1996 VFR: Should I install a Jet Kit

I have a 1996 VFR750, Thurn Body work, Micron slip on, Bar Risers, Custom Paint, 36000 when I bought it 37100 now after a month. Couple other cosmetic mods done as well paid 2650 and only slight damage done to the left fairing when the owner dropped it right in front of me. :frown:. My question is should I jet it? I am getting ready to start taking it on a 70 mile commute each way and am wondering what the pros and cons are. From looking on here I see that the factory kit is the most well like so I will go with that one if I decide to jet. I know nothing about working on bikes so I will have it done prof. Any advice would be great thanks.

 

the PO may have already installed a jet kit when he put on the muffler and those other mods....

If you need to take it to a shop for work it could cost you $150-$200 just to find out you already have the jet kit !

 

IMO, if all you have is a slip-on, you shouldn't bother.

 

^^^^

What squirrel and Rev said...

AND the money spent on a jet kit would be much better utilized in going into new forks springs for your weight if you are more than 170 lbs.

BZ

 

What will new fork springs do? I am 6 foot and about 215 give or take 5. I am in decent shape not built but not fat either, so what would be some good mods? I am a total noob and am looking for any insight.

 

What will new springs do?

In short they'll make your front feel like it's glued to the road.

Suspension upgrades are the most overlooked mod. People always want to do jet kits and exhaust mods. From one aspect I understand why, but those mods do nothing for overall riding comfort and bike stability. Nor do they make you a better rider.

Now suspension upgrades don't make you a better rider either, but when you actually practice technigue in a class and or ride around alot. That nice plush ride that sticks is confidence inspiring.

I recommend reading about suspensions and getting a basic understanding of the language. Then we'll go from there.

Also check out Race Tech Suspension and look at the springs (about 109 bucks) and their oil for your front. Have it professionally installed. You'll be happy once its set up for you!

I never knew much about suspension until recenlty, still learning actually, but whatever bike(s) I own in the future, if the suspension has not been upgraded. THAT will be my first mod waaayyy before any pipe or jet kit.

BZ

 

Thank you, I am googleing them now, I am a teacher and this is my planning block. Very dedicated I know lol. About what should I expect to pay for springs and havingthem installed?

 

Red:

Race Tech springs are 109.00 a set I believe. Their oil 5wt. is 30 bucks a quart.

Now you can buy their sprinsg and use another 5 wt fork oil for 10-20 bucks your choice.

As far as install, that will depend upon the shop. But I would plan for 150.00 bucks in installation costs. Maybe a little more, or less. You'll need to chat with the shop you plan on taking your VFR too!

BZ

 

Or you can remove the forks your self and ship them to Race Tech if you have the mechanical skills to do so...

Sounds like you plan on commuting on your 4th gen. That's why I thought springs are a good idea. You can get as wild as you can afford with suspension. But just springs is a very resonalbley priced mod that reaps dividends IMO.

Oh, you have to get a new fork seal kit too, I am unsure how much they are , but I don't think they are over 30 bucks.

 

suspension mods

I agree with everyone else that suspension mods are the most worthwhile investment/bang for the buck you can make. However, IMO, it's the rear spring that needs replacing, first even, since that carries more weight and drive, and can help keep the front on the ground by *not* sagging. You can go the RaceTech route which is straight rate (single rate) springs, or you might consider the progressive route, Hyperpro, High performance motorcycle suspension sales and service from EPM Performance Imports for an entire kit designed for your bike. I've ridden and raced on both types of springs. For road bikes, I've found that progressive rate springs just work better at absorbing a greater variety of paved road. *ALL* the VFRs use waaay too soft a rear spring. Let me know if you want more info about this.

 

Yeah I would def like some more info about the rear spring mod. I am new to all of this and was not having much luck just goggleing VFR mods

 

Ok so it looks like they both would be great upgrades but from what I am finding it looks like the front springs would cost about 300 after work and everything, and the rear shock alone would cost about 475. What are the advantages to the rear shock compared to the front springs? Am I looking at the wrong rear setup? Can you just replace a spring in the back and not the entire shock? What if I replace the front and rear springs? I know I am killing you with questions but this is the easiest way to find out. IMO. Thank you for all the help guys.

 

Do the front first, then the rear shock.

And yes, if you have your rear shock removed, you can ship it to Race Tech and have them replace the rear spring for your weight only.

BZ