Alright, since my original poll vanished somehow into thin air, I've taken the opportunity to liven it up a bit. Here are the new choices!
Vfr1200f Poll, Who Likes It, Who Hates It, And Who's Going To Buy It?
34 posts Started 9 Oct 2009 Last recovered post 26 May 2010 Wayback Machine snapshot 8 Feb 2011
I'll give it the old Siskel and Ebert - two thumbs up!
Thumbs down, from what I've seen so far.
The new VFR has been compared to the CBR1100XX, but the XX was an extremely comfortable and capable touring bike. This new VFR does not look overly comfortable.
The new VFR has been compared to the CBR1100XX, but the XX was an extremely comfortable and capable touring bike. This new VFR does not look overly comfortable.
So far, not liking it but will have to catch a ride on one to know for sure.
Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
[image: View Post]jeremy556, on Oct 9 2009, 03:15 PM, said:
So far, not liking it but will have to catch a ride on one to know for sure.Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
So far I like it on Paper and the Blue Screen, same for the "I'll make a determination after my up-coming Road Test"....only way to really know. Most likely it will suit my purpose fairly well though by the First Impressions. Still won't be givin' up the "Comfy-Tour-All-Day-DN-01" right now though.......... :fing02: :beer:
I like it. If the price is right, I'll get one.
Still letting the style grow on me, but I do not like the pipe and the front appears a bit to "pan-faced" for me. But, I'll waiti to see it live.
voted nay
voted nay
I was reading the Cycle World treatment of it and they also have some new Kawasakis, one was the Concours 1400. http://www.cycleworld.com/article.asp?sect...article_id=1738
The more I went back and forth the more I realized the VFR is cleaner and tighter looking. I like the headlight and the tail section, I can see the plate hanger removed in my imagination. The fairing is taking more time to get used to. I'm not sure about the layered look but it's more for heat management and the chin fairing, I suspect, doesn't have to be removed for oil changes so that might mean the side fairing comes off easier.
I don't like the plastic tank cover and the reduced capacity all that much, but range, rather than capacity is the issue so if the range is comparabel to my 2004 then I'm ok with the smaller tank. I do like my magnetic tank back though. Are we sure the tank is plastic coated? The side profile is a bit like the new CBRs and little snub nosed, but then I was thinking the newer Kawasakis have pushed the pointy front thing too far. The look is different, but when they catch on then the pointy snouts will begin to look dated. As far as weight, It depends on how it rides. It'll have much more power so giddiup shouldn't be a problem. Will it flick into corners as easily as a 6th gen? probably not but it may be so close and have so much more power coming out of the curves that it'll leave a 6th gen behind and then people will forget the weight and remember Honda makes CBRs for flicking around corners. Who knows, but a little weight is nice when passing trucks and in sidewinds.
I don't love it, but voted that way because there is no category for liking it a lot.
The more I went back and forth the more I realized the VFR is cleaner and tighter looking. I like the headlight and the tail section, I can see the plate hanger removed in my imagination. The fairing is taking more time to get used to. I'm not sure about the layered look but it's more for heat management and the chin fairing, I suspect, doesn't have to be removed for oil changes so that might mean the side fairing comes off easier.
I don't like the plastic tank cover and the reduced capacity all that much, but range, rather than capacity is the issue so if the range is comparabel to my 2004 then I'm ok with the smaller tank. I do like my magnetic tank back though. Are we sure the tank is plastic coated? The side profile is a bit like the new CBRs and little snub nosed, but then I was thinking the newer Kawasakis have pushed the pointy front thing too far. The look is different, but when they catch on then the pointy snouts will begin to look dated. As far as weight, It depends on how it rides. It'll have much more power so giddiup shouldn't be a problem. Will it flick into corners as easily as a 6th gen? probably not but it may be so close and have so much more power coming out of the curves that it'll leave a 6th gen behind and then people will forget the weight and remember Honda makes CBRs for flicking around corners. Who knows, but a little weight is nice when passing trucks and in sidewinds.
I don't love it, but voted that way because there is no category for liking it a lot.
