Motorcycle Daily - New Vfr Announced... Again !

For once, I get to post something new, from a website that I consider to be more trustworthy than most !!!
I couldn't pass the occasion, even though I know what most peep will say...


Motorcycle Daily - New VFR

Once again, guess we'll have to wait and see....

Cheers,
P.O.

Quote

The new technology? Perhaps some form of automatic gearbox, and certainly an updated version of Honda's combined ABS (which it has been showcasing recently on a prototype CBR600RR). Expect some rather dramatic new styling, as well.
Motorcycle Daily editors read VFRD :fing02:

:goofy:

Yeah, I saw that this morning and you're right Motorcycle Daily seems pretty trustworthy but I'll feel better about the whole thing when there is an actual Honda press release.

I'd be happy if they just gave us a bigger motor and left the rest of the VFRness alone.

I'll beleive it when I take it for a test ride.

Yeah, Uh huh....and we know what the Loch Ness monster and Big Foot really looks like!! Worse yet, Honda might go ahead and issue us a dud of a bike after all this hype and rumors, to kill the VFR for good.....Blehhhhhhcchharrrrghhhmoan....

Beck
95 VFR

Obligatory...

[image: Posted Image]

(sorry, I had to...)

another month goes by, another rumor comes out. SSDY

[image: View Post]Darth Bling, on Jun 26 2008, 05:26 PM, said:

Obligatory...

[image: Posted Image]

(sorry, I had to...)

Big :+1:

Nice catch, P.O. And I agree with you the MD is a more reliable source than some.

And admit it, guys: I know the VFR rumor thing has been beat to death, but it's still kind of exciting, isn't it? :cool:

did they say if it will be flat black?

There really are some "serious rumors" flying around about the VFR and a new automatic trans........supposedly, true automatic mode, and push button electric "shift-it-yourself" 6 speed mode........also same trans for the Gold Wing rumors......."could happen"............. :rolleyes:

[image: View Post]skuuter trash, on Jun 26 2008, 09:52 PM, said:

There really are some "serious rumors" flying around about the VFR and a new automatic trans........supposedly, true automatic mode, and push button electric "shift-it-yourself" 6 speed mode........also same trans for the Gold Wing rumors......."could happen"............. :rolleyes:
I hope not. Nothing against the clutchless FJR, and I'm not a huge traditionalist, but motorcycles are supposed to have clutches and shifters. That's part of what makes 'em fun to ride!

I gotta tell ya, I hate my CR-V's automatic transmission. It's B-O-R-I-N-G. God, I miss my '05 Civic Si. I didn't know how much I loved that car 'til I traded it in. (Sorry for the off-topic car stuff.)

I've never really posted on the new VFR rumor threads but I have to say something here. :warranty:

I'm with TimC on the clutch thing. The VFR's roots are in performance and racing and I've never heard of a race bike with an automatic transmission. I hope that is only an option, like on the fjr or not at all(if a new bike ever comes out). :offtopic: I had an integra now drive an automatic tacoma and I feel your pain Tim!!! :pissed:

Darth, that's a cool emoticon. Where'd that come from??? Anyhow, we need to keep the rumor mill going or else we'll all just become a bunch of pessimistic whiners! right?

Frequently there's a picture of what the new vfr is supposed to look like posted on there. I hope it looks along those lines cause to me that pic looks great :fing02:

let's not forget about the patents that Honda secured: 2 piece frame (separate front and rear sub-frames) attached to 1,000cc V4 engine.

Would really like to see that...drop a few pounds, add a few HP. Ditto on the auto trans, shifting at matching revs is a rewarding skill.

Talking about old Honda's, I had a CRX (my first new car!) that I drove for 10+ years, could shift (except from a start) without using the clutch at all, up and down shifting.

see ya -- Jeff

ill hold my breath until september, but this is gonna be the year of the cruiser. and the CBR600 will get a refresh.

VTX lineup due for FI and Combined ABS

i did notice recently that honda has a patent for a twin clutch system for a motorcycle. could be some sort of automated DSG.

do you guys follow the lasted DSG happenings in the auto world?

