VFR to 919!

So anyway, I didnt plan on selling my 2000 VFR, nor getting another bike after the sale, but that's what happened. You know how it is, I've got the bug bad I guess.
Anyway, I decided I had to have another bike - has to be a Honda (of course) and be bought for around my VFR's sale price, so I went through a checklist of things I liked about the VFR and things I didnt. Among those I didnt: forward leaning position, no power below 6k. Things I like: highway ride, handling, looks. Prospects? Blackbird or 919.
Couldnt find a nice used Bird, and to be honest I am sick of the clip-on forward leaning position. So, found a 2004 919 in perf shape for $4200 (a cool grand less than I got for the VFR).

Comparison

Power: Wow, turn the throttle and it flies at any rpm in any gear. It's only about 105 hp, but it has like 70 ft lb/ torque and redlines at only 9k. It's like the VFR from 7k to redline at ALL rpms in all gears. Turn the throttle, and the party's on. Opening the throttle from idle on in first or second, I have to put my weight toward the front to keep the front wheel on the ground - literally.

Handling: Oh my F'g god, this thing feels like a bicycle w/ a motor -it is so effortless it's just unreal. There is no hanging off, you can just fly around corners straight up in the seat. Bumps are pretty harsh and the stock seat is a rock, but what else from Honda? These will be cured in the future.
Ergos: for me, much better - but thats totally subjective. The VFR is better on the highway of course, but I decided highways are only tools to get me to the twisties, ergo the 919.

I dunno mang, a 919 is definately an option for those a little bored w/ their VFR and it's still a Honda.

 

A lady that I worked with had a CBR600RR track bike, and a 919 for the street. She absolutely loved it. Find a bike that pushes all of the right buttons is a good thing...

I do hope you are going to update us all with suspension mods, etc.?

 

A Friend of mine wants to get rid of his 919 to get a VFR!!! His 919 is too buzzy, sounds like a chainsaw all the time. It's ok if staying in the twisties all the time, but who can do that? Tha VFR seems to do everything so effortlessly. Have fun with your new 919, but you'll be back.:biggrin:

 

Well I do admit the VFR is better built and is the nicer machine to be sure, but the 919 is a funner bike to ride. I put a couple hundred miles on it yesterday and I don't think I've grinned that long ever.
I honestly doubt I'll be back to a VFR, if anything after this it'll be a Goldwing or FJR. But I did totally enjoy, one of the best all around bikes ever.

 

I kinda did the same thing. But I went from a 599 (919 little brother) to the vfr. The power and handling of the 599 was awsome, but wasn't very comfortable on long freeway runs. No wind portection. But definatly a very fun, nimble bike.

 

Alot of naked bike reviews pan the 919 because its down on power compared to the other liter naked bikes, but I honestly can't see how or why one could need more power. This time I ignored the general consensus and went to test ride it - I didnt get halfway down the block before turning around to give the seller an offer.
The guy who bought the VFR is a neighbor, we plan to go on some rides this summer - that'll be interesting seeing someone else riding my bike.

 

Dude, I'm not sure what to say other than cool. I've known a few that have done this swap both ways and it is a mixed blessing in what folks are searching for, glad you found your happy spot. I sorta know what you mean. the VFR is so good it gets boring. I've heard that alot, But, theres nothing like a V4. period. Something tells me you'll be back. as once bitten by the VFR................. :wink:

 

919 looks ga..........

 

I've been looking for another bike, not that I'm gonna get rid of my VFR. for me it's a choose between the CB919 or an FZ1, I'd rather get the CB, but the FZ does offer a nice windshield, and better color options. I favor the black and yellow, ie old school yamaha colors. I'd have to flip a coin though, I like 'em both.

Robert

 

For me the choice between the FZ1 and the 919 was nonexistant, pre '06 bikes are carbed, the '06 fuel injection was a mess and I wasnt going to pay 8grand for a used fuel injected '07. I've decided to stick with Honda bikes regardless what type bike no matter what the stats or rags say, I just trust them.

 

My friend who bought my 5th Gen VFR from me likes it, but what he really wants is a black 919. I do like the looks of it and agree that it has more than enough motor for the average rider. Also, I totally agree that going with a Honda is a very safe bet.

 

I enjoy riding my 919 in town more than any bike I have owned, but I have to admit that any distance over 50 miles traveled becomes a chore due to no wind protection. The VFR is still a better all around bike!

 

.........congrats on th new bike....

 

Congratulations on the bike. I've never been a big naked fan. You see, a fairing to me is like a muumuu...it tends to hide the more functional, less becoming parts from plain view.

 

You know, Pu, it's not such a bad thing the 919 looks like a Nighthawk. I'm tired of sinking money into bikes' looks, comfort and performance. I feel the 919 is what it is and I have no real desire to farkle it up aside from a Sargent seat - and if it gets a scratch big deal. It's a new era for me.

 

Cool...I was mostly joking, but forgot to add the smiley face :smile: The 919 was a bike I considered, but until I finally decide to get something faster (read: am able to handle something faster) I wanted something with which I could go cross-country...in other words, I wanted something resembling a fairing and windshield. The street-fighter looks of the 919 are badass, though. How's the seating posture compare to the VFR? It's been awhile since I sat on a 919...

 

I believe everyone finds their proper bike sooner or later. It's good that you found a bike that makes you smile that much. That's what riding is all about.

 

I still like riding my SV650. The VFR feels like an older, experienced sword fighter, and the SV feels like an enthusiastic teenager with a club. Both of them make me smile.