One VFR1200F now in my garage

Job done. Honda have my cash, I have one of their bikes. In red. At home. It's lovely!

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 12 February 2010 - 04:41 PM, said:

Job done. Honda have my cash, I have one of their bikes. In red. At home. It's lovely!



We are going to need a little more in depth summary/ride report than that!

Have you tried taking the fairings off yet? Ha Ha

Etc... Etc...

I can't wait to hear all about it!!! :wheel:

I call a BS on this one.
The rule clearly states: "No Picture, No Bike"
Just following the rules ;p

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[image: View Post]AB-Oz, on 12 February 2010 - 04:58 PM, said:

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Is this true, so the first guy to get the new VFR is in the U.K. What's up with that?? No one here in the States got one yet?? :goofy:

Jezt first one and that all for the report??
Gota have pictures or it is just a scam:)

It's genuine! I'm just back in, having ridden 100 miles, it's 10.45 in the evening and it's 2 degrees C outside. Pics would look rubbish but I'll get some in the morning.

I can't tell how to get the fairings off!

It Feels like a VFR and Rides like a VFR. You just know it feels right. You fit in it, it's actually a lot smaller to ride and very comfortable. Power delivery very smooth, brakes dangerously powerful, suspension for me at 10.5 stone was just right. Steering seemed accurate but it was dark, slippery and raining.

100 miles took me to just under half tank ( assuming it was full - dealer said it was).

I'll get pictures in the morning when it's light, let's say 12 hours time?

Cheers

Steve



I'll get

Holy Crap!!!!!

out with it, man!!!!

A guy from the club over here in Spain took one home last week!! Says it's all good, no qualms... I'm yet to try one, waiting for the call... oh yeah, and they've got a white one at the stealers in Valencia!!!

Cynic,


it is only 22.58 on the other side of the North Sea

You can be the FIRST owner on VFRD to post a picture as owner of one

Donot get pipped at the post by someone else.......
Snap picture with mobile, upload done.... :biggrin:

:biggrin:

Ok, I been outside in the freezy cold to my garage. These will have to do until morning! Those in the UK will recognise a East Anglian numberplate

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[image: View Post]Cynic, on 12 February 2010 - 05:47 PM, said:

Power delivery very smooth, brakes dangerously powerful, suspension for me at 10.5 stone was just right. Steering seemed accurate but it was dark, slippery and raining.


What the heck do stones weigh over there? :ph34r:

BINGO!!!!



Congrats on your new ride, the 1st VFR1200 on VFRD :fing02:


Lemme pour another Ardbeg to celebrate!
(any excuse will do...)

[image: View Post]Paladin, on 12 February 2010 - 06:12 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 12 February 2010 - 05:47 PM, said:

Power delivery very smooth, brakes dangerously powerful, suspension for me at 10.5 stone was just right. Steering seemed accurate but it was dark, slippery and raining.


What the heck do stones weigh over there? :ph34r:


erm, 14 pounds to the stone I think, so 147 pounds? I am quite light.

Nice one mate well done!

Glad to see you're not afriad of using it in this weather too, I've been out tonight, awful isn't it? Thank goodness for heated kit! :fing02:

I got to ask, what's the power difference compared to the 800? Particulary in the mid-range?

and err, if you're coming up to Lincoln/Nettleham area anytime soon ... ;)

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 12 February 2010 - 06:16 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Paladin, on 12 February 2010 - 06:12 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 12 February 2010 - 05:47 PM, said:

Power delivery very smooth, brakes dangerously powerful, suspension for me at 10.5 stone was just right. Steering seemed accurate but it was dark, slippery and raining.


What the heck do stones weigh over there? :ph34r:


erm, 14 pounds to the stone I think, so 147 pounds? I am quite light.



Rosie weighed in at 19 stone, so you can to the math.... :goofy:

Cheers Steve. Yeah I will very soon, I'll give you a shout and you can have a shot! Weather was real grotty I agree.

