Honda Interceptor vs Kawasaki Versys 1000LT vs Suzuki V Strom 1000 Adventure vs Yamaha FJ-09

[@CaptainDangeax]

I was hesitating for the V-strom 1000 after my 2007 v-strom 650, and I eventually got a Versys 1000 and I don't regret it !

[@John-gz2me]

I've a V-Strom 1000ABS. Fantastic engine with bags of low-down grunt and sounds great. Love it.

[@Smaug1]

Have you tried a Bandit 1250S? It'll leave a DL1000 for dead, when it comes to low RPM torque.

[@whatsstefon]

Jeremy D true. But the bandit won’t be happy on a fire trail. If I was crossing the country with intent to touch some dirt, I’d pick the strom.

[@blackbird69xxx]

@@Smaug1 Im sure the Torque comes in lower in the revs range than the bandit.....

[@calcrappie8507]

I went with the Versys for the muscle, distance and comfort. I think it is a well thought out package from front to back. The bike is very light feeling and nimble underway and I think its handling in the tight stuff is quite underrated, especially for the size of it. Very happy with my choice.

[@froglaps40]

I'm 6 years late to the game, just picked up a brand new old stock 2020 versys 1000, in April. I'm loving it. Watching every video I can find on it.

[@heretohear8662]

@@froglaps40 Love those bikes!! Can I ask how much?

[@froglaps40]

@@heretohear8662 it was marked down to $15,999. Then I added a rear trunk, the fog/ driving lights, a 2" lowering kit, out the door it was, $17,400. The dealer didn't charge for the labor.. and don't even think he charged for the $150 lowering kit. I did pay cash for an extended warranty, doubt I'll use it.. but i like to cover my butt.

[@froglaps40]

I purchased it out of state so tax and registration wasn't included in that. I live in upstate NY, and bought it in Philly.

[@heretohear8662]

@@froglaps40 Ok, Thanks!!

[@BloodstainedSinner]

For me, the VFR-800 (Interceptor) is king. It is down on power compared too the other, mainly because it's a smaller engine, but it's still the best bike IMHO. It does everything right. Handling, comfort, sports feel, touring feel, fuel economy, power, weight, looks, and by far, the best sounding.

[@karlwalker1771]

I love the V4 layout but have you ridden a V TWIN FIRESTORM UK/SUPERHAWK US:) believe me this machine is half the strokes and double the FUN:) I have never ridden a better machine, remember how a V4 engine has power and engine braking in the corners, well the V TWIN has this and has a sheer abundance of power low down out of the corners and the exhaust note is music to the owners ears:) My son rides as pillion and says it sound like a racing Harley Davidson on STEROIDS, I grinning mischievously rest my case! Ride safe and remember "RIDE LOUD AND PROUD" :)

[@Smaug1]

I mostly agree. Being down on power is not necessarily a horrible thing. But since it's heavy too? Game over.

[@СтоюКидиков]

Here in Europe the Honda has 104 hp and 74 Nm for the 2014-2015 , the other bikes are the same specs , so the US regulations restrict the bike , if we have in mind the quality and the all-do point , there is no doubt which the winner is ;) (comment from a happy 599 owner ;) )

[@justintowers8230]

@@СтоюКидиков these figures they are showing is wheel horsepower. because the fj09 has 104 power and crank power is actually 115hp

[@Desertduleler_88]

Karl Walker Funny enough l’m beginning to think the Firestorm is my second choice apart from the VFR. A very underrated bike.

[@OperationFoxley19441]

I would buy the V-strom because it's the most balanced out of the lot, easier to ride and fun!

[@CaptainDangeax]

And man, this HUGE torque at low RPM, what an advantage on curvy roads !

[@keeponkeepinon18]

Just bought a '15 VFR for commuting as my second bike. It looks great and sounds great, even stock. The bike just exudes quality. DLX adds everything you'd need except a miles to empty and cruise control. Simple and effective dash layout with central tach and NO riding modes. For me, MPG from 43-50, with top end of range at 240 miles. The hardbags are coded to the ignition and snap on and off with ease. VTEC really gives the bike a lady in the streets and a freak in the sheets vibe. Plus, saying you have an Interceptor to the non-riding folk just sounds badass lol. Personally, I was against getting an adventure-style bike since I hated the looks of them. VFR was my dark-horse choice and it checks every need.

[@CasperJLT707]

Bought the FJ09 and I love it!! Use it for commuting and road tripping around California 😎

[@yb2112]

I got a v-strom xt with the spoke wheels and the aluminum paniers...looks great,fun bike,love it!

[@lucacaileanu8989]

Is it the Blue one? My next bike.

[@Rusty_Spoke]

Thanks guys!! Great overview of these 4 bikes.. I pre-ordered an FJ-09 back in December of '14 and by all of the reviews to date am glad I did....now if this snow ever melts I may get a chance to ride the damn thing.