[image: View Post]choco, on Oct 9 2009, 01:48 PM, said:
I don't love it, but voted that way because there is no category for liking it a lot.Lets just consider "loving it" the same as not hating it! I thought about all kinds of alternatives to love it/hate it, just want to keep it simple. Seems like most have a pretty strong opinion regarding the new bike, so I left the on-the-fencer's out of it for now.
[image: View Post]choco, on Oct 9 2009, 03:48 PM, said:
I don't love it, but voted that way because there is no category for liking it a lot.Yeah, the way the choices are phrase is a little too extreme for me also. For example, I don't like the 5gen looks all that much but I don't think that means Honda "lost the plot" back in 98. One may hate the looks of the 7gen but love the specs.
I was at first quite disappointed in it's looks. But after seeing some actual photos of the bike with a real background, it looks so much better than the original shots with the white background.
It's growing on me, and when I see one in person, I just might want one...
It's growing on me, and when I see one in person, I just might want one...
Interesting question. I really can't answer at the moment: it seems too big for me and I'd rather buy something a bit lighter (BMW F800?) but I don't want to say no just yet. How about a "maybe" category?!? Just a suggestion...
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[image: View Post]PolarBear, on Oct 9 2009, 04:07 PM, said:
Interesting question. I really can't answer at the moment: it seems too big for me and I'd rather buy something a bit lighter (BMW F800?) but I don't want to say no just yet. How about a "maybe" category?!? Just a suggestion...c
Too Big PolarBear.......nah, I'm 5'7", plannin' on flickin' it on a Road Test....just need help gettin' on and off......... ;p
I can't vote because neither option expresses my feelings very well.
- The styling might grow on me, but right now not so much.
- I bought an 800 because I didn't want anything bigger. If down the road I want something bigger, 1200 is a decent size.
- I like the technical advances (although some might not call them that). I'm not a luddite, I don't automatically think additional electronics are bad. Heck, I travel with a two-way radio, iPod, radar detector, and GPS f'r cryin' out loud.
Even though it might look like I'm generally opposed to the new bike, I'm not. It just means that it's not the right bike for me at this time. Just because I don't like it doesn't mean Honda had a dud on their hands.
- The styling might grow on me, but right now not so much.
- I bought an 800 because I didn't want anything bigger. If down the road I want something bigger, 1200 is a decent size.
- I like the technical advances (although some might not call them that). I'm not a luddite, I don't automatically think additional electronics are bad. Heck, I travel with a two-way radio, iPod, radar detector, and GPS f'r cryin' out loud.
Even though it might look like I'm generally opposed to the new bike, I'm not. It just means that it's not the right bike for me at this time. Just because I don't like it doesn't mean Honda had a dud on their hands.
[image: View Post]skuuter trash, on Oct 9 2009, 02:10 PM, said:
[image: View Post]PolarBear, on Oct 9 2009, 04:07 PM, said:
Interesting question. I really can't answer at the moment: it seems too big for me and I'd rather buy something a bit lighter (BMW F800?) but I don't want to say no just yet. How about a "maybe" category?!? Just a suggestion...c
Too Big PolarBear.......nah, I'm 5'7", plannin' on flickin' it on a Road Test....just need help gettin' on and off......... ;p
Yeah, to heavy for me. As for you, I've got this small three-step ladder at home you could use to get on ad off. :cool:
I'd like something a bit lighter, but I'm not saying I'm not going to give it a shot if I get a chance to do so. I've adopted your position, o wise one: I'll ride anything once. Ah, the voice of reason. :laugh:
cheers man!
[image: View Post]PolarBear, on Oct 9 2009, 04:32 PM, said:
[image: View Post]skuuter trash, on Oct 9 2009, 02:10 PM, said:
[image: View Post]PolarBear, on Oct 9 2009, 04:07 PM, said:
Interesting question. I really can't answer at the moment: it seems too big for me and I'd rather buy something a bit lighter (BMW F800?) but I don't want to say no just yet. How about a "maybe" category?!? Just a suggestion...c
Too Big PolarBear.......nah, I'm 5'7", plannin' on flickin' it on a Road Test....just need help gettin' on and off......... ;p
Yeah, to heavy for me. As for you, I've got this small three-step ladder at home you could use to get on ad off. :cool:
I'd like something a bit lighter, but I'm not saying I'm not going to give it a shot if I get a chance to do so. I've adopted your position, o wise one: I'll ride anything once. Ah, the voice of reason. :laugh:
cheers man!
