2008 BMW R 1200ST vs 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | - | 135 mm |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | - | 5.3 inches |
| Seat Height | 820 mm / 32.3 in. | 805 mm / 31.7 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1,495 mm / 58.9 in. | 1,550 mm / 61.0 in. |
| Height | - | 1,330 mm / 52.4 in. |
| Length | 2,082 mm / 82.0 in. | 2,240 mm / 88.2 in. |
| Width | - | 745 mm / 29.3 in. |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | 182 kg / 401.2 lbs | 268 kg / 590.8 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.00 litres / 4.23 gallons | 25.00 litres / 6.61 gallons |
| Wet Weight | 204.0 kg / 449.7 lbs | - |
| Performance |
| Max Torque | 115.00 | 134.40 |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 0.5968 HP/kg | 0.5279 HP/kg |
| Engine |
| Stroke | 2 | 4 |
| Engine Type | Two cylinder boxer | In-line four |
| Displacement (cc) | 1170.00 cc | 1298.00 cc |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 101.0 x 73.0 mm | 79.0 x 66.2 mm |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 4.0 x 2.9 inches | 3.1 x 2.6 inches |
| Fuel Control | SOHC | DOHC |
| Displacement (ci) | 71.39 cubic inches | 79.20 cubic inches |
| Fuel System | Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management with overrun fuel cut-off, twin-spark ignition | Injection. Electronic fuel injection |
| Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Engine Lubrication | - | Wet sump |
| Fuel Reserve | 2.00 litres / 0.53 gallons | - |
| Ignition | - | TCI |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Valve System | 4 | 4 |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated | Wet, multiple disc |
| Final Drive | Shaft drive (cardan) | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 5-speed |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Two-section frame consisting of front and rear sections, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit | - |
| Suspension - Front | BMW Motorrad Telelever | Telescopic fork, 48mm |
| Suspension - Rear | Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever | Swingarm (Link-type) |
| Rake | 25.7° | - |
| Trail | 104 mm / 4.1 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 110 mm / 4.3 in. | 135 mm / 5.3 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 140 mm / 5.5 in. | 125 mm / 4.9 in. |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.) | 10.4 inches | 11.1 inches |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (mm) | 320 mm | 320 mm |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) | 265 mm | 282 mm |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (in.) | 12.6 inches | 12.6 inches |
| Brakes - Front | Double disc. ABS | Double disc |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc. ABS | Single disc |
| Tyres - Front | 120/70-17 | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Tyres - Rear | 180/55-17 | 180/55-ZR17 |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 2008 BMW R 1200ST and the 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.
Key Differences
2008 BMW R 1200ST - Advantages
- 🔄More rear wheel travel: 140 mm vs 125 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 - Advantages
- 🔄More front wheel travel: 135 mm vs 110 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.
2008 BMW R 1200ST vs 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 - FAQs
What are the engine differences between the 2008 BMW R 1200ST and 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300?
The 2008 BMW R 1200ST uses Two cylinder boxer, while the 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 is powered by In-line four.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2008 BMW R 1200ST or the 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300?
The 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 has the lower seat at 805 mm, making it more accessible. The 2008 BMW R 1200ST sits higher at 820 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2008 BMW R 1200ST or the 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300?
Both are strong choices. The 2008 BMW R 1200ST has the edge in higher rear wheel travel, while the 2006 Yamaha FJR 1300 stands out for higher front wheel travel. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.