Looking to upgrade.

Ok all you 6th Gen riders, I am looking to move to the dark side and sell my 98' and find a 6th Gen; But there are more options to sort through like ABS brakes or v-tec. And I would
like to find a White or silver one but I dont know what years they made them. If anyone has some insite about the differances between the models that would be great.

ABS is a definite upgrade.
VTEC - Not so much. But if you get 06+ model, VTEC is perfectly smooth and there is no issue there.
Consider the reason for this upgrade.
Lots of people on here will tell you that an a 98 isn't any worse than the 6th gen.
However, if your mind is set, an 06 ABS model in white is a good choice.

I have an 2004 with non ABS and it is still a BLAST. How much better than your 98? You'd have to ride them both to know. But if you were going to upgrade, might as well snag some of the drastic improvements as mentioned.
-Drew

IMO, definitely go with the ABS. This is my first bike with it, and I will never go back.....just my personal preference! I have an 08, and it is silver. The V-Tec is pretty cool, a very smooth transition, and I have no issues with it at all. This is my first VFR, so I cannot comment on other models. Good luck with your search.

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[image: View Post]Noobtastic14, on 17 May 2011 - 07:48 PM, said:

I have an 2004 with non ABS and it is still a BLAST. How much better than your 98? You'd have to ride them both to know. But if you were going to upgrade, might as well snag some of the drastic improvements as mentioned.
-Drew


Better.....More like different. I put both bikes through the paces before buying. The 98 is in my garage....

The VTEC is annoying and pretty much useless in my opinion. I have a 2007model and it is jerky and abrupt during the transition and I don't feel I should have to pay to have a power commander to smooth it out. I still like the styling, riding position, and looks and have learned to deal with the annoyances of the VTEC but still wish it wasn't there. Anyways here are some facts for you about the 6th Gen.

2002 - 2005 models had a wiring harness recall .
2002 - 2005 have shiny chrome exhaust heat shields while 2006+ have a non-shiny brushed finish.
2002 - 2005 had amber turn signals while 2006+ have clear signals.
2002 - 2005 have a higher VTEC engagement point (@6800rpm) vs. 2006+ (@6400rpm)

Here are the colors that were available in the U.S.

2002 - Italian Red
2003 - Italian Red or Force Silver Metallic
2004 - Italian Red or Asphalt
2005 - Winning Red or Digital Silver Metallic
2006 - Pearl Sunbeam White or Pearl Cosmic Black
2007 - Red White Blue Annniversary Edition or Candy Glory Red
2008 - Sword Silver Metallic
2009 - Graphite Black


Rollin

What year did they switch from the orange tach to the blue/white tach?
-Drew

When I got my 07 I was unsure of the ABS but after rideing with the ABS system I grow to love it.

[image: View Post]spaceman, on 17 May 2011 - 07:53 PM, said:

IMO, definitely go with the ABS. This is my first bike with it, and I will never go back.....just my personal preference! I have an 08, and it is silver. The V-Tec is pretty cool, a very smooth transition, and I have no issues with it at all. This is my first VFR, so I cannot comment on other models. Good luck with your search.


:+1: I agree with everything Spaceman said (except mine is an 07 RWB). I have no problem with the VTEC and love the ABS.

I'm going through some of these same thoughts lusting after a 2007 or 2008. I think I'd like the ABS for the added security as you never know when you'll need it, especially being a new rider. I don't have any concerns over VTEC but I have never rode a VFR so I don't know what it feels like.

[image: View Post]v4pilot, on 17 May 2011 - 10:20 AM, said:

Ok all you 6th Gen riders, I am looking to move to the dark side and sell my 98' and find a 6th Gen; But there are more options to sort through like ABS brakes or v-tec. And I would
like to find a White or silver one but I dont know what years they made them. If anyone has some insite about the differances between the models that would be great.


As you may see from my profile details left and below, I own 2 VFR's: one a '98 Fi-W and the other a '08 VTEC with ABS. I have ridden the Fi for ~100,000 miles and the VTEC for ~14,000 miles, so I think I am entitled to an opinion (aren't we all?). The VTEC is better in almost all respects except one major one...the engine. The Fi engine, even after 100k miles, beats the VTEC engine hands down. Far smoother (100k will probably do that), no VTEC transisition to have to consider and the Fi has a LOT more mid-range - far more useful than having to drop a couple of gears to get the VTEC above 6800rpm to accelerate decently. Underseat storage is also better on the Fi, plus servicing is easier (if that affects you). Other than that, the VTEC handles better, steers better, brakes better, better fuel consumption, better lighting and the looks are finally growing on me.

