Tracer 9 GT as FJR Replacement?

[saread]

I'm pretty sure the Motorrad engineers are learning something that every redneck with a lifted pickup truck knows. Universal joints are a marvel of engineering, but don't do well at big angles. Particularly with the GS's, the angle from the gearbox to the rear drive can be pretty steep. Not a great recipe for u-joint longevity. And rather than making the part serviceable, BMW uses a pressed in u-joint that forces a driveshaft change. Whatever, BMW is standing by it so it's not that big of a deal.

 

[Coachpilot]

I just spent the weekend riding 1000 miles on all the Sierra passes from Lake Tahoe to Tioga Pass in Yosemite, and I would not have traded my 2007 FJR for any of the other bikes we encountered on the road.
The handling, stability, power and comfort of my 650lb “tank” didn’t bother me in the least.
I’ve never ridden a lighter sport touring bike, so I guess I really don’t have that point of reference as to what that might be like, but as I’m not interested in something else, it’s a moot point.
As long as you are out riding what you enjoy (whatever that might be) you are OK in my book.
But as for me and my house, we will ride the FJR (and serve the Lord….).
Biknflyfisher

Which road #s did you take? My son lives in Bishop,CA and we often go to Mammoth. I though a power road trip out to see him on the FJR (from Upsate NY) would be fun. Thanks for the insight... did you camp and if so, where as well? Happy New Year!

 

[Stevecham]

Interesting to see that they have released a 2024 Tracer 9 GT+ and they call it "Yamaha's Ultimate Sport Tourer"
https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/models.php?product=204&action=productPage
Canadian site blurb says:
The flagship of Yamaha's Sport Touring range, the new Tracer 9 GT+ is a technological juggernaut offering a level of sophistication unmatched in its class. It starts with the new Millimeter Wave Radar which detects distance of vehicles ahead, enabling groundbreaking radar-linked Adaptive Cruise Control and Unified Brake Systems. Additional features like the KYB semi-active suspension, integrated riding modes, lean-sensitive rider aids, new smartphone connectivity with fullscreen Garmin navigation, new third-generation quickshifter and a host of other advanced features ensure comfort and capability nothing else in its price category can touch.

Might not mean anything, despite calling the Tracer 9GT+ "Ultimate" or "Flagship". Certainly appears that Yamaha threw some technology at it but nobody will know for sure until an official announcement is made.

I have both FJR and T9GT. They are very different bikes and I enjoy them each because of those differences. Yes, they are both sport tourers but the rides, handling and liveliness are not similar.

 

[biknflyfisher]

Which road #s did you take? My son lives in Bishop,CA and we often go to Mammoth. I though a power road trip out to see him on the FJR (from Upsate NY) would be fun. Thanks for the insight... did you camp and if so, where as well? Happy New Year!

Hey Coachpilot:
We cross-crossed the Sierras on Highways 50, 88, 89, 4, 108, and 120.
All were fantastic roads and fabulous scenery.
Biknflyfisher