.......... :laugh: ......... :beer: :beer: :beer:
[image: View Post]jeremy556, on Oct 9 2009, 04:15 PM, said:
So far, not liking it but will have to catch a ride on one to know for sure.Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
So far I think it's hideous. The more I look at it, I like certain things more and what I find ugly is just getting Fugly.
The best thing on the bike for me is the shaft drive, thats a sweet unit.
No Jeremy we can wait 2-3 years and pick up a brand new for 5k off. I got my 6th as a leftover. So did my friend for $6999 brand new, 0 miles. I have a feeling there will be plenty of leftovers.
[image: View Post]soichiro, on Oct 9 2009, 04:38 PM, said:
[image: View Post]jeremy556, on Oct 9 2009, 04:15 PM, said:
So far, not liking it but will have to catch a ride on one to know for sure.Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
So far I think it's hideous. The more I look at it, I like certain things more and what I find ugly is just getting Fugly.
The best thing on the bike for me is the shaft drive, thats a sweet unit.
No Jeremy we can wait 2-3 years and pick up a brand new for 5k off. I got my 6th as a leftover. So did my friend for $6999 brand new, 0 miles. I have a feeling there will be plenty of leftovers.
Yep Doug, Single sided, centered Shaft Drive Swing Arms are Super Nice......... :fing02: :beer:
[image: View Post]skuuter trash, on Oct 9 2009, 05:41 PM, said:
[image: View Post]soichiro, on Oct 9 2009, 04:38 PM, said:
[image: View Post]jeremy556, on Oct 9 2009, 04:15 PM, said:
So far, not liking it but will have to catch a ride on one to know for sure.Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
So far I think it's hideous. The more I look at it, I like certain things more and what I find ugly is just getting Fugly.
The best thing on the bike for me is the shaft drive, thats a sweet unit.
No Jeremy we can wait 2-3 years and pick up a brand new for 5k off. I got my 6th as a leftover. So did my friend for $6999 brand new, 0 miles. I have a feeling there will be plenty of leftovers.
Yep Doug, Single sided, centered Shaft Drive Swing Arms are Super Nice......... :fing02: :beer:
Yeah, I just think that is a very nice piece. Almost art. Sliding c.v. joint, I DK, never seen one.
I have a shaft on my old silverwing and I am definetly a shaft drive man. Chains suck. Just drain and fill the gear oil every 15k miles and never a problem. It's cheap too, I can do my oldwing with 1 tiny bottle of honda gear oil.
[image: View Post]soichiro, on Oct 9 2009, 04:47 PM, said:
[image: View Post]skuuter trash, on Oct 9 2009, 05:41 PM, said:
[image: View Post]soichiro, on Oct 9 2009, 04:38 PM, said:
[image: View Post]jeremy556, on Oct 9 2009, 04:15 PM, said:
So far, not liking it but will have to catch a ride on one to know for sure.Not going to buy one new anyway. If I do like it, it will be purchased as a salvage in a couple years for <$5K.
So far I think it's hideous. The more I look at it, I like certain things more and what I find ugly is just getting Fugly.
The best thing on the bike for me is the shaft drive, thats a sweet unit.
No Jeremy we can wait 2-3 years and pick up a brand new for 5k off. I got my 6th as a leftover. So did my friend for $6999 brand new, 0 miles. I have a feeling there will be plenty of leftovers.
Yep Doug, Single sided, centered Shaft Drive Swing Arms are Super Nice......... :fing02: :beer:
Yeah, I just think that is a very nice piece. Almost art. Sliding c.v. joint, I DK, never seen one.
