To heck with the Pandemic. It is only a way to control the masses and to see their reaction. Well, we all failed and the controllers found out we are nothing but Sheople!!! No more bahhhaaaa, bahaaa, bahhaaaa... Go out little Bo Peep and the heck with being a sheep.... Ride to where ever your wheels take you.... I will miss your happiness on that FJR, but life is too short to be sad, go out on another bike and share your new adventures with us... Cheers from Northern California, USA.

I only found your channel as I just recently bought a well loved 2003 previously owned by an old friend... thanks for the smiles. :) Staying subscribed... its more of the content and the commentary that sold me.

As a fellow FJR owner that decision must've been agonizing I can't imagine having to get rid of my bike however you have two other fantastic bikes that will fill the niche nicely you're loyal fans will continue to watch don't worry ride safe brother

What a heart breaker. I can hear the pure happiness in your voice when you were on it, and the sadness in your voice as you let it go!! Maybe next a Ninja 1000sx or as I have a Versys 650. I love my FJR, and couldn't imagine selling it!! Cheers to the next bike my friend!!

I'm 6ft 5 and contemplating getting the FJR but seen other KZfaqrs of a similar height say that its a squeeze to fit on for 6ft 4+. Its such a shame when you have to sell your pride and joy, but thanks for the great videos of the FJR!

P.S. 1. Remove the top box. 2. Remove the paniers. 3. Ride with a half tank. The weight becomes manageable.

Hi Dave, I am relatively new to your channel but enjoy every video regardless of the bike. I too had to change my pride and joy recently. It was the second Honda ST1100 that I had put many miles on, but it was getting a bit heavy (particularly on a gravel drive) so I changed to the R1250RT. The seat height suits my short inside seam, the bike is light, and its basically a GS with different clothes. I know this because like you I am fortunate enough to have another bike, a 2017 GS. The hardest part of a day out is which one! keep up the great work and I really enjoy the 'How to' tips.

Gotta say your absolutely right,this is the ultimate bike .The Yamaha fjr1300 has been in my life since 2004 I've owned 5 3 manual, 2 AE models,currently riding AE model,and wow wow what a bike The AE is like riding something out of this world,,if you ever get the chance to ride Yamaha fjr1300 AE,do it,you will be hooked. Sorry to hear about you selling your fjr1300. Good luck

I literally bought one TODAY partially because of you lol🤣 All good my friend! I do thank you for your videos

I feel your pain. Literally. I broke my lower right leg 18 months ago in a bike crash and healing has been oh so slow. I destroyed my beloved H-D Night Rod and the insurance company totaled it. I had a BMW RT1100 that I tried to ride about four months into my recovery. I, also, have shorter legs and almost dropped that big Beemer a couple of times in my own driveway. I just had no strength and too much pain in my leg to hold it up if I leaned it over on the right side. I traded it in on an older Road King with a much lower seat. As we get on in age we have to adapt. I have found my VMAX 1200 and my H-D XL Roadster 1200 much more enjoyable than the HOG, so I ride them more. Hang in there.

Thank you for your post. Look forward to seeing your future adventures and critiques.

Sad to see the FJR go, but will stick to your channel! I'll keep om riding my FJR ;) Keep up the great vids!

I think the success of your channel owes less to the brand of Motorcycle you ride and more to your personality and content delivery. I just bought an older FJR and have a Triumph America and was looking forward to more FJR ramblings but I also look forward to the visuals and commentary. Btw, my parents were Dubliners, I was born in England but raised in Canada. Loving your channel so buy whatever you fancy and enjoy.

Dave, i had to swallow hard at the end, feel your pain, actually a brave decision to come to of your own volition, i will be staying with the channel as its less about the manufacturer and more about yourself sir.

I love all 3 bikes in your fleet and will be sad to see the FJR sold. I think you are selling her for the right reasons and we are all interested in the replacement machine. Best of luck & stay safe!

I'm 5'8" with a 29-30" inseam and I can almost flat foot my FJR. It's got a Sargent seat on it, so I don't know how that compares to the stock seat. The FJR has been my dream bike for years. I sold my FZ1 10-12 years ago and recently got the itch for 2 wheels again. The FZ1 will riiiip when you get into the midrange RPM's, but this FJR will pull HARD like a locomotive right off the bottom. I'm going to have to be smart and regulate my right hand!

