So here is our answer... Why would Honda bring it here? I really don't think anyone's going to buy one. It just seems like a step backwards to me and wait for the price... at $12,499. A Deluxe model will also be available, priced at $13,499. Two colors are offered: Red and Pearl White. :wacko:
http://www.cycleworl...=MzgwNDU3MzYwS0
I wouldn't call it backward since I never thought of the 7th gen 1200 as a VFR in the first place. The 7th gen was clearly aimed at the extra large sized BMW sport touring market anyway. That has nothing to do with the sportier roots of the VFR. I'm not saying that the 7th gen isn't a nice piece of machinery, it just doesn't seem to have a relationship to the earlier VFRs. In my mind, this newer offering follows a closer path to the originals.
Now about that price issue... I'm hoping that this version's price point follows the 7th gen as well. That thing popped up at $15,999 to start with and within a short period of time guys on this site were bringing them home for $10k or less. My guess is that they'll rake in the big bucks on the guys that absolutely have to buy the latest, greatest thing on the floor and then the price will simmer down to a reasonable amount.
I think we would all like a super light weight 1000cc with a cargo trailer capacity luggage system but in real life.....I say the VFR is back.
its WAY better looking than the 1200.!!! i would MUCH rather have this!
:wink:
I dug out the paperwork for my 09 800. MSRP for that was 14,699. New bike MSRP is 14,499 here. 200 less and you get heated grips, gear indicator, tc, updated (and hopefully better) fuelling and adjustable seat.
New pricing is consistent with old pricing, will probably get discounted at the end of the year.
I am sure you are correct but what this illustrates to me more than anything is that your guys behind the Maple Curtain get screwed.
The leftover '08s were selling for a legit $7500 here albeit in 2010-2011...so looking at it from that standpoint, carryover engine and new plastics - push.
Different ABS system - push.
New radial mounted -non-linked brakes - WIN
Traction Control Light (uses the ABS instead of full system or switch on the fly mapping) - win (lower case win but still a win).
Fully Adjustable suspension but traditional RSU forks - win.
Adjustable seat - win if you are short for me it is a "Meh"
Less sexy exhaust - lose
Lighter weight - kinda sketchy way to get there but WIN (unless you get the Deluxe model and then it looks like a push)
So not enough wins adding up to the significant price increase from the last time this frame and engine was offered in North America.
But Hondas are generally more than the sum of their parts so I will reserve judgment until Southern Powersports has one to throw a leg over and test in May...
If it had gear driven cams, and no V-tec I would be interested. But the V-tec is a "no deal" for me, and I've never been very fond of the styling after the '99 models. Too swoopy, futuristic, whatever, just didn't ring my chimes.
This one doesn't look too bad. But I'm waaaay too cheap to spend that kind of money on a bike. Heck I'm too cheap to spend that kind of money on a car. LOL
I guess what's happening at Honda is they are driving away it's customers. I'm seriously thinking that I've bought my last Honda and I have four in the garage. I really do Love the ones I have but if Honda keeps regurgitating this from 15 year old technology then it's time to move on. And if the poor sales don't give them a freaking clue, then they are already doomed! RIP Honda as we know it.
People have been saying this since Soichiro died...I kinda think that Honda have made the right decision here when viewed on the whole, the global economy does not currently justify an enormous outlay of R&D (as they did with the clean sheet design of the VFR1200 just before the meltdown.) for a niche bike.
I guess it's just that with the passionate owners group that the VFR has many here feel that we could have put together a parts bin bike that meets or exceed this "new" VFR.
I, for one, think Honda was smart to reintroduce the "new" bike. They were loosing sales to folks like me who didn't want the larger 1200 shaft drive. (Even though i know it's a good bike!). And the updated version has good features although i like the lines of the 6th gen better.
It took me most of last summer to find a clean 2006 VFR and I could have been swayed into the new version if it had been available.
So here is our answer... Why would Honda bring it here? I really don't think anyone's going to buy one. It just seems like a step backwards to me and wait for the price... at $12,499. A Deluxe model will also be available, priced at $13,499. Two colors are offered: Red and Pearl White. :wacko:
You bought a Twelve, and people asked the same question when it came out............... I hope lots of people buy them, and the 1k upgrade to the Deluxe is a bargain for what you get... IMHO
All the "I would never pay that much for a new bike" and "I would just get a good used (?) gen" guys should also be very happy if it sells well. No good used bikes if there are no New bike sales....
Big thanks to the folks that bought my 97 and my 98 new, even though they were over priced ;)
I guess my point is: Is anybody going to buy one...? Has anyone in Europe bought one? Anyone on the board... I guess I'm a little bias. I have owned two 6th gens and currently on the VFR 1200 & love it. So those who are bashing the 1200, have you ridden one?
I didn't bash it. I said it is a great machine but in my opinion as well as a few others here, Honda lost sight of the VFR roots with the 7th gen and I still stand by that statement.
I am with FJ12Ryder (another great bike by the way). I believe the 5th gen to be the best gen. I know the cam gears can irritate some guys with the Singer SOng, but the 5th is lighter, simpler, and more consistent in power delivery. The 1200 was misguided attempt, again in my opinion. I would love to see a 1000 version of the fifth gen that focused more on grunt say....75 lbs. of torque and 110hp....and luggage options. I would take a loan out for something like that.
Honda's mo has gone a bit askew. I too would rather go in Aprilia direction for my next v-four.....if I can't find another 5th gen.
I think Honda will sell more '14 VFR800s than 1200s by a decent amount. The 1200 was more of a niche bike to compete against the super sport tourers. The new 800 is more familiar to everyone, and you know how everyone hates change. Though the front only has rebound, not damping. If you're going to make a brand new front end, why skimp out. Or at least with the Deluxe version, offer to change the springs to suit the rider.
But Hondas are generally more than the sum of their parts so I will reserve judgment until Southern Powersports has one to throw a leg over and test in May...
This man understands.
The VFR has never been a champion in the spec sheet olympics. It's the bike that you ride once and just know that it's better. To prejudge the new model before riding it makes you daft.
I always thought the front end of the 5th gens looked really cool. The tail... not so much. I like how the headlights resemble the 5th gen and the tail is nice and slim.
