours, but too pricey and bugs not worked out of them yet)

I love the torque to ST V-4 and overall quality of Honda, but have also heard good things of the FJR. but I never owned a Yammie.

I've heard of the excessive heat complaints of the earlier years of both bikes.

Any years of either bike I should avoid?

Any input would be appreciated.

Toynut · 10-13-2007, 12:34 PM

Buy an '05 ABS model. Galaxy blue!

The heat "issues" have been thoroughly hashed over and are fairly easily mitigated. The occasional "ticker" (premature valve guide wear) is covered by Yamaha and is pretty rare. Like any other bike, you can farkle them to your personal taste.
Join the FJR Forum, they are some pretty helpful (and knowledgable) group of riders there. Warchild is one of the moderators, so it can't be TOO bad, can it?

Quite a few guys own a XX and a FJR. If you can keep both, go for it!
If you have to get rid of your XX, the FJR is about 9/10th's (high 10s) as fast, and almost as adept in the twisties, but much, much, more comfortable for two up riding or really long cross-country travel.

lois · 10-13-2007, 9:22 PM

Just buy a newer XX and that way you'll be sure to be happy

ConqSoft · 10-13-2007, 9:28 PM

If you decide on the ST, I think I know of a place fairly close to you that has leftover (New) '06 ST's (the black ones), for $10.5k

X1rider · 10-13-2007, 10:35 PM

Wait for the November show......

blkbrdrydr · 10-13-2007, 10:50 PM

In the past few years, I had the opportunity to put a fair number of miles on a ST1300, and just didn't like the bike well enough to buy one.

To me, the bike threw off way too much heat. Comfortable? sure. High quality? sure. Reliable? sure but with the tradeoff of having absolutely no soul. To me it would be like owning an appliance instead of a motorcycle.

On the other hand, I just added a 2006 FJR1300A to my garage and after riding it 560 miles yesterday.... I just don't think that my CBR1100XX is going to stay in my garage for much longer.

Aurora · 10-13-2007, 10:50 PM

C14 ABS or ST1300 ABS,

FJR is too buzzy for me. In addition not much protection for wind. I rode both the Manual and auto FJR1300. The auto doesn't have as much driveline lash.

Eddie1968 · 05-28-2008, 12:30 AM

I had my '03 ST1300 for nigh on 3 years and really enjoyed riding it, but the time came to ride something new. Let me thell you that the ST ain't as soul-less as some people make out - but it ain't an all out animal either. It is a very refined ride and it how much fun you have on it depends on what you want from a bike.

I rode my ST up the pointy end with the other boys on 'birds, 'blades and gixxers, mixing it up with them, never really threatening them, but never too far behind either. I did receive a couple of comments that they had never seen a bike that size being thrown around like I managed to do. I am 6'2 and 250lbs and the bike seemed fairly effortless to move around (nice low centre of gravity). But mind you, it is not the same as riding the XX and getting back on to the ST after riding the Blackbird was like driving a bus.

Acceleration is good and she tops out at 245km/h. She gets to 200km/h pretty quickly, but after that it takes an eternity to wring her out.

Heat from the right-hand side in summer can be a bit of a problem, as it does pump out on your inside thigh. Reliability is not an issue - the Honda powerplant is pretty bulletproof.

When I am done finished with the 'Bird, and sick of the more aggressive riding postion, I'll probably be looking for another tourer and at this stage will look toward the FJR. Mind you, I don't think that will be for a few years yet, so who know what will be available then (Honda, you need something like the ZX-14).

I hope that this helps.

Cheers,

Eddie.

Strek · 05-28-2008, 1:23 AM

I have been on an FJR but not for longer touring type rides. Nice bike. Good power. Comfortable upright riding position. The Concours and FJR win all of the magazine shootouts on the touring bikes when compared to the BMW and the Honda. The ST normally doesn't score to well against the FJR and Concours. Now I typically prefer Honda's myself but if I was in the market for a tourer I'd be looking at a Concours or the FJR.

SilverBrd · 05-28-2008, 1:25 AM

The cops around here are riding ST1300's. Go with the Yammie....better style plus people won't think you are a cop

Shorebird · 05-28-2008, 5:11 PM

Did a lot of miles on a ST1100 when I was in CA. Many many miles up CA 101 from San Fran north to Eureka. The 1100 handled well and had excellent wind and rain protection. So when I started the search for the next bike here in FL looked at the ST 1300 and the FJR. The new ST just did not do it for me. Sure it is a great bike but just did not fit me 6’1.5” and 160# or feel planted. Rode an FJR and much better. Yes a little buzzy but not bad and not enough to worry about. Heat is an issue here in FL and could be for you in NC.
Picking for me FJR, ST1100 then the ST1300.