[image: View Post]ROUSE, on Jun 27 2008, 05:05 PM, said:

ill hold my breath until september, but this is gonna be the year of the cruiser. and the CBR600 will get a refresh.

VTX lineup due for FI and Combined ABS

i did notice recently that honda has a patent for a twin clutch system for a motorcycle. could be some sort of automated DSG.

do you guys follow the lasted DSG happenings in the auto world?

Ok guys... I have an inside source at Honda Japan and this is what I have been told..... The replacement for the VFR AND Blackbird is going to be a 1200cc V4 due out state side late this year. They have apparantly been working on it for the last 6? years.... This source is pretty reliable...

is grover really a reliable source?

[image: View Post]timmythecop, on Jun 27 2008, 08:44 AM, said:

is grover really a reliable source?


haven't we all heard this before.

would love for it to be true. but.....

if it is true. i think were gonna see some crazy pricing, sort of like what happened with the VMAX $11xxx to what $19xxx
i could see a new Blackbird/VFR going for $14999.

I just got this from a very very reliable source who works in Hondas R&D department. It basically confirms a 2009 VFR:

言葉だけが下がってホンダからの管理をします。彼らの新しい2009年を設計する必要があります問い合わせvfrです。 2009年にしなければならないとリトルvfr非常に基本的な変更を適用します。ホンダはありません尻をラットvfr遺産や伝統については、我々は保つために何も変更を低コストで実現するとだけを確認してバイクがよく売れました。私 たちは2008年を使用してvfrに変更し、色に変更し、エンジンを少しでも主に保つすべて同じです。私たちを作る必要がありますので、多くの小規模低価格の変更をすること大勢の技術的なごみのリストについてはこれがどのように 最高のvfrている。これにより小売価格の引き上げを正当化することができます$ 2000 。よくご連絡は仕事に取り掛かるのです。これは簡単では、愚か者には、購入することvfr場合には、ステッカーにしてください。あらやマーケティングを使用していることを確認彼らは、 2008年と同じスローガンの愚かな'夢のマシン' 。

言葉だけが下がってホンダからの管理をします。彼らの新しい2009年を設計する必要があります問い合わせvfrです。 2009年にしなければならないとリトルvfr非常に基本的な変更を適用します。ホンダはありません尻をラットvfr遺産や伝統については、我々は保つために何も変更を低コストで実現するとだけを確認してバイクがよく売れました。私 たちは2008年を使用してvfrに変更し、色に変更し、エンジンを少しでも主に保つすべて同じです。私たちを作る必要がありますので、多くの小規模低価格の変更をすること大勢の技術的なごみのリストについてはこれがどのように 最高のvfrている。これにより小売価格の引き上げを正当化することができます$ 2000 。よくご連絡は仕事に取り掛かるのです。これは簡単では、愚か者には、購入することvfr場合には、ステッカーにしてください。あらやマーケティングを使用していることを確認彼らは、 2008年と同じスローガンの愚かな'夢のマシン' 。

translate into:
Honda word came down from management. They design a new 2009 vfr need us. 2009 Little vfr should be very basic changes. Honda is not the butt of rat vfr heritage and traditions, we will ensure any changes to the low-cost and only confirm the bike when it sold well. We are using vfr 2008 to change the color changes, some of the main engine to keep all the same. We need to make so many small low-cost, a lot of changes to the technical trash list of how this is the best vfr. This will raise the retail price you can justify $ 2000. Well let us get to work. This is simple, fool, if you are purchasing a vfr, stickers, please. Oh, marketing and using them to make sure that in 2008 the same stupid slogan 'dream machine'.

This is via google translation

this just in.........

愚かなアメリカ人、私達は奴隷にし、まだ新しいVFRを与えない。

[image: View Post]adamf18, on Jun 27 2008, 11:47 AM, said:

Honda is not the butt of rat vfr heritage and traditions


Does this mean we shouldn't give a rat's ass?

[image: View Post]mick, on Jun 27 2008, 09:11 AM, said:

[image: View Post]adamf18, on Jun 27 2008, 11:47 AM, said:

Honda is not the butt of rat vfr heritage and traditions

Does this mean we shouldn't give a rat's ass?


