The Yamaha FJR places second due, in part, to its motor not delivering quite the same performance as its rivals.

To the lighthouse... Four different takes on the sport-touring genre proved a fun time in the saddle.

The FJR may not take top honors in our ST comparo for 2009, but two test riders rated it as their For My Money selections.

ABS now comes standard on the FJR along with its Unified Braking System – a linked configuration that activates six of the eight front pistons when squeezing the front lever, while dabbing the rear pedal activates the two rear piston and remaining two up front.

In wind protection, the Yamaha’s adjustable screen rates second to only the BMW.

Style-wise the FJR looks fine, with sporty enough lines. Yet, we admit some elements, like the exhaust cans and logo verge on the dated.

Only $200 more than the ABS-equipped Kawasaki, the Yamaha FJR represents probably the best value, a full $6500 less than the BMW K1300GT.

The Yamaha FJR1300 delivers loads of confidence in the corners, with a stable feel.

The Yamaha’s power builds down low with a smooth delivery. However, get the tach wound up to about 6 grand, rip on the throttle and the word 'plain' blurs right out of mind, along with the roadside scenery

The 2009 Yamaha FJR1300 tops out in rear wheel horsepower at 123.

2009 Sport-Touring fuel specs.

2009 Sport-Touring steering geometry

2009 Sport-Touring weights

The Yamaha can go the distance with the longest range of any mount in our S-T test fleet at 262 miles with its 6.6 gallon tank

The Yamaha delivers unmatched confidence once on its side, tracking through a line with a remarkable stability.

While its horsepower was the lowest of the Inline Fours, the FJR turned a respectable 87 lb-ft at the rear wheel.