How Does The 8Th Gen Rate? Is It The Best Vfr Yet?

Taking delivery of a Gen 8 in a couple of days. Keeping my fingers crossed. The magazine reviews have been goog for the most part. What do you guys think.

You have 3 4th gen which I find to be a very close second to the 5th gen in VFR greatness.

I do like the 8G more than a 6G (better brakes and stock suspension, feels more nimble and narrow, looks better-subjective I know-except for the exhaust).

Hard to go wrong with any V4 Honda.

Thanks CornerCarver. It's hard to argue with a 9 V4 multi gen Honda garager! But I think the linked brakes, side mounted radiators and bulbous appearance places the 5th gen behind the "NRish" RC36. That being said, many agree with your view.

Kingmdm

Taking delivery of a Gen 8 in a couple of days. Keeping my fingers crossed. The magazine reviews have been goog for the most part. What do you guys think.

:lurk:

And I assume you mean "...best VFR 750/800 yet?" :wink:

CornerCarver

Hard to go wrong with any V4 Honda.

:1: If I could and had the space I'd have one from every gen. Alas, 2 will have to do!

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Kingmdm, I'd be interested in hearing your opinion of the 8th gen considering you own what has to be the best generation VFR. The fourth.

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

You're taking the piss, right..?

GearWhyne

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

You're taking the piss, right..?

Translate.

"You're pulling (my leg), right?"

sirimiri

"You're pulling (my leg), right?"

No answer is an answer when deserved and no, don't take that as a "killing the messenger intent". I assume you were merely the translator. Life is such a detail.

Bent

I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

I did not understand this 5th vs. 6th comparison. The sprocket configuration:

5th gen: 17 / 43

6th gen: 16/ 43

Also the gearing is different.

I would not dispute your result, that the fifth is slightly faster than the sixth, that could be, particularly due to weight. Just that it would not be an obvious result of the sprocket configuration.

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Good to see you back, Bent!

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Agree with your assessment on fifth gen front forks. I had them fully serviced as per factory manual but because they are non adjustable for rebound or compression, I found out the hard way they can dive real hard under full on emergency braking and rebound real quick and high side the rider. The eight gen (dlx) in us has rebound adjstable forks that perform much better. I had three-way adjustable ohlins on the fifth gen but the eight gen rear shock is capable of matching the performance I got out of the ohlins. Hv no problems with the vtec coming into play, transition on and off is smooth. Put 5000km on since I bought it and along with a scottoiler and oil change, it is a smooth riding bike. Quick shifter helps and I like the heated grips, abs and traction control. The slimmer fairing genuinely improves the bikes demeanour in windy conditions prevalent in my country. Where the yellow 99 could be blown around, the eighth gen knives through crosswinds gust without losing composure in even 100 km/h gusts.

Rice

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Good to see you back, Bent!

Thank you Rice. I never really thought I would be back but never underestimate the fallacy of being able to direct your own life.

It seems to me there are some people who react negatively anytime anything negative said about a fifth generation bike. It's pushing 20 years later. Get over it.

Shinigami

It seems to me there are some people who react negatively anytime anything negative said about a fifth generation bike. It's pushing 20 years later. Get over it.

In this thread? I missed it.

I've put a few (hundred thousand) miles on 4th, 5th, 6th, and my beloved 7th gen VFRs, and was able to flog a press bike 8th when they first hit the market. My opinion of the 8th is that is an incremental improvement to the 6th gen with no negatives (that I noticed) compared to the 6th, but improvements in suspension feel, overall suspension balance, brakes, and definitely in VTEC engagement (though, to be fair, the latter 6th gens were getting that pretty dialed in). To me it felt a little more nimble compared to the 6th gen, and was a LOT better looking (subjective) with overall better fit and finish.

Of course it's really no comparison to the 7th gen as they are completely different beasts.

I think Honda is as close with the 8th gen as they are likely to get to bringing the soul of the 5th gen to us (some of us will always miss the gear driven cams ...especially when it comes to doing service). Even though the frame is the same, the 6th gen always felt a little less compact to me than the 5th, and the 8th returns to that feeling of compactness ...not sure if it has to do with the revised swingarm design, or just a psychological effect of the more compact bodywork.

