1998 VFR800Fi - long term review

My thoughts on my ownership on the VFR800Fi what to look for , what's great, what's not and some tips on modifications. Hopefully this will be useful for someone considering this excellent bike.

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

I own a 98 and I can say without hesitation it is the best motorcycle that I have ever owned. I have ridden it across the US (and back), done several track days, and lastly use it as my commuter every day of the year. I will never sell it, and am actually thinking of buying another since they are practically being given away by unenlightened owners.

[@kyojitsu1]

Absolute steal of a bike - enjoy your VFR!

[@dozyproductionss]

Damn straight. Had to sell mine before moving to Europe and I regret/remember it everyday. Ride safe

[@Amr11959]

How often did u do carbs work?

[@monroefuches2707]

@@Amr11959 Never. There are no carbs and the FI is damn near bulletproof.

[@TJP777RPG]

i freeakin own one of these beauties and i STILL get jealous watching these videos. all i have to do is walk out to the garage but it feels like a million miles away

[@sjk6097]

I absolutely love my '00 FI - astoundingly good bike, looks and sounds superb an goes really really well. With bar risers its comfortable, and I put a Give touring screen on to stop being battered by the wind. If you're thinking about buying one, stop thinking and DO IT !

[@cirian75]

the 800 has a bored out RC45 motor, not based on the last 750, its a legend of an engine

[@emilkurtcarson1907]

Bought a '00 last Sept w/ 29k on the clock. Handlebars vice clips, front shocks springs replaced with 929 springs, aftermarket can. All the stock parts were there too. New tires, lube was Amsoil & 1 additional 4 ltr oil plus 1 filter thrown in. Guy I got it from replaced it with a 1050 Triumph, and am I SO GLAD he did! Rode off for 1400 USD. LOVE THE

[@kyojitsu1]

That is a steal! Great buy and hope you love the bike as much as I did.

[@hellogalaxyrise2150]

Amazing! I just got a '98 with 22.5kmi in rather amazing shape for $2000.. It was a junk yard that got it in an estate sale of random vehicles and I picked it up from garage with oil and transmission fluid all over the floor.. Just spent the day riding 85mi on the long way home, then changed oil and detail clean.. New tires and inspection tomorrow! I'm blown away by this bike.. It came with a set of rear hard plastic saddle bags and big old rack (whatever that italian sounding brand is..) I'm replacing an 82 GL500i Silverwing which I turned into a dual-sport touring machine type thing, so I like bags and such. Looks like it fell over and the handlebar dented the tank on the driver's left.. and so I think the tank cover in this video is my first non-mechanical/operational upgrade!!

[@hellogalaxyrise2150]

@@kyojitsu1 Ohh and it has an aftermarket under-seat exhaust and a Power Commander dealio.

[@simonevans540]

hi ive just bought a 2005 vfr 12000 miles ,first bike for 16yrs i am blown away by how good this bike is ,great video thanks.

[@barrywhittle6696]

Owned the 95 and this one and many others. This model and the previous one are in my opinion are the best bikes to ever have come out of Japan. Honda at their best before things changed somewhat. I have never enjoyed a bike so much, and that engine is just a peach. I will get another and never sell it, as I have learnd that newer is not always better, and these vfr's from 93 to 2001 are stunning and so darn perfect in most every way.

[@eyespythesky124]

I'm looking to get one of these and this video has spurred me on even more. Thanks for the insight and advice it's been a great help.

[@davidbarf219]

Just bought a 1998 'R'. Going to be in use all year so looking to ACF it. Hoping it stands up to it. Loving the bike. Great video.

[@pablosearth]

I've owned one of these before, similar age too. You've actually sparked me to buy another! Thanks man! You definitely need fuel dude.

[@aarr2603]

Totally agree my first bike was a 2003 vfr vtec I loved that bike sold it after putting over 20k miles bought many sport bikes finally ended up with a zx14 which was a great bike finally sold that and bought a really nice 98 vfr I totally love this bike not powerful by today's standards but it's such a pleasure to ride the sounds it makes it's like no other this bike will sure be in my garage for a long time. If you haven't upgraded to a mosfet type rectifier I highly recommend it.