I have a shaft on my old silverwing and I am definetly a shaft drive man. Chains suck. Just drain and fill the gear oil every 15k miles and never a problem. It's cheap too, I can do my oldwing with 1 tiny bottle of honda gear oil.
Yeah, I'm definetly a shaft guy when I can get em' on the Bikes I like.......waaaaaay better than chains or belts..... :fing02: :beer:
[image: View Post]ECX585, on Oct 9 2009, 07:11 PM, said:
Thumbs down, from what I've seen so far.The new VFR has been compared to the CBR1100XX, but the XX was an extremely comfortable and capable touring bike. This new VFR does not look overly comfortable.
Compared to what ? Your rocking chair? Seriously if its going to be anything comfortable is surely high on that list. We you expecting a Goldwing.
I'm middle of the road right now.
Like much of it, dislike a few things...mostly aesthetic based. Considering buying one.
Like much of it, dislike a few things...mostly aesthetic based. Considering buying one.
I voted that I like it, but one the condition that the muffler has GOT to go. Reminds me of a 150 cc Lifan scooter...
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on Oct 9 2009, 03:33 PM, said:
I voted that I like it, but one the condition that the muffler has GOT to go. Reminds me of a 150 cc Lifan scooter...Yeah, the muffler and we need those other two colors. This "red" reminds me of some tacky finger polish from the '80s.
As I have said before, my selection of any bike comes down to a couple of things. First; looks, second, how it rides. On the first count, I hated the 6 gen when it first came out and a year later I wanted one. This new VFR is something I think could really grow on me, other than that can.
On the second count, I have not been on it yet.
While I don�t pay much attention to specification sheets, two areas I do consider seriously are MPG and tank size. The jury is still out on the MPG but I would guess I will not find the numbers I am looking for in my next bike.
I did not vote, for the poll is rather stupid. Love or hate; lots of room between those two.
On the second count, I have not been on it yet.
While I don�t pay much attention to specification sheets, two areas I do consider seriously are MPG and tank size. The jury is still out on the MPG but I would guess I will not find the numbers I am looking for in my next bike.
I did not vote, for the poll is rather stupid. Love or hate; lots of room between those two.
I'm starting to like it a little more. In terms of looks, I still say its's a BMW clone.
[image: View Post]EmeraldVFR, on Oct 9 2009, 04:11 PM, said:
I'm starting to like it a little more. In terms of looks, I still say its's a BMW clone.Yup, you're right, in terms of looks it is. Even the Honda logo now looks like The Roundel... (or whatever they call it). But don't forget the ponies, the weight, and the price... Darn, the F800 is quite a bit cheaper, lighter, and soooooo much lighter (200 lbs)!
But I like the look too and, quite honestly, I don't buy a bike to look at it (nor to wash and polish it) once you're on it, you can't see what it looks like now, can you!
Cheers,
:fing02:
PS People will get used to the look and other colors will change a lot of people's mind I'm sure.
I love it, looks like more of the same VFR we have come to know and love. Since I just purchased a new '07 VFR four months ago I don't think I'll be getting another new VFR just yet.
Let me tell you, yesterday I went out on the VFR for a nice ride to San Francisco via the long way with a few mountain road detours. My intention was to spend the day playing in the mountains then cruise to china town for some excellent cashew nut chicken and all the liquor I could hold. I figured I would just get a room for the night then have breakfast and get back home but after nearly 300 miles of playing in the mountains and running on 101 I just decided to head back home. Ended up riding nearly 400 miles for a day ride and I enjoyed it. I have a new found respect for the VFR, it's a neutral handling sweet sounding goddess.
Let me tell you, yesterday I went out on the VFR for a nice ride to San Francisco via the long way with a few mountain road detours. My intention was to spend the day playing in the mountains then cruise to china town for some excellent cashew nut chicken and all the liquor I could hold. I figured I would just get a room for the night then have breakfast and get back home but after nearly 300 miles of playing in the mountains and running on 101 I just decided to head back home. Ended up riding nearly 400 miles for a day ride and I enjoyed it. I have a new found respect for the VFR, it's a neutral handling sweet sounding goddess.
