This week on my Turbo Tour with McGrath Powersports, I finally had a chance to board a Yamaha FJR. I've had several "tours" with this bike's main competitor - The Kawasaki Concourse. The bikes are similar, but I'm giving the FJR the top slot.

After riding this beast, I now know why 9 out of 10 Iron Butts prefer it for their patients that shred asphalt.

One such Iron Butt is my pal Craig over in the Cap City. He's logged 88,000 miles on his "FIDGER." He says this 2004 Powersports model with 55K mi. is "just getting broke in." I can only do about 100 this week, but if I had a few days off, I would push this thing across I-80 and over to the Rockies. From Denver, I'd hit these parks...which all have amazing motorcycle roads:

  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison, CO
  • Four Corners, CO-NM-UT-AZ
  • Canyonlands, Zion, Arches and Bryce Canyon, UT
  • Lehman Caves, NV
  • Devil's Tower, WY

...and back to the cornfields and pig stench.

Next week, I think I'll take a Z1000. The Powersports guys say the 2014 edition is badass. Meantime, the sport-touring ride will glide.

Until the next TT, drive safely! We'll see you on the 31st for Bike Night #3.

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