It's a shame you made the bike so interesting that I'm looking to buy one. But I can agree with you it takes a lot of confidence to maneuver such a heavy bike. It was the the same for me when I bought my BMW adventure back 2003, especially for me since I'm only 1,77 and most of these bikes were meant for people with a least hight of 1, 80 to 1,90. But I got used to it I spent a lot of hours on it at least 3 to 4 hours a day and on the weekends and loved it till my lease ended. Now I'm hoping to get a ride on a used fjr from the local dealer. I'll let you know how it went.

Interesting video. I sold my much loved FJR simply because I felt it was just too heavy. I then had a Tracer 900GT thinking it would be like the FJR but lighter. The fact is, the Tracer actually feels heavier, due I think, to the centre of gravity being higher. So, I sold the Tracer and bought a RE Himalayan. Biggest bike buying mistake of my life! Now looking to get back on a FJR, preferably a 2013 model. The FJR is pure quality. So sorry you are selling yours. Ride safe my friend.

It brings me great sadness this type news, I just love the FJR , I'm on my second one now, every time I give it a fist full, I am surprised by the sheer acceleration......................vrooooom

wonderful display of such a special ride. I appreciate your insight and well articulated experience with the FJR. I had mine in Florida. Cherish the memories. ☆

Unfortunate but understandable. The FJR is surely a dream machine. I have one myself and love it!

Sad in one way to say goodbye to a bike, but exciting moving onto the next

Sad news indeed. I hope you find your dream bike ahead, and can start having those adventures. Locally there is a big trend towards 3 wheelers (eastern Canada), like CanAm's or Harley Trikes. They seem to capture the touring comfort and adventure, while behaving more like a car. Good luck!! and I look forward to seeing more Wheelie Good TV :-)

I've wanted a fjr for a long time, I'm 5'8 myself. I just wanted to say thank you for the information, I enjoy watching your videos.

Real shame Like losing an old friend, I know how you feel. But who knows what's around the corner. Best Wishes Mate

Hi, I'm 5'8" as well with an FJR. Love it. Put insoles in side my boots which made me feel more confident. It is a heavy bike but once moving don't notice it. Brillant tourer. Coming over to Granard this year to do some genealogy. Great to meet up with you for a drink. All the best.

Thank for your honesty, you have talked me out of getting one.

I have a 2005 FJR1300. I had the same thoughts as you, the bike is too tall and im too short, time for it to go. I thought nothing to lose, so i bought an adjustable lowering kit and lowered my bike about 40mm. Lowered the front forks 15mm. Feet are flat on the ground now, pushing back is much easier, confidence is much higher. Modified the side stand to make it 20 mm shorter and i use a 50mm block of wood i ride up onto to get it back on the center stand in the garage. Nothing to lose... I gained so much, wish i had done it years ago. On the handling side, I notice no change, I am not a sporty rider, no scraping foot pegs or anything, just touring. Best decision I have made for the bike and myself. All the best mate

So sorry that you had to sell on your FJR1300, I thought of you last Wednesday 14/4 as it was the first time in over a year that I was able to meet up with our old farts SCMCC and go for a road ride. Travelling 200 miles, just wish that you were able to experience the joy of the FJR1300. Stay safe on your 2 wheels. Love the videos by the way.

Oh such a shame but I totally understand, I have a 2008 fjr, bought after watching your passion for yours and I too am thinking of selling mine. I spend a lot of time around the lanes of the derbyshire dales and find it way too heavy, it belongs on a nice fresh bit of dual carriageway, having said that I do like the triumph explorer 1200 so wouldn't be going much lighter. Keep the vids coming, I'll still be watching.

We knew what we were getting into by the name of yOur channel - wheelie good tv. To that end, you deliver in spades. Farewell FJR, and now, on with the show.

