Advice for an old fart

First of all thanks to all who have put up so much info on the VFR, it is helpful for my decision making.

With an 85 Honda Helix for grocery running, a 12 Honda Silverwing for touring and a Suzuki S40 for just puttin' around I seem to have a sport bike sized hole in my stable. I live in NW Montana so there just aren't a lot of bikes within reasonable distance of me. I have found an 06 SV1000S with 7k on the odo and an 02 VFR800 with 9k locally.

My last sporty bike was a 96 GPz1100 that got totaled out from under me in 99. I'm 63 and have been riding since 1963 on just about everything. I'm looking for something different- no in-line fours thanks- for rides in the 50-200 mile range. I've already figured out that I'll need the heli-bars (sp?) at a minimum as the old body is not as limber as it was. My need for speed is also less especially given the kamikaze deer around here.

Any input from you folks will be greatly appreciated.

 

The SV1000S was my main consideration before I decided to go with the VFR, and I'm glad I did. The Honda has a lot more spit and polish than the zook, and isn't typically that much more expensive. The V4 is a much better engine for street riding than either the I4 or V2 typically, has much more even balance in torque and HP; less vibration that the twin too. Full fairings are nice on the Honda vs the SV, and the riding postion is a little more comfy.

Main thing is the VFR is a MUCH more common bike, and parts and mods are correspondingly easier to find. Nice tech/features on the 6th gen too that the sv lacks (linked brakes, VTEC, outside air temperature sensor, available ABS, digital coolant temp readout, single-sided swingarm, centerstand). Both are great bikes, but the more research I did, the less I liked the SV given the choice. Only better street bike I've seen is the Triumph Sprint, but the difference is slim, and at nearly twice the price I couldn't justify it.

 

I'm 62, and I ride a VFR because of the natural character and the sound. There's plenty of info around here, and lots of options to tailor the bike to fit you and do exactly what you want from it. Don't know about the 'zook; but everyone I know who has owned one no longer does.

 

I'm also 63 and I've modded my VFR with Helibars and footpeg extenders. I regularly ride 300-500 mile days with no ill effects, but Advil and stretching does help at the end of a long day. I love the confidence that the VFR inspires and as good a rider as I am after almost 50 years in the saddle, the bike is still better than me. Make sure your tires and fluids are fresh and go have a ball.

 

Welcome to the site.

Good luck in your purchase. I'm sure both are fine bikes.

Don't be deceived about the VFR's sporty looking appearance. With a few simple modifications, such as the heli bars you mentioned, plus an aftermarket or custom made seat, and maybe a quick change to lower the pegs, you might find it to be quite the touring bike. Find a windscreen that fits your upper torso and deflects some wind, and you'll be good.

I haven't reached the wise years of my 60's yet, but being in my 40's and with a bad back that can sometimes put me down for days, I can still do a 400+ mile day of 80/20 in backroads/highways. I would bet that if I got on a highway, I could probably do 500 miles.

Good luck, and just so you know, if you buy a VFR, you have to post a picture of it, or you will be subject to harassment and humiliation for all your days as part of this forum. Actually, you're going to be subject to that even if you do post a picture. So in that case, why not throw up some pictures of scantily clad women. Most of us like that, too.

 

Thanks for all of the replies so far. The VFR already has a Corbin seat. The sole PO is 72 and traded it in on a new CBR600. This gives me a certain amount of confidence that it was well taken care of. I bought both my Helix (duh, it's an 86 they didn't make them in 85) and SilverWing from the dealer so there will be no problem with an extended test ride. Weather permitting I'll do that tomorrow.

And yes, if I end up with it pix will be forthcoming.

 

Sounds like we have a new member.......to me. I say go with the VFR.

 

As a VFR owner I should say go with a VFR, love mine, they are a fantastic piece of kit. But since you're talking "Sports Bike" duties & I assume for a blast along your favourite twistie's road, where the pain in wrists & back will be overtaken by adrenalin & sphincter pucker. Then the SV1000S is that sort of bike. I've ridden a few incarnation's of Suzuki's with that motor (including the TL & VStrom) & the grunt & fun factor is phenomenal, but as I mentioned, the S has a more of the sports bike crouch, but at least you can look the deer in the eye.

 

Well at least nobody is telling this guy to buy a Harley.

 

one more thing.. the VFR was acknowledged as the best 'sport touring' (or 'GT') bike for many years, and for good reason. It isn't a hardcore sport bike, although it can be ridden that way. Tailor it to your needs, and make it a SPORT touring bike or a sport TOURING bike as you wish.

 

Realbtl , pull the trigger and go for the VFR-you will NEVER regret it - or buy a harley like Badbilly suggest.
:rockon:

 

I went through my Harley phase back in the 90s. My Suzuki S40 feeds my shaking mechanical urges for a whole lot less $.

Damn rain, oh well maybe Thursday. Happy 4th to you all.

 

Sigh! I fear you may be right. Off for a test ride tomorrow. Unless I hate it (in which case I shall cover my face and slink away in shame) I'll likely have a red 02 in the garage by Sat. The more I research the more it points to the VFR. Plus the SOUND!

 

Proving once again that the 90's weren't all that good..

Please notice that first we weaken potential buyers then we pounce and go for the kill, showing no quarter.