In my perfect world I would replace the VTEC engine with an Fi and that would be my perfect bike. I might then get another and put the supercharger kit on it!

JMHO of course, though I'm not sure that will help you.

[image: View Post]Skids, on 18 May 2011 - 09:30 AM, said:

[image: View Post]v4pilot, on 17 May 2011 - 10:20 AM, said:

Ok all you 6th Gen riders, I am looking to move to the dark side and sell my 98' and find a 6th Gen; But there are more options to sort through like ABS brakes or v-tec. And I would
like to find a White or silver one but I dont know what years they made them. If anyone has some insite about the differances between the models that would be great.


As you may see from my profile details left and below, I own 2 VFR's: one a '98 Fi-W and the other a '08 VTEC with ABS. I have ridden the Fi for ~100,000 miles and the VTEC for ~14,000 miles, so I think I am entitled to an opinion (aren't we all?). The VTEC is better in almost all respects except one major one...the engine. The Fi engine, even after 100k miles, beats the VTEC engine hands down. Far smoother (100k will probably do that), no VTEC transisition to have to consider and the Fi has a LOT more mid-range - far more useful than having to drop a couple of gears to get the VTEC above 6800rpm to accelerate decently. Underseat storage is also better on the Fi, plus servicing is easier (if that affects you). Other than that, the VTEC handles better, steers better, brakes better, better fuel consumption, better lighting and the looks are finally growing on me.

In my perfect world I would replace the VTEC engine with an Fi and that would be my perfect bike. I might then get another and put the supercharger kit on it!

JMHO of course, though I'm not sure that will help you.


Spot on and just echoing the same thing - having put countless miles on both 5th and 6th gens that pretty much sums it up (I found the VTEC annoying but less of an issue with the 06+ models)

I have a brother that owned a 2K VFR and I got to ride it quite a bit. I own a 04 VFR VTEC, ABS and abloutlely love it. The VTEC transition is really no big deal to me (never have understood why so many people complain about it) and the engine is smooth as melted butter. The only motorcycle I have ever ridden that was smoother was a Gold Wing...so that says quite a lot. In my humble opinion the only area where the non VTEC VFR's are better is that they have gear driven cams and thus the cool sound they make and no CCT to wear out. In EVERY other respect the VTEC's are better, JMO. Mine has been 100% flawless (zero problems, breakages or issues) since I have owned it. The ABS brakes are great...and I won't own another bike that does not have them.

[image: View Post]Flightar, on 18 May 2011 - 10:03 AM, said:

I have a brother that owned a 2K VFR and I got to ride it quite a bit. I own a 04 VFR VTEC, ABS and abloutlely love it. The VTEC transition is really no big deal to me (never have understood why so many people complain about it) and the engine is smooth as melted butter. The only motorcycle I have ever ridden that was smoother was a Gold Wing...so that says quite a lot. In my humble opinion the only area where the non VTEC VFR's are better is that they have gear driven cams and thus the cool sound they make and no CCT to wear out. In EVERY other respect the VTEC's are better, JMO. Mine has been 100% flawless (zero problems, breakages or issues) since I have owned it. The ABS brakes are great...and I won't own another bike that does not have them.


The VTEC transition is no longer an issue since the '06 model, however it's the VTEC itself that I find the issue. From arouund 4.5k rpm to 6.5k rpm, there just isn't very much torque and it's a lot less than the Fi, which has oodles of pulling power even in 6th. The bike needs to be in the VTEC range in order to deliver the same/more than the Fi. And that is the issue with the engine....along with poor fuelling low down. A development of the Fi engine which was emission-compliant without resorting to the VTEC would be a fantastic engine.

Thank-you everyone for your input; my goal is set for a white 06' I know that will be tough I have been scanning ebay and graigs list and have not seen much.

Good choice. I love my 07 in candy glory red, v-tec and all. A lot folks complain about the lack of low and mid range power but I find it to be more than enough for cutting through traffic. Wick it up into vtec and you've got enough to make for a rapid ride. I'm not immune to the desires of some balls out serious low end stomp and I do miss the my 03 bandit 1200. I ended up finding a new left over suzuki bking to scratch that itch only a big I 4 can. Love both and plan to ride both till the wheels fall off. Enjoy you new ride when you get it home.

