2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 vs 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 2001 Yamaha FJR 1300

Sport touring

Engine
In-line four
Power
N/A
Top Speed
260.0 km/h / 161.6 mph
Weight
522.5 pounds
2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

Sport touring

Engine
In-line four
Power
N/A
Top Speed
270.0 km/h / 167.8 mph
Weight
520.3 pounds
Full Specifications
General
Colours-Silver, Blue
Dimensions
Seat Height805 mm / 31.7 in.780 mm / 30.7 in.
Wheelbase-1,500 mm / 59.1 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight237 kg / 522.5 lbs236 kg / 520.3 lbs
Fuel Capacity25.00 litres / 6.61 gallons23.00 litres / 6.08 gallons
Performance
Top Speed260.0 km/h / 161.6 mph270.0 km/h / 167.8 mph
Max Torque126.00164.00
Power-to-Weight Ratio0.6118 HP/kg0.6780 HP/kg
Engine
Displacement (cc)1298.00 cc1164.00 cc
Displacement (ci)79.20 cubic inches71.03 cubic inches
Fuel Control-DOHC
Bore x Stroke (mm)79.0 x 66.2 mm-
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.1 x 2.6 inches-
Stroke44
Engine TypeIn-line fourIn-line four
Fuel SystemInjectionCarburettor
Valve System44
Drivetrain
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan)Chain
Gearbox5-speed6-speed
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)282 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)11.1 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)298 mm-
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)11.7 inches-
Brakes - FrontDual discDouble disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front120/70-ZR17120/70-ZR17
Tyres - Rear180/55-ZR17180/55-ZR17

Verdict

Winner on specs

2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 edges out the 2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 thanks to its lower seat height and dual front discs. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 - Advantages

  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.

2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 780 mm vs 805 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
  • Dual front discs: Greater stopping power and better heat management under hard braking.

2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 vs 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 - FAQs

Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 or the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?
The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 has the lower seat at 780 mm, making it more accessible. The 2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 sits higher at 805 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 or the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?
Both are strong choices. The 2001 Yamaha FJR 1300 has the edge in fuel injection, while the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 stands out for lower seat height and dual front discs. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.