Possible move to a FJR

[Roy Epperson]

My wife and I are looking hard at getting new bikes. The FJR is my strong choice. I've read most of the topics here and on the fjrtech.com forum. A big question is: Several of the dealers have a number of '07s left over and '08s. I've seen the issues regarding throttle sensitivity of the earlier models, saw a mention of a tranny issue and EFI with altitude changes. For a new FJR rider (38,000 on Yamaha cruisers), what price differential makes the '07 a better deal than an '08?

 

[madmike2]

My wife and I are looking hard at getting new bikes. The FJR is my strong choice. I've read most of the topics here and on the fjrtech.com forum. A big question is: Several of the dealers have a number of '07s left over and '08s. I've seen the issues regarding throttle sensitivity of the earlier models, saw a mention of a tranny issue and EFI with altitude changes. For a new FJR rider (38,000 on Yamaha cruisers), what price differential makes the '07 a better deal than an '08?

1) Throttle sensitivity is because of the "cam shaped" pulleys on the throttle and butterfly shaft. Changed back to "round" on the '08, but easily addressed with the G-2 throttle tube linked here.

2) EFI/ECU change is a warranty item. The '08 comes with the new ECU, the older units are replaced with the updated version.

3) Tranny issue? The '08 is "improved" with an internal oil line that sprays the transmission. It is "supposed" to help make shifting smoother, but I've not had any trouble with mine.

4) Price differential is whatever deal you can make. And might come down to what changes ($$$) you have to make and your color preference.

I'm sure others will have a better opinion about that.

 

[SR-71]

The throttle sensitivity is a concern to some. Personally I've never noticed the issue on my previous '05, or my current '07.

As for selecting an '07 or '08, the differences are so minor, it's more about color than anything else. I learned my lesson years ago about owning dark colored vehicles (trying to keep them clean). EFI issues involve higher altitude riding, which I don't do, so I haven't had the mod done - although I might eventually have it done during a future service. Overall I'm very happy with my '07. I would think a dealer would knock off somewhere around $2K for an '07.

In any case; Red, Black, or Silver (AE)... take your pick and enjoy! B)

 

[MojaveFJR]

Welcome.

I know down here you can still get an 07 for about 10,500 to about 11,500 and the 08's are still going for 14.5 at OTD.

For me it was the color. Nothing wrong with the cherry black, but I really love this black on the 08. Plus as stated above, lots of issued solved. Plus you get a better and more scratch resistant windshield.

As stated, just comes down to color. I think Yamaha still has their special pricing in effect till the end of the month as well.

 

[Flyguy]

I think SR71 is right. On the A model you are principally making a color choice. The throttle issue is a non issue and the shifting hasn't really be a problem except at very low milage. Or get an AE and get rid of both the shift AND color questions.

As far as price is concerned, it depends on how long you intend to keep the bike. In 12 months there is probably a $1,500 difference in value. If you're only planning on a short term ownership you want to get at least that much differential. In 4 years the difference in value between a '07 and an '08 will be negligible.s At that point it all becomes milage and especially condition so you would probably be better off (financially speaking) with a '07.

Look at both; walk away; then turn back and look at them from a distance. Whichever your vision focuses on first, BUY!

Arn't these great problems to have?

 

[dragonchef]

Welcome Roy!

You have some great roads in your neck of the woods, as well as a bunch of great forum members up there...you will have fun!

I really like my Dk Cherry Cola model, and have had a blast farkling. The G2 throttle mod was an easy, cheap and very effective mod. If you go '08, you will need to be sure that the ECU has been changed out, especially for riding in the Sierra's

If it were me, and I could save $2 grand, I would do it and use the cash to customize....

 

[keithaba]

If $$ is any part of this, I would actually consider an 06. You could land one for a great price, and probably get some good farkles already on it. You might even find one with the YES (extended warranty). Reliability is a non-issue with the FJR, so don't worry about something like 15,000-20,000 miles.

If $$ is not an issue, just go with the 08.

 

[JRO]

Are you looking at new bikes for you and your wife?

If you're going to buy two FJR's, you could always get one of each; '07 & '08.

Personally, I would save all the cash I could, and look at the '07's. If you can save a couple of grand, or more, it's the way I would go.

It took my dealer 10 minutes to change my ECU. I never had any problems with it, but Yamaha sent me the letter, so I got the new one. In any event, it's not a problem.

