New to group - looking for advice to buy one

[nick]

Hi Guys,

I have just joined this group to learn more in deatil about the FJR as I am looking for a change and this machine seems to tick most boxes for me.

I am in the south of the UK, although plan on touring Europewide, (so will encounter Spain in hot times of the year on occasions) although most of my approx 10K miles a year (timewise) is spent in the UK. I am approx 6'1" tall, weigh approx 90kgs in kit and like "comfort and quiet".

I like a touring / upright position and ride for 6 to 8 hours a day when I can... I try to ride at around 70 (!) maybe a touch more as and when circumstances permit and economy when touring is important...

Questions I have include... which model year should I aim for ( if money no object) and which if it is a constraint and why ? ( what changes happened when ?)

What mods are reckoned on as "must do's" ( screen ?).

What touring mpg might I expect ( in mp UK g ) or state if US gallons..

Lots more questions no doubt...

Thanks

Nick

 

[Rickster]

welcome aboard the board - you won't be bored.

For your questions -- I'd get an 06 or later model, as for the rest of your questions -- search for mods, and you'll see what most folks are doing. The range is doing nothing, to gigantic lists of farkles

Read around, and try using the Search function

 

[MotorSWATCop]

Welcome!

Advice: Get one; you won't regret it.

 

[nick]

Thanks for the encouragement - not sure if budget can stretch to a new one or even a nearly new one, but was definitely looking for a post 2004 one and hopefully under 10,000 miles - what is a secindhand 2006 model fetching in the states with about 5000 to 10,000 miles on it ?

Thanks,

Nick

 

[Craig in SC]

Thanks for the encouragement - not sure if budget can stretch to a new one or even a nearly new one, but was definitely looking for a post 2004 one and hopefully under 10,000 miles - what is a secindhand 2006 model fetching in the states with about 5000 to 10,000 miles on it ?
Thanks,

Nick

I bought my 05 ABS with 14k miles on it for 9k USD. I think this was a pretty darn good deal and it took me a while (and more than a few offers) to end up with it. (never been layed down perfect condition etc.).

I am happy with my decision but I'm certainly not as experienced as others on this forum. (Only 10,000 miles riding experience total.)

As far as upgrades? I've added a JCM CB; a remote for my iPod, and the previous owner added the tall Yamaha windscreen. (Which for me is 80% in the down position...only raised in cold weather or rain).

I get 49 mpg striclty on the hwy.

This is a great list BTW.

NEW OWNERS LIST

Spend an hour learning how to effectively use the search function. Loads of info here.

cheers,

craig

 

[madmike2]

I am in the south of the UK, although plan on touring Europewide, (so will encounter Spain in hot times of the year on occasions) although most of my approx 10K miles a year (timewise) is spent in the UK. I am approx 6'1" tall, weigh approx 90kgs in kit and like "comfort and quiet". Thanks

Nick

Nick, you might try this site as they are Euro based and might have a better idea of prices in Britain and may even know where there are some for sale. I don't visit there regularly any more, but for some time it was THE site for FJR information. Many of the members here are also active on that site.

Good luck on your search.

 

[boogahboogah]

Welcome ! As MM2 suggested try the other list as they seem to be more Euro based, not that yor're not appreciated as a member here & all, just that you might get a better/faster line on a machine closer to your locale.

I've got an '05 with 24,000 miles on it, no problems, still smiling when I go out to ride... 06 has revised airflow management, but then I was never much bothered by heat as long as I wear my riding boots. Plus it's a better ride in cold weather...

Best of luck !

 

[SilveradoSlick]

Welcome Nick. Windshields got bigger in '04 and again in '06. I'd recommend a larger one for pre-'06, but try it out and see what you think Suspension improved in '04 and added a glove box. Nice improvements in '06 except for linked brakes.

Petrol consumption for me in US gallons and miles runs from low 30's (miles per gallon) to the low 40's.

Sliders might save you money in a tip-over or a lowside. Some people like bar risers and aftermarket seats. I think the best advice is to get the bike and then add or subtract what you like.

 

[OrangevaleFJR]

Also see this:

The Garage

This link is also in the far right of the 'link bar' under the FJRForum banner.

Many people have taken their time to list and rate their modifications. There are a tremendous number of modifications that people can make. In stock trim, this is a fantastic bike. From your preferences, I would think one of the most important modifcations you could make is the windscreen. At 6'1" you will need at least a +4" height of the screen.

There were mods to the stock FJR in 2004 and 2005 that are probably worth having unless you plan on installing an aftermarket suspension. Fronk forks and rear shock were beefeed up. I think the consensus is that ABS is definitely worth it...I think so too.

The 06 is the best yet, but I think most people would be tickled pink by an earlier model (I know I am).

Welcome Nick