The Yamaha FJR1300 instrument cluster is the best of the bunch by our tester's opinion.

The Yamaha FJR1300AE toggle-shifter takes some getting used to, but we grew more fond of it this time around.

The Yamaha FJR1300 heated grips control.

The Yamaha FJR1300 12V plug is located in this side storage compartment.

The four-piston Nissin calipers provide excellent feel with a snappy initial bite.

The Yamaha FJR1300 windscreen at the furthest down, where it goes after every restart.

Fully extended the Yamaha windscreen provides decent protection, but not better than the Honda and BMW.

Fork adjustment for the Yamaha FJR1300 is simple with these knobs.

The rear shock can be adjusted between hard and soft with the pless of a lever.

The Yamaha FJR1300 bags are pretty easy to figure out.

We appreciated the inclusion of interior bags for our test Yamaha FJR1300.

The Yamaha FJR1300 shaft drive was smooth, as was the five-speed gearbox.

The Yamaha ergos are comfortable, encouraging long stints in the saddle.

Steering on the Yamaha is spot on, with the 26-degree rake and 60.6-inch wheelbase delivering a near perfect blend of maneuverability and stability.

Every rider in our entourage commented on the natural feedback and feel offered up by the sporty ride.

The 1298cc Inline-Four powering the Yamaha is potent, yet smooth, delivering just enough oomph to keep things interesting from corner to corner.

Seat height is adjustable, between 31.5 - 32.3 inches. Reach to the bars and pegs feels natural but the FJR riding position is eager as well, egging its master to wick up the throttle.

The FJr's brakes were deemed best in our test, with only one finger needed to slow things down thanks to a terrific initial bite.

Yamaha FJR1300

Whereas most bikes headline with the motor, the highlight of the FJR, by far, is its stellar handling.

Although not better than the BMW or Honda, the Yamaha windshield delivers effective protection.

Complying with a rider's request for more speed, the FJR1300's exquisite handling is complemented by a competent motor.

The FJR1300 riding position is relaxed yet sporty, aiding in the Yamaha's incredible handling.

Yamaha FJR1300

Suspension is provided by Yamaha's Soqi 48mm fork and a single rear shock, each unit delivering a respective 5.4 and 4.8 inches travel.

2007 Yamaha FJR1300

The Yamaha FJRs are middle of the pack in horsepower.

Lighter than the Kawasaki and Honda, the Yamaha FJRs are heavier than the BMW.

The Yamaha FJRs are middle of the pack in torque.

Suffering a narrow defeat in our '06 comparo, the superb-handling 2007 Yamaha FJR1300 was back for top honors in our '08 shootout.

Tipping in at 673 and 686 lbs (632 and 646 tank-empty), the regular and automatic FJRs are well-balanced - the extra 14 lbs of the AE almost imperceptible.

The Yamaha FJR1300AE toggle-shifter takes some getting used to, but we grew more fond of it this time around.