I've been lucky enough to have a friend store his 2007 anniversary edition VFR in my garage. After 1300 miles, I'm hooked and may try to buy it from him. My one concern is that this make and model is known for running hotter than most. Now that the weather has gotten into the 90s during my evening commute, it does feel like I'm sitting on an oven, and the cooling fan is on a good bit of the time.
Can anyone tell me, how different is this from most other bikes in this category? The BMW 1200 GS is not anywhere near this hot, and so much more comfortable over the summer months. Specifically, does anyone have any feedback for how hot the BMW K 1300 S feels in a hot climate? I don't want a bike that's uncomfortable for 4 months out of the year, and am wondering if this is just the nature of a sport tourer or if it's the tipping point in favor of the K1300.
Hey there, and welcome from another Texan (and one who grew up in Houston).
I've been commuting here 10 months out of the year, but two years ago was on a different Honda inline-4. It doesn't qualify as "the same category," but I'll share anyway. :happy:
In my opinion, the VFRs run hotter, but you also have to understand that each bike is different.
Thursday on the way home the OAT registered 98F according the bike, and the engine peaked at about 241F in stop-and-go traffic. Yeah, it sucked, but I was mostly worried about my baby rather than the heat hitting my legs etc.
Last year when we got into the 100s, the bike actually hit 250F and the idjit light came on. That only happened once, thankfully, and it was in the worst-case scenario. As far as I can tell, the thermostat works fine, the coolant is OEM, and the radiators are clear. Water Wetter and synthetic oil haven't made any difference.
Personally I've always put my bikes reliability and upkeep ahead of my comfort in these situations, and frankly, when it's 95 degrees outside, a hot breeze really isn't going to faze me anyway. It's just miserable any way you slice it, on any bike. I would expect it to be even worse down in your humidity.
So, anyway, I haven't answered your question - and there will probably be guys come along who have no such cooling issues at all. But if your buddy's RWB is fixable, I'm not sure where to start. But I'm all ears. :fing02:
I just drained the coolant and replaced with Engine Ice, expensive but it seems to work really well. I haven't ridden in 110 temps yet with it but the rides I have done have seemed to be cooler than OEM coolant. You're right, VFR's do tend to run hot, more than likely due to side mounted radiators, i've seen 240 but the bike still keeps ticking, hopefully the engine ice will solve the high temps.The 2007 you talk about should be no better or worse than any other year or the sixth Gen, (2002-2009)...they are the same.
[image: View Post]blesk3, on 03 June 2011 - 11:36 PM, said:
I've been lucky enough to have a friend store his 2007 anniversary edition VFR in my garage. After 1300 miles, I'm hooked and may try to buy it from him. My one concern is that this make and model is known for running hotter than most. Now that the weather has gotten into the 90s during my evening commute, it does feel like I'm sitting on an oven, and the cooling fan is on a good bit of the time.
Can anyone tell me, how different is this from most other bikes in this category? The BMW 1200 GS is not anywhere near this hot, and so much more comfortable over the summer months. Specifically, does anyone have any feedback for how hot the BMW K 1300 S feels in a hot climate? I don't want a bike that's uncomfortable for 4 months out of the year, and am wondering if this is just the nature of a sport tourer or if it's the tipping point in favor of the K1300.
I have a 2006 VFR, 2009 CBR600RR, and a 2010 K1300S. Of all my bikes the VFR is the hottest running of them all, followed by the K13S and 600RR. But I think the perception of "hot" depends on where you live, but here in SoCal none of my bikes are "too hot" to the point of where I don't want to ride them. I agree with AussieinUSA about running Engine Ice instead of a typical ethylene glycol based coolant...I forgot to add that I also have a 2005 VFR, and in both VFR's all I've ever run is Engine Ice and in 75K miles between the two bikes have never had a thermostat related problem. Hope this info helps...
NOT what I wanted to hear. Having moved from NC/WV to Texas just recently... ugh. I haven't ridden it yet in any type of huge heat but, am I to expect my VFR overheating now when I get home to ride? I have read about this thing running hot, but didn't even think of that when I moved to Texas. (not that THAT would have changed my mind on moving :biggrin: )
Im after something that will reduce running temps by a little but it can get cold where I live (Around 55F) so I dont want it to run too cold.
Does engine ice sound like what Im after?
[image: View Post]Westn, on 04 June 2011 - 05:55 AM, said:
Can someone tell me a bit about engine ice.
Im after something that will reduce running temps by a little but it can get cold where I live (Around 55F) so I dont want it to run too cold.
Does engine ice sound like what Im after?
Thanks and sorry for jacking
I wouldn't think Engine Ice would keep the engine from getting up to temp. 176F is not very much, and if your thermostat is working, you should have no issues.
I almost picked up some Engine Ice yesterday but in the end just couldn't plop down $40 for a coolant experiment. I may reconsider before the summer's over.
I do know that Engine Ice has anti-freeze properties whereas the Red Line coolant I saw did not.
