Prospective VFR buyer...

I'm looking for something I can sport-tour on, but I'm not sure if I'm ready to park a massive FJR or concours in my garage. Currently I ride some dirt (ktm525) and have a Monster s4rs.

Questions I'm having about a VFR...

2 up riding? My wife is 5'11", I'm 6'4". We probably won't be doing any week-long rides (we have kids), but a weekend trip isn't out of the question. Will the VFR w/bags do the deed?

1 up daily riding is more what I will use the bike for, which is why I'm leaning towards something VFR esque instead of a massive cruiser. I'll probably take the monster for twisty canyon runs, but commute on the VFR/day trip.

Vtec kick on/off is something I see discussed around the net. What is the deal with it? I'm familiar with vtec, the system, and even the feel (had a prelude vtec back in 95). Not something I'd really want kicking on while grabbing some throttle exiting a turn... is there a fix, a cure, or is it something you must ride-around? Perhaps an older model would be better, but something new (with the current deals now) seems like it would be a better value (8K new w/bags opposed to 4-5 used w/bags).

Thanks for any help, and taking the time to read this long post.

-Theo

 

i have a 6th gen with gutted exhaust and one tooth down on front sprocket and it seemed to smooth out the vtec a bit. i never found it to be a big deal. the sprocket, in my opinion, makes it easier to stay in one gear for the speed i like to ride in through the curves. my brother is a rather big guy and has pleanty of room on his vfr. love the bike but might be selling due to recent hand injury. had surgery yesterday so wont be riding much. in texas if you are starting to look around.

 

G6 VFR is great for everything you describe...with one possible exception.
You are a tall dude and your significant other is tall as well...
I'd try to get some saddle time w/ both of you on it, then you will know. you might find it a bit cramped, not sure...

hard bags will do depending on how you/she packs...

VTEC transition is a non issue generally, mine is bone stock w/ the excption of the stage II muffler mod and i can open it in the twisties and have never been too surprised or overwhelmed w/ power that i had a problem. THere are some mods that seem to solve it, i've never needed them.

It's great for touring, killer in the twisties, awesome for commuting...

i've even seen some G6 w/ bags for in the $5+K range... definitely go for one w/ already one lest they are just giving it away, or it's the color you've always dreamed of.

LAST THING: not a detractor here, i love my G6, but many friends who two-up a lot looked hard at the Aprillia Futura, some chose it, and all love it... mucho power, plenty roomy, plenty luggage, sexxy, very comfy for the wife...

I've had both, still love the g6, but i rarely two up.

If you are near by, i'll give you the keys...
Tennessee~

and FWIW, just my humble opinion...

 

The only other thing I would add is that the stock springs, front and rear, might need to be changed for both of you on the bike. They're kind of soft from the factory. I don't know that for sure, just a guess.

 

I just got back from the local dealership. Had a 08 used VFR w/4K miles they wanted 8200 for......guess I won't be buying local.

Anyway, I stuck it on the center stand and sat on the pillion seat.....I'm much taller than she is, but she isn't going to be happy doing a 500 mile day on that bike, I can tell right off the bat. Sucks too, as one up it seems like it would be perfect for a daily rider (much better than my duc....shhhhh don't let the church of ducati hear you or they will excommunicate my ass).

Had a FJR there as well.....I think I'm going to be headed into something that size after all. It wasn't quite as big as I had in mind, and the new goldwing next to it made it look like a 600rr in comparison. Sigh....all they had were new ones at 14K....I'm in the 4-5K budget range.

I learned to ride on a vfr 750 back in the day....perhaps I'll find a basket case one of those and fix it up.

 

Be sure to check out the Concours. One of the many motorcycle rags I get in the mail (I forget which one) just gave the nod to the Concours as being their current top-pick among sport-touring motorcycles.

 

I would agree on the stock rear spring for sure. As for your sig other, my GF is 5'8-5'9 and she complains about her leg position being flexed for periods of times. If your significant is long legged she may desire the foot pegs lowered a bit. That brings up the issue of how to do that. I did some brief investigating on that last year and have yet to find a great solution. I am sure others can help with that.

Other than that. The bike is fantastic and is great for long rides. I love mine. 06 Black pearl. Purchased last april new. I have put on 10000 miles.

Al