2021 Yamaha FJR1300ES First Look Preview

Yamaha’s popular FJR1300ES remains a fixture of the brand’s sport-touring lineup in 2021. It will be available in Liquid Graphite colorway starting this January with a $17,999 MSRP.

The 1,298cc inline-four remains, as with the rest of the machine, unchanged. The last major update to the platform was in 2016, so there’s definitely room for improvement when Yamaha finally decides to give this bike a revamp. That being said, the mill has broad and satisfying power on tap throughout the rev range.

The six-speed transmission (one of the major changes implemented in 2016) proved to be extremely smooth during our first encounter with it, and elements like traction control, cruise control, an assist and slipper clutch, ride-by-wire, and different throttle modes allow the machine to be somewhat current in terms of tech. Lean-angle LED cornering lights, heated grips, and push-button-adjustable windscreen are also standard.

Other elements that have helped keep the FJR1300ES a relevant machine in the category include fully adjustable electronic suspension, front and rear. Easy ergonomic adjustability of seat height and handlebar position also contribute to the overall appeal of the bike. The shaft final drive is another handy element for riders who don’t want to deal with chain or sprocket maintenance. Yamaha’s Unified Braking System with ABS remains in place as well.

The large 6.6-gallon fuel tank makes it possible to get some serious miles logged between fill-ups.

Of course, there are plenty of areas Yamaha could have improved the machine, particularly in terms of electronics, but the FJR1300ES has proven to be a reliable, fun, and capable bike for almost 20 years now. I’m sure the latest lean-angle ABS and traction control systems aren’t far off.