[@Quagmire88]

V-Strom for days

[@OperationFoxley19441]

V Strom forever!

[@cooleyballs1]

Looks rubbish

[@gwilliamwallace]

The VFR has soul and there is absolutely nothing like the wail of the V-4 as it crosses the 10K RPM mark. It's great in the twisties and very solid in the zone at a relaxed 80 MPH 5,800 RPM cruise on 2 valves per cylinder. The shifting up and down the box is sublime without the optional quick shifter. The only shortcoming is it's no fun around town (which is true to its heritage.). I love that motor so much that I'll buy the VFR800X if Honda brings it to the states.

[@hfjeff2736]

Awesome review. I watched your Super Sport Touring shootout as well. I currently have an FJR and have been looking at a Versys 1000. You just confirmed what I already had suspected. Versys test ride tomorrow. Thanks and keep up the great reviews!

[@brothermanv]

How'd you like the Versys?

[@nicoroehr]

Well, I bought the VFR800F on purpose. As the reviewers say, it offers this 90's bike feeling that I personally prefer. The other adventure bikes may be technically better and more contemporary, nevertheless they appear to me as typical old men bikes. You know, their back hurts constanly, so they have to get a comfy one with high handle bars and plenty of crash protections. My back's still intact, however, I'm getting old, too. So I didn't get a Fireblade but settled for the VFR. Btw, it is the fastest in that group if you refer to top speed (real 151 mph, which you can actually achieve here on the German Autobahn).

[@juliof2930]

I finally went to the dealership and got my 2015 versys 1000. She is a beast, love the way she rides and the power. I still have to get used to the traction control system and where the rear brake and shift lever are. So much different than my Honda cruiser.

[@stocks7765]

what about the windnoise?

[@juliof2930]

+Bart Ingels On the highest position, I hear the noise but for me is not bad. I have speakers installed in my helmet and at highway speeds 55-70 Mph I can hear my music fine. Now I went from a cruiser with a small wind deflector so the reduction for me is a big deal.

[@stocks7765]

Thx,I ordered one without making a testdrive,I hope the windnoise will be much less than on a s1000xr on wich it was a disaster and a reason to not buy it!

[@exothermal.sprocket]

The vibration on the XR as well as far less reliability aren't worth the extra price.

[@meh4266]

Lmao.traction control.music.toilet.what happened to motorcycling ffs...get a car or better still a bus ticket.bikers my arse.

[@juliof2930]

Got my eye on that Kawi versys 1000. Looking forward to get one soon.

[@Evenflo76]

Leftover '14 V-Strom 1000s are going for $8,999 in my neck of the woods. I hate that these industry reviews always have to compare using msrp.

[@robertellis2769]

Hi Evenflow76 - can you point me to a dealer that has a '14 V-Strom 1000 for $9K. I think I'd make the trip to get one... You can email me at [e-mail]. Thanks!

[@aluisious]

Evenflo76 I see them for $10k in California regularly. A much more compelling prospect at that price.

[@lukemanius]

Last year, here in Soldotna, AK, a dealer was selling a '16 for under $7K - I was thinking about getting it EVEN THOUGH I DIDN'T ACTUALLY WANT IT 😂

[@AddyAdderson]

I don't understand. You put the 782cc Honda of the interceptor style bike against 1litre sports adventure bikes, and then point out that the Honda is slower, and not like the others? Why didn't you also criticize it for not looking like a sports adventure bike. If you had a GoldWing "hanging around the shop" perhaps you would have also included it in this comparison. Or perhaps a Honda CBr300R? You guys need your bolts tightened.

[@1compaqedr8]

Vfr makes comparable horsepower and torque to other bikes, so it's not out of place in this. I have an older Vfr, and I'm considering the fj09... The new vfr800 with vtec after all these years should have around 130-120hp from the addition of vtec, but honda can't be bothered to improve the beloved Vfr.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

If you spun a weed-eater engine fast enough, it also would make very comparable power to these other bikes, but zero torque.

[@meh4266]

Years on now but the gen5 pre vtecs are still doing it.170kmiles some of them....lots of the newer stuff simply wont be around.build quality is atrocious nowadays specially the kwaks n yams.some 5yrs old are just rolling scrap mostly.

[@rmatt375]

@@meh4266 Yes the VFR quality is superb ... so don't buy a new one because you are unlikely to benefit from the fact it's still running in 20 years time, get yourself a bargain and buy a used one. Mine is 22 years old, bought for the equivalent of US$2,000 and is still a dream to ride at 55000 miles. 😁

[@5891jonathan]

The VFR is heavy and underpowered as it comes from the dealer. I have one.

