LAST OF THE BIG SPORTS-TOURERS?
The four-cylinder pannier-equipped sports-touring bike is becoming a very rare breed, and if you’d like one with shaft drive, you’re down to a single choice: the Yamaha FJR1300. Either the machines have grown extra pots (BMW K-series) or been discontinued (Honda STX, Kawasaki GTR1300, Triumph Trophy).
The four-cylinder class was popular because the machines offered more power than a twin and less weight than a six. In particular, the Kawasaki is sorely missed; it was a great platform with outdated electronics. I’d suggest that not offering cruise control sealed its fate, but hopefully something similar will make a comeback.
EVOLUTION OF THE SPORTS-TOURER
In contrast to Kawasaki, Yamaha has continued to develop the FJR, keeping it up to date and relevant. It’s always been a well-loved bike and the current variant has addressed some of the old model’s less-desirable features with the addition of a sixth gear and proper suspension — welcome changes and evidence manufacturers do listen to customers.
Yamaha has
