[mikester]

Not sure what you mean by "newer"? All Gen 3's have cruise.

As for the OP I'd go with the 2014 but that's just me.

I meant "not the older gen 1 or 2". Spare the rod and spoil the child!

 

[ChrstphrM]

In my opinion, 2013 -2015 is the sweet spot for used FJRs.
I also put my money where my mouth is. In October of 2021 I purchased a pristine 2014 FJR 1300 A with only 1838 miles on it. Loving it ever since. Only issue is... she won't let me ride slowly. Red is such a fast color.

Below are some details about this Generation of FJRs.

2013 model – RP23 An important model change for the FJR this year, with new bodywork and sophisticated electronic control technologies like traction control, cruise control (limited to mas of 80 MPH), and Heated Grips. The dashboard and control switches are new. By means of new tires and suspension settings, the steering and handling of the machine are lighter than before. Plated cylinders, revised intake funnels, and throttle bodies, and a redesigned exhaust system optimizes the engine performance and provides 3 HP more. The new fairing creates a clearly stronger road presence and a higher quality feel. It still features extendable knee panels and an electrically adjustable windscreen, which operates more quickly and conveniently than before. Even the center stand is optimized and lighter to operate.

The variation model FJR1300AS offers an electronically adjustable suspension system that allows you to set up the suspension super quickly without making your fingers dirty, by means of a menu switch on the handlebar. Visually, you can easily tell the difference between the standard (A) version and the AS version because the AS version features an upside-down front fork.

2014 model – RP23 Cruise control is No Longer Limited to a max of 80 MPH. A new model variation is introduced, the FJR1300AE, which sits between the FJR1300A and FJR1300AS in the range. While keeping the standard gearbox system like the A version, it features Yamaha’s advanced electronically-adjustable suspension system, including the upsidedown front fork, like the AS version. By the way, this front fork contains independent damper mechanisms, splitting the compression and damping adjustment between fork legs, for a wider and more accurate range of damping settings. The fact that the rebound and damping functions are split into two distinct operations also means that there is less fluctuation in hydraulic pressure, which in turn helps to ensure stable damping performance, even during hard and sustained use.

2015 model – RP23 This year Yamaha offers the same three variation models A, AE and AS.

 

[ChrstphrM]

Added notes:

I had to drive 5 hours and trailered my 2014 home where I completed engine oil and final drive fluid changes. I also ended up getting new tires after 4K miles as the originals were oxidized and wearing badly. The new Michelin Road 6 GT tires have been great and from all my research should last closer to 10k miles. Time will tell. Oh, ask for right-angle stems when you get new tires to simplify tire pressure checks, etc.

If your new (to you) FJR does not have them already, you may want to invest in Frame Sliders (T-Rex N69-13) and Luggage Guards (T-Rex N69-13LGB5). The cost of the T-Rex (or another brand) protection is less than what it will cost if you simply have a non-rolling drop in your garage or on your driveway. And, you can put them on yourself in well under an hour.

One more thing...Replace both the Break and Clutch Fluid. This should be done more often than most people do it. Age of these fluids is more important than miles for their service. Mine will get done every time I get my tires replaced, as it is not too pricey and can prevent problems down the line.

 

[patate657]

Hi guys! Just joined up today. I'm outta deep South Texas. Looking to buy an FJR1300 to add to my herd. Not sure what year yet, but I'll see what you all have to say about it. Any advice appreciated. This time I'd like to buy a turn- key FJR1300. 'No more fixer-uppers'.......!
This is my 4th Bike forum. I on my 2nd 83' v65 Magna. Had 3 vMaxs and now have 2 Goldwing's Left.

 

[patate657]

In my opinion, 2013 -2015 is the sweet spot for used FJRs.
I also put my money where my mouth is. In October of 2021 I purchased a pristine 2014 FJR 1300 A with only 1838 miles on it. Loving it ever since. Only issue is... she won't let me ride slowly. Red is such a fast color.

