Looking at a 1999 800 tomorrow

I didn't realize the ECM ran in closed loop. Is this for real? There is learning? Is there an O2 sensor on the bike?

I'm psyched if you're right, but I'm used to most bikes (especially those from this era) having a preset fuel map with no learning. I'd just like to make sure I don't lean this thing out and break it before I can enjoy it.

 

Congrats to you!! I just bought a 2002 in January, so is still new to me! You will love it! Welcome aboard!!

Theresa

 

When the 2000 was released, it was the most technologically advanced & "greenest" regular production bike out there. The bike has a smart ECU that will adjust on the fly in as little as 10 minutes. When I ride the BlueRidge at 5000-6000 MSL (NJ is sea level), I can feel the bike struggle for about 20 minutes & then it starts adjusting & at about the 30 minute mark, it's back to full power. I never use anything other than 87 octane & I never heard pinging from the motor once in 8 years. There are 2 O2 sensors. One for the front bank & one for the rear. I've had a total of 5 mufflers on my bike & I'ver never had to do anything for any of them. If you gain any HP, it's going to be in the 5HP range if that much. On VFR's, the main benefit of a new muffler is the weight reduction from the 15lb boat anchor Honda installed at the factory & the improvement in sound. Microns are held in very high regard among VFR aficianado's for their deep sound. I like Staintune for it's minature V8 scream, but to each their own.

If you have chain tools, putting a new chain on a VFR is definitely much easier than on a bike with a conventional rear swing arm. On my 89 Hawk, I used a clip style master link & it took me about 1 hour. My VFR is coming due for a new chain but I don't have chain tools so I believe I will let a pro do this.

For the oil change, remove only the left fairing & the black splash guard in front of the engine. I recommend the K&N 303 for no other reason than it has the 1" nut on the front that allows you to use a ratchet & keep your hands away from the hot headers.

Enjoy the bike & remember, nothing provides as much joy as attempting to work on something & breaking it yourself :biggrin:

KC-10 FE out...
lane: :usa2:

 

Thanks for all the info, I can't wait!

So, that closed loop learning was for the 2000. This is a 1999, so I'm assuming that I am not in that situation...I know there are no cats on this bike.

 

Well, well, well. I picked the bike up late yesterday, registered it during lunch, and the shit eating grin has been stuck on my face since I've gotten home. Turns out, my little waltz around the seller's neighborhood wasn't enough to get a good feel for this bike. It felt solid and rode nice, but because I didn't get much above 20, I didn't get away from it's weight. Tonight however, I became a believer.

I am utterly astonished how nicely this 9 year old bike looks, runs, and handles. I really liked my 2000 SV650 and my 2003 Buell XB9 was an absolute blast. Given that they were relatively light, I was expecting a bulkier ride all around on this thing. Not the case! Once up to speed, it behaves like a much lighter bike. I can't wait to spoon on some stickier rubber and a better suspension. This will be a riot.

And for the engine, I'm a bit lost. Everything I've read puts this thing at 98 hp. Given that my Buell was about 100 hp and 60 lbs lighter, I was expecting a slower bike as well. Again, I couldn't have been more wrong. Either my Buell was broken the entire time I owned the bike, or this thing is underrated. Maybe 98 WHP? I dunno, this thing cranks through the gears. Definitely no slouch. I've never been a big fan of ginormous sport bikes on the street (who really needs 180 hp? I sure can't use it all), and this seems perfect. I'm sure I'll get used to it, but damn, this thing is great.

Not much to say about the transmission, except it feels great. Good 'snick' into each gear. Nicer than my Suzuki tranny, and well, eons beyond that HD/Buell transmission.

Oh, and the best part: the gear-driven camshaft/Micron duet. For my money, it doesn't get any better than this. A worked WRX/SV650 hybrid comes to mind. I'm HOOKED!

Yeah, I'm enamored. And extremely pleased. Next up: set the suspension and go over the bike in greater detail. Sweet.