Love that sometimes in life we have to move on to the next Project, so good luck with it all, when I was looking for a bike last year I was also thinking of a Yamaha fjr1300, a mate of mine had one, and absolutely loved the bike and got rid of it exactly the same reason he felt it was too heavy for him and he must be 5-ft 7 but didn't say anything about his height, he also had a 900 Yamaha Tracer, and swaped that to buy a brand new Yamaha TMAX 560 Techmax,.. he convinced me that the bike was agile and quick, I was so convinced I also bought a brand new one.. excellent machine!... good luck with yours and enjoy whatever You do.👍🏽👍🏽😁

Sorry to see you let go of her. I bought my 2020 last august and have about 1700 miles on it. I agree that it is top heavy and being only 5'9, I too have to tip toe at the traffic light. But when it launches from 0 to --- it seems to whisper sweet-nothings in my ear as I cruise along the Chicago highways. Haven't done any adventures yet, but being in my 50's, I doubt I'd do more than a couple over her lifetime. Anyways, wishing you the very best!! Cheers!!

I feel your pain. I had a Honda ST1300 for 15 years and, like you, loved every kilometer I put on her. I sold for the exact same reason. I just wasn't comfortable with the weight any longer. I struggled to find a suitable replacement as I'm not a fan of any of the mid weight tourers on offer. I don't like the 'adventure styling' of the so called touring bikes nowadays. I settled for a BMW R1200RS but it certainly does not offer the comfort and weather protection that the Honda did, but then I won't be doing long distance touring like i have in the past.

Thanks for posting this, I had the exact same situation. I dearly loved my 2014 FJR ES - blazing red. I am 5'7"/160 - could barely touch with balls of both feet. Two-up not so relaxing... I had 2 difficult moments where I could not navigate/muscle out without some serious difficulty, and reflected afterwards I had to let her go. The unlimited power, the joy of roll-ons, the absolute superiority, this will always be my favorite motorcycle. I chose a BMW 1200RS and it has worked out just fine. Suspension settings just as good (better?) than the FJR, much easier to change lines in a corner, and better road feel through the bars than the FJR - especially in the rain. Lower CG very noticeable. But for you young strong folks - do not pass up a chance to ride one of these amazing bikes.

After watching the video...fair enough...but sad for you to let it go. Best of luck. Still staying here...enjoying your videos.

I’m 5’8 as well and have been considering upgrading to the FJR from my Honda NC750X for more comfort on the long haul but am concerned about the weight of the bike and seat height/width. I appreciate your view/video as it gives me second thoughts on the change. It’s a lot of money to spend and I want to make a good decision. I wish they made a lower bike with an upright riding position but there are none like that in Canada. Thanks again

Sad to hear it,,I’ve had mine since 2006, wonderfull machine and thrill to ride,,I’m 69 and she’s my last vice, I’m from Oklahoma, and love my wild open spaces. I’m six foot tall and she’s still a handful, enjoy the sport 🤠🤠

Man, this breaks my heart. But I completely understand: the bike must fit your riding needs Wish you the best, mate 🙏🏾

LoL Dave sorry about losing or having to off your FJR, I am 5'9" but am more torso as my inseam is 29" so I think that is more important to know than height, but you still got a BMW GS, so your not hurting , or you really shouldn't be with still having 2 to play with :) Cheers! from Florida!

I respect you for your honesty and sincerity. You're a good man.

Hey bud coming from across the pound here. I don't want to get long winded but I am because I love the fjr. Funny story, I bought my 94 a year ago. In fact, a week before we went into lock down. I had a custom Suzuki volusia and sold it after I got use to the fjr. Keep her dude nothing else out there like here.

What a great name for a channel. Glad I found you.

Dave that’s really sad news I trust the Irish flags will be flying at half mast, I shall still carry on watching as I really enjoy your videos. I’m the same height as you and I had to get rid of my 1500 Goldwing as it was just too heavy and got my FJR. Too help manage the weight I took my seat to a local company that reduced the width and height and now I can put both feet on the ground, no more tip toeing around.

I shed a tear when my ZX14 was sold and disappeared down the drive but getting the Honda GW 1800 as a replacement was awesome and I'm 5'9 and 70!!

I understand what you're talking about. The FJR is big, it's not ideal for short guys. I'm 185 cm, and it is about the minimum you have to be to ride it comfortably. But I think it is very agile on the twisties despite it is a big bike. There's also differences in what tyres you use. I use Michelin Pilot Road 5 GT, and they are perfect!

