I currently own both. Make no mistake about it, these are two totally different machines; from both a performance, riding, and comfort standpoint.
Performance: Maybe here's the best way to put it... I've grown used to occasionally pinning the throttle on my FJR's (I've owned two). FJR acceleration is brisk, smooth, and more than enough for most any road condition.
Acceleration on the Busa is a totally different ballgame. If you decide to pin the throttle on a Busa,
you had better be damn ready and have a lot of clear space in front of you! As others on this thread have said, the FJR is fast, but it is no Busa. Triple digits happen fast and effortlessly on a Busa. As the Busa's speed-o flies past 100mph it feels like it's just starting to wake up, and you find yourself automatically wanting to "tuck-in" to become part of the bike's slip-stream. Typically, [at least in my case], my courage runs out before the engine's power does. This is a pure rocket; from idle up. Not only does the Busa produce more power, but it weighs approximately 100 pounds less than the FJR, which helps with the power-to-weight ratio. And the Busa has the aerodynamanics required to reach the higher end speeds. And as the FJR starts to peter-out around 150-155mph, the Busa is still pulling strong (and I mean STRONG) to near the 190mph mark.
Comfort: The FJR beats the Busa hands down when it comes to general riding comfort, storage, brakes, and touring. Can you tour on a Busa? Sure, people do, but your back will definitely be thankful if you're on a FJR.
Handling: Under normal riding conditions both bikes handle well, but as the speeds get turned up, I have a much higher degree of confidence with my Busa's handling characteristics. With some of the FJR's parts sitting fairly high on its chassis (wind catching windscreen, battery, storage boxes, large fuel tank), the Busa has a lower center of gravity and is lighter; both of which add to the Busa's handling characteristics.
All that being said, I ride my FJR much more than my Busa. Why? Mainly because of the comfort factor, and the fact that the FJR does lots of things very, very well. But when I feel a pure need-for-speed - I can't resist rolling out my Busa. I plan to keep them both. They make a great combination. :yahoo:
And if I was forced to own only one? Naaaaaaaaaaa, I couldn't do it.
Ah... and the GenII Busa is even faster! :dribble:
There's certainly nothing wrong with our great FJR's. But if you have a fragile ego, you'd be wise not to take on a Busa. All you'll be seeing is the Busa's tail lights.
SR-71