Comfortable and reliable sports-tourer (Yamaha Fj1100)

Member Name: Chris

Product:	Yamaha Fj1100
Date:	12/09/06 (1334 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Excellent reliability, strong engine, easy to ride

Disadvantages: By today's standards, more a tourer than a sports bike.

Introduced in the early 1980s, the FJ1100 evolved into the FJ1200 as Yamaha's premier sports/touring motorcycle. It fulfills its design brief very well, carrying two people and luggage over long distances with ease and in comfort. The engine is very strong and capable of high mileage if serviced correctly, especially oil changes. Early 1100 models were under-braked - multi-piston front calipers on 1200s are better. Many are owned by enthusiasts who have invested in sensible upgrades such as tauter suspension, a chain oiler, touring luggage and a touring saddle. Spares availability and technical information through enthusiast clubs are excellent. I have owned my FJ11 for about 12 years and 35K miles. Other than replacing the battery (old age) it has never gone wrong. Watch out for suspension wear, especially rear linkage. Front forks tend to be soft unless uprated springs have been fitted. Front wheel is 16 inches which can limit tyre choice.

Summary: An inexpensive sports/tourer with a wide network of enthusiastic support

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