If I had the money, I don't know if I'd trade my 7th gen in for the new 800 though... Less power and back to a messy chain... but I will have to reserve judgement until I ride one. It might make a good bike for the old lady... if I could ever get her on a sportier bike.
But Hondas are generally more than the sum of their parts so I will reserve judgment until Southern Powersports has one to throw a leg over and test in May...
This man understands.
The VFR has never been a champion in the spec sheet olympics. It's the bike that you ride once and just know that it's better. To prejudge the new model before riding it makes you daft.
Daft huh...? If you didn't notice, I was asking if anyone has one to give us the review and Yes I've owned two 6th gens one with ABS and one without... The only thing that seems to be new on this is plastic and where Honda put the pipe... This bike is not new to me... And no need for any name calling.
The only thing that seems to be new on this is plastic and where Honda put the pipe..
That's not true, not even in the slightest.
I like the new bike -- to me it's a return to what the VFR should be. My problem is that it just isn't different enough from my '99 to justify the buy in. If they'd made it an 840 (probably fairly easy to do -- there are/were big bore kits) with 115-120 hp and ~70 ft lb of torque in the same package I'd be all over it.
I too used to love the twin undertail exhaust on my 6th gen...
[image: 2011-08-12123106_zpsbf990197.jpg]
Until I got this:
[image: 2013-05-01103911_zpsad000cee.jpg]
I too used to love the twin undertail exhaust on my 6th gen...
Until I got this:
[image: 2013-05-01103911_zpsad000cee.jpg]
I too used to love the twin undertail exhaust on my 6th gen...
[image: 2011-08-12123106_zpsbf990197.jpg]
Until I got this:
Looking forward to news on the Re-Flash...
I didn't like the looks or think the 6th gen much of an improvement over the 5th gen. Yet alot of people bought them and the looks have more than grown on me. I think they are dead sexy. I think the 1200 style is growing on me too. I actually like the newest VFR800 but I think Honda knows it's hard to move us VFR guys off our current VFR models. It annoys me about the prices and the centerstand now being an option instead of standard. It's a peice of stamped pig iron and the mounting points are already on the bikes. I use mine constantly. Must be the car company influence marketing different option packages. What evs. I am seeing some lightly used 7th gen 1200's going for low prices. Gets me thinking about how annoying chain maintenance is. That Dam exhaust looks nice on it too. BTW
The 1200's are done here. The only thing that will save them here is if Honda decides to really produce a true 1200 sportourer ...
I completely agree, they need to go ahead and finish making the 1200 into the ST replacement that it's built to be. It never was a replacement for the 6th gen.... and if I wanted a k1200, I'd just go to the bmw dealership and buy one... not Honda's copy of it.The 1200's are done here. The only thing that will save them here is if Honda decides to really produce a true 1200 sportourer ...
I am intrigued by the new VFR but as others have stated it is not enough of an upgrade on paper over the 5th and 6th gen to justify the price. I will have to see for myself when it comes stateside and we start getting real test ride feedback.
It's not supposed to be an upgrade, it's supposed to be so that you can buy the bike that you love, New. Many out there are looking for good very close to new examples of used 6th gens, I'd buy the new one in a heart beat if mine were to get wrecked and I needed to replace it.I am intrigued by the new VFR but as others have stated it is not enough of an upgrade on paper over the 5th and 6th gen to justify the price. I will have to see for myself when it comes stateside and we start getting real test ride feedback.
It's not supposed to be an upgrade, it's supposed to be so that you can buy the bike that you love, New. Many out there are looking for good very close to new examples of used 6th gens, I'd buy the new one in a heart beat if mine were to get wrecked and I needed to replace it.I am intrigued by the new VFR but as others have stated it is not enough of an upgrade on paper over the 5th and 6th gen to justify the price. I will have to see for myself when it comes stateside and we start getting real test ride feedback.
well put.
In some ways yes and in some ways no. The VFR has always been their showcase bike. With the VFR it was the DCT recently, many years ago in '98 it was fuel injection.I didn't bash it. I said it is a great machine but in my opinion as well as a few others here, Honda lost sight of the VFR roots with the 7th gen and I still stand by that statement.
I dug out the paperwork for my 09 800. MSRP for that was 14,699. New bike MSRP is 14,499 here. 200 less and you get heated grips, gear indicator, tc, updated (and hopefully better) fuelling and adjustable seat.
New pricing is consistent with old pricing, will probably get discounted at the end of the year.I am sure you are correct but what this illustrates to me more than anything is that your guys behind the Maple Curtain get screwed.
The leftover '08s were selling for a legit $7500 here albeit in 2010-2011...so looking at it from that standpoint, carryover engine and new plastics - push.
Different ABS system - push.
New radial mounted -non-linked brakes - WIN
Traction Control Light (uses the ABS instead of full system or switch on the fly mapping) - win (lower case win but still a win).
Fully Adjustable suspension but traditional RSU forks - win.
Adjustable seat - win if you are short for me it is a "Meh"
Less sexy exhaust - lose
Lighter weight - kinda sketchy way to get there but WIN (unless you get the Deluxe model and then it looks like a push)
So not enough wins adding up to the significant price increase from the last time this frame and engine was offered in North America.
But Hondas are generally more than the sum of their parts so I will reserve judgment until Southern Powersports has one to throw a leg over and test in May...
LED headlights WIN, I like seeing the road at night
I'm short, so Win for the seat. Worth it to not drop the bike in the driveway, etc. Helps resale value for you.
Quick shift option. Win.
Bottom line is what you said, a honda is more than the specs on paper, and greater than the sum of all the parts.
It's not supposed to be an upgrade, it's supposed to be so that you can buy the bike that you love, New.
If its not an upgrade, then why would someone pay 13 large for it? Go find yourself a lightly used 6th gen and pay $4000 and have 10k left over for beer. I think its pretty clear what VFR owners want in a new bike. The new 800 is a small step in the right direction, but to part with that kind of money, it better be a game changer. Its not.
Who is Honda trying to capture?
New riders? No way.
Owners of 5th/6th gen VFR's ?? Maybe. Just not different enough to justify the price.
I really like it, but to sell my pristine 01 and have to come up with another 10k for pretty much the same ride?? No thanks.
