09 FJR

[verranth]

Greetings to all. I come from the land of FZ6R and I'm trading it in for an FJR. I am planing on doing a cross country trip with my brother (he will be on his own bike) and the gf (yes, I'm doing 2-up riding =) ) and I need some advice. I saw the Gen II something O-Bind data stuff. It had a lot of good information and recalls but mostly it seemed that the '07s were the most problematic.

My questions, if any of you are so inclined to help...

1. What are the "Must ASK before you buy" questions for 2009 FJR I am planning to buy brand new at my local dealer?

2. Should I get the factory tail hard case? Or would Givi or other aftermarkets be money better spent. (considering my big touring trip)

I have read the AMA 31 tips for touring, their list of items to pack, etc....any additional advice, or just a quick run down of things most important that they listed lower will be appreciated.

Now, a little on my background perhaps?...

I'm doing this trip in June (taking the whole month), I am planning on visiting my sis in houston tx (for a well deserved break), i'm looking for a capable mount, and have decided on the FJR to get me around on this +7K mile adventure (of a lifetime! -- at least, so my brother claims. I want to do it again sometime)

I'm planning to buy in the next month, while the "why we ride" winter event promos are going on. 3.33% APR is too good to pass up (hope I qualify)

If you need more info, I guess you'll ask for more. For now, I must return to work. I really do appreciate your time in the responses and links to already existing threads....which reminds me, I need to keep reading through those...

 

[midlifeuturn]

"Things to watch out for...." Yah - Don't have too much fun!

I have the '09, no issues for me so far.

Top box- get what fits your needs and you think looks good on your bike. I personally think the Yamaha box is ugly - Givi v46 for me, but that's just me.

My advice for packing (especially with the GF) lay out what you'll think you'll need and then cut in about 1/2. Kind of like the backpacking thing.

 

[fljab]

My questions, if any of you are so inclined to help... 


1. What are the "Must ASK before you buy" questions for 2009 FJR I am planning to buy brand new at my local dealer?


2. Should I get the factory tail hard case? Or would Givi or other aftermarkets be money better spent. (considering my big touring trip)

I have a '09A purchased new. The only thing I can think to watch out for is that you remember to stop and eat and sleep every once in a while! I've had no issues with the bike other than I really like it...

Addressing you Q's above:

> Biggest thing is to just research pricing and make sure you get the best reasonable deal for your region. I called around all over the state and found the best price from a volume dealer in Florida, then took the details to my small local Yamaha shop and they matched it. I wanted to give them the business + the relationship going forward. You might negotiate a discount on accessories/extra parts purchase with the bike and for a time period going forward. Other than that, just make sure you have the extra lock (for a top case if you want), the saddlebag liners, and the covers for the mounts when the bags aren't there.

One more thing is to make sure the ignition switch recall was done. Not all '09's are affected; mine was but they looked up the VIN and confirmed it had been done at the factory level.

> Factory tail case: there are other options such as Givi and whatnot. You can get alot of info here on the list plus do some price comparison. I personally don't like hard tail cases so don't use them. I'd rather have an add-on bigger rack (coming soon) and just strap a bag of some sort back there; that works better for me, but you'll have to decide that for yourself. Lots of folks here use them and wouldn't be without, YMMV...

Good luck and enjoy!

 

[Geezer]

I'll add that Givi also makes an E52 tail case, which isn't that much bigger then the V46, but carries more stuff. I got the V46 back in '05 when I bougtht my FJR because it was the one offerred with a color matched lid, but I wish I had gotten the bigger one for touring.

 

[FJRK]

I hated the stock seat. Got a corbin after my first 300 mile ride. Took it on a 900 mile ride with zero issues. Bar risers as well. Made a big difference, but I am short. Music and com a must for that long of a ride as well.

have fun!

 

[verranth]

Thanks to all that replied and gave their opinions / 2cents.

A communication system is on my list. My bro is looking at the midnight raider? (or something like that) it looks really nice and seems to be the perfect blend of retro style and sport capability. Anyway, i just hope the seat aggrees with is butt =)

The GF will be on for 2 weeks, after that, she plans on getting plane back to VA, so really, she shouldnt need much (crosses fingers).

Trip starts in DC/VA area goes south all the way to cali and comes back up through YellowStone all the way down ...80? which then turns into 80/90 then 70 in Penn to MD and back down the beltway to VA. 7K plus miles all together.

Back to fjr though...

I really wish there was a T-bag or something to put on that tail, then i could put my tent and other camping gear. If all else fails, i guess we will do the motel 6 way

OH, almost forgot!

The dealer has a sticker price on the new 09 at $14199, and since I just bought my FZ6R about 7 months ago (traiding it in =( - cant have 2 bikes), he said he would get me a good deal. I'm thinking 13K out the door (after taxes, tags, etc) would be a nice price. For DC, I guess that's not so bad?

The GF wants the 2010 though...I'll keep you guys posted.

For those who have the 2009 model, have you done the old FZ1 mirror mod? and if so, how easy was it?

