2005 vs 2006

[Dave Mc]

I am looking to buy a 2005 instead of a 2006 for price reasons. However, someone told me 2005 vs 2006 was a big difference. What were biggest changes made in 2006. If all things are equal (miles, condition, etc..) how much more should I expect to pay?

 

[rushes]

I am looking to buy a 2005 instead of a 2006 for price reasons. However, someone told me 2005 vs 2006 was a big difference. What were biggest changes made in 2006. If all things are equal (miles, condition, etc..) how much more should I expect to pay?

All things equal, prolly bout the same....

I'd buy the blue one. I heard they were faster...

 

[Gramps]

The '06's are slower.

 

[Richouse]

'06 were the first year of the 2nd generation FJR's. They have alittle longer wheel base, alittle higher gear ratio, better heat ducting. probably a few other minor differences. Both are good bikes...

 

[madmike2]

Yes...air management so more air is circulated into the cockpit area. The rear is a bit narrower, I have an '05 and didn't notice any huge difference when I test rode an '06 in the mountains (though it was a short ride).

Er...nothing interchanges between Gen I (North American '03-'05) and Gen II ('06-present) bikes. The fairings are different as is the windshield, seats, etc., etc., etc.

Here's a link to the "Comparison Matrix": https://www.fjrforum.com/forum//index.php?showtopic=103191

 

[highcountry]

On Gen I bikes, ABS was optional and standard on Gen II bikes.

 

[SacramentoMike]

ABS is the biggie, IMHO. I had a non-ABS '05 and of about 6 FJRs at the "Streetmasters" practice pad, I was the only FJR leaving a skid mark when we practiced emergency braking. It was the only non-ABS one there. I do have an ABS '05 now, and I think it's a very big deal to make sure you get it. This thread tells you how to identify whether or not the bike has it.

Changes between the generations may be overrated, far as I can see. Like he said, both are good. My personal favorite Gen II goodie is that digital readout on the dash that shows what gear you're in. That and air temperature readout. Not deal breakers though. Thing is, many parts are interchangeable within each of the two generations, but not nearly as much between the two. Myself, I'd compare based on mileage, farkles, and price.

 

[UHOH]

welcome Dave,

I am looking to buy a 2005 instead of a 2006 for price reasons. However, someone told me 2005 vs 2006was a big difference. What were biggest changes made in 2006.

I've an '04, which is identical to '05. Several detail changes between '05 vs. '06, biggest of which (my opinion only) are:

A ) heat management, if you ride above 90-95F much, or in stop and go traffic commuting, this is a big item in favor of '06.

B ) ABS, standard on '06. this is a good feature. optional '05.

 

[stew71]

I am looking to buy a 2005 instead of a 2006 for price reasons. However, someone told me 2005 vs 2006 was a big difference. What were biggest changes made in 2006. If all things are equal (miles, condition, etc..) how much more should I expect to pay?

Either one will do just fine. Out here in Cali, I didn't notice much of a difference in pricing between "standard" 05's and 06's that were on the market. A couple of hundred bucks maybe. But bikes with extra farkles will add to that....maybe $500. I do like the better cockpit airflow on the Gen 2's. And the standard ABS is nice, but not a necessity. And the engine heat management issue is, in my opinion, very subjective. I don't recall much of a difference between the Gen 1's and Gen2's on my test rides.

I went with my '06 simply because it already had the extra custom goodies, low mileage, the seller wanted to make the deal, and I wanted the bike.

Finally, don't forget to pay attention to your gut and think about which one floats your boat the most after your test rides (if possible).

That's the one you want.

 

[stew71]

The '06's are slower.

...resulting in a lower number of performance achievement awards...

 

[mr.paul]

I think the GenII bike is the way to go. Why not get the better air management and adjustable seat/handlebars, plus the rest? Unless you find an incredibly fantastic price on the '05, the '06 is the way to go. not that I would be biased or anything.

mr.paul from Minnesota, loving his '06 FJR

 

[blueman]

Gen 1 more sport less touring. Gen 2 less sport more touring. And that is a fine line. I still do not see what the big deal of the air man't stuff was all about. And when its winter the heat is nice right! I know Gen 1's are considerably lighter. To me that's a major factor!

Gen 1 more sport less touring. Gen 2 less sport more touring. And that is a fine line. I still do not see what the big deal of the air man't stuff was all about. And when its winter the heat is nice right! I know Gen 1's are considerably lighter. To me that's a major factor!

Double vision oops