:biggrin: that lost a lot in translation!

It was suppose to be that Honda did not give a rat's ass about the VFR's heritage or tradition anymore.

[image: View Post]timmythecop, on Jun 27 2008, 10:05 AM, said:

this just in.........

愚かなアメリカ人、私達は奴隷にし、まだ新しいVFRを与えない。
ROFLOL :goofy:

It took me some time to run down a picture of the 09 VFR even if it is an artist conception pic, it shows huge changes and will blow everyone away.
















[image: Posted Image]

NEW 09 VFR with new automatic trans, optional top box, and windshield............

[image: Posted Image]

V-Tec haters got their wish......it no longer has it....................... :goofy:

I thought this was the new intercepter
[image: Posted Image]

Why cant you guys just wait for the actual news release before tearing it apart?

[image: View Post]marid2apterbilt, on Jun 27 2008, 02:56 PM, said:

Why cant you guys just wait for the actual news release before tearing it apart?

...because it's a VFR Forum, and we have to have something to post about................. :rolleyes:

[image: View Post]Baileyrock, on Jun 27 2008, 12:00 PM, said:

It took me some time to run down a picture of the 09 VFR even if it is an artist conception pic, it shows huge changes and will blow everyone away.
















[image: Posted Image]
Looks like it comes with a 300 rear tire and pre-wrecked front end.. :unsure:

[image: View Post]marid2apterbilt, on Jun 27 2008, 12:56 PM, said:

Why cant you guys just wait for the actual news release before tearing it apart?
Because only a pu$$y has less than 1500 posts... :goofy:

[image: View Post]marid2apterbilt, on Jun 27 2008, 02:56 PM, said:

Why cant you guys just wait for the actual news release before tearing it apart?

Sam, that's because we have been doing this every year for several years now, waiting for the release of the" NEW VFR" :rolleyes:

Rookie! :goofy:

[image: View Post]Baileyrock, on Jun 27 2008, 03:16 PM, said:

[image: View Post]marid2apterbilt, on Jun 27 2008, 02:56 PM, said:

Why cant you guys just wait for the actual news release before tearing it apart?

Sam, that's because we have been doing this every year for several years now, waiting for the release of the" NEW VFR" :rolleyes:

Rookie! :goofy:


Yeah, it's a "RITUAL"........................ :rolleyes:

Hey i would like to see a new VFR come out too, My current one is almost paid off.. But really do any of you think we will have a say in what the new VFR will offer.
Bigger motor would be nice but not really needed.
Radial brakes.. Yes big plus IF.
Updated and fully adjustable suspension.. Would be another big plus

Id like to see them offer customized spring rates for the buyer.. Would be a big bonus for us bigger guys...

BR we all know the first thing your gonna do with it.... Pin it to the moon then see how fast it will go to Puckets.. :fing02:




?? Rookie ?? OK I will go back to harrassing Seb now.. (I;m not worthy, Im not worthy)

I would love for Honda to continue the VFR line, but in reality I could care less if they come out with one on a personal level. My 02 w/60k miles does everything I want or need out of a bike and so I have no NEED to upgrade bikes. :fing02:
I have a track bike to meet any extreme needs that I might have. :wheel:
New VFR, who cares! :rolleyes:

WoW!

Thats Good news guys!

I was concerned that this was just another one of those yearly hype threads? Seems that this time, it be the real deal! ---- right on time too! After fooling around with us for some time now... Honda's next Gen is initiating a sneak peak of the to-be-expected UPDATE!

I'll be the first to purchase the new version once it becomes available! :cool:

No worries, It'll just be another HUGE milestone to keep us V4, VFR fanatics entertained for years to come... ?6 years in the making? Could probly come up with much more than simply applying new paint-jobs/graphics to allready existing machines - no?

This one will have the FIRE!!!

Start ordering yours soon... Everyones gonna want one, after it goes mainstream!

[image: View Post]ROUSE, on Jun 27 2008, 01:12 PM, said:

[image: View Post]timmythecop, on Jun 27 2008, 08:44 AM, said:

is grover really a reliable source?


haven't we all heard this before.

would love for it to be true. but.....

if it is true. i think were gonna see some crazy pricing, sort of like what happened with the VMAX $11xxx to what $19xxx
i could see a new Blackbird/VFR going for $14999.


