Impressions: 4th vs 6th Gen; 1997 and 2003 respectively...

After 3K miles on my 6th gen, ’03 VFR, I can finally compare it to my previous 4th gen, ’97 VFR.

Riding Position – The 6th gen is more comfortable. The foot pegs are lower and handle bars closer resulting in a more upright riding position. There is a noticeable difference between the two. The 6th feels better balanced; it’s quicker on the turns, and feels lighter despite its higher weight.

Windscreen – For my height at 5’10’’ the OEM windscreen is perfect. The 4th gen was OK by comparison.

OEM Seat – Both were mediocre, so they were replaced with a Sargent. IMO $300+ well spent.

Motor – After the PAIR and Flapper mod the 6th gen is my favorite, but only slightly. The biggest complaint is the overheating. The 4th gen never felt overly hot and the needle never went passed the midline. The 6th gen hovers above 200F regularly. It is not a major mechanical concern, but my thighs clamor for the comfort of my 4th gen. I’ve installed a fan bypass switch, and a can of Water Wetter in the radiator, that should help during stop and go traffic.

VTEC – Love it!

Transmission – The 4th gen was buttery smooth, not so with my 6th. The gearing was spaced perfectly on my 4th gen for the woes of LA traffic. Third gear saw a lot of use. I could stay on that gear from low to high speeds. Not so on my 6th gen, I have to adjust constantly to changes in traffic conditions and it feels clunky. I’m constantly replacing the clutch fluid.

Looks – The 6th has a slight edge. I did not care for the front and rear appearance of the 4th gen. The 6th gen won’t win any beauty prizes either. I loved the black/red look of the 4th, but the silver look is not bad on the 6th. It feels not overly flashy. I’m OK with that!

Other 6th gen mods and tweaks - Tweaked the suspension, replaced the OEM horns with Fiamms, upgraded the brakes with HH sintered pads, replaced the rear with a wider 190/55 tire, added a Brake Light Flasher/Strober, added a complete set of Givi cases, rear seat cowel, and a new DID chain. The next upgrade might be a new set of Ohlins, and that is IT! After that, only regular maintenance stuff.

Pix forthcoming...otstir: