VTEC VFR800 worth buying one?!

[@CS_247]

I have 2 in my garage, a 2002 Vtec and a 2007 Vtec ABS, and it's still the best all-rounder I have ever ridden. Others have come and gone, but they are still here. Good girls.

[@thefastratio]

Thanks for the comment, I agree they are a very nice bike and many motorcyclists all know the bike and many like it as an overall well rounded machine!

[@keithbrennan6563]

Picked up a 2007 with 73k kms a few weeks ago. My first bike. Love the bike. Cleanest one in Ireland I reckon. Hope to have her for the next 10 years

[@thefastratio]

I hope you enjoy riding her around the Irish countryside. From what I have seen it’s absolutely gorgeous!

[@joelbrittenour8197]

I have the 2001 VFR , 4 valves all the time. I don't worry about economy . Yes the cam gears make a whistle letting me know they are in there. This bike has grown on me. I put ABM straight bars on and Givi windscreen with x-tra on top, excellent wind protection. I'm 65 ride often, as long as I can swing my leg over keep riding.

[@justinb.2007]

I just purchased my 2015 Interceptor and I cannot be more happy. I will keep this bike until the day I die.

[@davidanders2365]

I've got one of the last 2017 bought in to Australia. It's not leaving my garage. It's my daily ride....and my big ride bike.

[@neilurquhart8622]

Love every aspect of my 2002 VFR (21k miles) even the 7000rpm v-tech kicking in, great screaming sound. I know some owners find this problematic but provided you’re not leaning over on a fast bend in the wet it’s ok; just need to be aware! I’m hoping to sell it very soon as I’m 80 and have re-homed a young Golden Retriever so that’s my priority now! All the best from Cambridge UK🇬🇧

[@markmiller5577]

I find the VTEC annoying

[@coffee838]

@@markmiller5577 bad rider, get a car

[@markmiller5577]

@@coffee838 silly idea .... opening the valves at 6700 ... gimmick.

[@coffee838]

@@markmiller5577 you just cant use it

[@markmiller5577]

@@coffee838 I used to love the 2 stroke power band , yz250 , Suzuki x7 , mbx 125.......VTEC ....nah

[@offthewallhobbyman6978]

Excellent review! I Love my VFR as well. Its been a great bike. One of the best looking machines on the road in my opinion.

[@thefastratio]

Thanks, they are a lot if fun with the VTEC I love punching it and getting it to kick in 😁

[@offthewallhobbyman6978]

@@thefastratio same here, I was out doing that a few days ago.

[@johnvandijken]

I have a black 2002 vtec , really nice bike to ride and also like the sound of a V4.

[@thefastratio]

Another happy VFR rider, always good to see!!

[@givenchymamajama3859]

Just got a red 2002 vtec today! It’s my first bike and I’m a short rider ahah I’m more than excited. It’s a beast of a machine! Wish me luck!

[@thefastratio]

You’ll enjoy it!! Likely it’s a series 1 6th gen. I think it’s honda red rather than the candy red they did later in the picture. Big first bike, work on those slow techniques and build the skills up! Congratulations and happy riding.

[@givenchymamajama3859]

@@thefastratio dude this bike is absolutely huge. Videos and pictures didn’t do it justice. I’m 5’5 on a good day lol thank you for the advice and the congrats 🙏🏽 drop more videos can’t wait to see more from you

[@Tikkarifle]

Good review. To the point with zero bullshit. Thanks mate.

[@thefastratio]

Appreciate your feedback

[@vincentjohnston8789]

Agreed Tikkarifle - we need more Zero bullshit reviews on youtube! :)

[@1000sofusernames]

I had the 750 for a bit. It was competent in all areas and surprisingly fast but I just didn't gel with it. Couldn't fault it but sometimes you just don't like a bike. I am tempted to try one of these though

[@thefastratio]

I had a 750 which was a 1996 model before they upped to 800 and then before vtec and I loved that machine too. It’s time with me ended after an accident on Thunderbolt Way near Gloucester NSW. Great road to do on a bike but my awareness at the time lacked on a bend she hit the deck.

[@tdunster2011]

Series One has gear driven cams and sounds awesome. But I think Series 2 looks better. Nice bike and good video.

[@thefastratio]

The gear driven cams were the fifth generation. The whole reface was the introduction of the chain-driven cams rather than the gear-driven cams of earlier VFRs, and VTEC valve actuation.

[@berkatan7846]

I bought a 2004 red VTEC and I love it! Its just so hard to find a exhaust, prices start at 600€🥴

[@thefastratio]

Yes, depends too if you want a full system or just a slip on. Because it’s dual that makes it harder. I thought the Northern countries would have more options and affordable solutions, here in Australia everything is more expensive and less available.

[@Limasenar]

Excellent review! Seriously considering picking up a 6th gen at the moment ('06 like yours but in Ferrari-ish red). Had the chance to ride a 7th gen 1200, didn't charm me that much.

[@thefastratio]

Thanks, Yeh I don’t know if the 1200 would suit me. I do like the 8th gen the styling is nice but think the 6th gen was their “golden child”.