IMHO the 8th gen VFR is as much bike as anyone really *needs*. It has enough grunt to go anywhere relatively quickly, and is just such a well mannered and balanced machine that you will never find a reason to move on besides the want for something new / different. I can hustle my big V12 just as quickly through the canyons of southern California as I could on the 750 / 800 VFRs, but it's more work ...the payoff is simply a lot more torque and power; but if the 8th gen had come out when I was looking to dump my 5th (front suspension was dangerously bad, and I didn't want to drop the coin to upgrade it at that point in the bike's life) I would have bought the updated 800 ...I never really liked the 6th gen's looks enough to go down that road (though I did "borrow" one for a few months). :)

Just my $.02 but I think the 8th is a fantastic motorcycle, and a platform that is capable of doing just about anything you could want it to. ...and the white version is just begging for some blue and red racing stripe graphics!!! :)

Bent

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

I found mine snatchy, but that was totally due to the excess slack in throttle cable. Tightened it up and its fine. I will qualify my suggestion by saying I'm used to V-Twins.

The Akrapovic pipe, while absurdly priced, is hardly louder than stock at full tilt, but is so much better looking and sounding.

8th Gen it's a VTEC, enough said ..

Switchblade

8th Gen it's a VTEC, enough said ..

Cut it some slack, that's not enough reason to dismiss it without a fair chance.

Better brakes, better handling, almost 25 lighter than the 6G and the vtec transition is almost seamless. It's a good bike in spite of the vtec.

Hoping mine smooths out with a few miles. I avoid hitting it while leaned over at all in first. The first few times, I thought the back end was stepping out. Might try to get it on a dyno to make sure everything is working right.

Shinigami

It seems to me there are some people who react negatively anytime anything negative said about a fifth generation bike. It's pushing 20 years later. Get over it.

It seems to me there are some people who react negatively anytime anything is said about VTEC in any generation. It's pushing 15 years. Get over it.

jhenley17

Hoping mine smooths out with a few miles. I avoid hitting it while leaned over at all in first. The first few times, I thought the back end was stepping out. Might try to get it on a dyno to make sure everything is working right.

If your VTEC is engaging enough to make you think the back end is getting away from you, there's either something wrong with your bike or you and that wasn't meant to be a personal attack or swipe at you. Try working on a smooth throttle hand. That goes for riding any bike.

It's not a jump in power, it's like an interruption in the acceleration or hesitation. The dealer I bought from is having a dyno day next weekend. They won't be hooking the a/f up, but I'll at least be able to see the power curve.

jhenley17

It's not a jump in power, it's like an interruption in the acceleration or hesitation. The dealer I bought from is having a dyno day next weekend. They won't be hooking the a/f up, but I'll at least be able to see the power curve.

If you are cracking the throttle open while leaned over in first gear, the hesitation could be traction control kicking in if you have the delux model. I corner switchbacks or hair pins in second gear at past vtec engagement point and have no problems. I once cracked the throttle from first gear at the drag strip and traction control kicked in. The engine hesitated and then recovered. As bent said, smooth throttle cont rol.

I am not cracking the throttle, there is no TC on my bike. This occurs at the VTEC transition. This is not my first rodeo. Whether the bike is malfunctioning or it's just a sensation I have to get used to, I'm not sure of yet.

jhenley17

Hoping mine smooths out with a few miles. I avoid hitting it while leaned over at all in first. The first few times, I thought the back end was stepping out. Might try to get it on a dyno to make sure everything is working right.

Even my 6th Gen isn't that bad. I have no hesitation in going through the Vtec transition whilst cornering.

I think it more the sensation you need to get used to.

Have had no problems with transition at all on mine even in bends

CornerCarver

Switchblade

8th Gen it's a VTEC, enough said ..

Cut it some slack, that's not enough reason to dismiss it without a fair chance.

Better brakes, better handling, almost 25 lighter than the 6G and the vtec transition is almost seamless. It's a good bike in spite of the vtec.

:schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15:

Please ....

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Why do you say the gauge cluster is "an abortion"?

Switchblade

CornerCarver

Switchblade

8th Gen it's a VTEC, enough said ..

Cut it some slack, that's not enough reason to dismiss it without a fair chance.