I am too poor after all this for a Corbin seat, but that will be next year!

For the tail bag responders, I really phrased my question poorly. So let me try again...

For a cross country trip, (hopefully you have done a long trip at minimum), would the Yama bag be enough, or should I really look at the Givi E52 monsters out there? Remember, I am doing a portion of this 2up, and yes I'll have a tank bag with my laptop, GPS, cell phone, etc. Will the 2 side bags and tail bag be large enough?

Should i force myself to pack small with the (smaller) stock cases?

Is the benefit of a big sail on the back worth the nuisense due to the carrying capacity? <----finally, the real meat of what I really want to know.

 

[Patriot]

Gen II Bin O Facts...

New Purchaser Checklist

Either personally double-check or ask the dealer specifically the following things before taking acceptance of the a new FJR:

* Are the saddlebag lock latch screws loctited? (validated this is still an issue with '07's, and:Security Torx Bit Link Clicky )

* Did you get theThird lock with bike in case you get a Yamaha top box?

* Are the Saddlebag body color caps included?

* Is the Toolkit under seat?

* Are the steering head bearings torqued? Many '05 were loose from the factory.

* Are the Mirrors tight? More than finger tightened. Consider changing to nylocs yourself when convenient. Or, alternatively, a tip from otrfjr: use 2 layers of teflon tape (the kind plumbers use & is $1 per roll) around the bolt. otrfjr found that this worked even better than the rubber washers on the mirrors.

* Point out any/all scratches

 

[FJR-RemingtonRider]

Sounds like you going about it the right way.

I don't think you can really pack that much stuff on a 30day trip, especially if the GF is riding for 2weeks. That's a long time with all the ammenities, they need. You have to kinda think about roughing it and she has to understand that.

With one side case for airpump, small tools, rain-gear, tire repair; You really will only have use for the trunk and other side case. With her on the back, without a trailer, don't see much room to spare. Motel 6 would prob. be the safest with her riding with ya, camping gear can get bulky. Again, with her riding, i haven't seen anything that would help pack camping gear(tent & stuff). If you haven't bought it, just buy it after she flies back after the two weeks onboard, then you'll have plenty of room to put all kinds of stuff on the rear seat.

Suggestion; you said you were going to your sisters for a break, mail some of your stuff there; swap out when you get there, and mail the other stuff back to your home. Fresh clothing and such, would save on the laundry stops.

Also; with that much riding and not having $$$ for custom seat, try a pair of bicycle padded briefs or trunk underwear...they work great for a few hundred miles. I personally reached 700 miles, before I started to think of my buns being in uncomfortable.

What is your brother riding, perhaps he could carry the camping equip/gear. Great choice on ride.

 

[griffithds]

Thanks to all that replied and gave their opinions / 2cents.
A communication system is on my list. My bro is looking at the midnight raider? (or something like that) it looks really nice and seems to be the perfect blend of retro style and sport capability. Anyway, i just hope the seat aggrees with is butt =)

The GF will be on for 2 weeks, after that, she plans on getting plane back to VA, so really, she shouldnt need much (crosses fingers).

Trip starts in DC/VA area goes south all the way to cali and comes back up through YellowStone all the way down ...80? which then turns into 80/90 then 70 in Penn to MD and back down the beltway to VA. 7K plus miles all together.

Back to fjr though...

I really wish there was a T-bag or something to put on that tail, then i could put my tent and other camping gear. If all else fails, i guess we will do the motel 6 way

OH, almost forgot!

The dealer has a sticker price on the new 09 at $14199, and since I just bought my FZ6R about 7 months ago (traiding it in =( - cant have 2 bikes), he said he would get me a good deal. I'm thinking 13K out the door (after taxes, tags, etc) would be a nice price. For DC, I guess that's not so bad?

The GF wants the 2010 though...I'll keep you guys posted.

For those who have the 2009 model, have you done the old FZ1 mirror mod? and if so, how easy was it?

I am too poor after all this for a Corbin seat, but that will be next year!

For the tail bag responders, I really phrased my question poorly. So let me try again...

For a cross country trip, (hopefully you have done a long trip at minimum), would the Yama bag be enough, or should I really look at the Givi E52 monsters out there? Remember, I am doing a portion of this 2up, and yes I'll have a tank bag with my laptop, GPS, cell phone, etc. Will the 2 side bags and tail bag be large enough?

Should i force myself to pack small with the (smaller) stock cases?

Is the benefit of a big sail on the back worth the nuisense due to the carrying capacity? <----finally, the real meat of what I really want to know.

Don't change a thing until you have put a few miles on her. I have spent 11 hours in the stock seat on a trip back from Alaska with no problems except leg cramps ( I should have stopped and stretched more often). Seats/bar risers, etc. are personal adjustments you make because you don't like the way your bike preforms currently. Not because it's what everone has. Spend your farkle money on things that will help you on your trip like new high milage tires (PR2's), or a GPS.

