Cvw1973 posted: <snip, snip, snip>
I am 44, by no means a stunter, but I ride fairly aggressively and spirited. ... Is it still really agile, and able to be flicked around in the curves? Is the acceleration nice and exhilarating.?
Most of us are a little older than you, no stunters (
I am convinced the FJR wheelie photo is doctored), but ride aggressively, faster than aggressively, or even faster still. I have 55,000 miles on my 2015ES, which I purchased with zero miles on the odometer.
The acceleration is amazing, especially when in 'Sport' mode above 4,500 rpm. I usually ride serious roadways between 5,000 and 7,500 rpm, which is 45-55 mph in second gear, to take advantage of her powerful engine braking.
The FJR is a heavy girl, but carries her weight up high, making her pretty agile. That means she goes through corners fast and easily with a healthy lean angle, and even faster if you have faith in your tires and lean farther. She can lean WAAAAY over, too; I have only scraped my left peg feeler, and that only one time.
I've gone through a lot of the
best roads in the southeast while keeping up with sportbikers on lighter, more nimble bikes. I've also been left behind, too, so I've come to the conclusion that speed in the twisties or on the track is due to the rider much more than it is due to the bike.
The FJR has no equal for long-distance touring -- except an FJR with an auxiliary gas tank.
I can honestly say this: the FJR has capabilities far beyond what you will ever be able to use.