Below are some details about this Generation of FJRs.

2013 model – RP23 An important model change for the FJR this year, with new bodywork and sophisticated electronic control technologies like traction control, cruise control (limited to mas of 80 MPH), and Heated Grips. The dashboard and control switches are new. By means of new tires and suspension settings, the steering and handling of the machine are lighter than before. Plated cylinders, revised intake funnels, and throttle bodies, and a redesigned exhaust system optimizes the engine performance and provides 3 HP more. The new fairing creates a clearly stronger road presence and a higher quality feel. It still features extendable knee panels and an electrically adjustable windscreen, which operates more quickly and conveniently than before. Even the center stand is optimized and lighter to operate.

The variation model FJR1300AS offers an electronically adjustable suspension system that allows you to set up the suspension super quickly without making your fingers dirty, by means of a menu switch on the handlebar. Visually, you can easily tell the difference between the standard (A) version and the AS version because the AS version features an upside-down front fork.

2014 model – RP23 Cruise control is No Longer Limited to a max of 80 MPH. A new model variation is introduced, the FJR1300AE, which sits between the FJR1300A and FJR1300AS in the range. While keeping the standard gearbox system like the A version, it features Yamaha’s advanced electronically-adjustable suspension system, including the upsidedown front fork, like the AS version. By the way, this front fork contains independent damper mechanisms, splitting the compression and damping adjustment between fork legs, for a wider and more accurate range of damping settings. The fact that the rebound and damping functions are split into two distinct operations also means that there is less fluctuation in hydraulic pressure, which in turn helps to ensure stable damping performance, even during hard and sustained use.

2015 model – RP23 This year Yamaha offers the same three variation models A, AE and AS.

Hi new guy here with a some questions.
1- What year did the FJR1300 1st come out with cruise control?
2- I see you made reference to the variations. Are there any more differences between the A, AE and AS?
3- I see you like the 2013. Which year do you favor the most?

Thank You
Phil

 

[Whooshka]

Welcome patate657. Top center of the page is a search function. Type in what you're looking for and click on the little magnifying glass. The questions you asked have been discussed repeatedly.

But quick resonses to your questions...
1- 2013
2- There's a chart somewhere here that lists each model year and its uniqueness
3- 2015 (some will say 2014 red is fastest. Thats just to distract you from their slowness )

 

[patate657]

Welcome patate657. Top center of the page is a search function. Type in what you're looking for and click on the little magnifying glass. The questions you asked have been discussed repeatedly.

But quick resonses to your questions...
1- 2013
2- There's a chart somewhere here that lists each model year and its uniqueness
3- 2015 (some will say 2014 red is fastest. Thats just to distract you from their slowness )

Thank you for the quick responses. And will do.

 

[RaYzerman]

Just to clarify post 22 above, those are the European models. The North American models are A and ES (electronic suspension).

 

[patate657]

Just to clarify post 22 above, those are the European models. The North American models are A and ES (electronic suspension).

Thank you

 

[ChrstphrM]

2013 - 2015 Models AreThe Sweet Spot For A Used FJR
At 58 years old. I sold my Old-Man Gold Wing in October of 2021 and I purchased a pristine 2014 FJR 1300 A with only 1838 miles on it. I trailered it home (about 4.5 hours each way) and completed an oil change and final drive fluid change as well as a gas tank drain and fill. Shaft Drive rocks and is so easy to maintain. And oil changes are a breeze on the FJR. The only non-consumable item that needed attention was a missing nut from one of the two left mirror mounting bolts inside the fairing. It seems this particular factory nut has a nasty habit of vibrating loose or, in my case, vibrating completely off. So, for 40 cents and 20 minutes of labor, I replace the nut with one that won't vibrate loose. Otherwise, my new to me FJR was/is in like-new condition. It also came with the taller touring windshield installed and the original sport windshield in the box.