[@RobertBrumley60]

I prefer the Versys as far as comfort and plenty of power on tap.

[@LamNguyen-ov1ue]

Kawasaki Versys 1000 is Ok with the price and comfortable for you to ride. Personally I try Versys 1000 and GS12000. I prefer Versys 1000 :)

[@staninjapan07]

Nice review. Still happy with my 2012 v-strom 650 though.

[@divebobber]

I've got the 2008 650 Strom and am only starting to be disappointed by its ho-hum power. I'm toying with getting its big brother, or maybe the versys.

[@roadwarrior8560]

same

[@westfletcher9219]

Power is great for a 650 twin.

[@daedalx]

I mustve slept tgrough a few decades. Last I remember bikes were $8k and the exotics were $15k

[@whatsstefon]

Al Maurikan yeah man. I had a 20 year hiatus due to life and an accident. Suddenly I returned to bikes a bit shocked at prices. I bought second hand in the end.

[@aggyslacker]

I almost bought the Versys 1000 but the Triple of the FJ-09 won me over! The Versys is a little more comfortable and roomier, but I was willing to sacrifice a little comfort for the agility of the Yamaha! Also, when they commented about the difference in acceleration between the Yamaha and the Kawasaki, they must have the Yamaha in B mode!!! The Yamaha is faster trust me, I've rode the both.

[@Anxiousb]

which bike would I feel most confident in to take me to Prudhoe bay Alaska? The Strom hands down. that's what I asked myself and that's why I bought it over the fj and the kawai

[@gerloczyek]

mee tooo!

[@stanza77]

I'm sorry I know the other bikes seem to have done better on Merit, but that Interceptor looks gorgeous. Granted it is in a different category, it has no Adventure component but it looks just plain stunning!

[@marcusjamesOG]

The Interceptor is love with itself.

[@V4Rider]

Maybe the VFR its different in the US.. in Europe its a excellent sport touring machine! Not really a fair review...

[@swapnilpatil6473]

American's don't make Sports motorcycles,they don't have huge legacies.

[@bootz0409]

I laughed out loud at the V-Tec voiceover (6:07)..... sounds just like it! Lol 😂

[@BMRTV]

Actually all motorcycles fit. I'd love to see some "non-category" bike always included so people can see that you can use any bike you got.

[@johnharris7353]

The interceptor is, imo, by far the best looking and most well finished of this group. The others look crude compared to it.

[@hujimix]

Looks like the worst of all 4 bikes No handguard protection No crashbars Almost no windshield protection No room for a top case Most uncomfortable riding position No central stand It looks like any other sport bike with a pair of saddle bags. That's not a touring bike.

[@sectorarea]

sport touring ? that is it's category

[@squirrel6687]

Venerable sport tourer. Top case is an option. Not mentioned is the fact that the bags hold a lot. Gas mileage sux. Track day! Of the group the only one allowed at Barbers. Enough said. Center stand is included. Own a 99 and an 04. Pretty much the same. Slap in that 99 engine an voila, betcha the smiles start. Enjoy. I want them all.

[@imadecoy.]

They specifically said the bags are tiny and don't hold much. Far from "not mentioned"

[@klondikezappy]

The VFR800 has a central stand, acclaimed riding position, top case option, i bought mine with a aftermarket windscreen and boi is that thing tall, the only thing is handgaurd and and crashbar protection but that's because it's not a adventure bike

[@TheGabesnell]

I buy used so I tend to look at older reviews. But I’m a little confused by this review. They kept saying that if they were to go to a track and the sportbike of the group was the VFR. But then kept saying the FJ-09 was the sportiest bike of the group. I understand the VFR is not the powerhouse but I’m not sure what that equates to.

[@davidstancu2963]

steep steering rake and lower handle bars

[@Smaug1]

Great film. As always, I enjoy Burns' commentary. Kevin is afraid to age himself by talking like John; too bad. I still fondly remember Burns' days with Motorcyclist, before it went to the dogs.

Suzuki, of course ;-)

[@cheeseypie5555]

Took a test ride on the 2015 versys 1000 today, holy turd balls, its good. Smooth as warm butter, had to look down at my feet to check that I was actually shifting gears. The only problems I found was the clutch was a bit too stiff (easily fixed) and the exhaust was just too quiet (also easily fixed). They were saying that between 60-100kph (40-60mph) the range on the tank is close to 500km (310 miles). Which is pretty crazy.

[@Edgunsuk]

its the tracer in the UK , was strange could not find a fj09 on ebay lol

[@GFDiablos1984]

Honda for me is the most beautiful bike of the bunch.

[@CockatooDude]

Not just for you man.

[@GFDiablos1984]

Even if it's the worst performing bike of the bunch I would still buy it over the other ones.

[@iDECIMIS]

I'm with you guys! The Interceptor is stunning.