My tranny has never given any trouble. After 7,000 miles, the only shift that is a little clunky, is 1st-2nd, and that's smoothing out. 2nd-5th so easy there's practically no feel to the change, atall.

My oldest son got off a Road Star 1700. The change is like the difference between riding a burro, or an F-16. You'll be happier - trust me. The only problems you may have, is with ergonomics. Don't give up, if you find the riding position uncomfortable after a while (I considered it). A simple set of risers alleviated my problem, and turned my FJR into more of a long distance bike than any Star model will ever be. AND ... No more of that underpowered, anemic, thumping vibrator underneath you!

Good luck.

 

[Roy Epperson]

Are you looking at new bikes for you and your wife?

Not two FJRs, the wife is too short for it She's looking at the VStar 1300 or a 'Liner. Thanks for you're feedback.

 

[UHOH]

The FJR is my strong choice. ... A big question is: '07s left over and '08s. ... what price differential makes the '07 a better deal than an '08?

since you've researched and still care enough to ask you should go with the newest one ... peace of mind

btw, mine's an '04 with 40,000 miles and it's a great bike. enjoy.

 

[Radical]

I had the same thoughts last fall then saw a 07 sitting in the sunlight and worked a deal right then and there. Love the bike. Black is nice however not worth a couple large ones for me.

 

[sl_1300]

my local dealer had a new 07 and a 08, I bought the 08 because of the fixes and the price difference was only 900.00

 

[madmike2]

Roy,

One thing to keep in mind...the price comparisons between differing states should not enter into your shopping knowledge base. You live in CA and need a CA specific bike or you can't register it here.

You might buy a "Cycle Trader" and see what kind of prices OTD Motorcycles is offering (otdcyclesports.com). They have a store in Oakland and one in Auburn.

I just found a Feb &th edition that shows the '07 @ $12,199 OTD.

 

[mfletch69]

Bought my '06 for $9500 a couple of months back. perfect condition w/2500 miles. The $$$ I saved is going toward equipment and farkles & I am up to about $3500 on those!

 

[rogerc]

Roy,

Where in the San Franciso area are you from?

Gilroy, here.

Quite a few FJR riders in this neck of the woods. I just can't seem to find enough time to ride with these great bunch of guys.

I love my FJR, best bike I have ever owned out of over 25.

Try and make the Clan get together in June.

Roger

 

[Roy Epperson]

Roger,

I'm in Foster City. I must be on the 'wrong' forum; everyone loves these 'damn' FJRs. I'd better get over to the ST-1300 forum.... :lol:

Where would I find details on the clan get together in June? I saw the information on the North American get together in Golden. We were already planning trip to Colorado about that same time. "Might be forced" to make a detour :yahoo:

Roy

 

[Roy Epperson]

Madmike2, there is OTD in Burlingame that we've been doing business (service) with since long before they became OTD. They have mechanic I absolutely trust to put wrench on our current bikes. That's the price the gave me couple of weeks ago when I was talking with the sales manager in a "what if discussion" and how and what bikes are moving.

Call a couple of other dealers regarding the FJR and VStar 1300 / 'liner for my wife: 2 no price info but if you come in I'm sure we can make deal, and 1 only '08 inventory and before fees $$ more than OTD OTD price.

If I bite the "bullet", perhaps we can met up for a ride. We get out into Gold Country a lot.

Roy

 

[JRO]

Not two FJRs, the wife is too short for it She's looking at the VStar 1300 or a 'Liner.

I see a real problem in your future. Keeping up with an FJR on a VStar is not going to be easy. You want to be sure you don't have her riding to the limit, trying to stay with you. On an FJR, 70-100mph is cruising easy. I feel carefree at 90. On my son's Roadstar, I felt the same way - at 60 or so. In the curves, I look around, wondering where the cruisers have gone - and I don't push myself on twisty roads (not around here). In the braking department... Well, let's just say you'll be a lot better off, following her.

I'm sure you'll manage just fine, whatever bikes you choose. You might consider something with a little more performance for her, however. She'll likely enjoy the change, also.

Have fun.

 

[Roy Epperson]

I'm sure you'll manage just fine, whatever bikes you choose. You might consider something with a little more performance for her, however. She'll likely enjoy the change, also.

I'm working on trying to move up some more; but..... Flat footed is very important to her, it's her decision. I just enjoy that she got us into riding again 7 years go. We've each put on about 46K miles since with only few frowns.

Thanks for your input.

Roy