Yamaha XJR1300

Yamaha XJR1300

ROAD TEST

Featuring a relaxed, upright riding position, high-torqueair-cooled engine and high specification braking and suspensionsystems, the Yamaha XJR1300 has established a reputation as being one of the mostenjoyable and easy to ride musclebikes in the large capacityclass.

For 2002 a number of changes have been made both to the engine andchassis which not only reduce overall weight by a full 6kg, butalso give the bike aslimmer mid-section. Together with its enhanced braking andsuspension performance, the latest XJR 1300 delivers easierhandling, higher levels of riding comfort and improvedmanoeuvrability.

The XJR's 1251 cc four-cylinder air-cooled engine may be oldtechnology – it dates back to the FJ1100 of the early Eighties -but it features a wide range of improvements for 2002 that helpboost the low to mid-range torque feel and also make it run cleanerand quieter.

For even more low to mid-range grunt the latest version is equippedwith larger carburettors which help increase maximum torque outputto a massive 10.7kg-in (104.7Nm) at 6500rpm, making the XJR 1300one of the gutsiest musclebikes in its class. As well as being morecompact than the '01 design, the new BSR37 carburettors are alsolighter by substantial 1kg.

Complementing the new carburettors is a redesigned 4-into-1-into-2exhaust system featuring 42.7mm diameter header pipes. The newsystem uses multi-stage expansion inversion mufflers with threeexpansion chambers packed with glass wool, and features larger25.4mm diameter tail pipes which enhance the XJR1300's low tomid-range torque feel. The clutch has also been beefed up.

To meet EU-i regulations an air induction system is fitted, andthis reduces CO and HC emissions by introducing fresh air into theexhaust ports. The latest XJR 1300 engine is also quieter as aresult of the use of new camshafts with different profiles, whileoverall engine appearance is improved with the use of newcorrosion-resistant engine sidecovers and a new cylinder headcover.

The chassis has undergone a series of detail changes aimed atimproving the overall ride quality and overall weight.

A new-shape fuel tank gives the same 21-Litre capacity, butfeatures a narrower rear section that makes for a much smoothertank/seat joint, and the sides of the seat are also made slimmerfor riding comfort, easier manoeuvrability and reduced weight.

The XJR1300's high quality suspension systems featureflex-resistant 43mm forks with revised settings that are aimed atdelivering a superior ride quality. At the rear end the dual Ohlinsshock absorbers also run with modified settings, and feature largerand softer bump-stop rubbers, as well as modified piggybackreservoir mounting brackets.

Braking feel and performance are improved, and unsprung weight isreduced with a compact new one-piece opposed dual-piston caliperand sintered pads. The new-design YZF-R6-type clutch lever andbrake lever are lighter than the previous designs, and featurefive-step adjustment.

Unsprung weight at the rear end is reduced by fitting an RI-typeultra-lightweight hollow three-spoke wheel, as well as alighter swingarm assemblyand a new larger-diameter hollow 28mm rear wheel axle shaft.

The XJR1300 SP version is more expensive – but you get a neat paintjob and a stepped seat to go with the Ohlins' rear shock.