[@RendColt]

It's different kind of bike than the rest, it's basically a toned down street bike. The others are toned down dirt bikes. In this review the kawasaki versie gets the top honors. Road, dirt, price

[@MrStevecro]

Emanuel Muresan they're not dirt bikes at all - they can do some nicely groomed dirt roads or the occasional easy forest track. The Yamaha especially doesn't even have better than road bike ground clearance. I have raised my VStrom 1000 by 25mm yet still use my DR650 when I want a dirt adventure trip. Lightness and simplicity is the key

[@philiprise]

The VFR is underrated here, it competes in a class of its own. Yes less powerful but plenty fast for most people. Yes it’s an older concept, but it s a modern classic. Looks far classier too than those adventure inspired bikes, how practical and slightly more technically advanced as they may be.

[@peterfehr7441]

I got the VStrom. Was going back and forth between Versys and VStrom. I still like going off on 2 track bush roads. It's all about how you want to ride. I'm guessing I'll do a Versys after this one for more long trips.

[@siambee]

why not the VFR800X?

[@MARKINAU8]

Not available in America

[@victoreous626]

I only get 28mpg on my 05 vfr. Everybody else is getting 42mpg. LUV the V-Tech. Still considering the Yamaha as a replacement this year.

[@Cabezon76]

Good video, I ride an Interceptor and I enjoy it very much.

[@nezamvazifeh]

Seems VFR is not fitting in their category as it is is a sport touring bike...

[@usbsol]

Why are you guys comparing a sports tourer VFR 800 to 3 adventur tourers? Maybe do a proper sporty sportstourer comparison sometime ;)

[@CptSlow89]

Im kawasaki fan and this is enough for me I ll choose kawi. Also Yamaha has great quality and model choices lately

[@thomasbiancuzzo9889]

I've got a 2015 vfr deluxe they are so off on so many points I've got nothing to say But ,,,,sponsors paid that off why put 800 cc out of its class . Not that in the right hand's The out come would be so far off ( owner since 1993 '40 + bikes yes ) I'm my own test rider Honda all the way !

[@dbauernf]

Nice comparison, I have no idea which bike I'd pick. I always loved the VFR, the FJ makes perfect sense in every way, but there's nothing wrong with the other two. Very hard choice. I'd probably end up with the FJ since it's cheapest and probably cheapest to maintain, but if money wasn't an issue maybe I wouldn't pick any of them. GS? Caponord? KTM 1190?!

[@doaibu475]

i like v-strom

[@GrizzV991]

I know I'm super late to the party, but bringing along the vfr just to promptly shit on it for not being a good adv bike is pretty lazy

[@ntdscherer]

That isn't why they crapped on it. They didn't even take the bikes off road so being a bad adventure bike doesn't even come into it.

[@Supernova12034]

Test rode the FJ 09 today, holy smokes its fun/crazy

[@Smaug1]

Re-watching this, years later. How come the other three guys aren't doing these any more? Only John Burns hung on?

[@patrickxxxxdrirr7f3rr90]

I got the Fj09 because I have maturity issues and need a hooligan bike that I can put my aging body on.

[@Braaap250]

And they didn't even mention the power wheelies on the Yamaha! that is definitely my next bike there's a dealership in Indiana selling it for $10,000 out the door

[@ZoneTelevision]

Any reason the Triumph Tiger 800 was excluded?

[@ismaelgonzalezlozano1308]

The interceptor looks just like ducati supersport lol

[@kleinbottled79]

I really wanna like the VFR, the V-4 mid size sport-tourer concept is perfect. That sound alone is worth putting up with V-tech. However, It really needed to lose like 60 lbs in the refresh not 12 or whatever. Too heavy. Sad. Many such cases.

[@selophane43]

A very nice comparison here. Motorcyclist Mag did the same job but left out the VFR. They also left out the same item you guys left out, a passenger. All these bikes have plenty of rear seat room and they are obviously meant for 2-up riding just as much as solo. Hell, look at their advertisements and they even put a passenger on back. It woulda been nice to know what you think of each machine with an extra rider. It would have been nice to know what the passengers think, too. How did they fit? Which bike did they like the most? Coincidentally, I own an '06 Vstrom 1000 and an '86 Interceptor 500 and let me tell you how much happier my girlfriend is on the bigStrom.

[@Jb-ot5sp]

should the honda vfr800x not have been in this video instead???

[@lucacaileanu8989]

Not available in the United states

[@constantinoschrysanthou8865]

Good evening! I have a "stupid" question to do.. What is the reason that we have different type of sound between kawasaki+yamaha and the honda+suzuki?? Basicaly what is that, that makes the sound to be different??