• I paid $9,000 even for my 2014 and passed on a 2012 model with only 1100 miles on it for $7900 to get the updated features of the 2014 model.
• I love the blue 2012 but cruise control and other enhancements are worth the extra few bucks.
• A 2013 model was also available but the Cruise Control stops at 80 MPH on the 2013 model. The 80 MPH Cruise Control limit was removed from the 2014 model.
• I looked at a 2016 but the 6-speed is not necessary and the transmission recall means you won't have a 100% factory transmission. Most have had no issues but there have been some Oopsies.

At 5200 miles, I purchased new tires as the originals were oxidized and wearing badly. The new Michelin Road 6 GT tires have been great and many say they should last closer to 10,000 miles. Time will tell. Oh, ask for right-angle stems when you get new tires to simplify tire pressure checks, etc. At the same time, I replaced both the Break and Clutch Fluid. This should be done more often than most people do it. The age of these fluids is more important than miles for their service. Mine will get done every time I get my tires replaced, as it is not too pricey and can prevent problems down the line.

I also installed a Misgel Ram Mount and Quad Lock with vibration damping that charges my phone/GPS as I ride.

If your new (to you) FJR does not have them already, you may want to invest in Frame Sliders (T-Rex N69-13) and Luggage Guards (T-Rex N69-13LGB5) like I did. The cost of the T-Rex (or another brand) protection is far less than what it will cost if you simply have a non-rolling drop in your garage or on your driveway. And, you can install these yourself in well under an hour.

So, this is all why I think the 2013-2015 models are the sweet spot. They can be found with low miles. And, once the fluids are serviced, they are basically bulletproof like all FJRs. You can save a few bucks by going with an older model but you will give up features that seem to be must-haves once you've used them.

My only issue with my 2014 model is that this red beauty just won't let me ride slowly. I swear I am trying but she just won't let me. ~grin~ After all, red is the fastest color.

Anyway, happy hunting.


Below are some additional details about this Generation of FJRs.
Excerpts from https://www.fjclub.dk/FJR-Model-History.pdf

2013 model – An important model change for the FJR this year, with new bodywork and sophisticated electronic control technologies like traction control, cruise control (limited to max of 80 MPH), and Heated Grips. The dashboard and control switches are new. By means of new tires and suspension settings, the steering and handling of the machine are lighter than before. Plated cylinders, revised intake funnels, and throttle bodies, and a redesigned exhaust system optimizes the engine performance and provides 3 HP more. The new fairing creates a clearly stronger road presence and a higher quality feel. It still features extendable knee panels and an electrically adjustable windscreen, which operates more quickly and conveniently than before. Even the center stand is optimized and lighter to operate.

The variation model FJR1300AS offers an electronically adjustable suspension system that allows you to set up the suspension super quickly without getting your hands dirty, by means of a menu switch on the handlebar. Visually, you can easily tell the difference between the standard (A) version and the AS version because the AS version features an upside-down front fork.

2014 model – Cruise control is No Longer Limited to a max of 80 MPH. A new model variation is introduced, the FJR1300AE, which sits between the FJR1300A and FJR1300AS in the range. While keeping the standard gearbox system like the A version, it features Yamaha’s advanced electronically-adjustable suspension system, including the upside-down front fork, like the AS version. By the way, this front fork contains independent damper mechanisms, splitting the compression and damping adjustment between fork legs, for a wider and more accurate range of damping settings. The fact that the rebound and damping functions are split into two distinct operations also means that there is less fluctuation in hydraulic pressure, which in turn helps to ensure stable damping performance, even during hard and sustained use.

2015 model – This year Yamaha offers the mostly unchanged three variation models A, AE, and AS.

