Just took a short test ride on a 2008 Yamaha FJR1300. Very impressive sport-touring machine, and the passing power is just what I'm looking for. I pulled onto the freeway and found myself behind a semi in the slow lane, but just a flick of the wrist and I was up to 90 mph when I blew by the trucker. Although I've read complaints about the weight(650 lbs) and it's effect on parking lot maneuvers, I found the bike easy for slow tight turns when I rode it around the parking lot at the dealer. Much easier than the Speedmaster.
About the only thing I didn't like was the auto-retract for the power adjustable windshield, but there's a fix for that on the FJR owner's forum. And the so-called excessive heat issue I didn't notice at all, although it has improved starting in 2006 with the 2nd generation models. It's about 90 degrees today here in Tucson, so I got a good idea whether the heat would be a problem.
Now all I need to do is take my wife up to Phoenix and rent one for the day. I want to do a 200-300 mile day on one with her on the back before buying. If it passes the test, I think I've found my next bike. I want to do some longer trips, but still have fun on a twisty road. The FJR1300 looks and feels like it was made for the job.