[@Killswitch-ON]

I do recognise my thoughts in your comment. First bike i had was a FZ6, than ended up with VFR800 2005, which was a gem. Last 5 years been riding my zx14r 2013, and trying to sell, just to get back to the VFR again. As you said, not that powerfull as sport bikes, but sounds great and its bullet proof good looking bike

[@casaamaril]

Thanks for the review, always nice to hear something about the VFR 800 FI. I own the same model in gray/silver with the original exhaust pipe. Cheers, Marc NL

[@kyojitsu1]

Glad you enjoyed it. It's a great bike. Sadly had to sell mine - still miss it!

[@remotexpolde]

Greetings from the states! Have a 99... 76K miles... Going like a 2 year old! Love these. LOVE THEM! Jaws Drop when they ask what year its from.. Lol.. Cheers!

[@MerlinMan1579]

Great review, I have my eye on one here in Australia after selling my CBR600F4i. They are so cheap now, and as I don't ride a lot, they make good sense.

[@kyojitsu1]

Thanks. They really do make a good buy and worth it for the engine alone :-)

[@GTARockman]

I have changed the front sprocket on mine to get more pull from stop and made a big difference in torque off the line. I love the power. When I want to take it touring I can change it back with little trouble.

[@shaunmabey9790]

Stunning bike I can't wait to get one ;)

[@danielburke6536]

I have a 00 VFR ,,what a great motorcycle, love everything about it

[@kyojitsu1]

It really is. I miss mine...

[@cob1965]

Just bought a 2001 vfr800fi with 25K on the clock as my first bike....Brilliant! Engine is awesome, sort of reminds me of a tiny jumbo jet; more like a turbine than a piston engine. Cant wait to go touring on her.

[@kyojitsu1]

cob1965 haha - great choice. I think you'll have a great time on it. The engine is addictive!

[@GTARockman]

Yea I have been on trips from NC to Pa with no problems. You need to stop and get gas and stretch after a few hours, but not hard on your body to cruise the hwy for a while.

[@MrKewaigue]

Very helpful, thanks for posting

[@jahsaverjahsaver2563]

Mike Corkhill need some help connecting my valves line on my v8F 1998 motorcycle

[@richardrichard5409]

Rotting exhausts.... Fried stators, batteries and rectifiers ...rear shocks and head bearings shot by 20k.... Other than that they are bombproof, change the butt killing seat and bars and she's ready to go. Great bikes :) Great review, thanks for the taking the time out.

[@OOOHYEAAAHH]

Very much the truth. Same issues on the vfr750. But that engine is bulletproof

[@zupatun]

My 2001 has 106,000 miles on it. All the standard issues are dealt with and now just noise... Buddy has a 4th gen with 219,000 miles...

[@dazsyvo8499]

really good vid i have the exact same bike with the same can and everything even down to Michelin tyres mines a 2000 you are spot on with this review

[@kyojitsu1]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@bezradnymiastarybnika-mari5060]

I just bought 800 FI with 21 000km ;-) - Perfect bike

[@pauldonnelly7949]

I have a '99 with only 14k on the clock, first bike in 30yrs and loving it. While the rear tyre is easy to remove, I have to remove the silencer to get it out, it is standard (stainless steel chromed) but hardly a chore. It does have the stainless headers too. I live in a (very) rual area, and it is a drag, but out onto the main road after a few miles. Totally agree, it is an exceptional bike for not a lot of coin, glad I brought the pre Vtech, would miss that cam gear whine. Betcha you still miss it now...

[@kyojitsu1]

I really do! It's a thoroughbred motorcycle. Enjoy.

[@steveosborne6005]

i get mine in 2 days i cant wait

[@roadwarrior8560]

you still got it?

[@marcomorgione6114]

thanks for the video!

[@tinkertime7165]

I think Honda did the V-tech to show they could do it, that the technology was sound and the engine which had been around forever, was so good that it could take the V-tech power band without any concern. Just my view, the 5th gen really has all the power needed and so smoothly delivered.

[@YansaMusic]

I have a '99. Took the fairing off, put a set of proper bars on it and love it to bits. You forgot to mention what is in my opinion one of the best features ..... the brakes ! The linked system is absolutely superb, even tho' they're not abs i've never managed to lock them up (not for want of trying in a couple of hairy moments). Like you say, the engine is a corker :-) Thanks for posting.

