Well for starters this is my first street bike. a 1993 vfr 750 interceptor and she has problems... also this is my first post so hello from central indiana! my name is AJ and i bought the bike for 800 the fairings are obviously more or less non existent it only starts if its on the charger. BTW taking the seat off is a pain if u dont use the key just saying. Has this weird thing when u try to start it u have to wiggle the key to even get it to do anything. But it does run i drove it before i bought it. Yes it is in dire straights but i have been lurking on here and i figured if anyone could help it would be you guys what a great Forum!
Ok now for the ambitious plans!
looking at getting all new clip on controls (bike bandit) check out the choke cable pic
6th gen tail section. Sub-frame and all that.
cbr 600 rr fairings
The tank has some dents in it too i dont know if i should repair it or replace it.
i would like to use a digital dash but really anything on the cheap that will work and fit behind the cbr front fairings would work.
it needs a new fan i was told the one on it is currently run to a switch (check the pics) ya i know WTF
and the gatorade bottle overflow tank needs to go.
i havent tore her down yet i am concerned about the forks do they need rebuilt and the carbs need to be tuned.
Any and all help would be just awesome as i look forward to riding this beast!
I bet that when you were a kid, you loved the story of the ugly duckling turning into a beautiful swan....... :tongue:
Good on ya, following your dream instead of just dreaming. :fing02:
The 90-97 manual can be downloaded from the "Files" section (top bar on your screen)
wow, that's a butch job! Been there, 4 years later, did that...not again...spent 4500 bucks on it, but it looked amazing. Honestly? I wouldn't even bother trying to sort that harness. I'd find another one in good shape and replace it.
The ignition issue I am betting is due to the butchering of the harness or a loose wire. The battery is toast. The way I go about bringing poor abused basket cases such as yours back to life is like this;
get it running...check
Change all the fluids (especially on that poor girl)
make sure it still runs
start acquiring the parts you need (btw, the fairings are probably going to be tough to come by, but I believe there are aftermarket ones around?)
start your tear down...take your time, take pics and go slowly. It's easy to get in over your head
if you don't mind me asking, what was the original asking price?
I start tearing her down on Tuesday with a buddy of mine. We have breathed life back into several cars. It's the the electronics but once I can figure out what I need it will be easier
Btw he wanted 1100 and I said no way and because it is mechanically sound I paid 800 for it. I have had one member PM me some info for parts. If anyone else has anything let me know! Especially a subframe and fairings. I'm excited and I know I can do it it will just be a parts hunt but the hunt is half the excitement!
One option for you is to turn it into a street fighter. It would probably cost less, due to the lack of body panels, yet give you a challenge finding creative ways to give it a unique look and restore some of its luster. 'wiremybike' might be a good place to start for your electrical needs, I never bought from them but I have seen many a mention of them on a few post. For $800 and it runs is a pretty good start IMO.
First let me preface my comments by saying "welcome to the forums" New2this!
I'm curious what's your ultimate goal for this project? To end up with a "beater" for track use, or with a clean motorcycle legal for riding on the streets?
Also, am I correct in the understanding that you've already invested $800+ transportation costs on this '93 VFR "project" motorcycle?
If so, regardless of your answer to the first question I wonder if you're aware that with some patience you could probably find and purchase a relatively-clean, complete and fully-functional
3rd-generation ('90-'93) VFR 750 with reasonably low mileage for less than $2.5k IMO?
I don't want to burst your bubble, but my recommendation is before you invest more time and $$ into this project first make a list of all the parts you already know will have to be replaced, then research the availability and selling prices for similar items on e-bay, etc.. Don't forget to include the cost for a battery, new tires, and any other parts that may need to be replaced just to pass state inspection requirements. I also recommend you determine if the charging system is functioning properly, for this tends to be a common issue with older model VFRs.
If you do so it's my belief that you'll realize it might be wise to consider "taking your licks" now and limiting your ultimate investment (and level of frustration) by re-selling, or parting out your purchase now while searching patiently for an opportunity to purchase a similar VFR that may need little more more than a fresh battery, set of tires, or just normal maintenance and perhaps a tune-up.