Better brakes, better handling, almost 25 lighter than the 6G and the vtec transition is almost seamless. It's a good bike in spite of the vtec.

:schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15: :schla15:

Please ....

:offtopic:

Plus it looks and sounds pretty darn nice !

Rectaltronics

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Why do you say the gauge cluster is "an abortion"?

Because I think it is.

I actually quite like the instrument panel on it. Nice and clear providing the information that I require easy to read.

I like analogue, but we're never going back to that. I actually think the cluster is pretty nice. I wish the buttons were easier to reach and spaced a little more for easier operation with gloved hands. I also would have liked shift lights, even if it isn't a full-on supersport, but those are minor things.

jhenley17

I like analogue, but we're never going back to that. I actually think the cluster is pretty nice. I wish the buttons were easier to reach and spaced a little more for easier operation with gloved hands. I also would have liked shift lights, even if it isn't a full-on supersport, but those are minor things.

What are "shift lights" please?

Idiot lights that tell you when to change up a gear.

I thought that's what the red line was for ;)

Damn professional racers and their unnecessary sequential shift lights. Stupid of me to think it better to look down at the instruments as little as possible when moving quickly.

Forgive me, I forgot I was on an owners' forum. It's the same at all of them, I should know better than to have anything but praise for the model or manufacturer.

jhenley17

Damn professional racers and their unnecessary sequential shift lights. Stupid of me to think it better to look down at the instruments as little as possible when moving quickly.

Forgive me, I forgot I was on an owners' forum. It's the same at all of them, I should know better than to have anything but praise for the model or manufacturer.

Dang man, don't you know better than to say anything but good about all VFR's but they all suck too? Just ask any owner of any generation VFR.....or is it Interceptor? Beats the heck outta me too.

I'm still waiting for that perfect bike from any manufacturer. Never mind, it's going to be too long of a wait. :goofy:

It is what it is.

Sorry, every bike has been more perfect than the last. I graduated from my SV650 to the VFR, seemed logical to me. L-90s just make sense.

Still waiting for delivery of the RC79. It's coming from Fargo and I live in South Florida. I'm at the mercy of the delivery company. But based upon what's been said so far, I'm optimistic that it will be the "best" yet!

Bent

Rectaltronics

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Why do you say the gauge cluster is "an abortion"?

Because I think it is.

Very well thought-out...

thecat

Bent

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any. Keep in mind, most of it is opinion. BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL......

Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.

I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen. Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks. They can save your life. I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement. It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that. Too complicated to go into here. The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me. I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.

Sixth gen.: I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen. The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts. Other than that, I liked the way it ran. The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt. If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it. Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me. If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO. Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.

Eighth gen.: Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did. I think VFR engines really smooth out over time. Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too. The instrument panel is an abortion. Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work. I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank. I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties. The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers. It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR. The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement. VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me. The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years. I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary. Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know. I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself. I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times. That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me. So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults. Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway. How fast do you want to go in the twisties? My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders. Bailyrock being the exception of course. He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Agree with your assessment on fifth gen front forks. I had them fully serviced as per factory manual but because they are non adjustable for rebound or compression, I found out the hard way they can dive real hard under full on emergency braking and rebound real quick and high side the rider. The eight gen (dlx) in us has rebound adjstable forks that perform much better. I had three-way adjustable ohlins on the fifth gen but the eight gen rear shock is capable of matching the performance I got out of the ohlins. Hv no problems with the vtec coming into play, transition on and off is smooth. Put 5000km on since I bought it and along with a scottoiler and oil change, it is a smooth riding bike. Quick shifter helps and I like the heated grips, abs and traction control. The slimmer fairing genuinely improves the bikes demeanour in windy conditions prevalent in my country. Where the yellow 99 could be blown around, the eighth gen knives through crosswinds gust without losing composure in even 100 km/h gusts.

Sorry to bring up an old post but I'm ffascinatedby the 5th gen Forks comment. This sounds like a dampening issue not a for size issue, or did both of you have different problems with your bikes? If it is a dampening issue increasing the diameter of fork would seem the expensive way to fix a problem that should be cheap to fix. I agree the forks are pretty small on the 5th gens for sure. The 3 I have ridden never made me think anything bad was going to happen so I'm interested in what yall have to say about it.