[@brothermanv]

It's not a stupid question One big difference is cylinders. The Suzuki and kawasaki have twin cyninders (I think ones parallel while the other is I v twin. Not sure, tho). The Honda has four and yamaha has three cylinders.

[@SuperNickster93]

@@brothermanv The Versys 1000 use's the Inline 4 Cylinder engine from the Z1000. all beit detuned from 140bhp down to 120bhp for a stronger mid range and increased fuel economy to boot. It's the Versys 650 that utilises a 650cc parallel twin engine.

[@brothermanv]

@@SuperNickster93 Zoinks. I must've been sleepy when I made my last comment. Lol. Like you said, I was thinking of the Versys 650 and V-strom 650

[@kylestewart8049]

right now everyone's in love with the ADV Market which is like the SUV market for cars. practical, Jack of all trades. but there is always those folks who want a bike designed for a specific personal style. the sport car/bike. the big luxury car/bike. I think these guys doing these shootouts need to think about crossing lines and then comparing. not everything needs to be a SUV. road feel, solid steering, and confidence in control may not be the Trend right now. but they still are very important to a select few.

[@dj2000lbs]

I've seen the vstrom used around 9500

[@johncarlson8029]

1st bring back all 4 valves all the time which with the carbs made the vfr the best bike overall ever. 2nd Bring back the cam gear drive so it can receive the character and charm it deserves and 3rd bring back the fat fairing and windscreen so it can once again become the best light tourer known to man.

[@KevinKennedy-ys3gk]

I believe that my 2008 VFR made 110HP and about 60 FP torque. Top speed was 150 but I personally never had it over 135. Way fast enough for me and I suspect any rider on the street. On the east coast there aren't too many places to go faster. It was the finest bike I ever owned in over 30 years of riding.

[@k0conutk0mando]

Crosstourer and vfr800x are not available in US

[@hrcrider6701]

what about durability.... I have a 15 year old vfr...you wouldn't believe how great it works.....,sounds...and still looks good......not sure these other bikes will age so well....

[@CaptainDangeax]

I have a 9 years old 650 V-strom with stock chain. I'm about to open the engine for the first time at 50000 kms, to check valve clearance, and I bet nothing will need correction. I know plenty of V-Stroms going far over 200000 kms.

[@TotallyZen]

Why no Triumph Tiger 1050 Sport???

[@lonebiker931]

the vfr in this category ? its a sport touring bike.perhaps ,the vfr crossrunner would be the correct choise.but, nice video.

[@ricardorodrigues3508]

I'm a ducati multistrada 1200 2011 owner, and getting really tired of ducati shit, i'm thinking of buying a Yamaha fj09 (MT09 tracer in europe)

[@danielgreen5803]

The entire FJ/FZ family is very appealing to many people because of the great bang for buck from HP prespective, but what most people dont know is that most of the bikes components are quite cheap and in many cases just a hair over what you must have for a safe ride... those bikes are relatively very exhausting for the rider

[@ricardorodrigues3508]

In ducati you get the best of the best on components (and that reflects the final price) but then you have all the ducati parts and maintenance to deal with, for example i only have two dealers in my entire country, both of then sell the ducati brand as premium bikes, and that is very very visible in the maintenance rates, last time i went to the dealer was to execute the 24000km (15000miles) service, jesus they take a arm and a leg on this service, 1 day worth of labor, nearly 800€ (about 1000usd), and at 48000km its the same service, plus the middle little services to change oil. Then everything is over the top overpriced, overprice is just the word that cames to my mind when talking ducati, example, i bought a tank bag from givi, coste me 100€, now on the 2016 model ducati made a deal with givi and givi is fabricating the exact same tankbag for them, they just change the logo with a ducati logo, guess the price of that extra on ducati, 320€, JESUS thats 220€ more just to have a ducati logo on a fucking bag. Then there's the problem with the L2 engine (v2 twin, they called it L2 due to the heads angle), it's just to sport to ride in the city, they fixed the problem a little with the new DVT engines, but mine, man that engine just wants to rev, in the city it's almost impossible to ride it and be compliant to the speeds law. Kawasaki launched the new z1000sx ate intermoto 2 weeks ago, i'm keeping my eye on that bike, i miss the inlines 4, had a z750, loved that engine, just can imagine that the 1 liter with 142hp will be lovely to ride.

[@danielgreen5803]

In my point of view if you dont have spare cash to spand don't get near the ''exotic'' models (ducati, aprilia,MV augusta, etc.) they look great, sound great but mostly unrealiable and super expensive to maintaine. They are more of a show off bike than real riding machines

[@imadecoy.]

The thing about Yamaha is you'll be hard pressed to find anything more reliable. They are top of the class in that regard.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

The thing about Yamaha is that it needs another 3 grand in parts to make it a great bike. Suspension, seat, windscreen.