Maybe a 13,800.00 VFR? --- Deals to be held @ $1000.00 off sticker if go without ABS
Deals to be held @/durring the first introductory week of the bike hitting showroom floors with $999.99 off sticker

So, the non ABS version drops to 12,800.00 + (subtracting $999.99) = $11,800.00 for the newly revised-FIRE-THROWING, next gen VFR!!!!! Thats what happens at Honda/Akron/duc/motorsports along Ohio turnpike headed toward Cleveland... Gotta order from them early though - they get 3 VFR's to start. Those first three bikes are the only VFR'S to get those afformentioned deals. I recommend contacting them to display an interest... As, I will be contacting them to lay-out my down payment plan for one of their 3 new VIFFEERRRZZ in 2009! Nice to have an 'in the know' too,,, "My 02 VTEC purchased from them "(friend of mine sold it to me back then) - Hey Mike! Hold one of those NEW VIFF's for me please... (how much down payment due now?)

[image: View Post]adamf18, on Jun 27 2008, 04:47 PM, said:

言葉だけが下がってホンダからの管理をします。彼らの新しい2009年を設計する必要があります問い合わせvfrです。 2009年にしなければならないとリトルvfr非常に基本的な変更を適用します。ホンダはありません尻をラットvfr遺産や伝統については、我々は保つために何も変更を低コストで実現するとだけを確認してバイクがよく売れました。私 たちは2008年を使用してvfrに変更し、色に変更し、エンジンを少しでも主に保つすべて同じです。私たちを作る必要がありますので、多くの小規模低価格の変更をすること大勢の技術的なごみのリストについてはこれがどのように 最高のvfrている。これにより小売価格の引き上げを正当化することができます$ 2000 。よくご連絡は仕事に取り掛かるのです。これは簡単では、愚か者には、購入することvfr場合には、ステッカーにしてください。あらやマーケティングを使用していることを確認彼らは、 2008年と同じスローガンの愚かな'夢のマシン' 。

translate into:
Honda word came down from management. They design a new 2009 vfr need us. 2009 Little vfr should be very basic changes. Honda is not the butt of rat vfr heritage and traditions, we will ensure any changes to the low-cost and only confirm the bike when it sold well. We are using vfr 2008 to change the color changes, some of the main engine to keep all the same. We need to make so many small low-cost, a lot of changes to the technical trash list of how this is the best vfr. This will raise the retail price you can justify $ 2000. Well let us get to work. This is simple, fool, if you are purchasing a vfr, stickers, please. Oh, marketing and using them to make sure that in 2008 the same stupid slogan 'dream machine'.

This is via google translation

[image: View Post]ibAdam, on Jun 27 2008, 05:38 PM, said:

[image: View Post]mick, on Jun 27 2008, 09:11 AM, said:

[image: View Post]adamf18, on Jun 27 2008, 11:47 AM, said:

Honda is not the butt of rat vfr heritage and traditions

Does this mean we shouldn't give a rat's ass?


:biggrin: that lost a lot in translation!

It was suppose to be that Honda did not give a rat's ass about the VFR's heritage or tradition anymore.

[image: View Post]Baileyrock, on Jun 27 2008, 07:00 PM, said:

It took me some time to run down a picture of the 09 VFR even if it is an artist conception pic, it shows huge changes and will blow everyone away.


Trust me...
Know where to buy it. IT will surface this year! Everyone will want one! All the old school 7th gen baddasses, they will remain unsurpasible in there designe, but 2009 VFR will de a MileStone awaiting -- Get it while you can! I seem to believe it'll improve the guise in many ways soo dramatically, that the old schooler VIFFERS will enjoy their personal machines even more, but those who hop on the newest improved version of their long loved machines will be enviouse



GO NEEWER!
Be all over it, if its personal, and outstanding!









[image: Posted Image]

I see it as , Honda designers need to get their heads out of their a##es and bring back the gear driven cams, sportbike styling ,manual tranny ( automatic tranny is a turn off) , NO VTEC, shed some pounds and add a few more HP.