It's not supposed to be an upgrade, it's supposed to be so that you can buy the bike that you love, New.If its not an upgrade, then why would someone pay 13 large for it?
Because new things cost more money than used things. People buy new cars even though the model has been out for two years unchanged and there are used ones for sale.
Honda is trying to capture new riders and diversify their clientèle. They have to do that in a harder economy. Yes, we don't like it, but that's the way it is. They've come out with a few good all rounders, a few good newbie bikes, and some other odd creations that are apparently selling well enough for them to invest more into.
And until you ride the new VFR, you cannot say that it is not an upgrade.
And until you ride the new VFR, you cannot say that it is not an upgrade.
I'm quite certain that I don't need to ride one to know that its not a $10000 upgrade. Same weight, power, and looks. Ill pass.
And until you ride the new VFR, you cannot say that it is not an upgrade.I'm quite certain that I don't need to ride one to know that its not a $10000 upgrade. Same weight, power, and looks. Ill pass.
Again, is that new car a $25,000 upgrade over your current one? Nope. Unless of course, you don't have a car, or you consider an engine that goes Vrooom vroom an upgrade.
As nice as that new 800 is it's just not enticing enough at this time. It looks great to me and I love the low exit exhaust. While not a total exotic make over, the 2014 is a nice update to a long running classic. For me I'm gonna hold on to my '07, maybe even splurge on some heated grips or something.
If its not an upgrade, then why would someone pay 13 large for it? Go find yourself a lightly used 6th gen and pay $4000 and have 10k left over for beer.
If its not an upgrade, then why would someone pay 13 large for it? Go find yourself a lightly used 6th gen and pay $4000 and have 10k left over for beer.
So, where exactly do you think all those used bikes come from anyway??? By that theory, companies should only produce one model for one year, and then let everyone buy used until they "upgrade" it sufficiently for you to justify buying it. Think about the reason that someone would walk out of the dealership with a new bike, when there's an identical used bike sitting in the same dealership... then you'll have your answer. If you only buy used, cool, but if you discourage everyone from buying new... you'll have nothing to buy.
I'm not discouraging anyone. This is just my opinion. Id be the first in line to buy a new one if it met certain criteria. Besides nicer wheels, and T/C, the new VFR 800 doesn't have much to offer over a 5th/6th gen. (T/C seems pointless on a 100hp bike, but again, my opinion).
Now if your on a beat up old Ninja 500, or your tired of your CBR 250 then this might be the bike for you. For me, Ill continue to wait. Its only been like 10 years.
So, where exactly do you think all those used bikes come from anyway??? By that theory, companies should only produce one model for one year, and then let everyone buy used until they "upgrade" it sufficiently for you to justify buying it. Think about the reason that someone would walk out of the dealership with a new bike, when there's an identical used bike sitting in the same dealership... then you'll have your answer. If you only buy used, cool, but if you discourage everyone from buying new... you'll have nothing to buy.If its not an upgrade, then why would someone pay 13 large for it? Go find yourself a lightly used 6th gen and pay $4000 and have 10k left over for beer.
I'm not discouraging anyone. This is just my opinion. Id be the first in line to buy a new one if it met certain criteria. Besides nicer wheels, and T/C, the new VFR 800 doesn't have much to offer over a 5th/6th gen. (T/C seems pointless on a 100hp bike, but again, my opinion).
Now if your on a beat up old Ninja 500, or your tired of your CBR 250 then this might be the bike for you. For me, Ill continue to wait. Its only been like 10 years.
I agree, the 8th gen doesn't offer much if you presently have a vfr, Ive been looking for a VFR replacement for years, and the closest on paper I thought an R1 (09) but then I rode one and it was hotter than a furnace and twitchy. But I sure miss good exercise, and motarding a wr450 or KTM 450 is more likely my direction and just keeping the vfr for street only, even though well over 100,000 miles it still runs as good as when it was at mile 1, actually better, cause its all set up.
Then again, they aren't releasing it for those of us riding a currently fine running vfr.
This statement defines why the 2014 VFR will most likely sit on showroom floors. Just like the VFR 1200 does, and just like the 6th gen did. (yes, I sold Honda powersports from 2003 to 2008). Its almost a running joke now, to wait a couple years for the price to come down a few grand
Then again, they aren't releasing it for those of us riding a currently fine running vfr.This statement defines why the 2014 VFR will most likely sit on showroom floors. Just like the VFR 1200 does, and just like the 6th gen did. (yes, I sold Honda powersports from 2003 to 2008). Its almost a running joke now, to wait a couple years for the price to come down a few grand
Not selling maybe says more about the short-sightness different appreciation consumers have in the USA?
Mind you, the most popluar -large capacity- bike here has been and is the BMW GS.........
Then again, they aren't releasing it for those of us riding a currently fine running vfr.This statement defines why the 2014 VFR will most likely sit on showroom floors. Just like the VFR 1200 does, and just like the 6th gen did. (yes, I sold Honda powersports from 2003 to 2008). Its almost a running joke now, to wait a couple years for the price to come down a few grand
Not selling maybe says more about the
short-sightnessdifferent appreciation consumers have in the USA?Mind you, the most popluar -large capacity- bike here has been and is the BMW GS.........
So you have a new 8th G on order to replace your 6 G? Oh wait, you never upgraded to the 6G because of your "different appreciation"...then surely you will see the 8G as an upgrade to your 5G....hmmm...checking your "in my garage" it seems that you didn't upgrade to the 5G either...I guess that was "short-sightedness" on your part...
I looked at a bmw 1300 a few years back, its lack of adjustability compared to the 6th gen was a negative, and the clip-ons seemed more narrow and non adjustable, brakes to me felt wooden. Add in the cost and too many negatives to overcome, actually if everything was Koshier, with set up and layout, price wouldn't have bee a negative.
I want one but not enough to sell my '03, now if it was written off in a heartbeat I would.
I have not been around here much since I sold my 04 and bought Multistrada 1200 Touring. But IMHO the new VFR will be a great bike. It however is not the bike I would have made if I were in charge of Honda.
The vast expendature of money would have been on #2 below.
1. I would have given the bike a CBR style underslung exhaust.
2. More importantly, I'd have given the bike a new 900cc V-4 making no less than 125 Bhp and to save as much money as possible it would have retained as many of the 800's parts as possible.
