Help me choose a VFR

Andy,

I really, really like my gen 6 VFR (I would say love, but experience has taught me that it's not wise to love something that can't really love you back :wink: ) I like the way the vtec feels when the other valves open up, and from reading the maintenance discussions here and at vfrd, it would seem that the vtec valves rarely need adjustment (depending on how you ride), so the complexity issue is less important to me. When the time comes for valvetrain inspection/adjustment, I will do it myself, take my time, and do it right. I am reluctant to trust any of the dealerships in the local area. My bike is an '07 with less than 2500 miles - It had under 1500 when I got it in December.

As far as the cost of used engines on ebay..... 6th gen bikes were in production longer, and so... probably more 6th gens were made than 5th gens - supply vs demand may be driving that issue - not necessarily desirability.

Some really like the well known cam gear whine of the 5th gen vfrs - I can understand that, I've had a supercharged cage, and put a gear drive in my old diesel suburban - gave it an interesting sound.

All of the interceptors have some unique and cool properties to admire. I just happen to like the last generation of the fuel injected 800 vfrs. I like being able to start it up, and not have to mess with the choke - like I do with my KZ. After some initial concern, I now appreciate the linked braking. I like the 4 headlight set-up, and the high mount under-tail exhaust. The bike handles well, brakes really well, has more than enough power (and torque) to keep up with most other bikes, and make traffic back up quickly in the mirrors when necessary. With the right accessories, it would be an awesome two-up riding machine - just don't overtax the electrical system.

Get good gear for both of you, wear it, and continue with the MSF courses periodically. The more advanced courses can be done 2-up - or at least that's they way they were in the past.

Change the fluids, the chassis set-up (rear spring pre-load), cables, chain adjustment and lubrication, and pad and rotor condition - as a start - when you get your bike.

Oh, and if the previous owner didn't do it, change the horn to something really loud.

Good luck, and welcome to the community. :welcome:

Kevin.

 

Some more background...

It's been a few years since my wife and I have ridden. We've been fortunate enough to be around friends with motorcycles that have let us ride throughout the years. We're both comfortable riding solo but are new to riding two up. We decided that we'd like to get one bike to share at first. We plan to get to know the bike separately at first, and then once we're comfortable, we'll try riding two. Our biker friends have really stressed the importance of the safety courses and proper gear. We're completing the safety course this weekend, and we decided to purchase proper gear before selecting a motorcycle. I think we've taken all the precautions suggested above.

As far as the gen 6 bike we're looking at now, the owner has agreed to have the bike inspected at a mechanic of my choice. An inspection is cheap, so I'm not worried about who covers what for that. The mechanic will let me know if he sees any issues and provide an estimate for anything that comes up. Then I'll decide if it's worth pursuing or not. At most, it costs me a few bucks and an hour of my time. Not a big deal.

The bike sat for 2 years because the owner bought another bike that he enjoys more. He's decided to sell the VFR because it's not getting used. The bike has obviously been garage kept - it's incredibly clean. In addition to having the bike inspected by a pro, what services should be done? Change all fluids and filters? Anything else?

Thanks!

 

Bought an '03 vfr with 8200 miles today. Put about 75 miles on it and can't wipe the grin loft my face thanks for your help guys. Will post pics tomorrow

 

Awesome and congrats Polizei. Did I miss the thread where you posted pics, or have you joined the forum and turned into a liar already?

 

Congrats on your new purchase! Make sure the wiring harness recall work was performed since it was one of the affected years (2002-2005)

You can provide the VIN to any dealership and they can tell you for sure. Sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders and will do just fine with your new toy!!

Rollin

 

Congrats on your purchase!

 

Hey Guys - here are a few pics of the new bike. Her name is Sylvie, as my wife tells me...

 

Cool. Treat Sylvie well and she'll reward you with tons of smiles. Good luck!