It feels like a 5th generation on steroids. Very similar power, delivery and feel just loads more of it. - it doesn't feel like a VTEC and is a little easier to handle than a Blackbird, although the power delivery is very different to the Blackbird. As far as Blackbird comparison go, it's narrower and more upright which I find more comfortable.

The gearbox is superb - amazingly smooth.

It takes a while to get used to the repositioned indicators but after a while is a lot easier to use. The horn is utter tripe. The instrumentation is amazingly clear in the dark and the LEDs in the mirrors are very cute.

What don't I like? Well, no hugger as standard, the horn is rubbish and if you crouch over the tank you feel the sharp edges of the tank on your arms which is odd. Im still unsure about the exhaust and the luggage is very small in real life and doesn't feel as securely attached as Honda would have you believe (I did not buy the luggage).

It comes with Bridgestone BT021s and requires an initial service at 600 miles.

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 12 February 2010 - 04:41 PM, said:

Job done. Honda have my cash, I have one of their bikes. In red. At home. It's lovely!

Congratulations!! enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.

WOOT!!!!!!

a HELL YEA from the USA!

[image: View Post]timmythecop, on 12 February 2010 - 06:53 PM, said:

WOOT!!!!!!

a HELL YEA from the USA!


Cheers mate. I know it's a lot of dosh, but I can afford it nowadays so that's ok.

I will get better daylight pictures up tomorrow.

Superb!!!

I'm not far away (Norwich), will prob see you are around as one of my stores is in Cambridge.

[image: View Post]OllyVFR, on 12 February 2010 - 07:03 PM, said:

Superb!!!

I'm not far away (Norwich), will prob see you are around as one of my stores is in Cambridge.


Hey Olly, I got the bike from Lings in Harleston, so near you.

Steve

Going there tomorrow to look at an 800!

I'm excited for you. Whenever a bike guy can't get excited about a new bike, they may have had too many toys!! I hope in a few weeks you will post a more in depth review. Too bad the weather is not cooperating.

More, More I need more!!! My Dealership says that delivery has moved up to very early April as opposed to the original late April early May. Here in Ottawa where Spring is just a day on the calendar it makes sense to supply other markets where it could acyually be ridden first. Still a real world first impression from a VFR owner is worth its weight in gold. May just keep some of the cynics a little quieter. I have ordered the bags as I try and do at least a couple of 6-8 day runs each year along with a few overnighters.

Keep the info coming.

Congrats on thr new ride :fing02: On this side of the canal delivery will start last week of March / first week of April. How come you got hold of one so soon?

Well done on beinbg the first to post pix.

Congrats on your new ride!

[image: View Post]Throttlestop, on 22 February 2010 - 10:28 PM, said:

The big question is can that be safely removed with a slip-on or full system without the ECU throwing up a disabled code? Time will tell.....




Piece of cake. Just remove the cables but leave the servo motor in place. You'll only have issues if you take out the servo motor. (don't ask how I know this ;) )

[image: View Post]phobe, on 27 February 2010 - 11:20 AM, said:

[image: View Post]Throttlestop, on 22 February 2010 - 10:28 PM, said:

The big question is can that be safely removed with a slip-on or full system without the ECU throwing up a disabled code? Time will tell.....




Piece of cake. Just remove the cables but leave the servo motor in place. You'll only have issues if you take out the servo motor. (don't ask how I know this ;) )


I think congrats are in order, are you the first one to mod your 1200??

How's the shaft drive?

[image: View Post]fastbroshi, on 27 February 2010 - 11:48 AM, said:

[image: View Post]phobe, on 27 February 2010 - 11:20 AM, said:

[image: View Post]Throttlestop, on 22 February 2010 - 10:28 PM, said:

The big question is can that be safely removed with a slip-on or full system without the ECU throwing up a disabled code? Time will tell.....