3. I'd have given it full rider position adjustability. (windscreen, handlebars, seat and footpegs...all manual to save weight and costs)
4. I'd have given it the fork, shock, and brakes straight off of a CBR because parts bin stuff lowers the costs.
5. And finally, rider modes, a slipper clutch, along with TC...again cribbed from other models to keep the costs down.
Many of these items could have been packaged as options too, and the base bike could have been a stripper for the purists.
my local dealer will get the 1st delivered in 4 weeks.
my local dealer will get the 1st delivered in 4 weeks.
Kind of hard to buy one and ride it if they are not even in the dealerships for another month, I guess
my local dealer will get the 1st delivered in 4 weeks.
I think, they've been out in Europe for a couple of months now... But not sure. i can't wait to hear a ride review... Is it really any different than the 6th gen, better...? Would love to hear from one of us who have actually owned one and not just from the magazine editors... Who in my opinion are very bias anyway. :wacko:
That's funny. Because I've had two 6th gens. 2005,and 2006 with ABS really liked them both until the 06 was sold. Then came across a killer deal on my 1200 and it's much more than my 6th gens could ever be. I guess to each his own. I don't think the VFR will ever be a popular bike but that's OK with me. I will always love the V four engine, no matter what.
Yep, my guess most of that stuff is folks who haven't ridden one. The power alone is worth the upgrade.
I didnt like it at first. I still think the 6th gens are better looking.
I love the vtec. I have no problem with it at all.
I bought my 04 in 06 as a leftover. I got it for 7K usd.
My boss got his a lattle later for 6k usd.
I expect the same will happen for the new bike. I laugh at the price but all bikes are more costly now. Look at the cb1100, 10 garnd is a joke.
I will buy one in 2 years for 40,60% percent cheaper. I really dont think it will sell well,
I do listen to the gsxr crowd and am amazed with their comments. Everyone comment I have heard is that it looks awesome.
I really like that its narrow. The wheels, brakes, swingarm, top triple clamp are gorgeous.
However after an undertail exhaust everything else sticks out like a sore thumb.
I was at my dealers on Saturday to pick up my new 1200, and there were 3 new 800's on the floor. They were all sold.
I still cannot understand after all the negative feedback that the CCT reintroduction recieved that Honda did not go back to gear driven cams. That would have reestablished the dependable bullet proof engine that VFR's became famous for. It was not the fastest bike but for no hassle maintenance those engines cannot be beat. They are known as over engineered, in a good way, as a response to win back consumer confidence from the early VFR cam failure bikes.
I happened to be in my dealer today and they had a just received 2014 white base model, red deluxe version due in a week or two. if I was looking to buy a new bike this would be near the top of the list. It just seems like a renewed 5th gen, I'm really liking it.
Well, here is my point. I have a 2004 VFR with 22,000 miles on it - just broken in, really. My bike's engine is virtually identical to the new VFR's engine, but I bought my VFR on the cheap and modded it - Ohlins shock, revalved and resprung fork, Power Commander and dynotune, Galfer rotors, SS brake lines, and other goodies such as Carrozzeria wheels and Leo Vince carbon exhaust for weight reduction (including wheel weight) and other stuff like SpeedoHealer. Still cheaper than the newest VFR.
I'll take mine, thanks, at least until the new one comes stock with Ohlins, Power Commander, custom map, lighter wheels, upgraded brakes, etc. for my price. Or until some FUNDAMENTAL improvement (engine?) is made. I don't intend to be snotty, but I never buy new motorcycles because it costs too much to make them mine. Good used bikes plus aftermarket rocks the house!
You should see my 1998 Ducati 748 . . .
Well, here is my point. I have a 2004 VFR with 22,000 miles on it - just broken in, really. My bike's engine is virtually identical to the new VFR's engine, but I bought my VFR on the cheap and modded it - Ohlins shock, revalved and resprung fork, Power Commander and dynotune, Galfer rotors, SS brake lines, and other goodies such as Carrozzeria wheels and Leo Vince carbon exhaust for weight reduction (including wheel weight) and other stuff like SpeedoHealer. Still cheaper than the newest VFR.
I'll take mine, thanks, at least until the new one comes stock with Ohlins, Power Commander, custom map, lighter wheels, upgraded brakes, etc. for my price. Or until some FUNDAMENTAL improvement (engine?) is made. I don't intend to be snotty, but I never buy new motorcycles because it costs too much to make them mine. Good used bikes plus aftermarket rocks the house!
You should see my 1998 Ducati 748 . . .
+1 exactly ...
I understand that when a new model comes out, everyone who owns a previous model says they are not going to upgrade. Somehow like the new model is just for them.
But I came to the VFR from a Triumph. The new model is as much to attact new customers to the product as it is to tempt existing customers to upgrade. So for me the VFR had to compete against existing loyalties, and compete against everything else including beemers, FJR, Sprints, GTRs, you name it.
I still chose this bike. As an example the Z1000 looks busy (IMHO) and has a small fuel tank range, not like the 21 litres of the VFR.
Welcome and congratualtions on the new VFR! :beer:
Thank you Dutchy for your welcome, and apologies for forgetting my manners and being so late with my reply.
The only Dutch I can think of is Dank u well. And the other bike in the garage is a Koga Miyata from De Vakantiefietser in Amsterdam !
Take it easy Dutchman.
graag gedaan!
:goofy:
The Dutch speak excellent English. AND they smoke weed. Awesome!
.
The Dutch speak excellent English. AND they smoke weed. Awesome!
.
All the time evidently !!!!
Probably why they speak excellent English and buy vfrs ...lol. oh by the way hi to all....Im nu here with a nu vfr (no pics yet)
I say we all show up at Will's House (funny ha ha) and take turns on his new ride. :fing02:
ooooh yes!!!!
May I do the rolling burnout????? :goofy:
[image: Attached File] burnout.jpg 36.17KB 20 downloads
None Link brakes !!!
Here she is, now with 1700 miles. I have really enjoyed this bike. Makes a great long distance commuter. Average UK mpg is so far 53.7 mostly motorway and that includes pressing on a bit.
Here she is, now with 1700 miles. I have really enjoyed this bike. Makes a great long distance commuter. Average UK mpg is so far 53.7 mostly motorway and that includes pressing on a bit.