[@Na2gumiBlogspot]

Nice review. I really don't understand why Honda did this to the VFR. The past years Honda's motorcycles are as boring as their cars are.

[@nzbeeker1]

On2Wheels I am riding a 21 year old Honda. Don't think it is boring at all. In fact, this is my 2nd CBR1000f, This is one where they got it right for a Sport/Tourer.

[@Balithazzarr]

This is awesome with the interceptor. The Yamaha is intryuiging I'm willing to learn about the others.

[@MotoCanuck]

A lot of performance road/ sport talk here. The other marketing aspect of at least the V-Storm and the Versys is adventure which generally one would define as get the hell off the asphalt. Versys is on my short list, moving from an Honda ST 1300 to a bike I can take off the beaten track because the adventure truly begins where few dare to go. In the end I think they all need to take note of the soon to arrive Africa Twin.

[@kimhorton6109]

+Moto Canuck I'm thinking of making the same transition from the ST1300 to the Versys. At 69 yrs old, the ST is just getting too heavy. The big versys seems like it has the power to ride mountains, bags to hold a weekend worth of gear and the ergos to go long distance.

[@MotoCanuck]

+Kim Horton as I've investigated further I found the capacity of the luggage rather limited given the long distance touring that I do, sadly. Otherwise I'm quite impressed.

[@brodygriffiths9504]

Hello, Thank You For Caring. cloistered motionless What's your opinion about it

[@cstephenson9223]

These guys suck! I love my 2014 vfr 800!!! Nothing wrong with this bike it's awesome and turns heads every time I ride it!!!

[@edwinramos5119]

Honda quality is amazing

[@edwinramos5119]

I agree these guys hate Honda products

[@ghost666HAZE]

Dude my friend had a VFR 800, he let me ride it on some b roads and HOLY SHIT!! that bike moves its engine is freaking incredible!! VTEC YO

[@richardiriley3]

Honda need to wake up and listen to their customers

[@tomassoyweyvon4902]

Which of these are the most capable off road??

[@brokepetrolhead]

The older vfr's were and still are one of my dream bikes, i returned to biking after an 8 year break and was going after a 2005 or up vfr800 but insure was crazy having been off the road for so long, ended up falling in love with a V-Strom, never seen myself riding an adv style bike but no dont think id ever go back to naked or sports bikes as my main bike. I love the way there is so many options to individualize adv bikes... here is a video i recently made about face lifting my Strom kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHKmfYGAp9aYack

[@Dragon3it]

when is there a video about Africa twin vs everything else? :)

[@squirrel6687]

Yeah it can go off road with impunity. Want one of those. Maybe a diy conversion of a 6th gen VFR gets you a VFR 800X.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Because it's too offroad biased to be the same sort of on-road mile muncher as these. Ultimately you have to divide the purpose of a machine at some point. A 21" front wheel isn't going to carve like a 17". And in reverse, one is better at dirt than the other.

[@squirrel6687]

What is the purpose then? Looks? The Twin as far as the latest reviews state is a great all-arounder with great off road capabilities. I believe that is where the adventure starts, or just get a road bike! I need to travel to our place out in the deep woods on a gravel road maybe three or more miles. Hit a bump or rut with those wheels, and all she wrote. Twin, if I can find one available. Also, if the Twin is to dual-sport, then these other bikes suffer from not being fully faired! Less protection from the elements. They are just some fat, fad styled nakeds. What will have made the 5TH Gen VFR800 great will do the same for the Twin.

[@SHvar]

I wonder about the VFR800F that the magazines test, they must all ride the same bike which they say produces 92-94 hp. My 2014 puts 101 hp to the pavement and performs great, the handling is excellent. By the way the VFR800F carries 5.6 gallons of gas, not 5.2 gallons, and if you do more riding below the VTEC engagement it gets around 50 mpg but less when you open it up alot. For its engine displacement it makes more power (782cc), but this is not the class of bikes it should be compared to. The VFR800F gets alot of people looking when you ride it, alot of compliments on its appearance. Minus cornering hard in the dark at night on a tight twisty road (because of the shape of the headlight beam), those LED headlights work great, and people in cars notice you riding it compared to other bikes.

[@MichaelBrashier]

SHvar Thanks for sharing your experience. I'm considering a 2014 VFR800 DLX. I'll be test riding it this week. I love the looks and the tech (ABS, TC). All the reviews I've seen are tepid at best. None are very enthusiastic but to me the bike seems like a really cool, reliable, high build quality bike. How does it feel to ride?

[@SHvar]

I enjoy it, the seating position is similar to a CBR, the bars are a bit higher, the seat is much more comfortable. Its havy when sitting still, but moving its light and has great handling. The engine produces power where you need and want it for riding on the road.

[@the_only_chris]

john burns is old. but I listen to every word he says.