[@kyojitsu1]

You're right - I completely forgot. Lots of people moan about linked brakes but I never had a problem with the system. Never locked up either. I think you'd need to be racing to really be bothered about it...or maybe a keyboard racer!

[@arhodehamel2615]

I just picked one of these up and I tend to ride a little let’s say spirited….. If I jack on the rear brake am I going to wash out the front tire while turning and or when down hill on loose gravel or dirt?

[@m0rph3u1st]

Unfortunately I lost my 5thgen VFR in January. I had it all stock, no changes. Bought it in 2001 and all I did during all these years was standard maintenance with oil and filter changes; tires change; break pad changes and transmission. I was very happy with her and I feel very miserable knowing that the insurance company is not paying to fix it. It's very sad. But I have the VFR in my DNA and ordered the new model. Let's see what the new VTEC improvals will bring to an already perfect engine. Cheers

[@m0rph3u1st]

Forgot to mention I had already 124k km, but I'm sure if it wasn't the accident I would double it without any major problems. That engine was made to last and had the most beautiful engine sound I ever heard. I really miss her badly...

[@kyojitsu1]

@@m0rph3u1st sorry to hear that - it's a real shame that a great bike is just written off like that. Good news is if you decide to go back to a 5th gen, it won't cost you too much. Enjoy your new bike!

[@m0rph3u1st]

@@kyojitsu1 I hope it lasts 18 years, at least :) But from the sound I heard from the VTEC, is not exactly the same thing. The good part is that it resembles more my model (which was just like yours, but in blue), but slimmer. I can tell that in my case, the CBS blocked my wheels and that was part of why I had to crash (to avoid a collision with a lousy car driver). Hopefully ABS works better. To be honest, I never felt that I needed ABS before this crash. The break pads had a fair use, but practically new (and were Honda original parts) and had also an almost new pair of MIchelin Pilot 4, that until this fatidic day were very reliable. Until I get a new one, I still mourn my dearest VFR 800Fi... and I'm sure I'll miss the sound of it. Thank you for your answer and incentive!

[@Terraceview]

These bikes with the gear driven cams are going to be sought after. Keep it

[@kyojitsu1]

Wish I had but it had to be sold unfortunately. I think the new owner was going to hang on to it for a good while though...hey ho.

[@davidebyrne]

Great review. I used to own one, changed it for a VTEC model after I dropped it. Stopped riding about 12 years ago and looking to get back into it now. I've been looking at VFR1200's, Blackbirds.... but when I look at practicality, power, maintenance and an engine with some soul I'm leaning back towards the VFR800, and I think this model rather than the VTEC. I can never remember locking up a wheel on this one even without ABS. It's such a good bike! Thanks for such a good honest review. I think my mind is made up now.

[@kyojitsu1]

davidebyrne thanks - glad it was of use. It's certainly a great all round package but the engine is the star. Feels very special.

[@m0rph3u1st]

Like you said, this is the most balanced bike (as well as reliable) you can get, IMHO. Never rode a Blackbird, but regarding the VFR 1200, only the name is common to the 800 (ok, it also has a V4 engine and single side swingarm). I felt it was heavier, the center of gravity is higher that the 800, it's not as smooth as this VFR is and I really didn't feel safe in it. It's a motorbike that goes ahead of you and not exactly doing what you want. It's not a surprise that they didn't sell too well worldwide.

[@halemotors4084]

Just doing the same thing, after quite a few years break its what I chose to get back into it.

[@eviltango]

Amazing! I'm torn between the 800fi and the 750...

[@kyojitsu1]

Think you'll enjoy either - some people think the 750 is more collectable. Either way just buy on condition - lots of bikes to choose from.

