Valkyrie comparison test

[Stealth Biker]

I conducted an unofficial comparison test of several different bikes this week.  Between my sister-inlaw, brother-in-law and myself, there are 6 bikes at my disposal, 3 models (3 Yamaha FJR's, 2 Yamaha V-star 1300's and Stealth Bike-03 Standard Valk).  I decided to ride a different bike to work every day this week.  Each bike is different even identical models, such as handling, throttle control, foot boards, transmissions, etc.

The Yamaha FJR is a great bike, fun to ride, unlimited acceleration w/ fuel injection, adjustable windshield, great in the twisties.  The downside is that it has noticable vibratation in the handle bars, and the rider position is uncomfortable for long distances.

The V-star cruisers are ok but they don't have the power, the transmissions feel weak and clunky, and the handling is sub-par.

The Valkyrie wins in all categories, smooth, plenty of power, comfortable riding position, great handling, etc, etc, 

When I bought my 2006 FJR 1300 last year, my intention was to sell the Valk.  I did actually list it on Craig's List but didn't get a single hit, of course I priced it way too high so I didn't really expect much response.  Now I can't bring myself to let it go.  It surpasses everything else I have ridden.

I know this information is not news to anyone who reads this message board but sometimes a person needs to put his $.02 out there for the world to see. 

By the way where can I get a car tire mounted?  I have finally convinced myself to go Darkside on the Valkyrie at least because buying M/C tires for both bikes is about to break the bank.

If anyone rides towards Glen Rose, let me know and I will pass on my favorite roads to ride in this area.

[franco6]

  :cooldude:stealth rider, Chantal and i had awonderfull trip to Glennrose on the valk for our 27th anniversary (nov.23) beautiful country around there the boulders, the dynosaurs,  the roads.we enjoyed a great rib- eye grilled  by  sam at the Dino rider moto shop and cafe. great folks.(the beer is free for the ones interested) we ll probably go back this year again.thanks for the comparaison of bikes. but was there really any doubt in your mind on the result?

[SideCar]

That is valuable since I have often wondered about an FJR

[Stealth Biker]

The FJR is a great bike and with a few additions it will be better.  But compared to the Valk I wouldn't say it is lacking, they are just different rides.  I like them both, but the Valk is better in overall comfort.  If you want a Sport/Touring bike the FJR is at the top.  I reviewed all of them and rode the Honda ST1300 first.  It seemed to be underpowered and bulky.  The FJR handles great and has enough power to scare me.  If I didn't have the Valkyrie to compare it to then the FJR would probably be the favorite of all the bikes I have ridden.

[SideCar]

Thanks.

Wanderer, take note. 

[motorose]

i hear the yami fjr beats the honda st as well. the st feels like a pig and its sloppy in comparison to the nimble fjr. the fjr just handles that much better

[Disco]

A buddy of mine in Winston Salem has, among others, an Interstate, a Standard, and a Concours 14.  He bought the IS new and has >60,000 miles on it.  The Standard is a low-mile "barn find" he practically stole in March.  He loves him some Valkyries, but I believe he rides the 14 most often these days.

[2 Valks]

Nothing I've ridden over the years will ever compare to a Valk!!  I bought the Concours 14 to dive bomb the curves here in North Carolina.  It loves the gap roads leading to the Blue Ridge Parkway and it is also a good highway bike.
But, overall if I had to go to one bike,  you would have to pry my hands off my Interstates bars!

[Disco]

Hey Chip!  Cool that your first post under your new VRCC registration is on the Texas board!   

[2 Valks]

Hey Dave,  even though I live in NC,  I will always have ties to the Lone Star state!! I seen you have gotten some serious rain out there,  well we have been getting hammered with the wet stuff also.  But, nothing that good rain gear can't correct.  Talk soon.