Great value, functional and stylish, the XJ900S Diversion is one of the few large capacity bikes that really can be described as a true all-rounder. Much of this proven machine's legendary versatility is due to the simple dohc air-cooled in-line four cylinder engine and hassle-free shaft drive.
If you are looking for a manageable long distance tourer and two-up comfort is at the top of your list of priorities, then the 900cc Divvy is a pretty good bet. Passengers won't feel cramped because the seat is generously long, and the footpegs are positioned low - your pillion won't have their knees under their armpits on a 900 Diversion.
The front forks are adjustable for preload, while the rear monoshock has a rising rate linkage and also features adjustable preload.
There is little vibration from the in-line four, partly thanks to the rubber engine mounts, so the Divvy is never tiring to ride. Practical features include large mirrors, plenty of bungee hooks for strapping down luggage, a half-fairing that keeps wind pressure off rider and passenger, and optional 34- or 46-litre panniers.
The XJ900S is an eminently sensible motorcycle, and for some that's a virtue. But others will find the 90bhp barely enough to hustle along 239kg of motorcycle to its 130mph top speed. In fact, the 900 makes less power than the FZS600 Fazer, which has another 5bhp on tap - and only 189kg to haul.
But this misses the point. The Divvy is aimed at a different market and the 61.5ft-lb of torque (the Fazer has a claimed 45ft-lb at 9500rpm) means that it will pull cleanly for easy overtaking, whichever one of the five gears you're in. Expect 40mpg when two-up touring. Now where did you put those maps?
