Looking for Advice

Salutations,
I am new to this list, but not new to riding. I rode BMW boxers many years and gave it up about 10 yrs back. 6 months and 4k miles back, I picked up an '05 SV 650, and it has been fun, but I am missing more comfort at speed, wind protection, etc. The naked SV leaves a bit to be desired at highway speeds, and over longer days. Also, when I was riding - in my younger days, I always coveted the VFR, and never got one. I was always amazed by the quality of the engineering and the fit and finish of the machine.

FF to today, and a local honda dealership has a low milage (4k) 99 VFR800Fi - and it is in very very good condition. Never dropped from what I can see, they only did a couple of mods. Fender eliminator and a slip-on exhaust. (no mods to fueling)

The shop is in the process of going over the bike and doing a complete service. It sat for much of its life, but they claim the owner stored it well. It runs, and they are changing all fluids, etc - and will be selling it with a 1 year warranty.

I really am tempted by this, and would like to get the opinion of others on the following:

1. The bike is 14 years old, do you think that with a new set of tires, I can get on this thing and ride it long distance like it is new? That is what I would like to do - but am a bit cautious.

2. How much would said bike be worth in your opinion? I am willing to pay a bit more on it - due to the warranty issue.

3. Any advice on what to check out? I can see no signs of being dropped. It has little to no corrosion. Seems to not be leaking any vital fluids. Always kept indoors. I am going to ask whether it has its original rectifier?, though I believe that with these low miles, if it was going to go, it may simply not have gone yet. I also know that low milage is not always a good thing, so any thoughts on that would be appreciated.

Anyway, I have been a huge fan of these bikes for many years, and covet the 5th gen due to the gear driven cams, etc. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thx,
Rick

 

$3400 would be max for dealer
New tires would be priority
I am not sure if the OP or the dealer replace the R/R you might want to ask. Otherwise you will need a spare
The VFRness would be next, these two items and the stator are famous for failing
Good luck with your hunt and :welcome: to our world.

 

Here is the link
http://vfrworld.com/forums/5th-gene...how-fix-common-regulator-stator-failures.html

 

1. Yes, drive it like it is stolen and don't look back (bear in mind the RR issue)
2. I agree with Long, mid 3000's is strong for a fifth gen bike.
3. Charging system (install a voltage monitor so you don't get stuck on the side of the road)

 

Wow, 4k miles on a '99? I'd be all over that. Ask to take it for a test ride, listen to the engine. If they give you a year coverage on it I can't see how you could go wrong.

 

I'd make the dealer change the tires as part of the deal. No dealer should sell a bike with 14 year old tires.
Sounds like a good deal, any pictures?

 

Hey rmiller,

I am like you, I lusted after VFRs for a long time. Hesitated. Overthought it. When the time was right, I found my bike and bought it, fixed the RR and have never regretted a moment I have spent on it. Years from now when you are enjoying the V4 sound and the supercharger whine of the gears, you will ever wonder why you hesitated over a few $$$ here or there.

Chase your dream. Buy the bike. Build a relationship with it by learning to work on the RR and everything else. There are a ton of experts on this website who are very helpful.

Pull the trigger.

 

Thx for the feedback guys. Very helpful.

 

X2. really good info. Especially number 1. Really enjoy the sweet sweet Powerband of the VFR's.

:biggrin:

 

If the dealer is giving you a 12 month warranty then at that mileage its barely run in, so long hauls will be fine with new boots on.

Buy it, thrash it, enjoy!:smile:


We look forward to seeing some photos of YOUR new bike and YOUR huge grin!


SkiMad