[image: View Post]Nailer45, on Jun 29 2008, 08:21 AM, said:

I see it as , Honda designers need to get their heads out of their a##es and bring back the gear driven cams, sportbike styling ,manual tranny ( automatic tranny is a turn off) , NO VTEC, shed some pounds and add a few more HP.


Yes, as it stands right now , I see no reason to ever buy another street bike. They will just get worse with Hondas (Green) direction . We'll see when the nuematic valve engine hits the market. But the 5th gen motors I dont think will ever come back


fuel cost is another issue, its getting very expensive to run the vfr, as if it wasnt already

[image: View Post]spud786, on Jun 29 2008, 09:43 AM, said:

[image: View Post]Nailer45, on Jun 29 2008, 08:21 AM, said:

I see it as , Honda designers need to get their heads out of their a##es and bring back the gear driven cams, sportbike styling ,manual tranny ( automatic tranny is a turn off) , NO VTEC, shed some pounds and add a few more HP.


Yes, as it stands right now , I see no reason to ever buy another street bike. They will just get worse with Hondas (Green) direction . We'll see when the nuematic valve engine hits the market. But the 5th gen motors I dont think will ever come back.

I think this brings up a question I haven't seen asked here before: Would all the 5th gen. owners who hate the 6th gen's VTEC and chain-driven cams rush out and buy a 7th gen. non-VTEC with gear-driven cams?

No offense, but I'm just curious to know whether people who have been riding an older bike (that's either long paid off or they bought used for much less than new) and have been perfectly happy with it will be willing to shell out big bucks for a brand new VFR that may be in the 5-figure range.

Like I said, no offense to Nailer or any other 5th gen. owners, but in my mind some 5th gen. owners have stayed with their bikes not just b/c of the 6th gen. dislikes, but also b/c they're somewhat frugal. I can't see those folks rushing out to buy a new $11k+ VFR. They've stayed with their current bikes b/c they're perfect for them. There's a real love affair for pre-6th gen. VFRs there, so unless the new bike (if and when there is one) is everything they want, I doubt there we'll see a flood of 5th gen's hitting the used bike market.

As regards automatic transmissions vs. manual gear boxes (bike or cage): It 's the difference between just guiding it, or truly riding it (IMHO). :biggrin:

[image: View Post]marid2apterbilt, on Jun 28 2008, 09:14 AM, said:

Hey i would like to see a new VFR come out too, My current one is almost paid off.. But really do any of you think we will have a say in what the new VFR will offer..........

No nono noooo no no noooooo no no NO!!!!! We have ZERO say on what the newest VFRs will offer! Believe me, after 13 years in the VFR scene, I should know!!!!
...................................................rookie!! ;p

Beck
95 VFR

The VFR currently has a tough time fitting in. Its just a poor mans ST1300 with a better motor. Its more sophisticated than the CBR lineup, and less touring than the ST. The bike better not goo too far one way or the other. I still think they need to make it more touring, and less sport. Give it softer suspension, enlarge the engine, and make the second seat more comfortable.

And de-linked the brakes, and a fully adjustable front fork, and drop about xx pounds....

aaahhhhh...... E-Ticket

[image: View Post]RRW, on Jun 26 2008, 03:33 PM, said:

I'd be happy if they just gave us a bigger motor and left the rest of the VFRness alone.

I would!

I am still riding my '99 VFR and loving it! Why? Because I sunk a fair amount of cash into *just* so I wouldn't have to buy a porky, V-TEC, hard-to-valve-adjust, later model!

I did a brake de-linking kit (w/ full stainless steel lines) allowing me full use of the triple pot calipers up front and use of the rear brake for parking lot maneuvers and trail braking; put a Penkse fully adjustable shock on the rear, and Dave Hodges and GP Suspension put in F3 rebound cartridges and re-spring and re-valve for my weight. And I absolutely love the dang thing at 30,000 miles.

But would I buy a new VFR with 1000cc with fully adjustable *quality* suspension, KA radial brakes, and that didn't surge at xxxx rpm in the middle of a corner?

In a heart-beat.