I forget my conversion table but seem to recall that an Imperial gallon was the size of King George's frilly underpants or some such...what does this convert to in US mpg?
Here she is, now with 1700 miles. I have really enjoyed this bike. Makes a great long distance commuter. Average UK mpg is so far 53.7 mostly motorway and that includes pressing on a bit.
I forget my conversion table but seem to recall that an Imperial gallon was the size of King George's frilly underpants or some such...what does this convert to in US mpg?
I don't know, maybe you should convert it using your own frilly underpants !
1 imperial gallon = 1.20095 US gallons.
Thank goodness miles are the same lol
Here she is, now with 1700 miles. I have really enjoyed this bike. Makes a great long distance commuter. Average UK mpg is so far 53.7 mostly motorway and that includes pressing on a bit.
I forget my conversion table but seem to recall that an Imperial gallon was the size of King George's frilly underpants or some such...what does this convert to in US mpg?
I don't know, maybe you should convert it using your own frilly underpants !
Wish the Poms would abandon Ye Olde Worlde Feudal Measures and use the metric system so folk around the world can understand. Last time I was in the UK fuel was sold by the litre anyway… As for the 'Muricans, whats with inventing your own unique versions of middle-ages measures? New-world lands of progress? :laughing6-hehe:
Interesting. One of my local Honda dealers said that the old bike didn't sell and that he would not order a new one. I'm sure if I told him to order me one he would. But not even 1 just to see if there is any interest?
Why? The VFR is not a performance bike. Never has been. The engine is great. If you need more power, get the 1200. That's what it's for. All this "more power on this bike, give it more displacement" makes no sense as Hondas has bikes with more power and more displacement, one even a VFR. Just go and buy a different bike and leave the VFR to those who enjoy its qualities which don't have much to do with super high output.
my 86 has 90 horsepower to the rear tire. I don't see why it is a big deal that we want more power? If you don't want more power on a VFR, don't go full throttle. I don't want a fireblade because I don't want my back and wrists to hurt after 10 min of riding. I love the stance of my VFR, and I want to keep with the VFR. is that too much to ask?
again, my 86 makes 90 hp to the rear tire, and honda has gone up what? 10 hp in THIRTY years of tech?
again, my 86 makes 90 hp to the rear tire, and honda has gone up what? 10 hp in THIRTY years of tech?
So in 30 years of technology development the best we can do is what we did 30 years ago? Then why is the price so high if its just as good as 30 years ago? Again bikes that are essentially equal to the VFR today are less expensive with argueably better parts. There are also bikes at the same price point as the new bike that are light years ahead in most catagories (power, components...). All the development costs have been pretty much paid for as the frame and engine are essentially unchanged I just don't see where the extra bucks are. I'm sure its got plenty of power for the job it was intended to do, the 5th gen I rode did.
Does a Vtec even dyno 100hp at the rear wheel??? I didn't think it did.
my 2007 dynoed at 96 to the rear tire stock... 6 more than my 86. pathetic.
2007 Dyno:
1986 Dyno:
same dyno... the difference was I paid for the 2007 dyno. the 86 dyno was on free dyno day lol
That is not pathetic, that is more attention to noise and pollution concerns over the years.
.
and it is never the size of your pencil,
but how you write your name.....
100 horses plenty for what Honda wants the VFR to deliver.
YMMV...
Pathetic in the eyes of people who like power when they want it :)
Pathetic in the eyes of people who like power when they want it :)
Hmm. Isn't it pathetic to buy a bike you know is not tuned for performance? I'm really not getting it. If you want more power, buy a different bike. Easy as that.
Pathetic in the eyes of people who like power when they want it :)
Hmm. Isn't it pathetic to buy a bike you know is not tuned for performance? I'm really not getting it. If you want more power, buy a different bike. Easy as that.
so I don't understand the VFR then. Why have a sporty look and have non sporty performance? If I wanted to cruise, I'd buy a cruiser... I want an inbetween between a true crotch rocket and a cruiser. This is why the VFR strikes my interest.
Vee Four RACING... hm?
V 4 racing is kinda funny since they don't race V4 anything much anymore besides MotoGP. Kinda a left over from the old days. I was watching I think MotoGP or something and the commentator said that Honda engineers preffer the V4 lay out. "Really? Sure wouldn't know that by the kind of bikes they sell..." I thought to myself.
Pathetic in the eyes of people who like power when they want it :)
Hmm. Isn't it pathetic to buy a bike you know is not tuned for performance? I'm really not getting it. If you want more power, buy a different bike. Easy as that.
so I don't understand the VFR then. Why have a sporty look and have non sporty performance? If I wanted to cruise, I'd buy a cruiser... I want an inbetween between a true crotch rocket and a cruiser. This is why the VFR strikes my interest.
Vee Four RACING... hm?
You hit the nail on the head there Thor294. Some understand, some don't.
What exactly is "sporty performance"? Is short-shifting to use no more than half the potential of a 160hp litre-bike as you squirt from corner to corner up a twisty road? No it isn't. Is it extracting every bit of speed possible up the same road out of a bike with half the power of the litre bike, even if it results in a slower elapsed time than the litre bike? Yes it is. Sport riding is about rider input & involvement. Racing is about outright performance & speed. If you truly want a sporty bike between a supersport bike & a cruiser then a VFR800 is a good choice. More than enough performance to land you in custodial sentence in most parts of the world but still demanding enough rider input & involvement to swiftly unravel some twisty tarmac.
BTW VFR stand for Vee Four Road. Your '86 is a VFR750F F = fairing. The RC30 is a VFR750R & the last R is for racing.
Why? The VFR is not a performance bike. Never has been. The engine is great. If you need more power, get the 1200. That's what it's for. All this "more power on this bike, give it more displacement" makes no sense as Hondas has bikes with more power and more displacement, one even a VFR. Just go and buy a different bike and leave the VFR to those who enjoy its qualities which don't have much to do with super high output.
Absolutely!
If you want something sportier the buy a Fireblade.
You mean if you want a sportier V4 just buy the Aprilia..and give up the Honda build quality/reliability...
I do not think you are being confrontational. We're just talking. ;-)
A Gixxer isn't a sport-tourer so I wasn't even considering one. Besides, I have a Ducati 748 for that kind of thing.