I'm not crazy about the design, but I like what I've read so far on its features - tho the smaller fuel tank is a little disappointing. I'm hoping they release a sportier version in the coming months, but I'm not holding my breath.
I'm not planning to buy a new bike anytime soon, new VFR or otherwise. I still absolutely love my '04 VFR. I'm not even close to being done with this bike. :)
I'm not planning to buy a new bike anytime soon, new VFR or otherwise. I still absolutely love my '04 VFR. I'm not even close to being done with this bike. :)
5' 6" 130# so it's to big for me. Looks like I'll have to keep my '97 for ANOTHER generation. :biggrin: Or maybe a BMW 800 ST or a CBR 1000 w/ Sargent seat, Heli-bars and a DB screen.
I saw one in DC early this year at the Motorcycle Show. I was not at all impressed with it. Actually found the bike to be very ugly and bulky. Hated the monstrous side exhaust. I will definitely not be getting one. I'll keep my 03 for a while. I'm actually considering picking up a leftover 09.
Rode one three weeks ago for 50 minutes of my Lunch Hour....I really, really liked it...enjoyed it much more than either of my two 6th Gens. Fantastic engine and brakes..... :fing02: :beer:
This is an old thread, and I'm sure I'll re-cover some ground in previous threads, but I'll pile on anyway . . .
In some way or another all of my bikes have acquired names over the years that just stuck, given to them by g'friends, family memebers, friends, etc. Not really sure how that happened. If I owned a 1200 however, I would have to break that tradition and name it myself. There could be but one choice: Porky
My $.02: Punch the 6th gen out to 1000cc, (s'can the V-tec � just give me more displacement) give it back its gear stack for the cams, maybe make it a touch more upright and give it a better (much better) seat (maybe with a bit more storage underneath � and maybe some elsewhere for that matter). Keep the 5/6g dimensions. Give it a VFR version of Blackbird mirrors (though these ain't bad) and maybe an external alternator rather than the b.s. Honda has stuck so many riders here with. Flip a coin on the shaft drive (not crazy about chain maintenance/fling off) but if it's going to have a shaft it should have been less obtrusive and sleeker. Honda went the right direction on the 6th with the factory bags option, but left the compressed air hose connected to the chassis blueprints too long for the 7th. It's got too much ST1300 DNA in it now (and maybe some BMW DNA for that matter � what's up with that round �thingy� on the side cowl) and has drifted too far away from the sporty side of the equation for those of us that have grown to love the VFR architecture. I sure wouldn't want this formula applied to my wife - I'd have to send her to Jenny Craig (god help me). Bigger is better when it comes to stadiums, bank accounts (ok and yes, engines) and certain parts of the anatomy, but not sport(y)-touring bikes. I suspect we'll see a good many 1200's with a new pipes installed. WTF was Soichiro smoking when they came up with that thing? :blink:
Just sayin . . .
I also voted with cash. I was wating for the 7th gen to upgrade my 5th but when I saw the 1200 in person I bought a leftover '08 (though I confess I did not ride the 1200 � forgive me) Sticker shock also played a part. I almost felt like asking the salesman if he had another '08 in the back someplace � maybe I could have negotiated a 2fer for the price of the 1200 . . .
But, it's going to work for many people and I do not begrudge them their choice. No denying that 1200 cc's of torque and acceleration is going to be intoxicating. There are new techhie upgrades � slipper clutch and whatnot - sweet. It will definitely be more appealing to owners that ride 2 up � tho I suspect that many that do a lot of that are attracted to something less sporty. And styling is a personal preference - if people like it, great. Once on it, it may become �who cares what it looks like� as the 800 VTEC's slide by in the mirrors. At least it will keep up with the FJR's and Concours (it is a race, isn't it?) Actually if I wanted big bore power with a Honda badge on it, I might look for a clean used XX with low miles. No ABS and not as advanced (and yes an inline) but a much sexier ride IMHO (and certainly a LOT cheaper). Whatever the incarnation, I hope Honda keeps the VFR alive.