Sadly, judging from the images you've provided I fear it's likely to cost a lot more than $1.7k
($2.5k - $800)...plus a lot of your time and labor before you'd be able to restore this project bike to a fully-functional, street legal machine for which you could also be proud of cosmetically.
Also please consider that even if you really do enjoy working on this sort of project, trust me when I say that riding a VFR is still a lot more fun than wrenching on one!
Just for a little perspective, it cost me over 7,000 to rebuild mine after a crash and make it look new again. See my gallery for pics.
Mine wasn't a basket case before the accident, and yours looks like it was involved in a lot of little accidents, such as the Marrettes on the battery wiring. Etc??????
Anyhow, best of luck and keep us informed. We like pics though.
I do like the fighter style as it already runs and rides. Fairings are expensive I get that. It's titled and is registered just needs a new tail section. Clean up all the wiring woes. And alot of tlc. What do you recommend for gauges on a fighter? It's all 90% cosmetic. And a wireing harness. The tires were bought last season and look to be in excellent condition I know just tearing it down and getting all the random rigged crap on it off will definitely give me a better perspective. If its too much once I get to that point I will just part it out or keep it as a donor and look for another one
Good lord :blink: somebody butched the hell outta that poor girl!! Welcome sir, best of luck to you. Get rid of them damn HOUSE wiring nuts and an other dumbass added "wiring" you find, might cure more problems than you have even found yet!!
Im currently working on getting a whole lot of parts from a member on here! (sa1713) Complete wireing harness, reservoir tank (no more gatorade bottle!) radiator fan, fuel tank.
I get the arguments about spending $$$ on something like this vs. spending the same or less on one that's reasonably intact, but I'm not sure that's the point. Tearing this thing down and fixing it up might give you headaches but you learn a helluva lot in the process.
And let's face it anything you do to this thing will be an improvement :tongue:
It kills me to see the way some of you discourage this guy. It would be one thing if he came with a hypothetical "project bike" and a couple pics.. But he has already purchased and comiited to doing this, he came to this website obviously looking for positive responses and some help. He is proud to own it and rightfully so. I put $1000 into mine including a $500 motor , nobody thought it would go together. Now it sits at 440 wet and will walk on late model 600's(and I weigh 235). And it feels damn good to know I did it myself, and thats the reward in taking on a "project", evidently some of you don't "get it".
We are all in the same club, we love our bikes, and while everyone is entitled to their own opinion, its not necessary to tell him what he "should've/could've" done, even if it is 'IMO'.
Every VFR we can keep on the road is a win in my book. And really that goes for all bikes that have been ridden hard and put up wet.
Just my opinion, take it for what its worth. :fing02:
The 8-spoke alone is worth nearly half the purchase price. I love the old Ninja screen as a combination fairing/headlight mount. That's priceless!
Good luck with the project. I would strip her down to the bare frame, and start from scratch. She'll likely be a lot of work, and a good sized money hole, but if you can pull it off it'll make for huge satisfaction as well as a great story. Take lots of pics.
What wheels interchange with a third gen I've been looking because I thought there was a post somewhere can't find it. I like a five spoke design but really I just want to put the fattest tire I can on it I know all the bla bla about handling I just like the look.
[image: View Post]New2This, on 21 January 2012 - 03:04 PM, said:
I do like the fighter style as it already runs and rides. Fairings are expensive I get that. It's titled and is registered just needs a new tail section. Clean up all the wiring woes. And alot of tlc. What do you recommend for gauges on a fighter? It's all 90% cosmetic. And a wireing harness. The tires were bought last season and look to be in excellent condition I know just tearing it down and getting all the random rigged crap on it off will definitely give me a better perspective. If its too much once I get to that point I will just part it out or keep it as a donor and look for another one
Not sure i can say what guages you can/should use but I would do a search on this forum for "frankenviffer" and you'll probably find a few good post on what you can use from other bikes and what you can make due with from yours. Personally I would give myself a spending limit and then start with the key components that are truly needed and subtract the cost of those from the budget. This way you can keep spending in check, yet make sure the essentials are covered first.