When I was shopping for a used sport-tourer, my 2004 VFR showed up at a great price due to a bit of road rash. If a different sport-tourer - a Ducati or a BMW or a Triumph or a 5th Gen VFR - had popped up at the right price, I probably would have pulled the trigger on it, upgraded it as I did my VFR, and have been just as happy with it as I am with my VFR. I clearly stated earlier that this is all a matter of value and that different riders have different views on value. I won't replace my VFR anytime soon, but the next sport-tourer I buy will have more power.
Why? The VFR is not a performance bike. Never has been. The engine is great. If you need more power, get the 1200. That's what it's for. All this "more power on this bike, give it more displacement" makes no sense as Hondas has bikes with more power and more displacement, one even a VFR. Just go and buy a different bike and leave the VFR to those who enjoy its qualities which don't have much to do with super high output.
Absolutely!
If you want something sportier the buy a Fireblade.
You mean if you want a sportier V4 just buy the Aprilia..and give up the Honda build quality/reliability...
I have a late model Aprilia and there is a reason I am reading this forum! I want a bike where I don't have to worry about bits falling off
Ok dudes. I've got one! Strap agrees with me. It's a totally different ride with almost unchanged ergonomics. Moving the radiators, integrating the turn signals, and dropping 40 lbs has made a huge difference in handling!
Much lighter inputs than the dying 6th gen I traded for it. Being a woman I'm not as big as most of you guys. I've got long legs so I'm happy to ride with the seat at the high setting, but I don't have as much weight to counterbalance. This bike is closer in handling to my light little flickable sv650 than my old 6th gen.
Much sportier than the 6th without the linked brakes. For you Ricky racers you can really get on the binders diving into a turn.
Feel free to ask more question about my new ride. I'll be happy to answer. Oh andI put over 800 miles on him the first 4 days!
I wouldn't call it backward since I never thought of the 7th gen 1200 as a VFR in the first place. The 7th gen was clearly aimed at the extra large sized BMW sport touring market anyway. That has nothing to do with the sportier roots of the VFR. I'm not saying that the 7th gen isn't a nice piece of machinery, it just doesn't seem to have a relationship to the earlier VFRs. In my mind, this newer offering follows a closer path to the originals.
Now about that price issue... I'm hoping that this version's price point follows the 7th gen as well. That thing popped up at $15,999 to start with and within a short period of time guys on this site were bringing them home for $10k or less. My guess is that they'll rake in the big bucks on the guys that absolutely have to buy the latest, greatest thing on the floor and then the price will simmer down to a reasonable amount.
I think we would all like a super light weight 1000cc with a cargo trailer capacity luggage system but in real life.....I say the VFR is back.
maybe the 1200 should have been noted as the 1st gen of that model
the Gens are definitely out of sync with the return of the 800
I am happy that VFR buyers like their bikes!
I still cannot understand after all the negative feedback that the CCT reintroduction recieved that Honda did not go back to gear driven cams. That would have reestablished the dependable bullet proof engine that VFR's became famous for. It was not the fastest bike but for no hassle maintenance those engines cannot be beat. They are known as over engineered, in a good way, as a response to win back consumer confidence from the early VFR cam failure bikes.
While I can understand the distaste for vtec 2 stage motor over single stage 5th gen, I don't really understand the liking of the obnoxious whine of the gear driven cams, I never knew it was that loud till I heard it . I think gear driven is not the issue with some as much as the vtec 2 stage motor is. Id say if Honda made a single stage 1000 cc v4 with cam chains, it would quelch anyone motor wise(single stage motor and quiet cam operation with chains).
Outside of that every bit from frame to lighting to electrical, to suspension is better and beefed up on the 6th, I like the look of undetailed exhausts, but low mount exhausts aide with rider heat reduction , and the cbr series has a very nice looking low mount exhaust, that wouldn't bother me at all.
I would like a fully adjustable cartridge fork(right side up ) is fine with me, less fork seal replacement.
"quelch"?
I agree that fully adjustable suspension would be nice. Wondering if there is a fork kit to make one control compression and leave one controlling rebound. I am always baffled by the choice to only allow rebound damping adjustment, as I would much prefer compression adjustability if only given one. Same goes for the shock. Not like this bike is at a bargain price point.
That being said, I rode for about 4 hours yesterday with a break in the middle for lunch and it was a delightful experience. The bike is smooth, fast, light handling, has a great trans, clutch and motor. I do miss the gear whine.
Rob
While I can understand the distaste for vtec 2 stage motor over single stage 5th gen, I don't really understand the liking of the obnoxious whine of the gear driven cams, I never knew it was that loud till I heard it . I think gear driven is not the issue with some as much as the vtec 2 stage motor is. Id say if Honda made a single stage 1000 cc v4 with cam chains, it would quelch anyone motor wise(single stage motor and quiet cam operation with chains).
they did! then replaced it with a gear driven 1000 cc motor.. :beer:
then made the 750,, :wub:
then added chains again to the 800 and presto.. problems.. !! no thanks!! :computer-noworky:
now i will admit they aren't the only bike to deal with problem CCTs ...
the question to me, is what made the designer make the switch in the first place.. not much was gained ,and reliability was lost.
The VFR has a lousy suspension. Weakest link in the entire package. But it can easily be fixed with $$$.
The cam chain tensioner is not an issue. Easy replacement, unless you own one of the 1st Gens . . ..
The VFR has a lousy suspension. Weakest link in the entire package. But it can easily be fixed with $$$.
I have to agree with Shinigami on the 8th gen, I definitely wouldn't call it lousy!
BTW, Shin, how are you liking the PR4's now that you have some miles on them? At 2850 miles, my stock rear is toast and I'm still trying to decide between PR4 or RS2 (I will be replacing F & R). A friend with a 6th gen ran a set of PR4's and liked them other than the fact that the rear wore out down the middle in less than 5k miles. It's odd, since like me, he doesn't commute and spends all his time carving the canyons. His front still had tons left, so he ended up just putting an RS2 on the back. I'm generally not a fan of mixing brands like that, but he says it rides just fine.