Thanks for sharing this. Kind of like losing a good dog I think. -- I have a 2015 Versys 650 LT. I’m in love with this bike. If you haven’t ridden one, I’d strongly suggest you give that bike a whirl, they’re awesome all around bikes. Thanks again and good luck hunting for your next great bike.

I’m on my 4th bike in 12 months... don’t we all just like looking for another bike to have more experiences with? An FJR and the RE GT at the moment for me - as you know both, great bikes.

So funny, my riding buddy just sold his GS to get a fjr because he found the GS too tall. xD well I've enjoyed your videos and wish you the best of luck. I've not caught up on them yet so I don't know what your replacement is as I type this :)

I watched your videos and many more besides as I planned to get the FJR in exchange for my mt10 which I had for nearly 2 years. I loved the mt10, but like you I'm 5'8 on a good day and always struggled and was anxious at low speeds, aside from never using half its power. Last minute I charged my mind because of the height and weight of the FJR and settled on a bmw r1200rs instead. Like you, I know the FJR is a great bike lots of smooth power and comfort and I thought I was taking second best, but how wrong could I have been. The BMW is a perfect height and I hardly feel the weight as its so low down. It's very smooth and glides over the bumps with diffinatly enough power. The BMW r1200rs or the r1250rs is worth a look and a test ride.

Really good video production quality. Just discovered this channel, and looking forward to future reviews. Would like to hear your views on the Tiger 900 and ninja 1000sx. 👍

It's a very practical decision sir. I am a shorty with 30" inseam and just about 5'5". When I sat on one I was on my tip toes and I just found it far too heavy for me so didn't even take it for a test ride because even if liked it I wouldn't have bought it for the weight. I test rode both the GS 1200 and 1250 and found them more manageable.

I'm 5' 7", so I feel your pain, but I've owned FJR's [two in all] for the past 14 years. My 2015 was bought brand new and now has well over 40,000 miles. I have the same issues as you but I bought a Corbin seat which [at the cost of some cushioning] sits a little lower than the stock seat. I wouldn't presume to tell you what to do but I can say this, you'll get used to the weight and, as you already know, the FJR really has no equal. Best wishes whichever way you go but you really do sound like you might want to take a little more time with this decision.

Sorry you feel you have to sell the FJR. I just got mine back on the road. We had a very early spring here in Ontario. It's usually late April before the snow clears. It'll am on the short side but lucky enough to have a 32" inseam so reaching the ground is pretty easy. Also even though we are in lock down we don't have the 5km limit you have. Living a good hour North of Toronto means we have very good back roads that are twice as wide as the boreens around Cavan. We just have to make sure they don't turn into gravel as is common on what we call concession roads. Wishing you all the best with whatever you replace the FJR with Cheer's from Canada

I'm 5'10" 36"w/ 30 " inseam at 190 LBS. I have a 2010 Yamaha FJR 1300A Gen 2. I will never sell the motorcycle. Maybe when I am in my late 70's-80's and feel I can't safely ride it anymore. Do health conditions as I get older. I am 60 years old now and will ride my FJR 1300 until that time comes..................

Hi Dave you miss the power the reasons you give are extremely important and im 5ft 8 also and have same issues need bigger legs; the GS will do everything enjoy and cant wait to see your new ride. Happy rides.

I had 2 fjr 13s in the past, fantastic road bike, best of luck in the future, from Co Cork 🇮🇪

I just acquired a 2013 FJR 1300ES after riding my beloved 1999 Honda ST1100 for 7 years. I must say I too absolutely love it. The ST is a terrific ride, especially the Heli fully adjustable handlebars and Corbin seat, but it is heavy and has less power. Still a magic machine, but the FJR is another planet. Here's hoping you grow another inch or two or come up with an alternative. Must go and ride.

I stay with my Honda Montesa 650 NT, does everything, from gravel roads to curvy country rods and even freeway. Goes 160 Km/h - but I enjoy 90 Km/h most to smell the country. Comes with integrated bags and I extended the handle bar and put a high windscreen on to sit upright. And most of all my wife loves it. Only downside of the 2005 model: No ABS and bad seat, the word comfort is missing. After 3 hours the butt says - done for the day! Can't have it all ....