 

[patate657]

2013 - 2015 Models AreThe Sweet Spot For A Used FJR
At 58 years old. I sold my Old-Man Gold Wing in October of 2021 and I purchased a pristine 2014 FJR 1300 A with only 1838 miles on it. I trailered it home (about 4.5 hours each way) and completed an oil change and final drive fluid change as well as a gas tank drain and fill. Shaft Drive rocks and is so easy to maintain. And oil changes are a breeze on the FJR. The only non-consumable item that needed attention was a missing nut from one of the two left mirror mounting bolts inside the fairing. It seems this particular factory nut has a nasty habit of vibrating loose or, in my case, vibrating completely off. So, for 40 cents and 20 minutes of labor, I replace the nut with one that won't vibrate loose. Otherwise, my new to me FJR was/is in like-new condition. It also came with the taller touring windshield installed and the original sport windshield in the box.

• I paid $9,000 even for my 2014 and passed on a 2012 model with only 1100 miles on it for $7900 to get the updated features of the 2014 model.
• I love the blue 2012 but cruise control and other enhancements are worth the extra few bucks.
• A 2013 model was also available but the Cruise Control stops at 80 MPH on the 2013 model. The 80 MPH Cruise Control limit was removed from the 2014 model.
• I looked at a 2016 but the 6-speed is not necessary and the transmission recall means you won't have a 100% factory transmission. Most have had no issues but there have been some Oopsies.

At 5200 miles, I purchased new tires as the originals were oxidized and wearing badly. The new Michelin Road 6 GT tires have been great and many say they should last closer to 10,000 miles. Time will tell. Oh, ask for right-angle stems when you get new tires to simplify tire pressure checks, etc. At the same time, I replaced both the Break and Clutch Fluid. This should be done more often than most people do it. The age of these fluids is more important than miles for their service. Mine will get done every time I get my tires replaced, as it is not too pricey and can prevent problems down the line.

I also installed a Misgel Ram Mount and Quad Lock with vibration damping that charges my phone/GPS as I ride.

If your new (to you) FJR does not have them already, you may want to invest in Frame Sliders (T-Rex N69-13) and Luggage Guards (T-Rex N69-13LGB5) like I did. The cost of the T-Rex (or another brand) protection is far less than what it will cost if you simply have a non-rolling drop in your garage or on your driveway. And, you can install these yourself in well under an hour.

So, this is all why I think the 2013-2015 models are the sweet spot. They can be found with low miles. And, once the fluids are serviced, they are basically bulletproof like all FJRs. You can save a few bucks by going with an older model but you will give up features that seem to be must-haves once you've used them.

My only issue with my 2014 model is that this red beauty just won't let me ride slowly. I swear I am trying but she just won't let me. ~grin~ After all, red is the fastest color.

Anyway, happy hunting.


Below are some additional details about this Generation of FJRs.
Excerpts from https://www.fjclub.dk/FJR-Model-History.pdf

2013 model – An important model change for the FJR this year, with new bodywork and sophisticated electronic control technologies like traction control, cruise control (limited to max of 80 MPH), and Heated Grips. The dashboard and control switches are new. By means of new tires and suspension settings, the steering and handling of the machine are lighter than before. Plated cylinders, revised intake funnels, and throttle bodies, and a redesigned exhaust system optimizes the engine performance and provides 3 HP more. The new fairing creates a clearly stronger road presence and a higher quality feel. It still features extendable knee panels and an electrically adjustable windscreen, which operates more quickly and conveniently than before. Even the center stand is optimized and lighter to operate.

The variation model FJR1300AS offers an electronically adjustable suspension system that allows you to set up the suspension super quickly without getting your hands dirty, by means of a menu switch on the handlebar. Visually, you can easily tell the difference between the standard (A) version and the AS version because the AS version features an upside-down front fork.

