A 180 will work; I have used them on my VFR before. The profile of the tire is more rounded due to the wider tire on the same width rim, which affects handling minimally. Otherwise there is no ill effect.
Your 96 has the narrower rear rim and it is not recommended due to the distorted profile that will reduce the contact patch near full lean. Even on my 93 with the wider wheel that meets the requirements for a 180 on the back, I prefer the handling of the 170/60 as Honda specs for the bike; seems to turn in quicker and more naturally.
