Buying Help

Discussion in '8th Generation 2014-Present' started by Mr_Ski, Jun 17, 2021.

  1. Mr_Ski

    Mr_Ski New Member

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    Hi all,

    New to the forum but couldn't find anything specific in the search.

    I am at the point that I am considering a change in bike, I ride a GSF650S, my first bike, however, I was initially looking at an ADV type bike because I am quite tall until I tried track riding on my GSF650, and had a blast in the corners, so started leaning more towards a sport-tourer as I would also like to go on some long trips.

    Are there any specific things to look out for on the 8th gen VFR800F? I have sat on a few (not ridden) with my boots on, and noticed the leg angle was slightly more cramped than my GSF650, have any of the taller riders out there had any issues with comfort on longer runs?
     
  2. Thumbs

    Thumbs Member

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    I’ve been riding mine since I got it in 2015, 6’2” with 32” inseam and have no problems with the leg position with the seat set on high, I’ve put knee grips on and that has made a difference

    There’s still some left in the dealers, go and try one
     
  3. sudolea

    sudolea New Member

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    I'm not all too tall, but regarding the forward lean position on the bike ...
    On longer rides (up to around 6 hours ride on longer highway days), when the seat was in the highest position (your most probable position), I noticed that the forward lean (and hence the pressure on the handlebars) was too strong and I switched to the lowest seat position. In my case, as I'm only 1,74m long (and already shrinking, as I'm already 60 years old :thumbs: ) this is not all too big a problem. But in your case, you could want bar risers if the lower seat position is too fatiguing for your legs (leg angle).
     
  4. Mr_Ski

    Mr_Ski New Member

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    Thanks for the responses so far. I am 6'2 with a reasonable long inseam, the first VFR800 I sat on felt a little too sporty for long-distance, but the seat was low so my legs were more cramped compared to my bike, and the bars were also standard height. I immediately sat on another with risers and the seat in the upper position and that was much better, the third was again with the seat and bars raised, but wearing my boots rather than trainers, which felt a little more awkward but the seller was reluctant to let me test ride which was a shame.

    I need to weigh up ultimately what I would like my bike to do, currently, it's mostly 70-100 mile day rides, with the odd longer run (450 miles), I enjoyed taking my bike on track but that's possibly a once a year occasion, and the idea of owning ADV style to go down gravel roads appeals but again I don't know how often that would happen, choices choices!!
     
  5. skimad4x4

    skimad4x4 "Official" VFRWorld Greeter

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    You might want to see if a local dealer has the Cross Runner version - VFR800X available for a test ride.

    A few dealers have unregistered new bikes still available and whilst they have the same engine and a lot of shared components so still a super reliable VFR but one better suited to taller riders.
     
  6. sudolea

    sudolea New Member

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    Comparing the X to the F is comparing apples to oranges : being quite dishonest to the F, that is ...

    Given no F was available, I rode the X as a test ride, BUT that was only to compare the power delivery to my previous-to-be K1300S. As far as the ride position was concerned, I didn't expect very much of that test ride : I DID want the sporty seat position, which is completely missing on the X !
     
  7. raYzerman

    raYzerman Member

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    I'd have an X in a heartbeat if they sold it here.... sigh.
     
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  8. sudolea

    sudolea New Member

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    I didn't mean to be any kind of negative regarding the X, I just wanted to point at the sporty seat position the topic starter is looking for. I think also the X is quite a decent bike, but just not comparable if you're after a sporty seat position...
     
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