I think elsewhere on the forum, he mentioned a failure of the forks. While it was probably a freak occurance, I'd probably feel the same about it if that had happened to me and it were my hide on the line.

jhenley17

I think elsewhere on the forum, he mentioned a failure of the forks. While it was probably a freak occurance, I'd probably feel the same about it if that had happened to me and it were my hide on the line.

I went on a training course with the eight gen where I had to brake with just the rear, just the front and both front and rear from 100km/h and the bike was all good with abs kicking and stopping the bike in a shorter distance than non abs lighter bikes.

Thanks for retellong your story! Sounds like a braking issue. If my knowledge of motorcycle crash physics is correct you should have washed out the front once all the suspension travel and tire was used up. Strange that under full brakes the front end unloaded.... Either way you made it and your still riding, that's better than a lot of people can say!

Thanks mate. Took a while to rehab from six broken ribs and hurts to wrists, ankles and shoulders. But i have yesterday returned from an 11-day ride, pillioning my wife, in the south island through some beautiful roads and scenery with a large group of club riders. it was great to be on the bike -- which by the way performed incredibly well with a full load on a broad variety of corners. -- and still got 5 litres per 100 kilometers which works out to british 50 plus miles a gallon!.

thecat

jhenley17

I think elsewhere on the forum, he mentioned a failure of the forks. While it was probably a freak occurance, I'd probably feel the same about it if that had happened to me and it were my hide on the line.

This is what happened to me. I had to throw the anchors on and had both front and rear brakes on. The back tyre had locked but still had good pressure on the front and squeezed harder. The bike was slowing but the forks bottomed out and rebounded at which point I got high sided with the bike falling on the right side. I went back to the scene and estimated the rear tyre was locked for about 25 meters before I fell. As I said the forks had been serviced as per factory specs, had new steering bearings and brake fluid. To be sure, the preload was set at stock as I weigh 65kg. I asked around later as to what could have caused it but got no definitive answers. So put it down to freak occurrence.

I went on a training course with the eight gen where I had to brake with just the rear, just the front and both front and rear from 100km/h and the bike was all good with abs kicking and stopping the bike in a shorter distance than non abs lighter bikes.

Was this on the new Vfr or another bike that you had forks bottoming out and rear wheel locking?

Hi fink

It was with my 1999 Vfr last November.

Glad to hear you have made a good recovery.

I was going to do a one thousand mile impression post of the eight gen. compared to others I've owned so this is as good a place to do it as any.  Keep in mind, most of it is opinion.  BTW, my opinions are almost always right....LOL...... 
 
Background, I've owned a 5th gen., 6th gen., and now an 8th gen. among other bikes, one definitely faster than VFR's.   
 
I did not like the downright dangerous front stock suspension of the 5th gen.  Few people ever experienced what it is capable of doing to you but let it suffice there is a very good reason the sixth gen. has one millimeter larger diameter front forks.  They can save your life.  I had a likely near death experience with my fifth gen. when I put it in a "just right" cornering position that twisted the front forks on dry pavement.  It's a complicated phenomena that gets a bit hairy to say the least but I never trusted the bike again after that.  Too complicated to go into here.  The sound of the gear driven cams never really was an orgasm to me.  I did like the very slightly better acceleration over the sixth gen. due to one more tooth on the rear sprocket.  
 
Sixth gen.:  I liked it except for the looks compared to either the 5th or eighth gen.  The front of the 6th is just ugly to me as are the upper rear mounted exhausts.  Other than that, I liked the way it ran.  The VTEC engagement never really bothered me nor was mine abrupt.  If it came on in the middle of a tight corner, I just never had a problem with it.  Like any VFR, it's fast enough for me.  If people got their way and it magically turned into a liter engine, they couldn't handle the power so that's no big deal where I ride....in the Appalachians....the most challenging overall riding in the country IMHO.  Witness how first timers struggle at TMAC.
 
