Buying tips, 1999 VFR

Hi all,

I'm looking at a nice 1999 VFR800, Yellow, 62k, stock except for 2 Bro's exhaust. It's for sale at a reputable dealer, but still, what items should I check out/ask about?

I'm looking to trade in my 95 Virago 1100, nice bike, but I need something sportier, and I've had a soft spot for V4's since my 84 VF1000F

 

Hummmmm.....did not know the 1999 come in Yellow
Check to see if the R/R and the harness has been replace, is it come with the PCIII
Miles and price....?

 

here's a link to the dealer's site:

Atelier Motosport

 

Seems to be an fair price considering that bikes sell for much more in Canada than in the U.S. Overall they are dependable bikes but you will still want to check the wiring harness connectors to the R/R and stator for any signs of burning and/or melting. You should also check to see if the R/R (regulator/rectifier) has been upgraded from the OEM unit since they seem to be a little prone to failure. It wouldn't hurt to take a voltmeter with you or have the shop conduct some charging tests while you observe to determine if there are any charging issues.

Rollin

 

Yellow did not come until 2000. It may be a 2000 model but the date on the vin may say 12/99... Check the rear wheel bearing and the swingarm bearings. Check head bearings. Look very closely at the wiring harness. If it has been hacked up at all be wary. Its a sharp looking bike. I like the white wheels.

 

Found this one by my house, A lot of bike and less money. If you bring $3700 the bike is your

2006 Honda VFR 800 Interceptor

 

What year bike had the stator wiring harness problem?

 

Dumb question, where is the RR located?

 

If I am not mistaken the R/R on the 5th Gen is located behind the left rear tail fairing. Almost all VFR's prior to 2006 had electrical issues of some sort due to either the wiring harness, R/R, or Stator. It is a very common issue and you'll find plenty of posts about it if you search the forums. As far as the color goes it is not uncommon for Honda to offer different colors for different countries. Here is the U.S. yellow was only available in the year 2000 but that doesn't necessarily mean it wasn't offered in other countries during other years.

Rollin

 

correct. R/R is located under/behind your left buttcheek. 4 bolts/screws and 2 quick release pins (maybe)

 

Quick update.. just waiting for buyer for my Virago, also deciding if I'll be doing a lot of trips in the future, in which case I think a 6th gen may be better. There are quite a few in my area for sale with the hard luggage. I do like the look of the underseat exhaust.. we'll see

 

Heading out tomorrow to check out the '99, about an 1.5 hour ride. I'll end up losing a bit on the deal, but I've been drooling over VFR's since my 84 (which i owned in 91).

 

In Europe the yellow bike is delivered only in 2000. Has the bike HISS ? No "choke"? Than its for sure a 2000-model.
Either 5th or 6th gen.....both are great bikes. But as far as I know the first Vtec (2002) had some valve-issues. When looking for a VTec be aware of the valves-inspection at 24.000 km. That's important and a (very) expensive "operation".....

 

To our US Folks: Someone once proved me wrong, although I can't find it, showing that yellow bikes were indeed offered in Canada in 1999.

Crashburn obviously knows that yellow is the fastest, and that's why he wants it.

Seriously though, follow Roland's advice. Not to be a dick, but if they are a reputable dealer, they should be well aware of the R/R problems on this bike and willing to show you or allow you to do your own tests. All that needs to be done is take the seat off to access the battery. You should get/take 3-4 separate readings.

First, check the battery with the bike off. Should see 12.6 to 13.2V.

Next, start the bike, and once its warm idle (about 1100 to 1200 rpms) take another reading. Again, should be at least high 12, preferably low 13s.

Increase the RPMs. By 2000, you should be seeing high 13's low 14s.

Take it to 5000rpms. You should be at mid 14's.

If you see any inconsistencies or fluctuations, that's a bad sign. If it bounces around from 14.5, to 13, to 14 to 13.2 does NOT mean its all good because its above 12 Volts. it means something's phucked - namely your R/R.

Testing it won't take longer than 2 minutes. The dealer should be willing to invest that time.

Other than that, buy the bike and be prepared for s stupid, shit eatin grin on your face.

 

I recently bailed on an old Yammy to pick up a 5th Gen.
Since it's a dealer I'd be extra picky and make sure:
Date codes on tires aren't more than 5 years old.
Check the fluid color on the clutch and brake and if it is orange it needs replaced.
62K = 38K miles, I'd want to see proof they checked the valves or make them doing the valves part of the sale.
The dealer shouldn't be selling a bike that needs basic maintenance.

 

Good point on the valves, Durk. Not bad for a FNG.

 

Well I picked her up. Dealer had done valve maintenance, oil and filters, and charging system check. I dealt with the owner. One of the last Honda dealers in my area.. lol, well 1.5 hour drive, 2.5 hours today, did long way due to start of construction holiday in Quebec.

My first thoughts after doing 210km on Virago, then hopping on VFR to do 150km:

- seating position is way different, I may change bars next season if my wrists die
- gear changes are quick and precise
- off the line, same acceleration as Virago, but when tach hits 6k OMG (insert shit wide grin)
- Two Brother's slip on is a tad loud..but delicious
- seat is quite firm, and gets warm when engine hits 100c, not really uncomfortable
- Meztler tires quite grippy
- white wheels will be a PITA to keep clean
- practiced a hard stop, gas tank may press rape charges against me
- Virago was a better bike for puttering around town

Short version.. I really like this bike! Going to take my time to dial her in..
Thanks for all your help

 

Looking at that picture, you might need a lowering kit. :wink:

Bike looks good! Like the white wheels. I don't think we got white wheels on the yellow VFRs in the U.S. Well, enjoy that new (to you) bike smell as much as you can.

 

Congrats on the purchase. I also like the contrast of the white wheels with the yellow paint.
You could clean and put a couple coats of wax on them. That would keep grime from sticking and make them easier to clean.
I was also concerned with the bars but the riding position is growing on me.

 

Congrats and I think she looks sharp.

Heli bars are a relatively quick fix for hurting wrists, and usually don't even require having to extend and cables or lines. That might help. Also try to work on your positioning. Learn to squeeze the tank a little with your knees/thighs. Take the pressure off your wrists.

Stock seats suck. You can either have that one custom molded to fit you, or go aftermarket with the standard Corbin or Sargent. Just to clarify, stock seats suck.

Get used to the heat. These run hot.

The VFR may not be Virago-ish around town, but still quite useful nevertheless. It doesn't like to be run below 3500 RPM. Have no idea what the Virago was like, but you'll find the sweet spot for cruising around to be anywhere from 3500 to 5000, as a rough idea.

Give us an update in another couple weeks. My guess is she's going to grow on you a little bit.