[@steveolp1099]

Condition is huge on both. 5th gen plastics are easier to source and the fi is nice

[@fireoil]

Im looking for this bike. What about drive in city at low rpm ? The suzuki sv 650 s was pretty good, light and the engine accept to go under 3000 rpm, even 2,5000 rmp. This one is ok ? Does the engine rattle ? Well its seems the perfect bikes for me, an all arounder biker with only one vehicule, i used 2 sv 650s witch i loved. The only negative point was the 2 people setup was terrible. I v got a top case on my old sv. well this VFR is old but the dual cbs engines make me want to buy this bike, for me abs was an absolute for an all arounder and all the year rider. Well i need to test one, only tested the last. I liked the confidence and the position of the 2014. Have to see if its not too old for parts like front suspensions or something else on the 2000's VFR ( in france, its forbiden to ride in paris with a 1999 motocycle... ) i never bough such a old bike... but i rode with a 1990 toyota car and it gives me so good impression ( maybe some repair i didnt know ) im ready to back to older years then i used too ( my lilit was 2007 and abs as requirement )

[@adn4499]

Hi, really good review. I have a 98 and would like to change the condom mirrors. Can you tell me what did you buy? Having a hard time finding the suitable ones online.

[@kyojitsu1]

Thanks. I bought used genuine Honda which I found on eBay from a guy in Australia! Took a while to hunt down though. There are pattern non-genuine versions available too which I think are probably fine - they should fit no problem. You may need to be patient if going for genuine parts.

[@toothpik00]

I'm thinking I'll get one of these. I found one in Victoria (Australia) for $2000 with 70,000km on it! My VTR250 has 44000km and I paid $3000 for it!

[@kyojitsu1]

Do it!

[@toothpik00]

Gotta get my full licence first which is still over 12 months away, though I might just buy one in the meantime if I find the right deal.

[@kyojitsu1]

I think you'd find it a lot more comfortable. Depends on your height I guess. It's a good compromise between sportsbike and tourer.

[@denisrailey777]

Like the low pipes, hate the hi pipes lol.

[@Mr562stan]

That old school v4 sound is just something else nothing like it

[@kyojitsu1]

Certainly is. Makes other engines seem a bit dull.

[@davecrouch44]

What year are the mirror's did you say also how much is the new Screen I love it. Are they comfortable for 6'2" ?

[@kyojitsu1]

spike little the mirrors I think changed around 2001 - the run out year. The screen is from a company called MRA and it’s the Vario model - around £80 but could vary on where you are. I’m 6’2” and it worked perfectly for me.👍🏻

[@rubo1964]

I had the 99 and regulator rectifier frying is common and stater wire thickness is a joke which get fried as well at the plug.Most VFR5th gen owners replace poorly made RR and wiring.Only flaw in my opinion.It runs HOT and does not like getting stuck in traffic and when it does you just prey fan does not fail otherwise you will be walking home. This is a bike that loves open highways and speeds in general not at all suited for city traffic commuting mode.Anyway thought to gave a realistic review

[@kyojitsu1]

Hi Ruben - that's a fair criticism and something I forgot all about. My bike didn't suffer the failure but it's entirely possible it was replaced already. You're right about traffic - it's not the ideal slow speed commuter. That engine needs to have air running over it.

[@GTARockman]

wow, as an owner it sounds like you are hateful on the bike. V engines do keep more heat. The RR is an issue but most bikes need them replaced as maintenance anyway. I cant say it is not at all made for city commuting. It is just better if it is cool outside when you do or that you dont stay slow speeds under 40. Fans do well to keep it cool but on 90 degree days then fans keep you hot as well as keeping it cool. 5th gen is best bike. It has gear cam, not chain cams, it has no o2 sensor on most 5th gen, it has better engine performance than the 6th gen gimmick vtec. Great bike altogether. I love the design and the performance. They are reliable and fun.

[@steveo4141]

Robert Fraley ......I can say as the owner of a 2005 Vtec 800 that the Vtec system is not s gimmick. With only the two valves open the the bike has more torque (ideal, esp when launching from stop), once the bike is moving well (Honda initially chose 6800 rpm) all 4 valves open up ...it breathes better less torque but more HP In my opinion the system works well....the Vtec kick (my terminology) all depends on how you ride ....reef on the throttle and stab the shifter and you will notice "the kick" more, under the right circumstances it feels like a turbo boost. I personally never felt unsafe say going into or coming out of a corner with the Vtec. If you accelerate smoothly or if (in 5,6) it doesn't matter as you don't even notice it. It's an excellent bike I noticed a faint burning plastic smell recently on deceleration. Noticed the connector from starter subharness looked a lil burnt...slapped a bit of dielectric grease on it, ordered a new subharness (can't get connecror on its own) and kept riding it. Swapped out new harness when it came in ($80) That's the only prob I've had with it ...bought it second hand in 2015 with 12,00km ...it now has 34,000km on it. Bar risers, Sargent seat, volt meter, carbon fibre tank protector/ battery cover are the only mods. V4 does run warn/hot in stop and go traffic but fan has never let it overheat. Best overall bike I've ever owned ...Vtec and all.