[@MrSillenomis]

Love mine

[@Shahar_C]

Nice video, but I think the title is misleading. I still don't understand why to NOT buy a VFR..

[@thefastratio]

It’s a double negative, if you know the vfr there really is no reason not to buy one other than the fact it’s an ageing motorbike. It’s a great bike all-round but not amazing in any one field.

[@Shahar_C]

@@thefastratio Yeah, I know it's a great bike. Couple of my friends own it, and it's not their first one.. ;)

[@joanofarc708]

Honda reliability

[@spearfish5044]

Had a gen 6 then got a gen 8. IMHO the gen 8 is way better. More refined in every respect.

[@thefastratio]

Yeh I’ve thought about the gen 8 but idk do we want refined because sometimes a little character can make for a nice machine too.

[@greggclifford8662]

Comprehensive review.

[@thefastratio]

Thanks

[@vincentjohnston8789]

Gr8 video! I've always wanted to try the vfr800 - but - with my slight frame - it's maybe a little too heavy - I found the cbr650r a little bit heavy and that's 30 kilos lighter :)

[@thefastratio]

I’ve never been on the cbr but feel it would be a more aggressive sports position. I don’t notice the weight until I hop on the Cb250 and it is almost weightless! However it is also powerless but is a nice poke around town.

[@jamesgallagher3052]

Nice video i am thinking of getting one it is so good to see what it is like around Canberra my home town. How does it go out at the cotter to Tharwa loop? Hope to see you out on the road sometime

[@thefastratio]

Yeh it goes alright I’ve only done that a handful of times too much traffic and with the increase in policing and complaints from Uriarra I tend to go East to the cost or to Yass then more regional small towns. It does well as it has the VTEC so it has power when you want it but can also be a very economical bike as a commuter. My bike is getting nearer to 100,000kms so ai am looking forward to that milestone!!

[@olis790]

I don't think the VFR holds 21L most I've fuelled up is a little over 18 litres and was almost empty,

[@thefastratio]

Maybe from completely empty?! I usually fill up at 13L but rarely let it get very low too I think 17L might be more realistic. But they claim it holds 21 🤷‍♂️

[@FineTouchLLC]

How heavy is this thing? I’m 150lbs and looking to buy one, do you think it will be to heavy for me?

[@thefastratio]

I’m only a bit more in weight myself and depending on whether you plan to drop it on it’s side. It will also depend on your strength to lift and your angles, I’ve found the bike hardly notices me on it. The power is as if I am not even on the bike and the suspension hardly compresses really. Obviously lighter than say a 1000cc or larger, not sure the weight of a 600cc but personally like the vtec kick and economical aspects when under 7,000rpm.

[@DenaMarshallFineArt]

I’m on a 2009 - I’m 5’3” and female. I think you will be okay 😀

[@Alex-tripleA]

I was always afraid of the gen 6 due to fuel consumption stories. I don't know if it's a series 1 vs series 2 thing but the reviews on that issue vary heavily. I had a friend who sold his vfr within 6 months as he was constantly receiving numbers around the 10km per lt area...while trying to ride economically...😢

[@thefastratio]

I was a big believer in the mods, my bike was never properly tuned etc by a shop. I am sure if that was done there’s likelihood the trims etc could be made better. I am sure also each unique bike will vary in it’s consumption just because each engine might have slightly different tweaks and different oils etc. I have always found my consumption drops when using the vtec lots when I just ride around the 3,000rpm it seems to be fairly good but compared to say a 300cc it will drink more but you are also gaining ccs.

[@Leigh5050]

How does it handle the Canberra roundabouts? Thinking about getting one for here.

[@thefastratio]

Yeh goes as good as any, I find the economy of the vfr plus having the vtec makes it a fun yet great all rounder. Definitely a great bike though can keep with most 1000s and gets the lower economy and isn’t too heavy either.

[@panzermguh2703]

Hello i am a beginner and would like to buy a vfr 800 post 2002. I'm 190 and 105kg you think is a good first bike? I think every bike could be a goo first one cause you can control the power erogation and the weight should not be a problem given that I'm not a small one, happy to listen to your opinion on that thank you stay safe!

[@thefastratio]

I’m not familiar with local laws for you, I have a video going up shortly discussing learner options. Here in Australia we have a power:weight which often you can get some 600cc bikes etc as they’re heavier. My personal opinion is not to start your motorcycling on a VFR800, instead get a 300cc or similar cheap and learn on that. The VFR has got plenty of power but inexperience could end badly for you. Really depends if you get a VFR800 and really hone your slow manoeuvres and get your skill there, but definitely go easy on the throttle and remember the vtec so it doesn’t take you by surprise. Welcome to the world of motorcycling and I hope you get great enjoyment and satisfaction from whatever bike you start with.

[@panzermguh2703]

@@thefastratio thank you. Regarding laws here in Italy you get the right to ride any kind of bike when you get the A3 licence. You can get it after 24 years of age.

[@peterdonnelly6804]

Was the original exhaust under seat too ?