There are two sides to this; one, if you are going to be spending more on the fix up than on a different fully functional bike for the same if not lesser cost, it might not be worth while. The second, however contradictory it may sound, if your going for a fully custom bike (i.e. Street fighter or decked out fairings with custom colors) then cost should only be an issue if you don't have the means.
When I was in high school I wanted to learn how to work on motorcycles, so I took a class at the local occupational center and while I was learning there my uncle offered me a chance to gain a little more experience at the same time. He had two 1972 Honda 250 dual-purpose bikes that had been left out in the open for quite a number of years and were in really sad shape. He really didn't think that spending money on them was a waste, because he thought that it was crucial to my learning and that with luck he would have two running bikes.
We did end up getting both of them running but one of them, in the process of taking off the cylinder head, one of the head bolts broke off in the engine case. We spent a good chunk of change having it professionally removed because easy outs and other attempts proved futile. My point here is that if it feels right to spend your money on getting the results your looking for, go for it. Just make sure you keep track of where your money is going and that you at least set a budget. There's not much like the feeling of accomplishing something that seems out of reach or near impossible. One last thing, just be patient and don't rush or cut corners as you' ll end up regretting it in one way or another.
I recently bought a complete wireing harness, clip on controls (including choke cable) no more crimped on whatever that is, radiator fan assembly and reservoir bottle all for 120 shipped this was from a member on the forum (sa1713) aka Jim. So that was a great step forward as he also has some other bits I will need as I progress.
I've decided to go on and fighter it out as its already lived a good life as a regular bike and the fact that I can create what I want is the whole idea behind it. I realize it looks like a far stretch and from the outside looking in it make look like a waste of time but it's a dream and I have a plan and I'm gathering the necessary parts. Like I said she already runs like a top, it's just bringing my idea of what it should be and making it happen. I'm not intimidated by it this isn't nearly as challenging as other projects such as turning a chevette into a tubbed out 9second drag car (454 and a power glide). Or building a twin turbo cobra mustang. A decent streetfighter can't be nearly as difficult as either of those. So instead of the BS about it being a waste just don't comment now for others that have ideas such as the "frankenviffer" or pming me parts you have for sale or just encouragement! I'm all for it.
[image: View Post]NakedViffer, on 23 January 2012 - 05:54 PM, said:
It kills me to see the way some of you discourage this guy.
I don't see discouragement, just a reality check.
ANYTHING can be rebuilt. Time and money, that's all it takes. Always more of one than the other, switch them around if you like.
I hope he turns it into a badass bike that is well finished and looks wicked cool. It just aint gonna be done in a weekend for a grand.
Sounds like the OP has experience throwing wrenches at inanimate objects and making them run, so he's probably well qualified to resurrect this sad VFR.
As I said before, good luck, and we love pictures.
[image: View Post]New2This, on 24 January 2012 - 12:08 AM, said:
What wheels interchange with a third gen I've been looking because I thought there was a post somewhere can't find it. I like a five spoke design but really I just want to put the fattest tire I can on it I know all the bla bla about handling I just like the look.
I wouldn't swap that wheel out with anything....it's the most coveted wheel in the vfr world. Took me nearly a year to find mine and you will have to pry it from my dead hands to get it away from me
You could put a 190 tire on your existing wheel. It's a stretch, and pinches the profile, but it is physically possible.
There is a thread on here where a guy put a car wheel on his 800 using a readily available machined aluminum spacer. It was a 17x 7 wheel and he put on a 200 series tire, IIRC.
Ok I got the tank off, the rear fairing and that black "pos" on the front. There is no snorkel for the air box and the R/R is melted (isn't that the black deal by the rear brake reservoir?
Good luck with it, New. Have fun, we hope to see some cool pics in due course.