[@Smaug1]

Kevin is too, but he's ashamed of it. He's probably got a hot young girlfriend.

[@davidpearson3390]

Vstrom all the way,the rest are no good off road !

[@Smaug1]

...and neither is the V-Strom!

[@whatsstefon]

Jeremy D it’s probably best to say it’s less shit. If you adventure, it’s great. If you’re hitting dirt all the time then there are better alternatives. But they suffer on long highways. There’s no such thing as a perfect bike. But if I’m touring with the aim to hit some dirt, I’d rather a bike that is capable yet mediocre rather than great at one thing but sucks at everything else.

[@MrSlowestD16]

Think I like the FJ09 in terms of 'bang for buck' the most out of all these guys. Really can't go wrong with any of them, though, only way I think you could go wrong is if you're not ready for the more prone position of the Honda - it doesn't look that comfortable for long touring, but really other than that little thing I don't think you could really go wrong with any of these.

[@zack8819]

I just traded in my FJ-09 for an Interceptor and I do not regret it at all! The Honda has much better build quality.

[@addicted2baseballrgd21]

Would like to see updated shootout. The Versey, V-Strom, and Tracer 900 are all the same price. $12,999. Price wise it's an even playing field. Honda, now has the VFR1200X at $15,999. The Euros are to expensive, and performance wise, out class these bikes ( BMW XR1000, KTM Super Duke GT, Ducati Multistrada, etc.)

[@personanongrata6098]

Versys Versys Versys Versys Versys Versys

[@richardiriley3]

Typical brand led there's no hope for people like that Buy a bike for what you want/need

[@aluisious]

+richardiriley3 Versys isn't a brand.

[@darthchile]

+Persona Non Grata Dude, no. There ain't no dual purpose like a KTM. I've tried them all, bought a KTM. Best decision I've ever made.

[@Koolboy7591]

You're damn right. That's the best

[@tenzinthosam5245]

Javier Gonzalez ktm cheep ugly and not reliable bike that last thing

[@haskha45]

Hey guys I'm fairly new too bikes. I want one so bad. What do you guys think is the best bike for the first timer. I want a nice looking one with sport styling but don't know which one is good.

[@selophane43]

haskha45 Listen to Stevenson, he gets it. I started on an '83 XT200 (kick start) about 9 years ago. You WILL drop any bike you own, either on the road or in your driveway. It is inevitable. Spend a year to learn how to ride in all conditions and types of roads then make a new purchase. Think about where and how you like to ride instead of what you like to ride and buy the appropriate bike for those conditions. Good luck and take an MSF course.

[@haskha45]

How much do you think I should spend? And how can I get practice if I don't have anybody with a license

[@richardiriley3]

Try not to be a brand led sheep. Ride as many as you can before you buy

[@kispangit3912]

+haskha45 Hi, if you are still here. I am also new to riding, got my A (unrestricted) license just over a year ago. And I selected a Suzuki GS500 (1993) for starters. I dropped it 2x. First, while pushing it out of the garage. The thing just pulled me over. Then at a roundabout, while braking suddenly (slow speed, only bruised ego). The GS500 is a good starter. 790 mm seat height, easy flat-footing. This is very important for beginners! It is 'primitive' by today's standards (carburetor), but reliable if taken care of. And cheap. The cheapest 500 cc that I could find out there. Inline 2. Vibrations, so strong that I can only see a blur in the left mirror above 100 kph or so. But who cares. This bike will teach you to ride. I love it already....

[@kylestewart8049]

hey guys, spend about 30-45sec each talking about what gear you are wearing for the rides. I'm always looking for good comfortable gear. I think the more people know how comfortable and tailored to riding gear can be the more people WILL WEAR it. save Someone hard hard lessons.

[@AccurateShooter]

The FJ-09 has a great motor, but the seat and windscreen have to go in the trash. The seat is only about 3/4" thick at the back with almost no padding. You can feel the metal subframe underneath. Awful. Terrible. One of the worst motorcycle seats ever. As the testers noted the screen is noisy and causes awful buffeting. It also wobbles and looks junky. Also don't be deceived by the claim that the Suzuki's screen offers "great wind protection". BS. I have a friend with that bike and I've ridden his 2015 V-Strom extensively. The screen is too narrow and it sits too far forward and is too vertical in the "up" position. This causes awful wind noise and turbulence. As for the VFR -- finally people are telling the truth. I own a 2001 VFR (pre-VTEC) and frankly, the power is very disappointing below about 9000 RPM. Its cramped for two-up and the drivers seat is uncomfortable after 40 minutes or so. The sad thing is that today's buyers have to choose from these bikes that are all seriously flawed. Of the four I'd take the Kawa 1000LT, as it has the fewest faults. But my 30 year-old 1985 FJ1200 is a better tourer that any of these bikes. It has more torque down low, a WAY better seat, better fairing (no turbulence), comfortable pillion, better gauges/dashboard, and it got close to 50 mpg on the road. I'm stunned that this is the best Japan can come up with. The FJ-09 and V-Strom are also homely as heck...

