2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 vs 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 2005 Yamaha FJR 1300

Sport touring

Engine
In-line four
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
N/A
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
ColoursGalaxy BlueSilver, Blue
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)1,000 mm-
Ground Clearance (in.)39.4 inches-
Seat Height818 mm / 32.2 in.780 mm / 30.7 in.
Wheelbase1,539 mm / 60.6 in.1,500 mm / 59.1 in.
Height1,438 mm / 56.6 in.-
Length2,230 mm / 87.8 in.-
Width770 mm / 30.3 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-236 kg / 520.3 lbs
Fuel Capacity24.98 litres / 6.60 gallons23.00 litres / 6.08 gallons
Performance
Top Speed-270.0 km/h / 167.8 mph
Max Torque-164.00
Power-to-Weight Ratio-0.6780 HP/kg
Engine
Displacement (cc)1298.00 cc1164.00 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)79.0 x 66.2 mm-
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.1 x 2.6 inches-
Engine TypeIn-line fourIn-line four
Stroke44
Fuel ControlDOHCDOHC
Displacement (ci)79.20 cubic inches71.03 cubic inches
Fuel SystemInjectionCarburettor
Compression Ratio10.8:1-
Valve System44
Drivetrain
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan)Chain
Gearbox5-speed6-speed
Chassis
Suspension - Front48mm Soqi telescopic fork w/adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping-
Suspension - RearSingle shock, link-type, w/adjustable preload and rebound damping-
Wheel Travel - Front137 mm / 5.4 in.-
Wheel Travel - Rear122 mm / 4.8 in.-
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)12.6 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)320 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)11.1 inches-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)282 mm-
Brakes - FrontDouble discDouble disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front120/70-ZR17120/70-ZR17
Tyres - Rear180/55-ZR17180/55-ZR17

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 and the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 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

2005 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 818 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 vs 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 - FAQs

Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2005 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 2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 sits higher at 818 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 or the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?
Both are strong choices. The 2005 Yamaha FJR 1300 has the edge in fuel injection, while the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 stands out for lower seat height. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.