The objective of this research was to study the fast pyrolysis of sisal residue, performed in a pilot unit with a fluidized bed reactor. The tests were carried out by varying the flows of nitrogen (8-14 N m(3)/h), biomass (10.33-25.95 g/ min), and temperature (450-550 degrees C). The experimental planning technique was used to identify the number of tests and the influence of operational variables on the bio-oil yield. One of the highest H-2/CO (2.16) ratios was found from the eighth test on, which was an appropriate value for the production of methanol and liquid biofuels. All bio-oil samples produced were characterized, and the results showed that the sisal residue bio-oil is different from other bio-oils reported in the literature. It has high viscosity at room temperature, with a pour point of 55 degrees C and average molecular weight of 414.2 g/mol. In addition, phenolic species completely prevail in relation to the other monomeric components. The biochar obtained is an amorphous, fine powder. Despite the porosity, its specific surface area is lower than of commercial activated carbon.