Never mind the naysayers, if you've done those other projects, this should be relatively easy. :fing02:
[image: View Post]mcrwt644, on 24 January 2012 - 07:46 AM, said:
[image: View Post]New2This, on 24 January 2012 - 12:08 AM, said:
What wheels interchange with a third gen I've been looking because I thought there was a post somewhere can't find it. I like a five spoke design but really I just want to put the fattest tire I can on it I know all the bla bla about handling I just like the look.
I wouldn't swap that wheel out with anything....it's the most coveted wheel in the vfr world. Took me nearly a year to find mine and you will have to pry it from my dead hands to get it away from me
I'd go get this ^^ and use the other for parts.....
Darn it! Everytime one of these types of deals comes round, it's always in the Mid-West or at least somewhere East of the Mississippi! I guess that's what we get for having the riding weather most of the year. I never seem to catch these finds out West. Look another 8 spoke wheel too...
New, you might be able to meld this one together with your bke and make one really nice one and sell off what remains!
[image: View Post]New2This, on 24 January 2012 - 09:22 PM, said:
Ok I got the tank off, the rear fairing and that black "pos" on the front. There is no snorkel for the air box and the R/R is melted (isn't that the black deal by the rear brake reservoir?
Snorkel isn't a huge deal. Without pics it's hard to tell whether what you are describing is the R/R but from the position it certainly sounds like it. Don't bother with OEM, get one off an R1 or similar - something with a 5-wire set up (+ve, -ve + 3 from the stator) with big f*ck-off fins, then mount it somewhere it will get good airflow (i.e. not behind the panelwork). If the r/r is toast expect similar wreckage in the rest of the charging circuitry inc. connector blocks, wires and elsewhere.
Ok here are some project pictures... The R/R is melted and my fuel filter is disgusting. And the fuel sending unit ( I assume that's what it is ) the rubber sleeve is cut so it does not stay in place.the carbs look like they could use a thorough cleaning and the wiring is not that bad but I have an unmolested harness on the way!
doesn't look horrible stripped.
Rectifier is TOAST.
She needs a serious degreasing...my method? Centerstand, degreaser and 2100psi of water out of my pressure washer (put airbox back on first, lol)
Those carbs are kind of skanky too
You can probably remove the exhaust can (looks to be a Yoshimura) and hit it with paint stripper and repolish it
I like the bundle of wiring in front of the airbox too......
[image: View Post]mcrwt644, on 24 January 2012 - 07:46 AM, said:
[image: View Post]New2This, on 24 January 2012 - 12:08 AM, said:
What wheels interchange with a third gen I've been looking because I thought there was a post somewhere can't find it. I like a five spoke design but really I just want to put the fattest tire I can on it I know all the bla bla about handling I just like the look.
I wouldn't swap that wheel out with anything....it's the most coveted wheel in the vfr world. Took me nearly a year to find mine and you will have to pry it from my dead hands to get it away from me
I'd go get this ^^ and use the other for parts.....
That's probably a really good base to start a rebuild project on, especially if it is a clean title with a good frame. But sounds like he's going to get rid of most of the OEM stuff anyways.
Actually. No. I'll also suggest you go buy that bike. You'll be able to sell most of the parts you don't want, and get a good chunk of change back. Then your starting point isn't as big of a mess as your current one. And maybe the engine is fine and just has a clogged carb or bad starter or something silly like that. Then you'd really be in luck.
I'm seriously considering going to rescue that white 93 in IN myself....I hope to call and get more info on it...not hijacking, back on topic...let us know what you find out.
What is neat about, ahem, projects like this, is once you get a good baseline, it's YOURS. and you keep adding on making it right
@ New2This, looks like a total strip down job. Get all the crap off, if you've got new wiring coming you don't have to worry too much about what's on there. R/R and the connector block is forked, get shot of it then go right back through to the stator and check that once you've fixed up the wiring. I looked at the pix and couldn't hel wondering if this was once a decent bike - polished wheel rims - that ended up in the wrong hands and was subsequently butchered.
o/t that white 93 mentioned looks worth salvaging if it's straight, panels alone will fetch good $$ if they're as good as they look.