[@budster6080]

@@steveo4141 Good luck with adjusting the valves on the Vtek. if you do not do it yourself it is very pricey to have a mechanic do it and way to often they will just leave them close to or out of specs. Way to time consuming to remove cams several times. Need proper tool etc. Of course ignoring valve gaps is what often happens to avoid the cost and or hassle eventually causing early engine ware. the Radiators on the sides of the bike do not get proper windage that is the reason for overheating issues. This is why i purchased a 4th gen VFR with full 2bros complete exhaust. used various methods sure up spastics which are a problem to replace.

[@steveo4141]

@@budster6080 .... 48k on the bike now.. not worried about the valve clearance.... won't ever do it.... bike runs great... retired now, it's the last bike I will ever buy as I can't justify the cost (everything grossly overpriced these days)... pre/ post VTech doesn't matter VFR800's are excellent machines.

[@psvoiceover4427]

What about wrist comfort, regarding handlebar positioning? I have a VTR1000 and my wrists tend to ache.

[@n1tmtu37]

Squeeze the tank with your legs to take the weight off your upper body. You're possibly putting too much weight on your arms. That is my opinion based on your question.

[@powerofone1645]

Excellent bike by Honda. (Vtec are not necessary. )

[@martinvermehren3265]

Hi there😊 I completely agree with you about the VFR... - I own a red 98' - and have driven 4 years and about 30000 km's on it! I live in Denmark and crossed the Alps last year, touring with my brother - and it really does everything well - mountain passes as well as Autobahn - a true allrounder and better roadhandling than the popular adventure bikes, I think.. - even it's 19 years old!😁 Where did you buy your mount for the GPS? - Or did you make it yourself? Thanks for the video👍

[@kyojitsu1]

Martin Vermehren glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for the comment. It's a standard RAM mount and I think I bought it from eBay.

[@lescooper5224]

Hi thanks for the review. I'm thinking of getting one but I've never been much of a mechanic so do you know what they are like for services and valve clearances thanks

[@kyojitsu1]

You need to be picky about service history like any bike really. Lots of low mileage bikes around too and the engines go on forever if maintained. I'd probably do a service myself but valve clearances I'd get a pro to do that but it's not a regular thing anyway. In short, of all the bikes out there it's a good choice if you don't want to be forever spannering and just want to ride the thing!

[@lescooper5224]

Thank you

[@douglaswilliams1792]

Bike is brilliant

[@jimlawson4687]

What is the rear wheel black plastic cover for? Where did that come from? Manufacturer?

[@kyojitsu1]

It's a hugger - it stops road crud and salt etc from spraying the rear shock and corroding it. It was on the bike when i bought it but it's not a standard fit. Lots of them on ebay - Pyramid were a popular supplier.

[@reillygardner273]

Bought a 2000 in yellow yesterday. I think I’m gonna sell my zx9r now..

[@rrl1111]

Hey mate. Good review. I heard you say you are 6'2.... I'm 6'4 Or 6'5 with long bloody legs. How do you think I would go on one of these. Looking at a 2001 model with around 28000 miles on it. I'm in Australia. It's going for $3500 aud which would be around 1900 pound.

[@kyojitsu1]

rrl1111 Hey mate - thanks. Sounds like a good deal but if I'm honest, it could be a bit cramped for you. Check out this simulator site which would give you an idea cycle-ergo.com/

[@NoelWeldon1980]

Have a viper can on mine 2001 model sounds great but going to get delkevic high level can soon see more of the back wheel carbon should look good against the red aswel.your new downpipes look class mine are fairly rotted.

[@NoelWeldon1980]

Btw they're some clean forks for a 98!

[@kyojitsu1]

Not too bad. Think it wasn't used too much in the winter by previous owners!