They might have to bury me on mine. I own several other bikes that that I ride around locally or off road but for touring I’ve never seen anything that can replace it. I’m 6’ tall and even with a Corbin seat that lowers it a bit it can still be intimidating sometimes if it’s loaded down. Cheers

It's good to hear second opinions on bikes as I'm 5' 8" with a small 29" inside leg. The FJR was on my list of about 6 bikes that I'm considering for touring soon. Still leaning towards the GS with a lowered seat now. The emotion was obvious but a new bike usually sorts that out fairly quickly!

Wish you luck Dave

Sad news Dave but you have the others to ride; I like the 650:): I'm on my 4th FJR, now the AS which is phenomenal with the ease of gearchange and will keep until I am unable to lift onto the centre-stand; I am convinced still the ultimate 2 wheel-dream-machine with performance and more importantly the 'look and feel of the machine - like no other...: I have a V-Max too which feels even heavier although low down weight makes this mean machine like a work out; and a W650 Kawasaki (2000) which is a Sunday feel good ride out similar to your Royal Enfield. Best of luck with the BMW and RE Dave and appreciate the reasoning and stay safe. R (Isle of Man)

Sad news Dave let us know how you feel when you see the new owner ride off on your lovely FJR, expect to have a tear in your eye. I have sold 2 FJRs over the years and tried other smaller bikes only to return to an FJR but I suppose the riding conditions here in Western Australia suit this bike well, I simply love it.

great great video. thanks a lot

Very interesting situation! I am totally with you about the FJR being in a league of its own. I convinced myself that it was my perfect choice the first time I saw one many years back. I am now 68, fully retired and still contemplating buying an FJR and here on your channel I am seeing a fantastic discussion about the reality of owning a heavy bike that is somewhat tall & wide. Lots of great comments thanks to your channel audience. I had a Honda CB750 40 years ago and the FJR to me is what the old Honda 750 should have progressed into becoming. Electric windshield, Touring setup, huge long range fuel tank, Drive shaft, Fantastic engine with an amazing sound, ........So.... Now what? Not sure I even know.. Probably will give this a LOT of thought. Thanks.

I enjoyed my fjr so much, however it really is quite heavy. still really enjoyed tooling with the 600s XD. wish there was the same type of bike but substantially lighter. that sound, supremacy, speed, agility, comfort, and overall utility was soooooo worthit compared to sportbikes. that's why it was my first road legal motorcycle :))

I have owned 167 motorcycles to date. The 2005 FJR1300 I have now is one of the easiest to ride bikes I have owned. I am also 5'8" and have no problem reaching the ground. I have knee replacements and the weight of the bike is no problem at all. I had the worst bike ever a few years ago. It was a 1990 Honda Goldwing 1500. A fat pig of a bike that was too tall, too heavy and handled like shit. The FJR feels like a mini bike compared to the GoldWing. For me with my vast experiences with other bikes, find the FJR to be almost perfect for me. The stock panniers are too small, and ...............well that's really my only complaint. Going on a long trip next summer. Solo.

Liked the video. I have the same problem as iv had my FJR1300 for 14 years and live it but I'm feeling the waight now I'm older. Got myself a tiger 800xca but I need to sell the FJR as it's just sat in the shed not getting used as it should 🙄

Sorry your selling your beloved fjr1300 but I am interested in what you plan on doing with a mid size machine, so I subscribed. Good luck. I'll be watching. By the way, I love 650 size motorcycles. I ride a kawasaki versys 1000 and a Kawasaki drifter 1500. I would have a 650 Triumph or Royal Enfield but when I sat on them they seemed much too small for me. I'm 6' 2" and weigh 285 so I kinda have to keep a little larger bike. I really would like a 650 Royal Enfield if I was smaller.

Dave, I have the 2019 AE. I am the same height and love the bike. I do agree with you though. It does get hairy sometimes being on tip toes with uneven or slippery surfaces. The worst part is moving it in the shed or wheeling it out backwards. Once riding, it is a feeling like no other. Your bike you can lowered though. Anyway, enjoying your channel. Keep at it. From Australia 🇦🇺.

I'm so sorry... I love my own FJR so much and can't imagine parting with her. Make sure to show your other two some extra love.

