Photo: Maggi1109 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide
80/100 Overall
75 On the road85 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide vs Yamaha FJ1200
Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide scores 80/100 overall against Yamaha FJ1200 on 80/100. On the road: 75–82. As classics: 85–78. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: Gregmarch at English Wikipedia · Public domain
Yamaha FJ1200
80/100 Overall
82 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FXR | Yamaha FJ1200 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 9 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Harley-Davidson FXR |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FXR if…
you want one of Harley-Davidson's best-handling traditional big twins, combining useful road ability with strong custom appeal.
Choose the Yamaha FJ1200 if…
you want effortless big-bore performance, long-distance comfort and one of the defining 1980s sports tourers.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson FXR
The Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide was produced from 1982–1994 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin in a rubber-mounted FXR chassis. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and ownership appeal. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Yamaha FJ1200
The Yamaha FJ1200 was produced from 1986–1989 and used a 1188cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, comfort, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Harley-Davidson FXR
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1994.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree V-twin in a rubber-mounted FXR chassis.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and ownership appeal.
Yamaha FJ1200
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1188cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, comfort, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Harley-Davidson FXR
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha FJ1200
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha FJ1200. Its library score for performance is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Harley-Davidson FXR
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary-drive or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha FJ1200
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Harley-Davidson FXR
Rivals to the Yamaha FJ1200
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha FJ1200 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Harley-Davidson FXR Super Glide wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.