Comparison XJR1200('98)& XJR 1300 ('99)

This is a little comparison I wrote when the first 1300 model came out. I leave it here as I made it, but there're some notes I'd like to make. The difference between my late 1200 and my new 1300 is quite big. There is more torque, more overall power, and the front end (brakes included) is much better. The specs stayed the same of course.

 

Specs of the XJR 1200 & 1300 are not difficult to find. Therefore, I tried to make a comparison between the two models. At first sight, there's a lot of difference between the both, but while making this comparison I did not find any logical reason to turn in my 1200 for a 1300. But hey, take a look for yourself ! Yes, I know, very mucho numeros. Happily, there are some pictures at the bottom. OK ?

 

Part 1 : the engine

 

First things first. Let's take a look at all the things both models have in common.
Models
XJR 1200/1300
Engine Type
4-cylinder, 4 valves/cyl. aircooled with small oilcooler
Carbs
Mikuni 36 mm
Ignition
Digital Transistor
Electrics
Maintenance-free 12V/12Ah

 

And now the differences. How these affect performance will be shown furtheron.
Model
XJR 1200
XJR 1300
Bore/Stroke
77.0 mm x 63.8 mm
79.0 mm x 63.8
Displacement
1188
1251
Max Torque
92 Nm by 6250 tr/min
100 Nm by 6000 tr/min
Power
72 kW (98Pk) by 8000 tr/min
78.1 kW (106Pk) by 8000 tr/min
The difference in fuel consumption : 7l/100km for the 1200, 7.38l/100 km for the 1300.

 

Part 2 : transmission

 

The only difference between both models is the chain drive : the 1300 model got the chain and sprockets from the YZF R1.
Models
XJR 1200/1300
Primary Transmission
Sprocket, 1.750
Clutch
Multiplate Wet (Oil) Hydraulic clutch
Gear
5-box
Gearbox
First : 2.857 Second : 2.000 Third : 1.571 Fourth : 1.292 Fifth : 1.115

 

Part 3 : Suspension, frame & brakes

 

Now this is the part where things start to get a little more interesting. Both common and different aspects of both bikes are gathered here.
Model
XJR 1200
XJR 1300 ('99)
Front springs
43 mm
43 mm
Front adjustable
ingoing tension(SP only)
ingoing tension
Rear adjustable
ingoing tension
ingoing tension
Front travel
130 mm
130 mm
Rear travel
110 mm
88 mm
Rake angle
25.30°
25°
Trail
103 mm
100 mm
Wheel dimensions
3.50x17 / 5.50x17
3.50x17 / 5.50x17
Tyre front/back
130/17 / 170/17
120/17 / 180/17
Brakes Rear
1x267 mm disc,2-piston
1x267 mm disc,2-piston
Brakes Front
2x320 mm discs, 4-piston
2x298 mm discs, 4-piston

 

As you probably noticed, there's something more to say here. The slight differences in rear travel, rake and trail are certainly meant to improve a more sportive style of riding. As for the tyres : since the wheels have the same size, most 1200 models are set to 120/17, 180/17 as well. The 1300 model received the front brakes of the R1, which is probably the most innovating feature of the total "upgrade". In general, I'm not really impressed, the upgrade should have been more drastic for that. When the 1200 is driven by a good pilot, it will not be left behind by the 1300. The next table shows why.
Model
XJR 1200
XJR 1300
Maximum speed
210 km/h
216 km/h
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.7 s
3.3 s
Weight filled up / dry
253/210 kg
250/207 kg

 

Picture Time ! Check out most of the visual changes.

 

Model
XJR 1200
XJR 1300

Front Wheel

Difference in disc size !

Tail, a bit wider on the 1300, different light assembly.
Carb Plates. I'd like that on my 1200.