Picking up 2000 yella tomorrow, new bike services needed question

Hi All, my first time here, been lurking for a few days, seems like a pretty cool forum:thumb:

I think I am popping on a 2000 VFR 800 tomorrow for about 3K with 15,000 miles on it. Looking to do mostly sport touring, not a real aggressive rider and just want to enjoy the ride with the occasional "roll on"

My question for y'all is what are the most prudent service steps to follow when picking up a "new for me" used bike?

My finding so far:
1. Change Oil
2. Suspension: To quote JamieDaugherty

"Basic - To get started you'll need $150-200. That will get you new fork springs and a new shock spring. Depending on your weight you might not need both, but chances are very good that you would. A good suspension starts with the proper spring rates, so this is a must-have anyway. For riders who are not very demanding this might be all that is needed."
*For me I think this will suffice*

3. Change Tires if more than 2 years old

4. Due to mileage, it will need the 16K valve check service

5. Rectifier/Harness


Would really appreciate if I am correct in my thoughts, if more is needed (or less), or any other wisdom you gentlemen can impart.

Also, as I can barely turn a wrench, all of this is going to have to be done by a pro, if someone could break down the costs of this I would be most grateful. Thanks!

One last thing, if anyone knows a reliable, honest, and reasonable priced bike shop/mechanic (with good knowledge of the VFR) in the Westchester/Rockland County area of NY, I am all ears.

Glad to be part of a good crew here, cheers!

 

Welcome aboard! Post up some pics if you have a chance.

 

Welcome aboard.
You are gonna love this bike.

You may not need to respring. Hondas are set up for middle weight/not so aggressive riders. I have done just fine with my suspension. I am fairly heavy and only sometimes aggressive. Only you know your style. I suggest giving the bike a try before making the suspension investment. That said...it is a 10 year old bike. New fork seals and oil are a must if it has not been done recently. Also, the hoses and fluids will need to be checked due to age.

We will be happy to answer any questions you have along the way.

 

Welcome to the madness new friend. You will NEVER regret owning a VFR!

 

Welcome to the 5th gen club!

Times 2 on what everyone else has said about fluids and I would stress the brake / clutch fluid. Bummer on your lack of confidence twisting wrenchs, you will save yourself a ton in shop fees.

I would really recommend you get a good shop manual and start to learn. Starting small and listen to the knowledge here will get you doing your own work in no time.

Where are from?

 

Thanks everyone, I am from the Rockland/Westchester County NY area, (just north of NYC). Based on what you have said, I will hold off on suspension for a few hundred miles and see how it goes.

I will change all the fluids (fork seals, oil, etc), and have a mechanic go through every bolt, check chain, etc. I think I will watch so I can see what he is doing.

Any other ideas?

 

The first thing I did with my '01 is put the latest updated regulator on it and tightened up the spade connectors. You could easily do this yourself.

 

Capt.Marc,
I would put the regulator/rectifier issue as number one on the list.
Check out WireMyBike.com and get the heavier wire harness as well.
The R/R problem has created many, many photos and replies on this website,
so browse around and you will find answers.
5th generation bikes are very sweet and I predict that the resale price
on them are going to start back up the ladder.
Welcome to the 5th generation platoon.
Carry on ~

 

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Hope this works, just got her cleaned and shined up, Zaino polish rocks. You guys weren't kidding, this bike is way too much fun. I used to have a Suzuki Katana and never felt comfortable leaning her over, but this bike just drops in right now, truly confidence inspiring. Love my new VFR!

 

hmmm.. ok, here is the link to 5 photos... Picasa Web Albums - 11647742862695347... - VFR