6th gens are very nice VFRs. If I were to upgrade I'd look for ABS and hard bags. Having ridden them both I'd have to say one is not significantly better than the other. But I really like the options available on the 6th gens. Hell why not look at the 7th gen? ...never mind. :beatdeadhorse:

Just got my first VFR800 in January after a fatefull death to my 6 month old CBR600RR.

2010 V-tec Pearl white, black with metallic silver pin stripe

I`ve only ever owned sports bikes, so the VFR was a little soft at first, spring and shocky swap and a little suspension tuning
and it handles a hell of a lot better.

Other than that the 6th Gen is an absolute ripper of a bike.

The V-tec is a little different when you first ride it, (for a 4 stroke engine) but is a good fun bike to ride,

just keep the revs above 7k and listen to the almighty V4 grunt along!!!!

[image: View Post]v4pilot, on 19 May 2011 - 06:02 AM, said:

Thank-you everyone for your input; my goal is set for a white 06' I know that will be tough I have been scanning ebay and graigs list and have not seen much.


I'm also looking, but for fun. I'm not ready to purchase a VFR800 as I just got my licese and won't have my first bike until June 10 (counting the days).

I sent you a PM.

Mike.

[image: View Post]Skids, on 18 May 2011 - 09:30 AM, said:

[image: View Post]v4pilot, on 17 May 2011 - 10:20 AM, said:

Ok all you 6th Gen riders, I am looking to move to the dark side and sell my 98' and find a 6th Gen; But there are more options to sort through like ABS brakes or v-tec. And I would
like to find a White or silver one but I dont know what years they made them. If anyone has some insite about the differances between the models that would be great.


As you may see from my profile details left and below, I own 2 VFR's: one a '98 Fi-W and the other a '08 VTEC with ABS. I have ridden the Fi for ~100,000 miles and the VTEC for ~14,000 miles, so I think I am entitled to an opinion (aren't we all?). The VTEC is better in almost all respects except one major one...the engine. The Fi engine, even after 100k miles, beats the VTEC engine hands down. Far smoother (100k will probably do that), no VTEC transisition to have to consider and the Fi has a LOT more mid-range - far more useful than having to drop a couple of gears to get the VTEC above 6800rpm to accelerate decently. Underseat storage is also better on the Fi, plus servicing is easier (if that affects you). Other than that, the VTEC handles better, steers better, brakes better, better fuel consumption, better lighting and the looks are finally growing on me.

In my perfect world I would replace the VTEC engine with an Fi and that would be my perfect bike. I might then get another and put the supercharger kit on it!

JMHO of course, though I'm not sure that will help you.


I have the same 2 bikes - and wholeheartedly agree. All I would add is that another downside to the 6th gen are the issues with the CCT's. I went '06 or newer for the refinements in wiring/charging/engine management and smoother VTEC vs the '02 to '05's. On the VTEC I never notice ABS is there 'till I jump on the '99 and realize that it's not - then and I wish it had it too. Though opinions on ABS seem to run about as wide as oil threads, for my $.02 ABS is a must have. If it saves your a$$ just once, it's more than paid for itself. When riding the VTEC I miss the sound of the GDC's. For me, what little I would have gotten out of my 5th gen to purchase the '08 didn't make it worth getting rid of, so just kept it. Glad I did. I was told there's someone on VFR Club that transplanted a 5th gen engine in to a 6th gen chassis - but apparently it involves some cutting on the front valve cover and other issues. Apparently the post has expired and is no longer on the site.

[image: View Post]Skids, on 18 May 2011 - 01:46 PM, said:

he VTEC transition is no longer an issue since the '06 model, however it's the VTEC itself that I find the issue. From arouund 4.5k rpm to 6.5k rpm, there just isn't very much torque and it's a lot less than the Fi, which has oodles of pulling power even in 6th. The bike needs to be in the VTEC range in order to deliver the same/more than the Fi. And that is the issue with the engine....along with poor fuelling low down. A development of the Fi engine which was emission-compliant without resorting to the VTEC would be a fantastic engine.


Actually Vtec transitions issues are very subjective and opinionated and seem to vary Widely from bike to bike no matter the year! I personally have Over 100,000 miles on VFR800's alone and still have a 5th & 6th gen in the garage. I've never had an issue with my 02 vtec over the last 83,000 miles and if you read in this thread alone there are complaints about 06-up issues still.
Several points to consider on 5th gens alone. There are basically Two versions of a 5th gen, 98-99 and the 00-01.
The 98-99 is considered the best versions of the 5th gen as they are the lightest, have Larger header pipes(43mm vs 41mm), no Cataletic Converter and use a different Fi system than the 00-01 VFR's. These factors No Doubt make the 98-99's provide stronger numbers throughtout the rpm range.
Secondly The choked down header tubes, Cat and different mapping along with more weight slowed down the performance of the 00-01, these same changes alone with Extremely LEAN fueling only help nurtered the Vtec a little more. It is Mostly the extreme Lean mapping that hurts many Vtec's smoothness and why a PCIII can make it So much better. Even though mine is still stock.

