I am brand new to this form and have a question. I am thinking about purchasing a 2009 VFR. I have owned several BMWs and lots of Yamahas and Hondas, including an ST1100. I liked the engine in the ST but did not like the clunky gearbox or the heat generated by the engine. Would the VFR have the same heat issues? And what can you tell me about the transmission. Also, what kind of maintenance is required?
Well I'll come right out and say it. The VFR will put out some heat. How it compares to an ST, not sure. The transmissions are pretty slick shifting, with only complaints on the 5th and 6th gen bikes being the 5-6 upshift, which can be a little sloppy sometimes. I've trained myself to be a little overly deliberate with the 5-6 shift and haven't had a problem since. There is an aftermarket shift star available that I have heard really good things about. Aside from the occasional charging system woes, these bikes are a change the oil and ride type deal. Air filters and spark plugs at 10 to 15 thousand miles, and skip the first valve clearance check at 16k, they will all be right on the money on moderately maintained bike. Test ride the bike and see if you like it, I wouldn't worry about maintenance much. Welcome to the site.
super hot. it sometimes physically hurts my backside. maybe theres something wrong with my particular bike but the shop found nothing when they checked it out.
I only have heat issues on my right ankle and lower shin. As long as I keep moving, I don't really notice it, but on a HOT day with slow traffic, it can be bothersome. I just move it a little further out on the peg to get some releif, as I usually ride with it tucked in tight to the body. I will say it is less of an issue than on my FJR 1300, which was really really bad, can't remember on my BMW... It is a very common issue these days. We want all that power from our engine, but heat unfortunately is a necessary by product of the modern internal combustion engine. Until we make them 100% efficient that is.
hahahahah it actually really upsets me. the shop cant find anything and it heats up to the point where I have to lift off and almost stand when i ride sometimes due to the heat. im thinking about an aftermarket seat and they said they could put some seal foam stuff underneath to try and deter it but i think theres something wrong.
