what is a reasonable price for an 86 vf500

A good clean VF500 tank could go for good $$ to the right 1st gen owner with deep pockets.

I bought the one that is currently on my old 1st gen for around $150 iirc.

Mind you it was already painted.

 

ok the bike has 40k on it and they are willing to do $1k for it, but i also found a 83 vf750 for $800 with 20k on it. both bikes run but the 750 loses power at 4k rpm then it comes back. it sounds like a carb issue, should i stay away from it? which one if any is a better buy?

 

Either bike is a gamble and will require troubleshooting, wrenching and patience. 20k on the 750 is attractive, but keep in mind that it is very easy to drive without the speedo cable, so who know the real mileage. The 750 is also more prone to valvetrain issues due to head lubrication problems. However, as noted above, the 500 is not a safe bet either as there are lots of questions about what is what and there are known problems with dropped valves because of weakened valve springs that are no longer available.

Fun factor - the 750 has more power / the 500 handling is nimble. Depends what you prefer.

 

went to go see the 750 and it ran but sputtered alot even though it was warm, but that bike is way to heavy for me. im going to go see the 500 on monday so then i can find out what it really is, the owner said they replaced the plastics after they dropped it and it is an 86

 

Will this be your first bike? If so, stay well clear of the 500 until 87 or later.

 

I have an 85 vf500f and that is the EXACT same everything from what I can tell. I paid $1100 for mine in very good condition. Id offer like 1200 if its in great condition, it looks pretty good

 

The 500's stopped after 86