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Braking performance is very good also, with the 298mm front brakes offering great strength combined with good feel. This allows the brakes to be held at the absolute point of lock, with safety in emergency situations. Of even more note is the very large, 282mm, powerful rear brake. On lighter machines rear brake strength is not all that important, but on bigger and softer touring biased machines, a strong rear brake is a definite asset.

Ergonomics are very important to the long distance tourer, Yamaha's FJR offers some of the best. Seat padding and shape is excellent, allowing the rider to use that full 400+ kilometre range between stops.

Good wind protection is provided by way of an electrically adjustable screen. The angle of which can be flat or basically vertical, all this can be adjusted whilst on the move at the press of a button.

Another big plus is the fact that the FJR 1300 comes standard with 30-litre panniers. These panniers are colour coded to the bike and are conveniently locked with the ignition key. They are also easily removable should the mood take you to do so.  Under the seat there is a space for the supplied toolkit but no room for anything else.

Lighting is provided by a 60/55 watt multi-reflector headlight which throws the widest beam I have ever seen.  More than welcome during night rides in the Australian country, where spotting a kangaroo coming at you from the side of the road early enough can mean the difference between staying upright, or sliding down the road.  The FJR is the only motorcycle I have ridden where the beam width actually rivals that of a modern car, this sets a new standard in motorcycle lighting.

Instrumentation is comprehensive and attractive.  Surprisingly though speed is displayed by way of a conventional dial rather than the LCD displays common these days.  An LCD is provided though and shows a digital odometer, dual tripmeters, fuel gauge, temp display and a clock.  Lights are provided for neutral, high beam, turn signals, low oil and engine warnings.

At $21,099 the FJR offers a lot of bang for the buck wrapped up in a very accomplished long distance travel package. 

Yamaha FJR 1300 Specifications

• Engine - 1,298cc, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled, in-line four
• Bore Stroke - 79 x 66.2mm
• Compression - 10.8:1
• Induction - EFI
• Ignition - Digital
• Starting - Electric
• Fuel Capacity - 25 litres
• Transmission - 5-speed
• Final Drive - Shaft
• Length - 2195mm
• Width - 760mm
• Height - 1420mm
• Seat Height - 805mm
• Wheelbase - 1515mm
• Clearance - 135mm
• Dry Weight - 237kg
• Front Suspension - Telescopic forks
• Rear Suspension - Single shock
• Front Brakes - Dual discs, 4-piston calipers
• Rear Brake - Single disc
• Warranty - Two years, unlimited kilometres
• RRP - $21,099