2006 VFR800 : is this one a good buy

Hi All,
I have wanted to get a VFR ever since I first saw the 2002 model.
I have been turning wrenches on cars for 20years but I'm new to motorcycling so I need a little input.

I'm on the verge of buying a 2006 VFR800 and would like some input on the one I found. It is a 2006, pearl white with ABS. 15900miles. Potential sale price $5000.

Here is the rundown.

Stored outside.

Paint and bodywork in nice condition.

Some surface rust ( little spots ) on top fork tubes.

Exhaust downpipes/headers have a good surface rust coating. (I would probably eventually pull the exhaust and get it Jet-hot coated). The stainless mufflers look great.

Clutch may be frozen. The bike stalls when engaging 1st (or any other gear) with the clutch lever in. But it goes into gear with out a grinding sound. I put it up on the center stand and it did not stall when putting it in gear with the clutch in but the rear wheel started going.

ABS light stays on. Does this mean there is an ABS problem.

Front tire (Brigestone) needs replacement due to tread wear. Back tire (Dunlop) should be serviceable but rubber felt a little hard. Probably would want to replace it.

Oil was medium brown, not nasty, but looks due for a change. Brake fluid clean.

Maintenance records are probably not available.

Any input or things to watch out for would be greatly appreciated. I'm looking for enough input for a go or no go decision.

Thanks in advance,
Jim

 

That seems real expensive for the condition. I was at a Honda dealer in Portland, OR this past week and they had a mint 2003 ABS with 6000 miles on it for $5,500. They also had a brand new 07 RWB with ABS for $9000.

From private seller you can do MUCH better.

 

I would keep in mind that the factory suggest valve adjustment check at 16000 miles which can run around 800 dollars. A new pairs of tires mounted and balanced can run about 400 dollars. Rust on the exhaust header shouldn't be a problem because it is stainless steal, a little scrub with a scotchbrite pad. The clutch problem I don't know. The ABS light stays on until the bike starts moving until 5 miles an hour or so. Hope this helps.

 

I would buy that bike if offered 3000!! no more.Look around

 

Thanks!!

Big thanks to all who replied. I going to walk away from this one and keep looking.

Does anyone have more info about stuck clutches. This would be good to have a little more info if I encounter this again.

What is the general consensus on ABS. I figured it would be a good idea but have no experience with ABS other than cars. It has prevented a collision for me in my BMW325is. Do you all like it on the bike.

Also this is going to be my first motorcycle. I'm 38 and am very aware of my mortality and will have no need to be pushing it.
I don't want to get a small displacement bike and end up wanting an upgrade in six months. Input will be appreciated even if it is not what I want to hear.

Thanks,
Jim

 

My '07 RWB is for sale at $6500... It's listed in the classifieds.

 

first bike?

ehh, not so sure about that. I'm glad it wasn't my first bike...

but thats MHO.

ace57

 

Do you have any motorcycle experience such as dirt bikes? I too would not recommend a VFR as a first bike. It is a heavy machine and the bodywork is expensive to fix/repair. There are plenty of other decent bikes that are less expensive and have adequate power that you won't outgrow anytime soon.

Regards,
Rollin

 

agreed, I also couldn't recommend the Z750S as a first bike, just a tad too much power...Id check out a Suzuki Vstrom 650, SV650....something a lighter with less power.

 

My '06 does not have ABS; never had a problem with hard stops. Just need to use a lighter touch on gravel & wet pavement. Never went riding in the snow & ice, salt just eats too much of a bike up to do that.

 

I recently purchased a non-ABS 2003 with 16,000 miles, mint condition with the valve adjustment for only $3,800.

In this economy people are getting rid of their toys, keep looking cause there are some great deals out there. Especially if you can pay cash.

 

I'm afraid your post has scared me away from your bike. There's something saying that the poor thing was neglected and or abused. Chances are the sub-frame is rusting as well somewhere. For the money, like said above if you add a bit more you can get a much better ride.