1998 VFR 800 Fi - as a first bike?

Discussion in 'Introductions' started by nismo350zed, May 21, 2011.

  1. nismo350zed

    nismo350zed New Member

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    Hello all, new to the site, just purchased a 1998 VFR 800, which seems like it's in pretty good condition, 17,900 miles, upgraded windshield.

    Does anyone know what the best aftermarket luggage options are?

    I'm a larger rider, so as my first bike, I wanted something a little larger, and not quite as agressive as a true sport bike. but I knew I didnt' want a Hog, or a Hog wanna be, it came down to the VFR or a BMW, I guess posting here kinda shows which direction I went!

    I'll post Pics, are there any modifications I have to do?

    Thanks
     
  2. Cogswell

    Cogswell New Member

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    IMHO #1 mod is the VFRness and a volt meter. Search on R/R, stator, connector issues (see today's posts) and you'll get an idea of how frequently VFR's fry these components. Remove the rear cowl and check all the connectors to/from the R/R for discoloration, melting etc (esp the 3 yellow wires coming from the stator). Remove the chassis grounds, separate the connectors, clean and apply Oxgard or equivalent. Finally check the charging voltage at idle and at 5,000 rpm. If either is below 14v, check all components until satisfactory charging is obtained. Then go pile up the miles - at 18k on the clock, it's hardly broken in. :smile:
     
  3. Slothrop

    Slothrop New Member

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    Welcome to the forum. Definitely the best mod you can make is to increase the odometer reading.
     
  4. MiddleTBabb

    MiddleTBabb New Member

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    Welcome!

    I think it will make for a great first bike. Not too big or small. Not a whimp by any means but also not all muscle. If anything it may be a little heavy but I'm betting you'll handle it fine

    Here's to safe riding:cheersaf:
     
  5. bobthebiker

    bobthebiker New Member

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    the "I'm a bigger guy so a bigger bike is better" mentality is a bad one. especially for beginners. although the VFR isnt anything close to a racing machine, but being in a sportbike background, I hear that logic all the time.

    honestly, I'd look for a small bike, like a 500 first, THEN move up to a VFR.
     
  6. nismo350zed

    nismo350zed New Member

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    500

    I know, that a bigger bike isn't for all newbies, but I'm not a complete novice either, it's just been a while since I've ridden. I do ride ATV, Snowmobiles, etc...

    Besides, it's not the bike that kills people, it's what's in the helmet.

    I'm driving like an old man until I get used to her.

    When I took the MSF course, it was on a 500 Buell Blast, and It felt too small for me.

    But I do understand the reasoning, that a smaller bike would be better to learn on.

    Thanks for the advice, but I won't be selling the bike anytime Soon!! :cool:
     
  7. pap11y

    pap11y New Member

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    Good choice

    I love the 800 mainly because I am a daily commuter.

    Being able to stay in 3rd or second for most of my riding without continual gear changing is a winner for me.

    My old ZX7r I was up and down gears every 30 seconds.

    Add to that the relaxed riding position and power down low and its a really great option for you.

    Only downside is when you get a hard core modern race bike and find it is impossible to ride relaxed (and within the speed limit) ;)
     
  8. Mark 024

    Mark 024 New Member

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    Welcome aboard.
    Good choice of bike.
    As stated previously, check the Regulator/rectifier.
    The other usual stuff like fresh oil, fresh coolant and brake fluid. Just get hold of a manual for the bleeding procedure and read it twice. It isnt difficult, just have to do the bleed in a certain order. There are 6 bleed points!!! I will give you a hint, the first bleed point is on the front right brake, but you have to pump the rear brake pedal to get the fluid to move (linked brakes and all). That little bit of info would have saved me about an hour of my life. It is in the manual, just not clear.
    My bike had 30000km on it and the head bearings were stuffed. Replacement made a massive difference to handling (as you would expect)

    I also have a Givi Top box that I use for over night trips. I am pretty happy with it.
    Cheers
     
  9. bobthebiker

    bobthebiker New Member

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    Based on this, you'll do fine. my experience is that smaller bikes are usually more forgiving, but again, the VFR is not a full blown racing bike either. she's a blend of many things intended to be a multifaceted bike. not just the next miguel duhamel race bike, or some insane thing.

    Just keep the fluids clean, use good oil, and wear your gear. oh, and this is the VERY important one. enjoy riding it. nothing else is this crucial.
     
  10. nismo350zed

    nismo350zed New Member

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    Thanks Bob

    I am loving the bike so far, enough power to scare me, and it's easy to cruise on!

    I do find it a bit hard on the wrists though, would gel padded gloves help?

    Have put on 1000 miles or so, mostly along the coast in Maine, it's been AWESOME!




























    /----
     
  11. nismo350zed

    nismo350zed New Member

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    bought the girlfriend a baby ninja as a first bike, seems like it'll be perfect for her! was looking at a baby interceptor, but bought the ninja because it was 20 years newer, and I got a 2006 for 1500$ 4k miles look forward to many rides!
     
  12. bobthebiker

    bobthebiker New Member

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    if its hard on your wrists, you're doing something very wrong. namely leaning on the bars. support your upper body with your torso muscles, use your CORE not your arms to support yourself. this is crucial, it not only affects comfort, but handling as well. and believe me, if you arent happy, it wont be long before you ditch it for something else, or MAKE it make you happy, like a redheaded stepchild.
     
  13. Junyr

    Junyr New Member

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    Here's a trick I stumbled on to help my wrists...

    If I find my wrists hurting from too much pressure (leaning forward with weight on bars), I ride one handed. I put my left hand on my left thigh and ride with my right hand only. You'll find that you have to ride with virtually no weight on the wrist or you'll end up turning the bike.

    Once I get a good feel I put the left hand back on the left grip, but maintain the support on my abdomen that was used to maintain a straight line with one hand.
     
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