While I can understand the distaste for vtec 2 stage motor over single stage 5th gen, I don't really understand the liking of the obnoxious whine of the gear driven cams, I never knew it was that loud till I heard it . I think gear driven is not the issue with some as much as the vtec 2 stage motor is. Id say if Honda made a single stage 1000 cc v4 with cam chains, it would quelch anyone motor wise(single stage motor and quiet cam operation with chains).
they did! then replaced it with a gear driven 1000 cc motor.. :beer:
then made the 750,, :wub:
then added chains again to the 800 and presto.. problems.. !! no thanks!! :computer-noworky:
now i will admit they aren't the only bike to deal with problem CCTs ...
the question to me, is what made the designer make the switch in the first place.. not much was gained ,and reliability was lost.
I never really heard much about CCT problems on VFRs. Probably because most of the time we are hearing about R/R and other electrical problems.
It has been my understanding that the gears gave way to chains due to noise limitations. But given my knowledge of what amount to generous federal noise limits, I think it just gives Honda the ability to play with exhaust noise more, which might offer a slight edge in potential power output. Of course we're talking small numbers but every little bit counts. Or maybe it's just sound aesthetics. No way to be sure. I will say that my new 800 is louder than my '97 750 was, and that was with 50,000 hard miles on the stock can so it wasn't all that quiet either before it was murdered.
As for the "obnoxious whine " of the gear driven cams, I hate to judge but (fuggit I'll do it anyway) this board is full of people who rush out to buy aftermarket exhausts, drill out baffles or remove them, remove catalytic converters, screw with their airboxes, etc. all so they can make more noise which coincidentally 99% of the world finds obnoxious and inescapable. And I find that a bit funny if they also like the gear whine because I don't know how they can hear it over the blat of a Staintune. But I'm going to laugh my ass off when the day finally comes that ICE engines become extinct in favor of electrics and the only noise you'll have is gear whine. Half of that crowd of aftermarket exhaust buyers will be fastening baseball cards onto the forks and swingarm and the rest will be in the looney bin making vroom-vroom sounds with a little plastic toy motorcycle in between the lithium doses and tube feeding sessions.
I have a theory that the people who miss gear whine grew up thinking George Jetson's car sounded pretty cool... ;)
i am DEAF!!
its the sheer simpleness of it! makes rebuilds a snap if you will EVER ACTUALLY NEED ONE..
it makes aligning everything up so simple and fast.. :beer:
and best of all.. i dont have to worry about the cct or chain.. i cant hear them if they go bad...
ICE = internal combustion engines
Had to roll that one around for awhile , Dont think any of us will be around when the electric's take over .
When Honda had so much trouble with their first V-Four engines especially the VF750 anf VF1000F & R they went back to the drawing board and over engineered the first VFR750 engine to make it bullit proof and succeeded ! Part of that equation was the beautifully excecuted gear driven cam set up which has many advantages from an engineering stand point, accurate timing, low maintenance, reliability and so on, but they are noisy and expencive to make. Personally I liked the sound of gear driven cams having owned and loved a 1988 VFR750 for 13 years and also a VF1000R for a couple, the sound sets them apart from other engines and made them to me that little bit special. But thats not what makes VFR's good motorcycles, its the sum of all parts somehow coming together to provide a riding experience that so many have loved over the years. I have just recently returned to the VFR family having purchased a 2014 VFR800, and must say it's good to be home, while it's a shame Mr Honda decided not to up the figures on the HP and Torque front by either upping the capacity or a more modern design and removing the overly complicated and distracting V-TEC, I find it to be a fun and engaging bike to ride, one that invites you to go further than you intended and sometimes faster than you should, do I miss the sound of the gear driven cams? No, not really, would I like more power? Yes please. But in the mean time I will enjoy whats available now which to my mind is every inch a VFR. a Very Fine Roadbike. Cheers to all.
ICE = internal combustion engines
Had to roll that one around for awhile , Dont think any of us will be around when the electric's take over .
I'm not planning on dying all that soon.
Who's going to buy one? Me! :laugh:
Yep. You have to take the black side panels off to fit the side straps to the tank edges, and remove the seat and raise the tank a little to thread the rear one through, but it fits really well.
Of course...
I have to agree with Shinigami on the 8th gen, I definitely wouldn't call it lousy!
BTW, Shin, how are you liking the PR4's now that you have some miles on them? At 2850 miles, my stock rear is toast and I'm still trying to decide between PR4 or RS2 (I will be replacing F & R). A friend with a 6th gen ran a set of PR4's and liked them other than the fact that the rear wore out down the middle in less than 5k miles. It's odd, since like me, he doesn't commute and spends all his time carving the canyons. His front still had tons left, so he ended up just putting an RS2 on the back. I'm generally not a fan of mixing brands like that, but he says it rides just fine.
^ Feathering on the trailing edge could also indicate rebound is set to quick...
Of course...
My VFR:
pre-owned 2004
Mods:
Fork reprung/revalved for my weight and riding style
Ohlins shock
PC III and dynotune
Leo Vince cans
Custom saddle
CZ wheelset
Total cost - less than this new VFR
Engine - same
Just saying . . .
My VFR:
pre-owned 2004
Mods:
Fork reprung/revalved for my weight and riding style
Ohlins shock
PC III and dynotune
Leo Vince cans
Custom saddle
CZ wheelset
Total cost - less than this new VFR
Engine - same
Just saying . . .
Yes, good point, I thought long and hard before changing my 05 but it was coming up to 70,000 miles, had served me well but needed similar things doing to it. I had the money from an inheritance to buy the new one so I thought, why not?
A reasonable decision, bloke.
Just saying . . .
Still waiting for you to finish your sentence.
Yes, I have a question: What does getting on the binders mean??Ok dudes. I've got one! Strap agrees with me. It's a totally different ride with almost unchanged ergonomics. Moving the radiators, integrating the turn signals, and dropping 40 lbs has made a huge difference in handling!
Much lighter inputs than the dying 6th gen I traded for it. Being a woman I'm not as big as most of you guys. I've got long legs so I'm happy to ride with the seat at the high setting, but I don't have as much weight to counterbalance. This bike is closer in handling to my light little flickable sv650 than my old 6th gen.
Much sportier than the 6th without the linked brakes. For you Ricky racers you can really get on the binders diving into a turn.
Feel free to ask more question about my new ride. I'll be happy to answer. Oh andI put over 800 miles on him the first 4 days!