The Vtec has the Best Chassis to date and yes a 98-99 motor would be sweet in a 6th gen chassis, but it wasn't an option! BTW You will also find most Vtec owners happy with their bikes like myself.

Back to the topic which was "ABS or Not" on a 6th gen as every 6th gen has Vtec!
It was Not a 5th gen Vs 6th gen question.
Yes, get ABS if you can! :fing02:
PS i lug the hell out of my 02 and rarely see Vtec to haul butt in the twisties unless I really want to Rip-It! :fing02:

BR

A used ABS bike for sale is a much harder thing to find. However, it is definitely worth it in my opinion. I can personally testify from experience that even if you only use the ABS once (and I have only used it once) that the one time you use it makes it completely worth it.

The 06 white bikes were absolutely beautiful, but that is going to make your search much more difficult.

My advice (for what little it's worth) is to buy an ABS bike in whatever color and year you can find.

Good luck with the hunt for a 6th gen with ABS. it is a great bike.

How much do you want for your 98?

Haven't read all the posts, but I bet they are mostly alike. 6th gen chassis>5th gen chassis. 6th gen engine<5th gen engine.

How much do you want for your 98?
[/quote]
And I thought you had a 4th gen in mind :goofy:



Since you already have a VFR you should wait patiently to find a 6th gen with ABS. A PCIII will smooth things
out nicely if you have any dissatisfaction with the Vtec. The suspension, ABS, factory side cases and availability
of parts and accessories will cure your itch for something different. If you don't like it after a year, you can always
sell and buy another 5th gen...........they're all great bikes.........just with different personalities.......good luck !

[image: View Post]CornerCarver, on 27 May 2011 - 08:35 PM, said:

Good luck with the hunt for a 6th gen with ABS. it is a great bike.

How much do you want for your 98?

Well you know what got me looking at the white 6th gen is the 2010 euro paint job the white and black storm trooper look I thought it wouldnt be too hard to replicate;
I really dont want to sell bike but the wife is not going to authorize another VFR so I thought if I could come up with 4500-5000 I could make up the differance. Its a very nice 5th gen
with custom paint 11,500 miles and lots of goodies.

[image: View Post]Baileyrock, on 27 May 2011 - 04:09 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Skids, on 18 May 2011 - 01:46 PM, said:

he VTEC transition is no longer an issue since the '06 model, however it's the VTEC itself that I find the issue. From arouund 4.5k rpm to 6.5k rpm, there just isn't very much torque and it's a lot less than the Fi, which has oodles of pulling power even in 6th. The bike needs to be in the VTEC range in order to deliver the same/more than the Fi. And that is the issue with the engine....along with poor fuelling low down. A development of the Fi engine which was emission-compliant without resorting to the VTEC would be a fantastic engine.


Actually Vtec transitions issues are very subjective and opinionated and seem to vary Widely from bike to bike no matter the year! I personally have Over 100,000 miles on VFR800's alone and still have a 5th & 6th gen in the garage. I've never had an issue with my 02 vtec over the last 83,000 miles and if you read in this thread alone there are complaints about 06-up issues still.

The Vtec has the Best Chassis to date and yes a 98-99 motor would be sweet in a 6th gen chassis, but it wasn't an option! BTW You will also find most Vtec owners happy with their bikes like myself.

Back to the topic which was "ABS or Not" on a 6th gen as every 6th gen has Vtec!
It was Not a 5th gen Vs 6th gen question.
Yes, get ABS if you can! :fing02:
PS i lug the hell out of my 02 and rarely see Vtec to haul butt in the twisties unless I really want to Rip-It! :fing02:

BR

Couldn't agree more BR! I only see VTEC when I'm playing with the bike, or passing a car before the next turn. Under normal riding conditions I never find a need to get up into the VTEC range, so I've always wondered what everyone keeps complaining about how it affects their riding. The one thing I wish I would've gotten is an ABS bike. I was lucky to find one that still had the saddlebags on it, so saddlebags and ABS were out of the question. V4Pilot, no matter what VFR you choose you won't be disappointed.