Piece of cake. Just remove the cables but leave the servo motor in place. You'll only have issues if you take out the servo motor. (don't ask how I know this ;) )


I think congrats are in order, are you the first one to mod your 1200??


Nope, haven't got it yet. But I did go through this on my 2007 CBR600RR which has a similar system.

I'm too lazy to read all the posts......but, what? No tail cowl? What gives?

The key thing I've been missing is a headlight comparison.

If you could get a set of four shots on some dark back road with the 6th and 7th that would be tremendous! The four shots being hi/low beam spread for each bike.

I often get caught out after dark, and the 6th gens lights far out stipe any of the bikes my friends ride. Hopeing the 7th gen can live up to that!

[image: View Post]magicman, on 28 February 2010 - 02:25 PM, said:

The key thing I've been missing is a headlight comparison.


In the German magazines I have spotted something for you.

Tourenfahrer magazine had a VFR1200 touring test where they commented: "very good lights".

On the other hand Motorrad magazine had VFR800 against VFR1200 test.
The verdict for lights was: VFR800 18/20 and VFR1200 15/20 points.

J

[image: View Post]Jussi, on 28 February 2010 - 03:35 PM, said:

[image: View Post]magicman, on 28 February 2010 - 02:25 PM, said:

The key thing I've been missing is a headlight comparison.


In the German magazines I have spotted something for you.

Tourenfahrer magazine had a VFR1200 touring test where they commented: "very good lights".

On the other hand Motorrad magazine had VFR800 against VFR1200 test.
The verdict for lights was: VFR800 18/20 and VFR1200 15/20 points.

J

How was the rest of the comparison? At nearly $10K more than left over 6th gens, I want to know if the 7th gen is 5%, 10%, 30% better. Thanks, JD

[image: View Post]leanit, on 28 February 2010 - 06:58 PM, said:

How was the rest of the comparison?

Here is a short summary.

VFR1200 won 4 out of 5 categories.

Motor 183/250 vs. 155/250
Chassis 186/250 vs. 182/250
Everyday life 158/250 vs. 165/250
Security 116/150 vs. 112/150
Costs 58/100 vs. 51/100

Total 701/1000 vs. 665/1000

So, bikes were quite equal except in the motor category.

VFR1200 lost that one category merely because of it's tank size.
In the "range" sub category points were 18/30 vs. 27/30.

BTW, the price difference in Germany is around $2200 (US).

J

So, in what colours are the VFR1200s available in various countries? I'd assumed they were only in red here, as that was the only colour I'd seen in UnZud tests, but the silver is also available. The dealer pricelist doesn't mention white (same for the 800 - just red and silver). List price is NZ$29,000, vs. $19,000 for the VFR800.

[image: View Post]Jussi, on 01 March 2010 - 12:56 AM, said:

VFR1200 lost that one category merely because of it's tank size.

Yeah, Motorrad thinks the VTEC is a better commuter because of tanks size (range), headlights and ease of removing the cases.

@Enzed: I think most european countries get all three colours.

Steve,

Congrats on the new ride. It appears that you are enjoying it. If you get time could you post up a quick pic with you seated on the bike. I like to see what someone looks like on them for size comparison. Thanks

[image: View Post]MotardMenace, on 02 March 2010 - 10:36 PM, said:

Steve,

Congrats on the new ride. It appears that you are enjoying it. If you get time could you post up a quick pic with you seated on the bike. I like to see what someone looks like on them for size comparison. Thanks


Rightoh chap. Will get the missus to snap a couple of pics asap.

cheers

S

Well, I had a birthday and a party for the birthday and then a holiday so I'm late in doing what I said.....

But here we are. remember I'm 147 pounds, 5'8" and 31" inside leg. I really should get a more appropriate coloured helmet but the most appropriate one if I followed the same theme would be one I'd never ever wear..... ;)


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Lovely bike! Great pics of you on your new ride, too.

I'd love to hear more about fuel economy, comfort over distances and such. Keep us posted.