I feel for you mate. I'm making the decision with my Harley Davidson Street Glide. Four years I've had the the "Blue Babe" and I love it but I'm 63 now and it's just to flaming heavy. I'm also selling my beloved GSXR1000 but its going to a good home and being replaced with a Royal Enfield GT Continental. The Harley I'm going to trade in a BMW RS so it should all be good.

Bike shops should be allowed to sell longer legs!😂 Well at least you had a great experience with it. Keep em coming Dave! 👍

I used to be just a fraction under six foot I am now five foot nine, Listen, all you guys you will lose height as you get older and you also lose strength to hold up a big machine. I have had to make the change I now own the Enfield Interceptor like the bike but I can now handle its weight and have both feet on the ground which has restored my confidence. Digressing a bit I bought an electric scooter during the lockdown. To any motorcyclist this is great fun. I bought the Kaabo Pro 10 with great range good acceleration and fast. You can use all your motorcycle skills on one of these and you can go places where a bike can't go. A good alternative when your range is limited by law.

I work for a large motorcycle rental company in the US and I can tell you that you are making a mistake if the height of the bike is the only thing for your decision. I rent GS 1200s and at 38in inseams, I feel the GSs are taller than the FJR1300ES we got! I don't understand your rational. The other thing is that I move Harleys all day, Glides, Road Kings, Sporters, Heritage soft-tails and the weight is way beyond the FJRs. I guess it's a matter of choice!

I'm 5ft10 not big built and don't need a huge bike but I'm still thinking of getting one, it just looks awesome. But the weight is quite scarey sounding, I'd be worried about dropping it and not being able to pick it up.

Yes the FJ is a fabulous bike! But in my opinion you are so justified and right downsizing a little! As you know there are some lovely 650cc and lets say the Triumph 800 XRX that still have enough power and lighter for cornering and parking! Let me know what you are considering? Have nice day Pete! Ps I had a new 650 V storm last year no fancies on it but a lovely bike none the less!!!

hi always sad to say goodbye to a bike. but i know what its like replacd a goldwing due to my age and the weight of the wing replaced with a r1250 rs /and honda cbr 500r the small bike for local lanes in devon the bmw for tours and when i feel yong and want lots of go

I get it. I'm 5-11, and it's a big bike. I've been dirt-only since '81, and,those bikes are tall for me. Just got a used FJR, and even at 5-11, it was unwieldy at first. Took me a few rides to get used to it. But, if ya cut 3" off of me, stops and moving it manually (not under power) would be a much bigger challenge. Wouldn't try to talk you back into it, but just remember that 95% of the time your height matters none, since your feet are on the pegs and you're riding. Besides, nothing I've ridden handles so smooth at 110mph +. 😀 That Royal Enfield looks pretty badass. I always wanted a Gold Star....one of my dream bikes.

Just found your great channel, looking to get an fjr afters years of sports bikes, no good any more for me and the mrs, we’ve looked at adventure bikes but keep getting drawn to the fjr. Any advice from subscribers as to the best year and model to buy would be appreciated budget of around 10k downwards

All part of motorcycling. Great loves come and go. Not the end of the world. Best of luck with what you end up with next, although lol, maybe you have enough bikes already? (Says the woman with two bikes 😆)

Congratulations on deciding on the purchase of the VStrom!

That is a really nice bike .

You need to move to Australia we have great wide lovely roads inland and around the coast im 6ft tall and understand where you're coming from iv had 2 FJR Yamahas and an 87 FJ with 164000 KMs on her stay upright and ride safely cheers from Australia mate

Sweet ride !

That's too bad however there is a bike for you. It goes by the name of a Suzuki burgman 650 executive. This bike will satisfy your riding needs

I previously owned a 1000 Vstrom if loaded it's high center of gravity makes it harder to get off the stand than an FjR

Well I sold mine last week for the same reason, I'm only 5'5" And as I mention before I dropped it only after having it 2 weeks, 5ks worth of damage had it repaired end of the year, I brought a Kawasaki Z900 RS lovely bike only weighs in at 214 kilos so much lighter than FJR I've clocked up 300 odd km in the first week totally different bike, But I do miss the FJ that was a lovely lovely machine....

