Yamaha XJR1300. The last of the Mohicans

The term comes from the famous novel The Last of the Mohicans (1826) by James Fenimore Cooper. “The last of the Mohicans” is an expression for the last survivor of a particular group, political movement, or way of life. It refers to someone who is the last to adhere to an outdated idea or tradition, often with a tone of loneliness or nostalgia.

Even 25+

For the Yamaha XJR1300, the approach isn't entirely fitting. But the fact that this powerhouse is one of the last heavy, air-cooled four-cylinders from Japan does give the last-of-the-Mohicans concept some grip on the impressive motorcycle, whose qualities were spoken of nothing but positively, even enthusiastically, in its time.

The Yamaha XJR1300, introduced in 1998 as the successor to the XJR1200, is an iconic air-cooled muscle bike known for its retro styling and powerful inline four-cylinder engine. To put it briefly: the Yamaha XJR1200 was bored out to become the Yamaha XJR1300. An SP version was also released, which was discontinued in 2002. For 2004, lighter wheels, new carburetors, a new exhaust, and improved brakes were introduced. In 2007, the Yamaha XJR1300 received a thorough facelift featuring fuel injection and a revised exhaust with a catalytic converter.

Over the years, the machine evolved with subtle updates and Öhlins suspension, until production ended around the arrival of Euro 4. That emission standard was the death blow for many air-cooled engines. Over the years, the XJR underwent minor changes, such as different colors and lighting, but mechanically it remained largely the same.

The XJR is a tough, heavy, sporty touring bike with a touch of rugged elegance. These machines were typically bought by frequent riders with a slight penchant for the past. It was fast, stable, and reliable. And it didn't hurt the big four-cylinder engine to ride the mandatory 30 km/h in fifth gear on a residential street. And when you finally open the throttle? The Yamaha starts off quietly, but takes off increasingly boldly as the revs climb. And despite the fact that you can buy motorcycles with over 200 hp these days, the XJR's just over 100 hp is enough to keep you out of reach.

Please note: there was a recall for certain XJR1300 models regarding problems with the engine lubrication system. During prolonged high operating temperatures and low RPMs, the chain can come into contact with the oil sprayer responsible for lubrication. After that recall, the XJR is virtually indestructible, provided that the rear suspension bearings, the linkage system, must be strictly maintained and lubricated every 20.000 km. Otherwise, they may seize up.

The 20.000 km limit

Checking valve clearance every 2500 km? That’s something from the sixties, the pushrod era. That wasn't a big deal. Because with two or three bolts, you had the tank off. The valve cover was also incredibly easy to scalp. And adjusting the valves was done in no time with a feeler gauge, a wrench, and a screwdriver.

With an XJR, just like with quite a few other makes and models, this is a challenging job. It takes a lot of workshop hours. Checking and adjusting the valves on an XJR takes about five hours. As an indication, expect to pay around 400 to 600 euros at a Yamaha dealer. The job is usually combined with a major service. After all, if you're spending money anyway… What might be handy? Removing all the bodywork and other parts at home and taking the bike to the workshop on a rented or borrowed trolley.

Before purchasing, check if a 20.000 km service has been performed recently, especially if the odometer is around that maintenance milestone. With normal use and maintenance, an XJR engine like this has proven by now to last for valve adjustments up to four times. And keep in mind that any vibrations during the test ride could be caused by the choice of tires. But that doesn't necessarily have to be the case, of course.

Also take a look at XJR Owners Netherlands.

The model pictured is a 2001 model and is for sale at Roadrunner Motoren in Velp.