Nice pics. Thanks for sharing, Cynic. It doesn't look big at all. Definitely keep us posted on how you like it long term.

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 13 February 2010 - 07:09 AM, said:

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If it is not too much trouble, could you take another photo from down here but looking back towards the fender/license support?

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 13 February 2010 - 07:09 AM, said:

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Good grief, I hope there is a lot more room up on the under side of the seat and/or up in the cheeks of the upper fairing. cause there just isn't much room to add farkles or other stuff from the looks of that photo.

I mean between these two shots, Where will you fit the reservoir for the rear shock?
And what about a fuse block + relays for the horn, heated gear?
Unless there is a pocket at the back by the tail light where is the ecm and where would you stick power commander???

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 13 February 2010 - 07:09 AM, said:

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Oh dear sweet lord, that license plate is an airbrake. That's bigger than the plates on my car. Its worse than having to have the front plate on my car's (I'm in NJ where the front plate is required, and must be perfectly upright).

And did you count the rubber brake/clutch hoses yet?
I bet the ss hose kit for this one will be expensive!

Now I'm wondering if I can find enough places to hide the components of my companies fuel saving system to even make fitting one worth it.

[image: View Post]JES_VFR, on 24 March 2010 - 11:38 PM, said:

Oh dear sweet lord, that license plate is an airbrake. That's bigger than the plates on my car. Its worse than having to have the front plate on my car's (I'm in NJ where the front plate is required, and must be perfectly upright).


Those damned license plates must be the single most annoying thing British riders have to put up with. They are completely ridiculous and they make every bike look FUGLY.

What bulbs are in the headlights are they standard H7?

And have you looked at the space around the horn, to judge how hard it would be to fit a stebel?

One last question to the group, have of you 'supersized' people ridden it yet?

I mean I'm way heavier than Cynic so I've got to wonder how well the suspension will handle my big body (My 5th gen was just able to).

Its not going to be much fun if the first thing I have to do my new VFR is get the springs swapped out to handle my bulk and my gear.

[image: View Post]JES_VFR, on 25 March 2010 - 12:09 AM, said:

What bulbs are in the headlights are they standard H7?

And have you looked at the space around the horn, to judge how hard it would be to fit a stebel?

One last question to the group, have of you 'supersized' people ridden it yet?

I mean I'm way heavier than Cynic so I've got to wonder how well the suspension will handle my big body (My 5th gen was just able to).

Its not going to be much fun if the first thing I have to do my new VFR is get the springs swapped out to handle my bulk and my gear.



If you are that big, is there any bike made that has stock suspension that would work for you?

[image: View Post]Brown81, on 25 March 2010 - 12:32 PM, said:

[image: View Post]JES_VFR, on 25 March 2010 - 12:09 AM, said:

What bulbs are in the headlights are they standard H7?
And have you looked at the space around the horn, to judge how hard it would be to fit a stebel?
One last question to the group, have of you 'supersized' people ridden it yet?
I mean I'm way heavier than Cynic so I've got to wonder how well the suspension will handle my big body (My 5th gen was just able to).
Its not going to be much fun if the first thing I have to do my new VFR is get the springs swapped out to handle my bulk and my gear.


If you are that big, is there any bike made that has stock suspension that would work for you?

Well, I guess that someone heavier than 265lbs should just give up huh!?!?!?!

I mean the closest I've come to seeing someone my weight ride the VFR1200 and review it was TC of motorcyclist and he's predisposed to liking a Honda.

Where the heck is the butcher when you need him??

To answer a few questions

I don't know what size a Stebel horn is but the OE one is just above the radiator and is dead easy to remove.

Headlights are 2 H7s.

MPG is currently 43 - 45(imperial gallons). suggesting tank range of 180-190 miles.

No space whatsoever to fit a sparkle, a widget, a gizmo or gadget under the seat or by the tail light.

Our number plates by law have to be 9"x11". The one in the pic is slightly larger but has since been replaced.