Eighth gen.:  Mine is "snatchy" on the throttle but that will go away in time as my 6th gen did.  I think VFR engines really smooth out over time.  Overall looks are much better than the 6th but the 5th is a beauty too.  The instrument panel is an abortion.  Time will tell if an oil change and maintenance is easier to deal with considering the new body work.  I like the smaller front fender but not the forward sloping gas tank.  I used to be a tank hugger in the twisties.  The stock muffler is titanic in size but mine will likely stay stock as I don't see the point in loud "billy bad ass" mufflers.  It's hard to get meaningful more power out of a VFR.  The power curve is definitely different in the 8th as is the VTEC engagement.  VTEC engagement never really bothered me on the 6th even in curves so no big deal to me.  The 8th just isn't like a part of my body yet and that's because I've been totally off of bikes for 5 years.  I'm also not in as good physical shape but that's temporary.  Riding a VFR quick in the Appalachians takes more physical effort than some people know.  I live in the Appalachians so that will take care of itself.  I really don't care if I get back up to my "quickness" level or not because I was burning through good rear tires in 2000 miles and less at times.  That's getting on the dark side with a VFR to me.  So, to answer the OP's question, I think the 8th will end up being an overall significant improvement in spite of a few faults.  Oh, if those that want a liter engine got them, they would likely not last long anyway.  How fast do you want to go in the twisties?  My experience with significantly more hp in the Appalachians doesn't necessarily translate into faster asphalt speed for the vast majority of riders.   Bailyrock being the exception of course.  He can outrun most of us on a scooter...... :goofy:

Agree with your assessment on fifth gen front forks. I had them fully serviced as per factory manual but because they are non adjustable for rebound or compression, I found out the hard way they can dive real hard under full on emergency braking and rebound real quick and high side the rider. The eight gen (dlx) in us has rebound adjstable forks that perform much better. I had three-way adjustable ohlins on the fifth gen but the eight gen rear shock is capable of matching the performance I got out of the ohlins. Hv no problems with the vtec coming into play, transition on and off is smooth. Put 5000km on since I bought it and along with a scottoiler and oil change, it is a smooth riding bike. Quick shifter helps and I like the heated grips, abs and traction control. The slimmer fairing genuinely improves the bikes demeanour in windy conditions prevalent in my country. Where the yellow 99 could be blown around, the eighth gen knives through crosswinds gust without losing composure in even 100 km/h gusts.

Sorry to bring up an old post but I'm ffascinatedby the 5th gen Forks comment.  This sounds like a dampening issue not a for size issue, or did both of you have different problems with your bikes?  If it is a dampening issue increasing the diameter of fork would seem the expensive way to fix a problem that should be cheap to fix.  I agree the forks are pretty small on the 5th gens for sure.  The 3 I have ridden never made me think anything bad was going to happen so I'm interested in what yall have to say about it.

I experienced a fork diameter / strength issue.  As I said, there is a reason Honda increased the diameter of the 6th gen. forks by a millimeter.  Try putting the front wheel of a 5th gen. between your legs and see if you can twist the forks with the handlebars.  I can make them twist though with effort.  I can't make the front end of a 6th gen. twist using the same method and all the effort I have.  The front forks of a 5 gen. will twist under exactly the right circumstances in cornering, which occurs extremely rarely.  When it does occur, control of the steering is completely lost and very pronounced head shake can occur and it and other things did happen in one instance with me in very hard cornering.  The entire incident is very hard to explain so I won't even try.  I will let it suffice that I'm lucky it didn't kill me and I will never have another 5th gen. with stock front forks besides the fact that I just don't have any desire to own one.  Get in a near death situation and you'll feel the same about it as I do I suspect. 

Sorry, every bike has been more perfect than the last.  I graduated from my SV650 to the VFR, seemed logical to me.  L-90s just make sense.

I actually agree with you.  There is some really neat technology out in bikes today compared to just 5 years ago.  Kind of like cars too.    

Interesting I wonder if there is a flaw in the design. Sv650 forks are 41mm and those things are raced by the truck load, most with only upgraded springs and race tech valves. Maybe a fork brace is in order.... Enough of my thread jacking. Thanks for sharing your info Bent!