Good luck on the search.

Growler67 · 05-28-2008, 5:53 PM

Generally a pretty even split between the two contenders. However, again generally, the ST is more of a tourer than the FJ and the FJ is more sportier than the ST. I'd go Honda myself but that's because I like the V4 torque over the Yamadogs inline offering. Just my preferrence is all, throw a leg over each if you get a chance and see which one feels better to you.

gixxer11 · 05-29-2008, 10:25 AM

I agree with the others get a later model(injected bird) or see if you can find a zzr1200 (sorry guys!)I was seriously consideringgetting one I test drove one and was very impressed only thing that is was not injected and wanted to move up injection as If I wanted to mod it would be easier. Iiked the zzr because it offered good wind and rain protection 148 hp but i was waiting for them to inject it but they came out with the zx14 and then the new coni the zzr was no longer just my opinion and you can pick them up for very fair prices....chris

rideonXX · 06-06-2008, 2:33 AM

I have an '03 ST1300A, and was able to keep my '97 Bird. I now have 38K+ on the ST and have had none of the heat issues. The only thing has been the windshield adjuster---shitty design and will set you back $350 or so just for the part from a discounter. Maybe the new ones are better as the replacement is a new part number.

You will be surprised how fast you will ride it because it is so smooth and it will turn. The ABS is seemless (unlike a BMW I rode that pulsed).

Never ridden the FJR so can't offer any comparison.

Whatever you end up with, wishing you many happy trails----kel

DragonXX · 06-06-2008, 5:40 AM

If you want sports touring then it's the FJR all the way !
There's nothing sports about the ST .......................... I've ridden both !
And as for heat ? .............. Coming off a 'Bird, everything else is cool !
Good luck with the decision

Venus97 · 06-06-2008, 8:44 PM

Thanks to all for their input. I'm still on the fence, but am leaning toward a ST1100 first or FJR second. They are both fine bikes, but I love the V4 torque.

If money was not an object the new Connie 14 would be my choice. Maybe in a few years when they hit the used market.

rideonXX · 06-06-2008, 9:32 PM

If the pocketbook will allow a ST1300----it is a very different motorcycle than the 1100. More power, more sporting frame (you can feel it) adjustable windscreen on the '03 and perhaps all after--not sure---but it's a really good feature and mine worked for 4 years without any problems and I have the part ordered to fix it this month. The 1300 is a complete makeover. If you can find a ABS model they hold their value much better than the regular version.

Again, what ever you decide---happy trails kel

Strek · 06-06-2008, 11:04 PM

The Concours was just named the best Sport Tourer according to Cycle World magazine. It's in its 10 best bikes of the year section. In looking at their lineup I can't say I agree with all of their choices.

RSJ · 09-20-2008, 11:22 PM

Rode a friends FJR auto shift last week for about 50 miles. OK but to buzzy and rattly. Heat wasnt an issue as alot complain about.
Rented an ST1300 (06) for a week near deals gap last spring. She aint the preetiest girl around but smoother, handles better, no rattles, windshield rocks, etc.

I'd buy the ST.

Catenaccio · 09-24-2008, 11:57 PM

I had an 05 FJR. Great bike, had to sell it to pay for a heart attack. But, I like the bird better. The FJR is terrific for long comfortable stretches and it's no wimp. I scare myself more often on the bird. After surviving the heart attack I wanted something to make me feel more alive. Stupid way to review a bike, but true.

rlew · 10-05-2008, 2:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Catenaccio

I had an 05 FJR. Great bike, had to sell it to pay for a heart attack. But, I like the bird better. The FJR is terrific for long comfortable stretches and it's no wimp. I scare myself more often on the bird. After surviving the heart attack I wanted something to make me feel more alive. Stupid way to review a bike, but true.

Sorry to hear about your heart attack. Glad you're still riding. Was curious about your Speed Triple. Can you post a bit about the bike by comparing it to the Bird? I've always lusted after a Speed Triiple. I realize they are both very different bikes but was just wondering how it rides/feels compared to the Bird. I have a recently acquired a 2002 Bird and can't imagine anything better but somehow can't get a Speed triple out of my head. I'm hoping you can dissuade me.

rideonXX · 10-05-2008, 11:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rlew

Sorry to hear about your heart attack. Glad you're still riding. Was curious about your Speed Triple. Can you post a bit about the bike by comparing it to the Bird? I've always lusted after a Speed Triiple. I realize they are both very different bikes but was just wondering how it rides/feels compared to the Bird. I have a recently acquired a 2002 Bird and can't imagine anything better but somehow can't get a Speed triple out of my head. I'm hoping you can dissuade me.