My dad has a FJR and while I haven’t ridden it, I have sat on it. The seat height isn’t particularly tall, but it is very wide and you really end losing a lot of your inseam just by wrapping your legs around the bike instead of being able to more or less stand straight up.

I'm with you it is a great bike, reliable, fast comfortable, handling it clicks all the boxes except it's a bit much for a quick trip down a country lane. On the interstate it rules and it's better than BMW for a fraction of the cost.

My XJ900S went just before lockdown. Putting around on a YBR250 @ 85mpg

I am just today 22 of april 24 discovered yre channel. How are u doing now? I am a happy FJR 2004 owner from The Netherlands. I have her since one year now and love to ride her. In about two weeks heading to Thüringerwald for a couple of days❤ All the best from Holland.

Dont blame you at all !. In my opinion , most bikes these days are just too high in the seat department. The Yamaha before that one, however, the brilliant FJ 1200 was perfect for short arses like us . I fancied a KTM Adventure last year, but you needed a step ladder to get on the bloody thing, rediculous. Never mind, roll on the video of the next bike 😆.

As a 5'10" experienced rider, I became tired of my 2009 FJR's tall seat height and stand-over width too. Any sand on the road made being able to only touch with the balls of my feet precarious at a stop. After much contemplation and also trying to overlook/overcome the problem without bike modifications, I finally removed the black seat cover and foam seat pad from the (front) seat. Now I sit on the plastic seat pan with a thin, foam pad taped to it. Though the white, plastic pan doesn't match the black 2009 model year paint, the wide, clear packaging tape holding down the 3/8" foam pad currently remains well beyond the "I wonder if this will work out" phase, and one non-rider asked "What happened to your seat?", we know that motorcycles are meant to be modified by each rider to their own fitment and taste. The benefits of this simple and still-comfortable mod are lower seat height and a feeling of sitting "in" the bike rather than on top of it. This puts the handlebars at a more pleasant, touring height too. Sitting "in" the FJR takes away some of the (personally) unnecessary sportbike riding position weight from my hands after an hour or more on the road. The only negative result of the loss of the seat pad is that it has made the already sportbike-height footpegs closer under my hips. I installed aftermarket road pegs up front so my knees can be straightened when they need a stretch. The thinly-padded, wide seat pan is absolutely NOT uncomfortable. It's like an old-school tractor seat now and isn't a reduction in riding comfort for me. I purchased a Yamaha accessory taller/wider windshield right away after buying the bike new in 2009. It easily bolted on in place of the smaller OEM windscreen with the same hardware that came on the bike. With the FJR's power windshield height adjustment, I never lack for either shelter or fresh air with the new Lexan. The only thing I thought this bike needs that I couldn't fix was a 6th gear. Yamaha has done that on the newer models. What a great video! I enjoy hearing your bike making the same sounds in the video as mine (subconsiously) does when I'm riding it and concentrating on what's ahead instead of admiring the engine whirring and transmission clunks. Someone said that the newer FJRs have a smoother transmission, but aside from the 6th cog, I'd miss the solid gear engagement noise. It feels heavy duty to me rather than "clunky".

So sad but smart of you if you know it’s simply too big. Just curious, have you looked into the Honda SR1300? I recently was looking for sport tourers and sat on both the ST and FJR, I haven’t ridden either but the ST does have a lower seat. It is heavier but many reviewers note it feels easier to manage at low speeds. Looking forward to more videos either way!

Had FJR,s and K1600 G.T,s ,Triumph Trophy S.E and RT1250 but the light shone for me RS1250 exclusive and believe me it's pants off fun.

The good news, bikes are getting lighter, Tracer is just over 200kg ! Not an armchair like the superb fjr, but way more fun on the twisty back roads, plus the fjr panniers will fit when your ready to tour.

I am the complete reverse of your Story there fella, a guy from Dublin just bought my 26 year old XJ900F with 23k miles from New, as he's your height, and he loves it. I now own an FJR1300 2009 With 11k miles, as I'm 6'2" and the XJ was too small.

That is sad, I am five ten and not the longest of leg and I have an old Pan 1100, wide and lofty of seat height, I got a cut down seat, it felt weird and then was fine. I feel your pain I do. wish I could take it off of you!!!