Im in south central Texas. I run 60 to 70 percent Percent antifreeze, , Ive never seen more the the mid 220's on rare occasions, usually the lower 220.s, but averge is 195 to 215 in summer months. I dont really have an issue, i wouldnt want it hotter, but Ive never had the thought this bike is too hot.
The bike can be warm, at times sitting in summer traffic, ive never had boil over.
Those who speak of boil over issues, normally are running some concoction of fluids, There is also been a thermo failure in the models over a Long decade period, which IMO is directly related to Honda coolant causing chemical welding of the thermos. Most see a bike that doesnt warm up easily, but the opposite side of the coin can happen too, where the thermo doesnt open fully.
I dumped the honda coolant when bike was new, and never had thermo issue in the 86,000 mile Ive had the bike, course once the thermo issue exists it really cant be easily fixed without replacement.
Anyway, Id dump the original coolant on that bike and stick some prestone mixes with anything in it, Real antifreeze is very important to the long term health of your system, It not just for freezing weather.
I use (recommended amount of) water wetter, one quart of honda antifreeze and the rest distilled water. Bike still heats up pretty quick, but temps drop quicker than with straight coolant. The only reason I run any antifreeze is for the anti corrosive properties.
[image: View Post]Westn, on 04 June 2011 - 05:55 AM, said:
Can someone tell me a bit about engine ice.
Im after something that will reduce running temps by a little but it can get cold where I live (Around 55F) so I dont want it to run too cold.
Does engine ice sound like what Im after?
Thanks and sorry for jacking
Engine ice is a biodegradable antifreeze alternative, I reccomend Real antifreeze if you have the option.
if seeing above 230 degrees regularly, that should be looked into.
[image: Attached Image: nevada and east 001.JPG] Welcome to Texas,heaven to horses and hell for women.
My 2000 got hotter in St.Louis traffic last summer than it ever did in Texas traffic.Do not worry about it.If you have to, head for an overpass for some shade.
It is hot all the time on the Gulf coast;just eat more peppers and ride everyday. Have fun and be safe.[image: Attached Image: SDC10951.JPG]
Been trying to make up my mind between Engine Ice and Water Wetter.
Done a bit of research and it sounds like anti freeze retains heat somehow, therefore keeping your bike warmer.
Engine Ice sounds like a great product which provides great protection and ticks all the boxes but it has anti freeze.
Water Wetter sounds like it should keep the bike cooler in theory (no anti freeze) because nothing will cool better than straight water, but it doesnt meet all the standards that Engine Ice does.
Not sure about the boiling temp. of Water Wetter or if it will lubricate well enough.
Water Wetter
SuperCool with WaterWetter�
Convenient, pre-mixed coolant for motorcycles, ATVs, karts, etc.-pour and go!
Blended with purified, deionized water and proper WaterWetter percentage
Reduces rust, corrosion and electrolysis, cleans and lubricates water pump seals
Compatible with all antifreeze and coolant
Satisfies ASTM D2570 and ASTM D1384 corrosion tests for glycol-based antifreezes
ABOUT RED LINE WATERWETTER� COOLANT ADDITIVES
Reduces or eliminates bubbles or vapor barrier that form on hot metal surfaces to reduce coolant temperatures by up to 20�
Superior heat transfer properties compared to glycol-based antifreeze
Compatible with new or used antifreeze (including DEX-COOL and long-life versions) to improve the heat transfer of ethylene and propylene glycol systems
Improves heat transfer and reduces cylinder head temperature
Designed for use with all modern aluminum, cast iron, copper, brass and bronze cooling systems
Cleans and lubricates water pump seals
Reduces cavitation and complexes with hard water to reduce scaling
Does not lower cooling system below the thermostatically-controlled temperature
Engine Ice
Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � demonstrates outstanding cooling capabilities and corrosion prevention performance in all government, manufacturer and standard industry tests. Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � meets all the requirements of AS� D5216 (Propylene Glycol Base Engine Coolant), the corrosion prevention requirements of AS� D 3306, AS� D 4985, GM 1899, and GM 1825 including AS� D 1384 (Glassware Corrosion), AS� D 2570 (Simulated Service), AS� D 2809 (Cavitations Erosion - Aluminum Pumps), & AS� D 4340 (Hot Surface Aluminum Corrosion).
In addition, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � provides outstanding protection against boil-over and freezing damage.
Is Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant �Silicate Free� and �Phosphate free?�
Yes, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant is both silicate and phosphate free.
Is it an antifreeze?
Yes, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant is an antifreeze offering freeze protection to -26oF (26 degrees below zero)
Is it safe for aluminum?
Yes, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant is safe for aluminum and most all metals.
Can you add additives like Water Wetter�?
You can add Water Wetter� and it will not cause any problems, but the results will be nominal. Water Wetter� is an excellent product when added to plain water, but when added to antifreeze blends; its effectiveness is reduced significantly
My manual says to use �ethylene glycol� or their specific brand, can I still use Engine Ice?
Typically, this is due to outdated standardization and also because many OEM�s manufacture and sell an ethylene glycol based product. They want you to buy their stuff. You can use Engine Ice.
Will it harm my gaskets or seals?
No, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant will not harm your seals and gaskets. Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant meets or exceeds all AS� (American Society for Testing and Materials) and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) Standards and Requirements. These are industry standards in most everything mechanical and engine-based, including motorcycles and cars.
Can you mix Engine Ice with other products or types of coolant and antifreeze?
We recommend you never mix ANY TYPE of coolant and antifreeze products. One reason is that propylene glycol and ethylene glycol do not mix well together. Another reason is that just because the base fluid may be similar, other additives and ingredients may not be. Just as you would not mix oils, and for the same reasons, you should not mix coolants and antifreezes.
Why are there differences in color, some blue, some purple, is it all the same?
Yes, it is all the same product. Our coloring agent is very sensitive and is part of out non-toxic formulation, and there can be variances in color. Makes no difference. There is only ONE Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant.
Sometimes I see "particles" floating in my bottle of Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant, why is that?
That is the anti-foam and anti-corrosion properties and is a normal occurrence in our proprietary blending process. Once in the engine, it dissolves and does its job of protecting your engine.
What is Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant �, what makes it different?
Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � utilizes a base fluid called Propylene Glycol. This base fluid has been proven to be relatively harmless to plants, animals and the environment, while being an excellent base fluid for an engine coolant. We take this non-toxic base, along with various inhibitors and dilute it with the most pure water possible, Deionized Water. How hazardous is regular antifreeze?
A scant two ounces of any ethylene glycol-type antifreeze can kill a small animal (dog), one teaspoon can be lethal to a cat, and two tablespoons can be hazardous to children resulting in painful internal/intestinal problems possibly leading to coma and even death. Ethylene glycol is also harmful to plant life.
OK, so what. I don't care if bursts into flames when I take it out. Does it work, is it cooler?
If it didn't run cooler, why bother right? Absolutely! Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � has undergone extensive testing in the extreme heat and humidity of Southern Florida . Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant reduces operating temperatures. This is why many champions and race teams have chosen to use Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant �
What about performance?
Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � uses propylene glycol, which has been proven to eliminate water pump gasket and seal failures. It has also shown in high load, high stress conditions to reduce operating temperatures more than standard coolants. Individual results will vary. On average, most realize a temperature reduction of approximately 15-20oF.
But does Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � protect an alloy engine as well as regular antifreeze?
You bet! Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � offers excellent alloy protection for Motorcycle engines against corrosion, overheating, & freezing. Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � is pre-mixed at a 1:1 ratio with de-ionized (DI) water and has a boiling point of 256oF and a freezing point of -26oF. Propylene glycol engine coolants will perform superbly under most operating conditions and will not affect factory warranty coverage.
What about protection against corrosion?
The Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � formulation has shown outstanding performance in testing that measures its ability to prevent corrosion within all cooling systems, including aluminum, copper, cast iron, steel, magnesium & solder. Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � has shown excellent performance in all of the AS� D 5216 (Propylene Glycol Base Engine Coolant) tests. Also, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � meets all the corrosion performance requirements of AS� D 3306 & AS� 4985 (the main specifications for premium ethylene glycol antifreeze).
Why is Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � pre-diluted?
Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � is pre-mixed with de-ionized water. The process of de-ionizing water eliminates all of the impurities that can do harm to your cooling system. Regardless if you are using tap, bottled, distilled, spring or R/O (reverse osmosis) waters, it can still contain minute particles of iron, magnesium, rust, lime and calcium. Many of these waters also contain chemicals, such as chlorine, fluorides and acids. Want proof? Take two different brands of distilled waters and perform your own taste test. They each taste different don't they? If water were water, why would they be different? It's because of the varying amounts of chemicals and minerals in these waters. These minerals and chemicals are what is the cause the scarring, scaling and mineral build-ups in your cooling system. Many also attribute these minerals and chemicals to water pump seal and gasket failures.
How often do I need to change it and are there any special requirements?
Most every coolant product will work best when changed somewhat regularly�at minimum, we�d recommend once a year.
For racing applications, we actually recommend twice per year. The cleaner you can keep your cooling system and the fresher you can keep a fluid, the better it will perform. There are no special requirements for using Engine Ice. For any coolant and anytime you are changing coolant, we recommend a simple solution of distilled water and white distilled vinegar, both available at your local grocery store.
What about the water additive product that many racers use?
There's nothing wrong with it, sort of. But you have little boil-over protection; no freeze-up protection and you're still mixing it with water that can be harmful to your cooling system. Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant � has been proven to meet or exceed the cooling properties of the water additive type products while offering complete cooling system protection against scarring, scaling and mineral build-ups that are damaging to your cooling system.
I used Engine Ice before and I can tell you Maxima's Cool Aide is much better...as I am basically on the equator we normally get 102C everytime we stop at a red light. Not sure if Maxima's coolant has anti-freeze........as that is totally not needed here :D
The diff between the two is Maxima is better as it cools down faster. When initially I got the bike it was on Engine Ice....it was getting a long time to cool down compared to Maxima...anyway thats just my experience with Engine Ice.
End of thread · 17 posts recoveredWayback Machine snapshot 16 Aug 2011