[@kubanitos]

AccurateShooter I completely agree with your opinion about the FJ-09. I was looking for my next motorcycle and I was hesitating between three bikes: the FJ-09, the VFR 800 X Crossrunner and the Versys 1000. The seat of the FJ-09 was simply terrible. And I could notice it immediatly after sitting on it in the showroom. I can't imagine what was Yamaha thinking when putting that seat on an adventure bike. Ppl's ass will be crying after an hour (or even less) on that thing. Too bad, because it had the lowest pricetag out of the three and had a great engine plus looks... The VFR was a decent bike, I got to testride it. It was pretty comfy, the engine was neat, however the sound it made when VTECH kicked in was pretty terrible, but that is just my opinion. It was also pretty overpriced. Where I live the VFR 800X has exactly the same pricetag as a Versys 1000 (2015) and they couldn't even include a simple center stand for that price. The Versys was an easy winner by being the most comfortable, most powerful, and best looking. :)

[@tngchinghwa]

+kubanitos if it has the lowest price, what can't you just top up and get a much better aftermarket seat, seats don't cost a lot

[@aluisious]

+AccurateShooter You know what I love about Yamaha fans? "Man, the motor is amazing. And it's such great value! All you have to do is replace the seat, windshield, suspension, and retune the motor, and it's great!" Yamaha fanboys are the battered wives of the motorcycle world.

[@aluisious]

+Tony Tng Or you could buy the bike that doesn't come with placeholder parts from the showroom.

[@Koolboy7591]

Cool man you make a point but about the interceptor, you judge it a bit too harshly considering you only had the 2001. You didn't say you rode the new model. And if you ever really ridden an fj09 you'd realize it was not designed to be comfortable. It's a big motard ya big dope

[@ernestosuarez7429]

The V Strom is the king of torque...I just changed it the back case for another biger.

[@justintowers8230]

you can get a full fairing kit on the FJ09 and it'd still be way cheaper than vfr. besides honda failed and didnt update the engine in their 8th gen model. it still has the 2002 vfr engine tech with a slight tweak. ughh.

[@vincetownsend9661]

VFR is awesome

[@peterfallows6802]

Is there no honda crossrunner❔

[@DerpEye]

It's either the Tracer or Vstrom. Lighter bikes. Try taking the other two on a gravel road uphill parking in the apennines. Yeah, you won't. The Versys 1000 is just too heavy, and you just can't with a sport tourer. The Tracer should be a good choice if you want a sportier bike but ride occasionally with passenger. Vstrom if you ride mainly with passenger.

[@TheDaedalx]

Where is the transalp?

[@splodge57]

8 years later and the VFR still looks a classy well made bike. All the others look very messy and crude. The Honda is still the fun bike to own, ride and polish.

[@UncleWally3]

I happen to own and ride a VFR (fully tweaked - to keep it OEM is a sin) and a ‘Strom (OEM to the end) and I like both because they’re so different. To find them in a comparison review is, based on my experience, just plain odd. Kind of like comparing a Subaru BRZ and Jeep Wrangler? Interesting video though, thanks!

[@5891jonathan]

The factory version of the VFR is ridiculously heavy and the suspension is lousy. I fixed mine, but adding an Ohlins and restrung/revalved fork and lighter exhaust and Power Commander and dynotune cost a bunch of money. Really disappointing that Honda kept the same engine configuration from 2002 to the present.

[@UncleWally3]

Jonathan Pollard: I agree that the VFR is far from a great, even sufficient package off the production line; it’s definitely a farkle magnet. But the “bipolar” character of the engine works for me. Then again, I’m almost 68, been riding long and hard for fifty years, so I’m not as inclined to chase the performance dragon as I used to be.

[@ronaldreagan256]

VFR style V4 and Italian red nuff said

[@progste]

I'd take the VFR any day, adventure bikes are overrated.

[@nicholstop8161]

Is the versys a lot faster than the fj09, my dad just got a fj09 and is totally disappointed in the power. I’m perfectly happy on my fz07 lol he’s crazy for needing more

[@Mike-hu8yz]

No

[@ShahidKhan-pt7ko]

Honda amazing bike vfr 800 cc i love it

[@filoIII]

My little CB500f had a 4.4 gal tank.

[@2000motocarroable]

Cual es la mejor y mas potente??

[@TurboMatriX333]

Honda is much more reliable than any other, especially vfr.

[@malcolmmathers2690]

modern adventure bikes look crap i like the lil red honda ;]