1985 VF700 ok for a first bike?

Hey guys. I took the MSF basic rider course last week and received my license. I've been a lifelong Honda fan and did a bunch of research that basically let me to conclude that the Interceptor is the bike for me. That being said, what should I specifically consider about this bike as a first time rider? I am pretty risk averse (got 2 kids) and am not interested in breaking land speed records (or myself) and am just looking to learn to become a good, confident rider. Would the 85 VF700 be a good learner bike?

 

Absolutely - BUT, I would go for 2nd gen and newer due to the risk of cam wear in the first generation bikes. I have a 87 VFR700 as my first bike and it's perfect; not too fast, stable, reliable, and comfortable. I took the motorcycle safety course too, it really does make a difference. Just take it slow and wait a couple weeks to drive in heavy traffic, I started out riding my back roads to get a feel for the bike

 

Thanks for the advice. I wasn't aware of the cam wear issue. Is that affected my mileage, because she has about 20K on the clock. Is this enough of an issue to nix the purchase even if the bike is in great shape othwerwise? I think I'm getting a decent deal on it since he is asking $1500 and has all the service records, etc. I welcome any other advice too.

 

The main problem with those older bikes is that parts are difficult to find. I would advise that you look for something a little newer and more reliable unless the bike is in really good shape or you really enjoy working on bikes and spending lots of time and money looking for parts. Just my two cents. Other than that, the mileage seems to be good for it's age and the price seems fair. Has the bike been painted or is it all original? Any aftermarket goodies??

Regards,
Rollin

 

Rollin, the bike is stock and has no other goodies. Didn't ask about the paint, but will check it out first hand this week. I was going to ask wether or not parts were available...from your suggestion it seems like they are hard to find. I've got a 91 NSX and have no problem getting parts, but usually have to wait a bit longer than average. I'm no mechanic and have no time to work on it, so maybe I am better off with a newer one. I just thought that if this thing ran like a top and was well cared for, maybe I could get a year or two of trouble free riding.