 

[happyPuppy]

I would add sliders, ASAP they have many types available. I added a GPS as I get lost a lot, as well as an additional power outlet. The glovebox one works ok for a phone , but not much else. The reflective tape for the side bags is nice as well. Look at the vendor section for what they have that may fit your specific needs as well such as lower seats , risers, mirrors etc.

 

[08FJR4ME]

You may want to consider a tank bag also. they aren't that exspesive and they come in handy for all the small stuff you use all the time. (hat, sunglasses, camera, flashlight, maps and so on)

There is also the shad top case which i think are the cheapest price wise. You definately should have some sort of backrest for the little lady. If she ain't happy your not gonna be happy.

Another thought would be a hydration vest. soak in water and put it on. keeps ya cool. (Texas in June, Yikes)

Man a month off nothin but feejer riding. What more could you ask for.

Good luck and enjoy,

Dave

 

[JamesW]

Usually when crossing state lines you will encounter tourist info centers, these are good places for a stretch, info gathering and good quality maps, carry highliters to mark maps.

 

[08FJR4ME]

Just had another thought. :dribble: Scary thing for me.

Since you haven't bought your bike yet you may want to give D&H Cycle in Huntsville Cullman Alabama a call. I bought my 08 there 2 years ago and drove it home. 1,200 miles. Many here on the forum have bought their bikes from them and they are just great people to deal with. They can pick you up at the airport get your bike all ready and your good to go.

They usually have the best deals going. Saved me over 2K from the dealers around here. Just a thought.

D&H, clicky

Dave

 

[madmike2]

I really wish there was a T-bag or something to put on that tail, then i could put my tent and other camping gear. If all else fails, i guess we will do the motel 6 way

PM sewnt!

I am too poor after all this for a Corbin seat, but that will be next year!

Try a couple of long day rides. IF you need remediation, try a piece of lambs wool (like trimming a seat cover you can buy at Walmart or O'Reillys).

For the tail bag responders, I really phrased my question poorly. So let me try again...
For a cross country trip, (hopefully you have done a long trip at minimum), would the Yama bag be enough, or should I really look at the Givi E52 monsters out there? Remember, I am doing a portion of this 2up, and yes I'll have a tank bag with my laptop, GPS, cell phone, etc. Will the 2 side bags and tail bag be large enough?

Should i force myself to pack small with the (smaller) stock cases?

Is the benefit of a big sail on the back worth the nuisense due to the carrying capacity? <----finally, the real meat of what I really want to know.

IMO...buy the larger Givi. It will hold more and that will help keep peace in your relationship. You're already going to have to plan what you are packing (balance and weight). ANY top case is going to act like a sail in cross winds and will also cut your gas mileage when riding solo (vortices between rider and top case). All things on a motorcycle are trade-offs.

SHE will like the top case to lean on. However, if you plan to take your tent, etc., and use a T-bag, you can always strap it longitudinally when not 2-up (that is, along the seat and tail).

Decisions, decisions, decisions..... :blink:

 

[TestPilot]

You'll find my observations anbd suggestions here: https://www.fjrowners.ws/phpbb2/viewtopic.p...302&start=0

I do suggest the GIVI E55 with colour matched lid.

Our riding experience of 3 weeks touring in the 'states is here: https://www.fjrowners.ws/phpbb2/viewtopic.p...259&start=0

You will have FUN

 

[SwollenRaccoon]

I have a 2008 with the factory top case. When riding solo (unless it's an overnighter), I leave it at home. However, for longer trips, it's very handy. It's not the prettiest, and it was expensive (but that can be negotiated), but the usefulness is fantastic. And my wife loves having it for security.

I use an expandable RKA tankbag, which I don't go anywhere without. Frame sliders already paid for themselves on a tight, clumsy, ungraceful U-turn. As far as the seat/bar riser thing goes, I agree with the previous comments. Take it for a long day's ride, and see what hurts. Personally, I'm 6'3", and came from the sportbike world. Seems to me that the FJR is very comfortable, and if I could, I would lower the bars a little more than the puny adjustment that's there already. I've done 500-mile days (no jeers from you long-distance guys), and the stock seat worked fine for me. Just get off and stretch for a few minutes every 150 miles or so.

Right now, with this economy, and at this time of year, you have maximum negotiating leverage. Use it to your advantage. Ready, set, BUY! :rockwoot:

 

[fastpappy]

I see you've already gotten some very sound advice so on the lighter side, my main problem wtih the FJR is finding enough time to ride especially in these winter months. The two main questions I would have for the dealer are. Can you do better on the price and how soon can I pick it up?? So enjoy the ride and welcome aboard. :clapping:

 

[bikerkash]

Plan your route using secondary highways and county roads. Using a good GPS to do that, will make the trip a lot more fun. You might want to consider an aftermarket windshield for better air managment and a radar detector.

 

[dirttracker30]

You would be wise to invest in a couple of "AIR HAWK" seat cushions for you and GF. They aren't pretty ,but they will take the *** fatigue factor out of your trip.