In some way or another all of my bikes have acquired names over the years that just stuck, given to them by g'friends, family memebers, friends, etc. Not really sure how that happened. If I owned a 1200 however, I would have to break that tradition and name it myself. There could be but one choice: Porky
My $.02: Punch the 6th gen out to 1000cc, (s'can the V-tec � just give me more displacement) give it back its gear stack for the cams, maybe make it a touch more upright and give it a better (much better) seat (maybe with a bit more storage underneath � and maybe some elsewhere for that matter). Keep the 5/6g dimensions. Give it a VFR version of Blackbird mirrors (though these ain't bad) and maybe an external alternator rather than the b.s. Honda has stuck so many riders here with. Flip a coin on the shaft drive (not crazy about chain maintenance/fling off) but if it's going to have a shaft it should have been less obtrusive and sleeker. Honda went the right direction on the 6th with the factory bags option, but left the compressed air hose connected to the chassis blueprints too long for the 7th. It's got too much ST1300 DNA in it now (and maybe some BMW DNA for that matter � what's up with that round �thingy� on the side cowl) and has drifted too far away from the sporty side of the equation for those of us that have grown to love the VFR architecture. I sure wouldn't want this formula applied to my wife - I'd have to send her to Jenny Craig (god help me). Bigger is better when it comes to stadiums, bank accounts (ok and yes, engines) and certain parts of the anatomy, but not sport(y)-touring bikes. I suspect we'll see a good many 1200's with a new pipes installed. WTF was Soichiro smoking when they came up with that thing? :blink:
Just sayin . . .
I also voted with cash. I was wating for the 7th gen to upgrade my 5th but when I saw the 1200 in person I bought a leftover '08 (though I confess I did not ride the 1200 � forgive me) Sticker shock also played a part. I almost felt like asking the salesman if he had another '08 in the back someplace � maybe I could have negotiated a 2fer for the price of the 1200 . . .
But, it's going to work for many people and I do not begrudge them their choice. No denying that 1200 cc's of torque and acceleration is going to be intoxicating. There are new techhie upgrades � slipper clutch and whatnot - sweet. It will definitely be more appealing to owners that ride 2 up � tho I suspect that many that do a lot of that are attracted to something less sporty. And styling is a personal preference - if people like it, great. Once on it, it may become �who cares what it looks like� as the 800 VTEC's slide by in the mirrors. At least it will keep up with the FJR's and Concours (it is a race, isn't it?) Actually if I wanted big bore power with a Honda badge on it, I might look for a clean used XX with low miles. No ABS and not as advanced (and yes an inline) but a much sexier ride IMHO (and certainly a LOT cheaper). Whatever the incarnation, I hope Honda keeps the VFR alive.
I voted a year ago by getting an '09 CBR600 RR (yes, I know, stinky in-line 4). Got tired of waiting, and was pretty sure Honda was not going to do what I wanted, which was to put the VFR on Jenny Craig, but bore out the cylinders a little. Short of having the V-4 smoothness, I have what I want. Comfy-nuf riding position (CBR comfy? Eyup. Only the Origami's ergo's were better and only slightly). The CBR is light and flickable, albeit 2 up riding really kept me on my toes (well my pinion was not super-model svelte), and the current generation CBR600 can hang with the big boys, which wasn't at the top of my list, it doesn't hurt how much fun it is to ride. And even with a stock pipe, Honda made it sound pretty cool. Miss the V-4 smoothness, and the RSV4 is still looking good to me, but for now, I'll ride the baby sport bike.
BTW, I read the Bike review on it, and apparently the reason we had to wait this long, was Honda prototyped a next generation V-4 right around the time we expected a new bike. Problem was, that engine wasn't any better than the old 90 degree engine. oops.
BTW, I read the Bike review on it, and apparently the reason we had to wait this long, was Honda prototyped a next generation V-4 right around the time we expected a new bike. Problem was, that engine wasn't any better than the old 90 degree engine. oops.
End of thread · 34 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 8 Feb 2011