Yamaha Xjr 1300 Review

Used Buyer Review

The XJR1300 is one of those bikes that rewards patient riders who actually want to go somewhere rather than just look fast standing still. That air-cooled 1251cc inline-four pulls like a freight train from about 3,000rpm and never really stops until you've run out of road or nerve. It's old-school in the best possible sense — no traction control, no riding modes, just you and 106 honest horsepower. Buying used, check the cam chain tensioner carefully on earlier models and look for oil weeping around the head gasket. The carbureted versions need attention to the carb sync, and neglected ones will feel lumpy at low speeds. Post-2007 fuel-injected bikes are considerably easier to live with. Also inspect the frame around the swingarm pivot — hard riders can stress that area over time. Fairing-free naked styling means every oil drip shows, which actually helps you spot problems quickly. Ergonomics suit taller riders perfectly, though the seat goes hard after two hours. Budget for a gel pad if you're touring.