2014 model – Cruise control is No Longer Limited to a max of 80 MPH. A new model variation is introduced, the FJR1300AE, which sits between the FJR1300A and FJR1300AS in the range. While keeping the standard gearbox system like the A version, it features Yamaha’s advanced electronically-adjustable suspension system, including the upside-down front fork, like the AS version. By the way, this front fork contains independent damper mechanisms, splitting the compression and damping adjustment between fork legs, for a wider and more accurate range of damping settings. The fact that the rebound and damping functions are split into two distinct operations also means that there is less fluctuation in hydraulic pressure, which in turn helps to ensure stable damping performance, even during hard and sustained use.

2015 model – This year Yamaha offers the mostly unchanged three variation models A, AE, and AS.

Thank you. I'm a bit older, but I still feel the need for speed and going through the gears. I think I'll look for a 13'.😎

 

[ChrstphrM]

Thank you. I'm a bit older, but I still feel the need for speed and going through the gears. I think I'll look for a 13'.😎

A 2013 will likely be the best price but the upgraded Cruise Control has been useful on the highway so my preference would be a 2014 or 2015 if they come up. As I said, I bought a 2014. Still, if I had found a 2015, I would have bought that for long-range resale value. Search for all three years and see which comes up with the best deal for you. The A version should be least expensive and electronic suspension on the AE and AS is not required. I've known a few guys with that feature who tinkered with it then eventally set it back to factory default for the best ride. I also recommend you search anywhere you can drive within a day. A motorcycle trailer can be rented from uhaul for $15 a day. And there are several posts on this forum about how to strap down the FJR without compressing the suspension. A day trip to get a deal on a nice FJR is well worth it. And if you find one with super low miles, you will want to trailer it home to do the fluid changes before riding more than around the block it anyway.

 

[Whooshka]

You may have more than a day drive to get a deal. If you buy in spring there's always a fly and ride. Or an overnighter. Make an adventure out of it.

I was about to buy 600 miles away but then got lucky when a board member here an hour away PM'd me on one he was selling. Like I said, I got lucky. In more ways than 1. 3 years ago, '015 with 10.4K miles and tons of add ons for $8,200.

 

[patate657]

You may have more than a day drive to get a deal. If you buy in spring there's always a fly and ride. Or an overnighter. Make an adventure out of it.

I was about to buy 600 miles away but then got lucky when a board member here an hour away PM'd me on one he was selling. Like I said, I got lucky. In more ways than 1. 3 years ago, '015 with 10.4K miles and tons of add ons for $8,200.

I was thinking of getting it shipped if I can't find one in Houston or San Antonio , Austin. I don't mind going 300-400 miles for a bike. Did it twice last year to Austin.

 

[SkooterG]

Don't think I have seen it mentioned in this thread yet, but you can 'fix' the low cruise control limit on the '13 model in two ways. You can buy a used '14A, or '15A ECU off ebay to swap out. Or, you can get your ECU re-flashed by Ivan. With Ivan's re-flash, besides some other modest benefits, the cruise control has NO limit. Not even 100 mph like on the '14 and '15.

Question: Does anyone know if the European market model of the '13 FJR had the low limit cruise control?

I've owned several models of the 5-speed and 6-speed FJRs. My personal preference is the 13-15 5-speed models. While I do like the upgraded styling, slipper clutch, and especially the LED lighting of the 6-speeds, I just prefer the shifting quality and gearing of the 5-speed transmission.

 

[patate657]

I for myself think the 80 mile an hour cruise is good enough for me.

 

[bruca.s1234]

The answer to the question about the cruise control: there is no speed limit for 13 in Europe. It is not played with here. Neighbors in Germany even have unlimited speed on the highway.

 

[rbentnail]

I for myself think the 80 mile an hour cruise is good enough for me.

I used to think that too until I was getting blown off the roads with the cruise control max'ed out at 82mph. I refuse to get Ivan's flash and I haven't found an ecu for less than $1000. I installed a Kaoko throttle lock for when I need it.

 

[JohnC]

I have an almost new 2013 (840 miles) bought in 2014. I have missed the 100 mph CC limit about 3 times since I have owned the bike. I would, however, like to have the OEM LED lighting the 2016s have.