The Yamaha FJR1300AE
Yamaha has expanded its sophisticated long-distance tourer range for 2014 with the addition of the FJR1300AE. This new model, which sits between the FJR1300A and FJR1300AS in the range, offers riders an even greater overall motorcycling package as well as a superior ride quality thanks to Yamaha's advanced electronically-adjustable suspension system. Debuted for 2013 on the FJR1300AS with its clutchless gear shift system, the FJR1300AE now makes this system available to customers who prefer to have a standard gear box system.
The electronically-adjustable suspension system is designed to enable riders to vary the suspension's performance to suit both the road's surface and the load carrying requirements. With a choice of four main settings, the rider can be confident that no matter what the conditions, the Yamaha FJR1300AE will deliver the best possible set-up and ride quality.
By simply selecting an option via the easily located handlebar-mounted switch, the rider can select 'One-Up', 'One-Up with Luggage', 'Two-Up' or 'Two-Up with Luggage' suspension settings. The choice is then confirmed by a clear indication on the instrument panel. In addition to these four main settings, the system also offers the rider a choice of 'Soft', 'Standard' or 'Hard' damping for each setting, giving a total of 12 pre-defined suspension set-up options.
For even greater flexibility, settings can also be managed manually, allowing the rider to match the most precise setup requirements.
As the system is linked to both the front and rear suspension systems, any alteration is made in conjunction with the damping and preload on both front and rear systems and a balance is maintained to deliver smooth and consistent handling performance.
In order to fit the electronically-adjustable suspension to the bike, the FJR1300AE has new upside-down forks, updating not only the bike's look but also its performance. The new forks contain independent damper mechanisms, splitting the compression and damping adjustment between fork legs. The compression damping mechanism is located within the left fork while the rebound damping is housed in the right fork - a system that is currently used on the Yamaha YZF-R1 as well as the Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bike.
Separating out the damping forces between the fork legs is critical to the operation of the electronically-adjustable suspension as it allows the system to offer a wider and more accurate range of damping settings. The two distinct damping systems reduce the fluctuation in hydraulic pressure within the forks, helping to optimise the damping valve's performance during hard and sustained use.
With the introduction of the 2014 FJR1300AE, Yamaha have further enhanced the long-distance capabilities of one of the most established sports tourers in Europe. Not only does the FJR1300AE come with class-leading engine and chassis performance combined with outstanding comfort levels, the electronically-adjustable suspension system significantly improves its already excellent ride quality.
Colours
Magnetic Bronze
Midnight Black
Recommended Retail Price: £14,499 plus road fund and first reg. fees.
Available: October