I guess I won't be a basher about a basket case because I of all people am an admitted lazy ass and couldn't fathom having the time to put one together. Between work and family obligations, I am just happy to hop on my VFR for a 20 mile loop before I have to be somewhere/do something. One other thing I know is that some of these basket cases wind up to be some of the most interesting bikes on the road. Congrats on the new bike and best wishes on getting it road worthy. - also a bit curious as to how much a bike in this shape costs. Not asking for your financial details, just a ballpark on a basket case purchase PRIOR TO ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT.
Your wheel is actually the largest stock wheel that fits, 4g owners such as myself often upgrade to a 3g wheel for width and looks, 5g and 6g bikes upgrade to a 3g wheel purely for looks.
3g- 5.5" wide and 8 Spokes.
4g- 5.0" wide and 5 spokes with rounded edges.
5g and 6g- 5.5" wide and 5 spokes with squared off edges.
I plan on tearing it all the way down most likely down to the frame and cleaning it all. Then some engine paint of course and see what else lies below the mess. My purchase price was 800 could have got it cheaper but he threw in a jacket (200$) gloves (60$) and a helmet (120$).
I'm really wanting to know if those are good quality fairings. And it is a yoshi exhaust which is why I have no (bad word) idea why it's painted. I'm still thinking a street fighter style but with a gloss blue painted frame. Undecided on a tail section yet
It's totally up to you what to do with the bike. I think most folks on here, me included, have been in your shoes with regards to a bike like this. It's a heck of an experience too. It's a good, bad, and at times, indifferent experience because much of the time you are left wondering
"Y would someone do this?" I'd say that's why some folks are saying if you have the coin, go get that 93 up the road from you a bit. I think they are just saying that it will save you much headache and nickel and dime costs.
I do applaud your enthusiasm. If you can get her to a good base and bring her back to life, heck, go for it!
Ok so further into the tear down process....
I need a new key and ignition switch... What will work? Oem? Going to stick with the fighter look so far everything looks decent needs a good cleaning but besides that she is really not that bad. Also is there a different radiator we can use a smaller/taller one that would fit between the frame better? I was looking at some of the earls(?) radiator could those work with fabbed up brackets?
Your on the right track getting it clean and running before modifications. It will prove worth while in the long run.
My other advice is to NEVER hesitate to ask a question or look here for used parts. Many of us are enthusiasts who are willing to share advice based on our experiences. As far as parts go some of us have small or large hordes of parts the we will part with so ask first before going to the outside.
You have a long way to go but we are watching... go go go!!!!
More teardown pics from the other day got the subframe off. Future plans on a different one are kind of hazy as I have too many ideas.. And u can see that the ignition wiring is junk. It's soldered on the bottom and yeah... Who knows
No I don't have any new pics and until I finish completely cleaning her up I won't post any haha hopefully tomorrow I will get a chance to scrub down everything and change the oil. Then once I get a new battery I should be ready to fire her back up and if I wasn't in the middle of fitting the 04 cbr 600 subframe I could actually drive it around. But one thing at a time I'm resurrecting the basket case! And if anyone has a 4th gen slip on they need to part with I will gladly take it as I'm waiting on the 4th gen header to arrive hopefully by next Friday! Soo many parts but I have learned eBay is my best friend on this project
[image: ImageUploadedByTapatalk1333748572.598473.jpg]
Some handlebars on the way also some risers that I saw fotomoto do.[image: ImageUploadedByTapatalk1333748584.951464.jpg]
Delkevic ss70 9" silencer[image: ImageUploadedByTapatalk1333748596.386346.jpg]
03-04 cbr 600rr fairing to go along with my subframe and undertail for the same model.[image: ImageUploadedByTapatalk1333748606.886143.jpg]
4th gen header (20$) no more kidney bean[image: ImageUploadedByTapatalk1333748616.519516.jpg]
Bar end mirrors[image: ImageUploadedByTapatalk1333748625.742303.jpg]
7" headlight
At the end of today I depaired the carbs, changed the oil, removed the wiring harness I have the new one I just need to set out the wiring diagram and figure out what I need to keep. Oh and rinsed it off and finalized all my plans for the ol viffer!