And why? Because there are very few, if any, sport touring bikes that are all day-comfortable, have great range, don't weigh a bazillion pounds, and have a large dealer network.

Cheers, E-Ticket

[image: View Post]TimC, on Jun 29 2008, 08:06 AM, said:

[image: View Post]spud786, on Jun 29 2008, 09:43 AM, said:

[image: View Post]Nailer45, on Jun 29 2008, 08:21 AM, said:

I see it as , Honda designers need to get their heads out of their a##es and bring back the gear driven cams, sportbike styling ,manual tranny ( automatic tranny is a turn off) , NO VTEC, shed some pounds and add a few more HP.


Yes, as it stands right now , I see no reason to ever buy another street bike. They will just get worse with Hondas (Green) direction . We'll see when the nuematic valve engine hits the market. But the 5th gen motors I dont think will ever come back.

I think this brings up a question I haven't seen asked here before: Would all the 5th gen. owners who hate the 6th gen's VTEC and chain-driven cams rush out and buy a 7th gen. non-VTEC with gear-driven cams?

No offense, but I'm just curious to know whether people who have been riding an older bike (that's either long paid off or they bought used for much less than new) and have been perfectly happy with it will be willing to shell out big bucks for a brand new VFR that may be in the 5-figure range.

Like I said, no offense to Nailer or any other 5th gen. owners, but in my mind some 5th gen. owners have stayed with their bikes not just b/c of the 6th gen. dislikes, but also b/c they're somewhat frugal. I can't see those folks rushing out to buy a new $11k+ VFR. They've stayed with their current bikes b/c they're perfect for them. There's a real love affair for pre-6th gen. VFRs there, so unless the new bike (if and when there is one) is everything they want, I doubt there we'll see a flood of 5th gen's hitting the used bike market.

you know what's funny?

Has it ever been discussed before that the 6th gen was ORIGINALLY designed to pass 2008 Euro 3 emission standards? Somehow you have to believe that the end of that bike is near since it has passed that feat when there are some bikes that just lost their carbs in 2008, and that was their MAJOR redesign.

I honestly think we're gonna have a new VFR the same year that the Aprilia V4 comes out as there will be nothing else to compete against until then. But having said that, I'd also believe the new VFR will be sportier, even if it's not a "VFR" we know Honda is working on a new V4 engine.

Remember this is just an opinion, don't take it for fact.

[image: View Post]marbs34, on Jun 29 2008, 10:14 PM, said:

I honestly think we're gonna have a new VFR the same year that the Aprilia V4 comes out as there will be nothing else to compete against until then. But having said that, I'd also believe the new VFR will be sportier, even if it's not a "VFR" we know Honda is working on a new V4 engine.
Yamaha and Aprilia have the kick-ass new V4s while Honda concentrates on inline fours or bloated crap for fat Americans who can't squeeze a clutch lever. Come to think of it, I've always been a fan of VFRs and Honda cars, but the motorcycle division has had it's head crammed up it's ass for about ten years now. Pathetic.

[image: View Post]Baileyrock, on Jun 28 2008, 09:07 AM, said:

New VFR, who cares! :rolleyes:

"Refreshing New Perspective".................... :goofy:

[image: View Post]marbs34, on Jun 30 2008, 01:14 AM, said:

Has it ever been discussed before that the 6th gen was ORIGINALLY designed to pass 2008 Euro 3 emission standards? Somehow you have to believe that the end of that bike is near since it has passed that feat when there are some bikes that just lost their carbs in 2008, and that was their MAJOR redesign.
I think I've said before that I'm not surprised Honda stuck with the 6th gen. this long, because of the '08 emissions certification. Made a lot of sense to take advantage of that long-term approval over the last few years, keeping R&D costs down since they didn't have to worry about passing another new bike.

Not an excuse for letting the current bike age so long, but it could be one more reason they did. Just my $0.02.

[image: View Post]timmythecop, on Jun 26 2008, 06:47 PM, said:

did they say if it will be flat black?