I have a Wilburs rear shock and Hyperpro springs in the front of my Bird and it made a world of difference in the ride---great investment---BUT--the suspension (stock as far as I know) on my '95 Speed Triple is considerably better. Soaks up fast bumps very well and feels very stable to me. My S3 is only 885ccs so not comparable to the Bird and it only has a 5 speed. That is not to say that it won't run strong---just not as strong as the Bird. The power delivery is very different too---since its a 3 cylinder it is more torquey than I4s of same displacement. Fun bike to ride--but has a tendancey to bring out the hooligan in a guy at times. Also, smother than you would imagine as well. Mine is also about 40lbs lighter than the bird. I haven't ridden it alot (only about 11K) on it as mine has a solo seat and the tail piece so it's pretty much a solo machine----I also like the extra steam of the Bird. Should you choose to give one a try---they don't have as strong a following as Honda so you should be able to make a great buy.

The later ones, with the bigger engins should really be a hoot. So, comes down to what you want----refinement, smoothness long range missle=BlackBird. Naked, more of a hooligan bike that is a blast in the canyons--Speed Triple will get it done. My suggestion would be to buy one, play with it a bit and then sell the you find your not as enjoying as much as the other. I will be selling mine shortly and post what the interest level for them is. I am in the Ventura, Ca area and have never seen another Speed Triple around here, newer or older model.

Haven't done much to discourage you as they are a reliable fun bike--as is the Bird----wishing you many happy trails kel

rlew · 10-06-2008, 2:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rideonXX

I have a Wilburs rear shock and Hyperpro springs in the front of my Bird and it made a world of difference in the ride---great investment---BUT--the suspension (stock as far as I know) on my '95 Speed Triple is considerably better. Soaks up fast bumps very well and feels very stable to me. My S3 is only 885ccs so not comparable to the Bird and it only has a 5 speed. That is not to say that it won't run strong---just not as strong as the Bird. The power delivery is very different too---since its a 3 cylinder it is more torquey than I4s of same displacement. Fun bike to ride--but has a tendancey to bring out the hooligan in a guy at times. Also, smother than you would imagine as well. Mine is also about 40lbs lighter than the bird. I haven't ridden it alot (only about 11K) on it as mine has a solo seat and the tail piece so it's pretty much a solo machine----I also like the extra steam of the Bird. Should you choose to give one a try---they don't have as strong a following as Honda so you should be able to make a great buy.

The later ones, with the bigger engins should really be a hoot. So, comes down to what you want----refinement, smoothness long range missle=BlackBird. Naked, more of a hooligan bike that is a blast in the canyons--Speed Triple will get it done. My suggestion would be to buy one, play with it a bit and then sell the you find your not as enjoying as much as the other. I will be selling mine shortly and post what the interest level for them is. I am in the Ventura, Ca area and have never seen another Speed Triple around here, newer or older model.

Haven't done much to discourage you as they are a reliable fun bike--as is the Bird----wishing you many happy trails kel

Thanks for the comparison, it's appreciated. I test rode the Street Triple a few months ago and loved it. Always wondered how the Speed Triple would feel like. That said, the Blackbird is by far the best moto I have ever ridden. I really do like canyon riding though and the Bird is definitely up to it but I suspect that the Speed Triple might be better, at least that's what I'm infering from what you've written.

If I only had the money for another bike. I've got three at the moment and that's too many. Although I'm tempted to let 2 go (not the Bird) and get a newish Speed Triple. Thanks again, I just wish you had talked me out of it once and for all

cip · 10-24-2008, 9:22 AM

I'm looking to purchase a new ST1300 this fall. Have not had a chance to ride one or for that matter even sit on one since they are all sold out in the NY area. Waiting for dealer's to get one in for a demo ride.

However, had a chance to demo a new FJR1300 in Wilmington NC last month. The bike has vibration a jerky throttle and noisy tranny. Also, whats with all the hoses showing. Very disappointed with the bike in general. Also rode a BMW1200LT which was even worse. No low end ( like starting from second gear ) the motor torque's to the right and feels like a sewing machine. After owning the Bird, its hard to find the same smooth ride and build quality.