In search of an interceptor

I have a nice 2017 Honda CB 1100EX. I have had many motorcycles before this one, the Triumph Thruxton and the HD XLCR come to mind, but is seems that the older (and wiser?) I get, the more I appreciate the engineering and general quality of big red. Without going into too much detail, and given the following parameters of fuel injection-a go no go; ABS- it would be nice, is there a range of model year interceptors I should be looking at, or even a particular year that was a 'sweet spot' for the bike's design.
Impossible to say for sure but would you agree that 30,000 or less would be a reasonably safe mileage range?

Thrilled to have found this site, am looking forward to a serious learning curve.

 

Boy this ought to be fun to watch.

I just went through this process (purchased 2005 Red VFR 27,500 mi)

 

I have had a few VFR's in my time. From the 6th gen, both the 1200f and the 1200X, 800 8th gen and now back to the 6th gen. I prefer the looks of the 6th gen and between the 8th and 6th, there isn't much difference apart from LED headlights and the new one has slightly better fuel range.

If you are looking for the 6th, then this is a good buy. Comes with luggage and low milage.

https://www.cycletrader.com/listing/2007-Honda-VFR800-INTERCEPTOR-5005092210

 

I showed my buddy that one and he's looking HARD at it. I really like the looks of the front end on the 6th gen bikes.

 

Check out this video

 

just watched the video, very good never seen it before but have seen that chap's video when he swopped his Kwaka for a VFR

 

look at the 2007 onwards. Generally most of the issues are pretty sorted by then - You will need a 6th Gen to get ABS - & in the US you need the deluxe version

 

I think JM Honda of Miami have some 2015's New for $6799.00 If you had cash, I bet you can get them for less.

I would skip the 6th Gen IMHO. Look for a 3rd, 5th or a new 8th!

 

Have you ridden the 8th. I have owned both. The 6th is a far better bike. Wait until a stone rips through your radiator on the 8th. Nothing worst.

 

The first thing I am buying is a radiator guard, before I even ride it. To say the 6th Gen is better than the 8th Gen is a stretch.....I trust Honda.....

 

Seriously, if you owned a 8th Gen and if you didn't install a radiator guard the first thing, that is your bad!

 

I had a radiator guard. Some people don't. You are just having to buy something to fix a problem the 6th doesn't have.
The traction control cannot be switched off. You can lower its levle, but not switch it off. On the VFR1200, you could turn it off. You accelerate away from lights, it notices the slightest wheel spin and bogs down the engine. It is awful and dangerous.

The OEM luggage hs the same problem as the VFR1200. Yes it fits to the bike without a frame, but it won't hold a full face helmet and if you want to do a trip that is longer than 2 days 2up, forget it. Cases are tiny, they are for a scooter. So you have to buy aftermarket and that wipes out any logic of putting the frameless case application in place.

I hated the 8th gen with a passion. Felt like a 300cc bike as it feels so small.

 

Well, if I hate it, I can sell it and keep my 3rd Gen that is in excellent condition. I can't wait to compare them.

 

Switch turns traction control off on the 8th gen. I have one and that's how it works.

 

Thanks! Facts matter!

 

I've turned my traction control off on my 8th gen as well. I haven't made any long trips on it yet, but plan on rectifying that this summer coming up.

 

Is a radiator guard really needed? I hadn't heard of it being an issue.

 

Good question. I have always had a bike with a front mounted radiator not to mention an oil cooler. Do you need a oil cooler cover as well? Never heard of a issue or had one.

 

My 3rd Gen has the radiator facing front, although it has a plastic guard from the factory. The radiator has some minor damage over the years, but nothing too big?

Since my 8th Gen is brand new, I think it seems like a really good idea to add a radiator guard straight away. I mean you probably added a tank pad of some kind? Why not try to protect the radiator to keep the bike in as pristine condition as you can?