Now, now, Timmy. You know that saying "flat black" isn't politically correct any more since Honda released the PC Colors guide ™ 2004 ©. Repeat after me, 'ASPHALT', asssphalllt, does it come in flat black ASPHALT? Not that you can't rattle can it and call it what you like, but I (almost) regret not buying that 'asphalt' 04, too bad that the LBS and VTEC were such a turn off. I like your sense of style, though. :fing02:

[image: View Post]dale-j, on Sep 27 2008, 05:19 AM, said:

[image: View Post]timmythecop, on Jun 26 2008, 06:47 PM, said:

did they say if it will be flat black?


Now, now, Timmy. You know that saying "flat black" isn't politically correct any more since Honda released the PC Colors guide ™ 2004 �. Repeat after me, 'ASPHALT', asssphalllt, does it come in flat black ASPHALT? Not that you can't rattle can it and call it what you like, but I (almost) regret not buying that 'asphalt' 04, too bad that the LBS and VTEC were such a turn off. I like your sense of style, though. :fing02:


I don't get what the big deal is with the gear-driven cams or even the V-4 configuration. If the VTEC worked a bit better, I'd say go with it. And as it is, I don't have much issue with the current system. From my experience, it costs about $200 more than an inline four (like my ZX12R) to service every 16K miles. Big deal. And I'd guess that overall service costs are very similar.

Gear driven cams? There is a reason they are not widely used: cost and less efficient than chain drive. The V-4? IMHO it is a packaging nightmare. I'm in the midst of changing out the rear shock on my 6th gen, and it's a PITA compared to the previous few motorcycles I've done this on. Remove the rear exhaust, mid-pipe and front headers? Give me a break.

I bought the VFR for the ex as a bike that she could ride on longer trips, that I would also enjoy riding. I could equally as well have bought an Apriila Futura.

I've kept the VFR because it does a lot of things well. It's fun to ride, it's reasonably comfortable (although strangely enough my ZX12R is just as comfortable on a long trip even though the riding position is more aggressive), it is reasonably economical and has a reasonable (but not great) fuel range. I especially like the build quality and reliability, IMHO those are the two biggest selling points.

So for Honda to get my dollars on a new VFR, it is going to have to do more than the existing one. That means, at my age, a bike that is more protective and comfortable (my ZX12R has significantly better protection than the VFR), is at least no heavier, isn't significantly more expensive to run in terms of servicing, fuel or tires, and that handles at least as well and hopefully significantly better, with improved bump handling.
For me, I don't want to see a smaller, bike: lighter, yes, smaller, no. Where I live, a decent fairing extends the riding season significantly, and having some room to move my 6'2 body around makes for a much more comfortable day.

However,it would have to be a bunch better, as the current machine does most things pretty well, and the few things I don't like (bumpy road performance) are fixable. For going any faster on the road, I'd be better off spending some money on a few decent track schools and maybe some suspension work over buying a new bike.

Actually, I'm half considering resuscitating my Kaw Concours: big tank range, equivalent MPG to the VFR in most conditions, decent two-up comfort, better protection for the shoulder seasons, and they are so cheap and disposable that I don't care at all about riding one in all sorts of bad conditions.
Yes, they are cheaply built and poorly put together (compared to the VFR), and way outdated. But a few K in components more than halves the handling and comfort difference to a modern tourer, and I already have most of those components on hand.

Another big reason I'm considering it is that home servicing and upgrades on the Connie are a whole let easier than on the VFR or ZX. No more waiting on service schedules, and having to work out that nobody at the dealer has ever adjusted V-TEC valves before. It's nowhere near the bike the VFR or ZX is, but I've been finding out on group rides that with some basic mods the rider makes far more difference than the bike, at least for the roads I ride.

Of course, I'm also wondering what Suz will do with the rumored Busa-based tourer. My big complaint about the 12R is the heavy fuel consumption, and limited tank range. I can easily ride a tank (160 miles if I am very careful). Generally Busas seem to be lighter on gas, and the frame design doesn't limit a bigger tank as much as it does on the 12R / ZX14 / Concours 14.
Unfortunately I don't fit the current Busa, and generally Suzuki's finish tends to lack when ridden in harsh conditions.
Keep the weight reasonably low, improve the protection and comfort, and Suz could probably produce something that outguns a new VFR for not that much money, relatively speaking.