If threads didn't get jacked, there would only be three or four of them here.  It is a flaw in the design, but, pragmatically, only a very few people will ever experience what the flaw can cause.  I happened to be one of the few.  When something like that happens to you, it's over with, and you truly wonder why you weren't killed or badly hurt by the incident, you develop strong feelings about the bike.  I have strong feelings about the shi--y handling of Mustangs.  Someone did something stupid on an interstate that almost killed me.  Due to the poor handling capabilities of my Mustang, I should not be sitting here typing this so I have strong negative feelings about Mustangs.  As far as fork braces, I don't know.  I don't want to have first hand experience finding out either.   :comp13:    

The early Interceptors had notorious swingarm bushing wear issues that could cause terrible wobbles and tank-slappers.  Contributing factors can include one or more of tire wear, tire inflation, steering bearing wear, steering bearing too loose or too tight, worn or sticking fork bushing, inappropriate suspension settings, etc.  Poor rider form is also often a factor and can make a slight wobble into a full-on tank-slapper.  Then of course there's the design related stuff like frame and steering geometry and stiffness.  Think about the Suzuki TL1000.  My old RZ-350s didn't take much to make them into a wild bronco ride - even with fork braces and steering dampers - and there's a good reason Kawasaki H2s were nick-named widow-makers.

Usually when a particular model of bike (cue the TL1000 again, LOL) has wobble issues you hear about it right away.

That said I've never heard people claim Honda's 5th gen VFRs to be generally wobble-prone.  Except of course as a result of worn, scalloped tires or somesuch.

Is it the best to date? IMO,yes! Is there still room for improvement? Yes.
Quality USD forks, 50 more HP, more user friendly and integrated button layout, cruise control, would make for a good start.

As will an engine pumping out 150bhp.

I'd have thought 120-ish bhp would be significant enough without tipping the scales too much further.

If you want 150+, get a VFR1200 and sort the suspension! :wink:

Honest question: why is the 8th gen so heavy? Many other bikes of similar stature (tuono for one) or larger (GS?) weigh less.

Part of my reason for asking is I've observed quite a few comment they wish it had more power which could be somewhat mitigated if it weighed 50lbs less.

2016 R1200 GS curb weight fully fueled (5.2 gal) = 525lbs (BMW motorad website)

2015 Aprilia tuono v4r curb weight fully fueled =467lbs (212kg wet) (Aprilia tuono forum)

2016 S1000 XR curb weight fully fueled (5.2gal) = 502lbs (BMW motorad website)

2014 Vfr800 dlx curb weight fully fueled=536lbs (honda website)

So why so much weight? Smallest engine, similar wheelbase, etc

2016 R1200 GS curb weight fully fueled (5.2 gal) = 525lbs (BMW motorad website)

2015 Aprilia tuono v4r curb weight fully fueled =467lbs (212kg wet) (Aprilia tuono forum)

2016 S1000 XR curb weight fully fueled (5.2gal) = 502lbs (BMW motorad website)

2014 Vfr800 dlx curb weight fully fueled=536lbs (honda website)

So why so much weight? Smallest engine, similar wheelbase, etc

I guess that the raw material used in engine making is heavier, as Japan is lack of natural resources.

2016 R1200 GS curb weight fully fueled (5.2 gal) = 525lbs (BMW motorad website)
2015 Aprilia tuono v4r curb weight fully fueled =467lbs (212kg wet) (Aprilia tuono forum)
2016 S1000 XR curb weight fully fueled (5.2gal) = 502lbs (BMW motorad website)
2014 Vfr800 dlx curb weight fully fueled=536lbs (honda website)
 
So why so much weight? Smallest engine, similar wheelbase, etc

I'm guessing if they gave the bike a complete overhaul, it'd probably lose some weight. Or am I wrong in thinking the main components are largely around 15 years old?

The main components aren't about 15 years old.  If you look carefully at the eighth gen. differences, including the swing arm and frame for example, almost everything on the bike has been changed.   If Honda had seen a great deal of importance in significantly changing the weight or power of the bike, it would be a radically different bike that likely would not have sold well either.  

People are not buying many motorcycles today.  What is Honda selling well in bikes right now?  Answer:  Goldwings to older people that have the money in hand.  That's from the biggest Honda dealer in the country where people fly in from all over the country to buy, and the local dealer saying the same thing.  If it weren't for 4 wheelers, Honda dealers would be starving even more.  Today, you can't kill a deer unless you own a 4 wheeler don't ya know.  Four wheelers keep their service departments full also.