[@thefastratio]

Yes all this generation Honda moved the exhaust to up under the seat rather than following the swingarm

[@thebofactor9753]

Would you consider this bike a good sporty option for 2 up riding on longer trips?

[@thefastratio]

Absolutely, pillion isn’t up too high and has plenty of power to haul 2. Depending on the pillion to whether adding a top box will help them feel more secure. Most sports bikes are a bit more aggressive position and pillion sits above rider more so they get more wind.

[@xboxice2005]

nice bro i have the same bike, hey can you link me to your phone stem mount please.

[@thefastratio]

Hey, Quadlock Stem Mount www.quadlockcase.com.au/products/motorcycle-fork-stem-mount

[@rassanelasso9558]

How the CBR600F4i compare to the VFR? It is now considered as a Sport Touring

[@thefastratio]

I will do a comparison for you, my initial thoughts are that the cbr family is more sports aggressive in the handlebar ergonomics as they are more around track bike style rather than comfort for longer distances (which is what you want for more touring).

[@rassanelasso9558]

@@thefastratio Does the extra weight on the vfr matters that much?

[@thefastratio]

I don’t notice the weight based on where it is located, I did notice the weight difference between ninja 300 and the vfr. That would be another item cbr often have a smaller tank which often is a touring feature.

[@rassanelasso9558]

@@thefastratio I still cant decide

[@thefastratio]

Really comes to preference, ride both and see which you prefer. Body size and reach etc all can make one more comfortable than the other. Downside to the vfr is they stopped making them, however there’s plenty out there and they are good value for money. I would have loved to have found a nice fifth gen vfr but those are bit rarer.

[@stevenvankoutrik992]

VTEC activation 6,400 rpm, deactivates at 6,100 rpm

[@thefastratio]

In series 2 yes, in series 1 was 6,800 but I’m not really looking that closely when it engages im focused on the line and traffic.

[@stevenvankoutrik992]

@@thefastratio correct, they tamed it doen

[@vancuy]

Is VFR 245kg bike?

[@thefastratio]

Depends wet or dry, specs say 218kg. I haven’t weighed mine to get a specific measurement. Compared to my 2013 Ninja 300 the VFR is significantly heavier.

[@danielmarquezroldan7063]

from which year honda vfr solves problems with stator (alternator) ?

[@thefastratio]

2006 onwards, Wiki says “In 2006 the VFR 800 received some minor upgrades, which included the change of the tachometer face from black to white, a re-mapped ECU to provide a smoother transition into VTEC, clear turn signal lenses and upgrades to the electrical wiring to fix issues with the charging system.”

[@danielmarquezroldan7063]

@@thefastratio but the stator always breaks burned? I

[@danielmarquezroldan7063]

I had one from 2003 and the stator always broke

[@danielmarquezroldan7063]

@@thefastratio i think buy one Vfr from 2011-2012 this problem has solved ?

[@thefastratio]

Yeh that would have likely been the pre fix, they made a few changes so the stator upgrade alone likely won’t fix the problem it might need some of the ecu tuning too. Stepping into mechanics land (where I am restricted to my garage) so I can only guess but the series 2 fixed many of these common series 1 problems.

[@johnwells8969]

No it's not , not even close the supercub is.

[@thefastratio]

Glad to see another Honda promoted for best bike!!

[@no0neX]

3 piston front and 3 piston rear

[@thefastratio]

Pistons? you sure bud? Its not a 6 cylinder which would be that formation

[@thefastratio]

Or you referring to the disc brake callipers? With the dual braking off the front to the rear? Which is weight engagement for the rear off the front dual callipers?

[@no0neX]

@@thefastratio 3:04. Its 2x 3 piston and 3 piston in total.

[@thefastratio]

But has the dual braking in regards to the front linkage to the rear I believe was probably not clearly explained

[@no0neX]

@@thefastratio Yes, i'm not talking about when in operation. The calipers themselfs have 3 pistons each. In front brake operation its 6 pistons working, and in rear brake operation its 3 working.

[@sergiooliveira3756]

What is the average consumption in responsible driving? 😁

[@thefastratio]

I generally get approximately 350kms and that’s combined. I do like kicking in the vtec. I also don’t push it to roadside, so I could maybe go a bit further but the fuel empty indicator is on around the 350kms.

[@stevenvankoutrik992]

20 km/litre

[@Byrnie333]

How tall are you? I love these bikes but at a stocky 6’2 I don’t want to look a wolly 😂

[@thefastratio]

I’m just under 6’ and weigh ~80kg and could do with some more weight on my seat to keep me planted. Under acceleration and braking I slide back and forwards a bit

[@Byrnie333]

@@thefastratio appreciate the reply! Beautiful bike 👍🏻

[@barryclarckson5030]

Ive had the 2005 and it was terrible, sold it after a week.

[@thefastratio]

Interesting, I believe that would have been a series 1 which was probably their “pilot”. I’m sorry your experience of the VFR800 wasn’t a good one. What did you go to after this failed experience?

[@davidgeiger8620]

Oh no! No VTEC!!! Not necessary