Finding the perfect travel companion is no easy task. When shopping for a grand touring motorcycle, it's even harder. The benefits are so unique and diversified that it's nearly impossible to find them all in a single package: comfort, performance, sportiness, riding pleasure and lots of room for two people and their luggage.

This full-size GT motorcycle seems capable of delivering all the goods.

Some manufacturers have nevertheless tried to design the ultimate all-around motorcycle. Yamaha, for one, has spent the last few years offering the FJR1300, a big GT bike which, on paper, seems capable of delivering all the goods.

Automatic?
The 2008 Yamaha FJR1300 I recently tested featured the brand's famous Chip Control Shifting (YCC-S) technology, the first and only 5-speed semi-automatic transmission with electronically-controlled clutch in the category (that's right: no clutch lever). The YCC-S system uses two electronic actuators: one for the clutch and one for shifting. The rider has the option of shifting via a conveniently located-handlebar switch or using the conventional foot shifter. Be careful, though, as the first gear is at the top with the other gears while the neutral position is at the bottom.

This unique transmission requires some focus the first time around, especially if you're used to a traditional manual gearbox. To make the engine come to life, you have to simultaneously push the start button AND the front brake lever or the rear brake pedal; otherwise, it won't budge. This procedure prevents starting when any of the gears is engaged.

Once you're in first gear, gently turn the throttle and the FJR1300 will take off from 1,500 rpm. In traffic and parking maneuvers, idling requires you to maintain engine speed at the engagement point of the electronic clutch. You should use the rear brake at the same time to make the operation easier and avoid engine shudder.

The 2008 Yamaha FJR1300 features the brand's Chip Control Shifting (YCC-S) technology.