Who's going to buy one? Me! :laugh:
That bike looks nice, Id buy one if I didn't already have one. I'll buy another VFR if they ever put the 900cc gp hydraulic valved motor in one , otherwise my 2006 has 110,000 mile ,runs and performs as good as the day I bought it. I see no reason to rid it, no oil usage at all, and never seen a valve check. We'll see at the 200,000 mile mark, is my thoughts.
Right now Im waiting on the first set of fork seals to fail, never seen seals last this long.
Yes, I have a question: What does getting on the binders mean??Ok dudes. I've got one! Strap agrees with me. It's a totally different ride with almost unchanged ergonomics. Moving the radiators, integrating the turn signals, and dropping 40 lbs has made a huge difference in handling!
Much lighter inputs than the dying 6th gen I traded for it. Being a woman I'm not as big as most of you guys. I've got long legs so I'm happy to ride with the seat at the high setting, but I don't have as much weight to counterbalance. This bike is closer in handling to my light little flickable sv650 than my old 6th gen.
Much sportier than the 6th without the linked brakes. For you Ricky racers you can really get on the binders diving into a turn.
Feel free to ask more question about my new ride. I'll be happy to answer. Oh andI put over 800 miles on him the first 4 days!
I'm a "yank" but I'm pretty sure "getting on the binders" means applying the brakes (binders being the calipers)
Apparently no one is going to buy the standard white model in my local Honda dealer, it's been sitting there for about 6 months. It's not like there's not a couple million people in the local area...
Then again, they've got one of these on the showroom floor and I'd bet it's going to be sitting there a whole lot longer than the VFR. Those rear trunks can fit about 2 small sandwiches, if you hold the lettuce. One of the ugliest bikes I've ever seen, my opinion only. :wacko:
[image: nm4_12971_1055matte_black_front.png?Crop]
Apparently no one is going to buy the standard white model in my local Honda dealer, it's been sitting there for about 6 months. It's not like there's not a couple million people in the local area...
Then again, they've got one of these on the showroom floor and I'd bet it's going to be sitting there a whole lot longer than the VFR. Those rear trunks can fit about 2 small sandwiches, if you hold the lettuce. One of the ugliest bikes I've ever seen, my opinion only. :wacko:
youre NOT alone!!!
[image: iobarf.gif][image: barf.gif]
I swear I thought I've seen that bike before but couldn't remember where! Then it hit me: I pulled down the Funk and Wagnalls and looked in the F's, and there it was under "Fugly".
I'm not sure what's getting in to the heads of the styling departments these days. Time was when I used to eagerly await the new models knowing that I'd be drooling when I walked in to the dealer. I was almost giddy with excitement the day I bought my 5th gen. I thought Honda did a nice job on the Goldwings, even the ST's and the other manufacturers also made attractive bikes. They had flowing lines and stylish curves and things seemed to naturally fit together. These days I feel like I'm going to say "now what?" when I see the new ones and have to somehow "learn to like it". The new VFR is one exception - I do find it attractive. But generally bike styling has been going down a path that has left me less than excited. It's like they're trying too hard to be "edgy". Maybe it's like music - each generation has its tastes and things change leaving the prior generations behind. Or maybe it's just me . . . dunno. :unsure:
How do I stop following this "topic"?
Go sit in your winter cabin and unplug from the grid? :goofy:
I haven't kept the receipts, but I bet I have spent about $7000 on mods. And quite a few hours of labor. Changing the shock was not very much fun . . .
Alaskan, it's rather questionable form to "invite" debate and then post, on another forum, at how "pissy" we are on this forum. Just saying.
Hope you enjoy your choices as much as we enjoy ours.
Get over it.
Well I guess I am a "Nobody", traded in my '03 on a slightly used '14 Deluxe with panniers and quick shifter., and love it. Everything the 6th gen was but better. Styling, fit and finish are superb. Handling gives a lot more confidence. I put most of the mods on the 6th gen and was contemplating a suspension upgrade in the spring. Just couldn't see putting more money into it, it had dings and scratches from PO's, front forks were pitted from road debris. It ran fine, but was in need of the 32K service on the valves. I rationalized it was better to start fresh with a bike that was spotless and could own for many years, rather than pouring money into a 12 year old bike. Very pleased I did. Can not believe all the negative comments about a newer version of the bikes we all love.
I wish I could see one in person.
Come by my local dealer, there's a white one, the only one they've ever received, that's been sitting there for 9 months or so.
Whelp, they're NZ$22,000 here. That's US$16280. That's because there's just one company here that imports them, so they're a monopoly, and they don't give a crap about their customers. Spares are not kept in stock (all need to be ordered from Japan.) That's why 2 years ago I bought a new car instead of a replacement bike.
Even here in NYC spares still have to find their way from a warehouse three thousand miles away and still on occasion, Japan.
I wish I could see one in person.
Come by my local dealer, there's a white one, the only one they've ever received, that's been sitting there for 9 months or so.
My local dealer has moved a few but not the one he has on the floor, because it's not a deluxe. D'OH!
Without having read through every post in this forum - why is there a thought that no one would buy these? I've had guys jump off their bikes onto mine, and comment how great the VFR handles. (09 / 6th Gen). Why would people choose not to continue to purchase VFR's in the future? Is there an alternative out there that beats the reliability and handling for a lighter (Sub 1L) sports tourer?
If I wrote off my bike, this would have been the first bike I would have considered going to the shops to see. (I admit I haven't had a huge experience riding other bikes - I'm mainly going by what my friends have said when they've tried my bike out).
So here is our answer... Why would Honda bring it here? I really don't think anyone's going to buy one. It just seems like a step backwards to me and wait for the price... at $12,499. A Deluxe model will also be available, priced at $13,499. Two colors are offered: Red and Pearl White. :wacko:
I would buy one if it had DCT. Nice looking machine.
![[image: 2011-08-12123106_zpsbf990197.jpg]](http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd103/crazybrother1963/VFR/2011-08-12123106_zpsbf990197.jpg){kind=link}
![[image: 2013-05-01103911_zpsad000cee.jpg]](http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd103/crazybrother1963/VFR/2013-05-01103911_zpsad000cee.jpg){kind=link}
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