[@jurrien75]

I have a 2001 with 90k on it. I put back the DB killer because the engine runs better and has more torque in lower rpm than without. Despite the better noise with the thing removed

[@kyojitsu1]

Yeah - it's a trade off isn't it? I suppose it depends on the exhaust too. Great to hear your bike is still going strong at 90k.

[@jurrien75]

kyojitsu1 I have BOS exhaust muffler. It’s actually the RH from a VTR1000SP set modified to fit the VFR. Do you have a stainless steel manifold? With or without catalyser?

[@kyojitsu1]

@@jurrien75 I fitted stainless steel manifold through to the muffler - no catalyst, not a requirement on bikes of this age in UK.

[@foetwinny]

This bike started off as a 700 in the mid 80s, which was a tasteful white and gold scheme

[@mikehancock6280]

foetwinny 1986 was the first year for the VFR and it was a 750. 1987 saw a VFR 700 which I believe to be a tariff avoidance for the States.

[@foetwinny]

I don't believe we had a 750 VFR model that early in the 80s here in the states. We did have the VF1000R in 85 and 86, but definately not a 750 version of the VFR. They were all 700's here in the 80s

[@kyojitsu1]

Indeed. You have Harley D to blame it seems...www.cmsnl.com/vfr700_model321/info/

[@mikehancock6280]

foetwinny 1986 was the 750.

[@markb9419]

hi, sorry what was the year your mirror upgrade came from? i need to do this. thanks

[@kyojitsu1]

Mark Bullock I believe it was 2001 they changed. I seem to remember the VTEC model mirrors could be swapped in directly too but not certain.

[@markb9419]

ok, great thanks, i have exactly this bike. love it. great review.

[@kevmorris9301]

I had a 2000 in the UK but had to sell it before moving to the US 7 years ago. Paid 2500 for a 2000 with 12k miles on it. I now own a BMW R1250 and still miss the VFR, especially as a tall lad at 6’3”. Now looking to get another pre-v as I miss this one so much. Red is the best color and the start up with an after market can is just brilliant. You still have her?

[@kyojitsu1]

I don't unfortunately. Had to sell as I didn't think it suited crappy rural roads and replaced with an 800GS for a while. Loved the VFR though and don't blame for you trying to buy another.

[@scottroberts8102]

Mine’s a pristine 2001 with 20,000 klms on the clock. Staintune upswept can. Magnificent thing. $6k Aus. Along with a FB 954RR, very happy with Honda brilliance.

[@kyojitsu1]

@@scottroberts8102 bet it sounds gorgeous with that exhaust. A keeper!

[@ryanjagger7609]

Your not joking about the grab handles. I've just bought a 1999 model I love it but just can't find and handles at a reasonable price.

[@kyojitsu1]

Ryan Jagger you’ll just have to ride solo then...😂. Seriously though there needs to be an international amnesty on VFR grab handles in sheds and garages. Hand them in at your nearest police station etc. Good luck.

[@alexmorgan3435]

Do you still have this bike?

[@dk2428]

I can get my hands on a '98 with 14k miles on it, what do you guys think?

[@kyojitsu1]

Harry Ballsachs that’s very low mileage - has it been in storage?Provided it’s been serviced regularly, and isn’t crazy money then bite their arm off 😊

[@dk2428]

@@kyojitsu1 Been serviced regularly and never saw a drop of rain according to the owner. He wants 2 grand for it. I think i better hurry ;-)

[@Smittyschannel]

the temp gauge is for engine temps, not outside ambient temps

[@kyojitsu1]

Actually it measures coolant temp and outside ambient air. Separate functions. Pretty cool for a late 90s bike.

[@TheSixYardBox]

It has both temps dude at the press of a button

[@naznaroznik7540]

You said it was VFR800Fi but its got a choke liver...?

[@kyojitsu1]

It looks like a choke lever but in fact it it's just device to hold the throttle open a bit when cold. Doesn't adjust the fuelling. It's a fuel injected bike.

[@David-uc8vw]

For someone with 5.7 would you recommend this bike?