Comfort over distances is very good - much more comfortable than my previous Blackbird.

I reckon it has seven brake hoses. I *think* the CBS only works front from rear, not rear from front. All hoses go via ABS modulator unit, I think.

I am really really enjoying this bike.....

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 06 April 2010 - 01:36 PM, said:

To answer a few questions

I don't know what size a Stebel horn is but the OE one is just above the radiator and is dead easy to remove.
They are a bit bigger than the Stebel, but most of us can make one fit, so this sounds hopeful.

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 06 April 2010 - 01:36 PM, said:

Headlights are 2 H7s.
Well I guess that makes HID's out of the question. I'm waiting to see if the US model gets a flash to pass switch or if I'll have to get a European pod to have it on mine.

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 06 April 2010 - 01:36 PM, said:

MPG is currently 43 - 45(imperial gallons). suggesting tank range of 180-190 miles.
Not bad, not great, but not bad. Still it seems like a bit of weak point for Honda.

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 06 April 2010 - 01:36 PM, said:

No space whatsoever to fit a sparkle, a widget, a gizmo or gadget under the seat or by the tail light.
Okay, so I can tell I'll have to get creative to fit one of my boosters to it.

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 06 April 2010 - 01:36 PM, said:

Our number plates by law have to be 9"x11". The one in the pic is slightly larger but has since been replaced.

Comfort over distances is very good - much more comfortable than my previous Blackbird.

I reckon it has seven brake hoses. I *think* the CBS only works front from rear, not rear from front. All hoses go via ABS modulator unit, I think.

I am really really enjoying this bike.....

Well keep enjoying it. I have not even been able to talk to my ex-boss about when they will be getting in a VFR.

The giant license plate is ridiculous.
No need to wonder if you're allowed to mount it on the side for aero reasons. :rolleyes:
I'm sure it's not to help camera based enforcement. :pinocchio:

Oh, the bike looks great. :fing02:

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 06 April 2010 - 01:36 PM, said:

To answer a few questions
Headlights are 2 H7s.



Wait a sec, even the banner on this page makes it look like there are three bulbs. 2 lows and 1 high?
are they all H7's??

[image: View Post]JES_VFR, on 06 April 2010 - 10:12 PM, said:

Well I guess that makes HID's out of the question. I'm waiting to see if the US model gets a flash to pass switch or if I'll have to get a European pod to have it on mine.


My Canadian one doesn't have the passing light or the HISS, as usual. USA ones probably won't either.

[image: View Post]JES_VFR, on 07 April 2010 - 01:28 PM, said:

Wait a sec, even the banner on this page makes it look like there are three bulbs. 2 lows and 1 high?
are they all H7's??


Nope one for dipped beam one for high beam. The shape of the dipped beam reflector on the inside gives the impression of two bulbs at either corner when lit.

We do get the HISS2 and the passing flash lever. Why do you guys not?

[image: View Post]Cynic, on 13 February 2010 - 07:09 AM, said:

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I'm noticing that your shock spring is pre-loaded. Have you set your sag or did it come that way from the dealer. Curious how the spring to weight ratio is on the 7th vs the 6th as we all know the 6th is very soft. If you did do it, how much do you weight if you don't mind me asking. Looks like only about 4mm of pre-load which is not bad at all.

[image: View Post]jasonsmith, on 08 April 2010 - 12:07 PM, said:

I'm noticing that your shock spring is pre-loaded. Have you set your sag or did it come that way from the dealer. Curious how the spring to weight ratio is on the 7th vs the 6th as we all know the 6th is very soft. If you did do it, how much do you weight if you don't mind me asking. Looks like only about 4mm of pre-load which is not bad at all.


That's the stock preload setting you can see. I don't know what the measurements are to be honest. I have since backed it off a little as I'm only light around 147 pounds. I'd have liked to experiment with some rear compression damping but there isn't any adjustment, just preload and rebound.