[@kyojitsu1]

If you mean 5' 7" tall then yeah - you'd find it comfortable and easy to manage. Check out this site to see more: cycle-ergo.com/

[@craigfishcake2543]

I'm 5'7" and have one. The seat is low, I took the after market screen off, similar to this one, because it made my head shake, so the original is better for our height. It's 208Kg, not light in my book, but they are remarkable bikes. Above 7000RPM it turns into a different bike, if you only ever ride below that you might think it is stodgy. They go like a bomb if you get the chance.

[@MrGeoffrey1998]

Went from an er6n to a XJ6, i feel like i didn't find what i was looking for (well i'm a rider since about 1 year but i just feel like that). I'm currently looking for, mainly a reliable bike.. what would be the most reliable between the VFR 750 and vfr 800fi ? I have a preference for the 800 in terms of sound and look, it's a bit too powerful for me but i hope i'll stop riding like an idiot with that type of bike..

[@sajkofelix8895]

i drive sportsbikes and have one vfr 750 rc24 on the side always and everytime when i go to drive her i rip it like idiot ,i mean all the time and no problem whatsoever ,by the way my honda is 1987 with 50000km amazing bikes

[@denisobrien699]

sajko felix Totally agree, I have two VFR750 from 1986, just love that engine, the brakes and suspension aren't as good as the later bikes but that engine is addictive ! Also ride a 800 VTEC that's my brother in laws but it's awful, big hole in acceleration when it changes valve openings, high rise exhausts mean I can't throw luggage on, it's one of the few 'bikes I don't really like. Just about to buy the above model, 1997 for 250€, needs a bit of investment but it'll be fun to try and then compare with the others.

[@tonypaul2641]

Your mainstand looks in the wrong position, hanging down slightly. Be careful of ground clearance issues!

[@kyojitsu1]

Yeah - the new exhaust link pipe didn't quite allow for the stand. Mind you, I'm not really a knee down kind of guy on the road. Track day might be different!

[@aa-vu9vb]

I believe the vfr started as a 400 I have had two 99 vfr800fi I found no grin factor

[@kyojitsu1]

Not sure about the 400. The engine is based on the RC45 I believe. Sorry you didn't really love the bike - so why did you buy a second one..? 🤔

[@aa-vu9vb]

@@kyojitsu1 well still a vfr wasn't it reason I brought a second one was because first one was cheap and not in best condition so I thought I'd give it a second chance but didn't do it for me I'm more Honda blackbird person really

[@kyojitsu1]

@@aa-vu9vb ah well that explains it...not quite the same acceleration :-) I've always fancied a Blackbird actually. I like big plush bikes - had a Pan for a while for that reason.

[@Szlejer]

Great bike, but I went for the VTEC as it sounds much better. :-)

[@roadwarrior8560]

vtec is rubbish, should never be on any bike

[@budster6080]

Good luck with adjusting the valves on the Vtek. Way more difficult then non Ttec. if you do not do it yourself it is very pricey to have a mechanic do it and way to often they will just leave them close to or out of specs. Way to time consuming to remove cams several times. Need proper tool etc. Of course ignoring valve gaps is what often happens to avoid the cost and or hassle eventually causing early engine ware. the Radiators on the sides of the bike do not get proper windage that is the reason for overheating issues. This is why i purchased a 4th gen VFR with full 2bros complete exhaust. used various methods sure up plastics which are a problem to replace.

[@raymorris952]

Don't make them like that no more, unfortunately.

[@johna6968]

I was tempted, til I actually rode one. Went the 900 Hornet route instead.

[@kyojitsu1]

Interesting - great bike too. What put you off about the VFR? Not mad enough?

[@johna6968]

Thankyou.. The vfr did a lot of things well but nothing spectacularly. I had a similar experience with my cbr600f. I think at that time I was also growing weary of fully faired semi sporty position bikes. i must admit I do like the v4 noise.

[@JamesValentineBaja1000]

Hornets are horrid bikes. At least you got the 999. Should of got a VFR .

[@benyos01]

I had a 2005 Hornet 919 before the '99 VFR. The Hornet felt way heavier shit brakes and bad on fuel but torquier and stronger engine. For me the vfr is a much much better bike overall. And the sound of the V4 OMG! THE BEST BIKE I EVER HAD!!!

[@kyojitsu1]

Guys if you like VFRs you'll love this!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/goaXk3ypmdOVoa8