New VFR review

[Capo]

I really like this bike, and so does Visor Down. I wouldn't rule out replacing a few of my less- used bikes with one of these and living happily ever after...for a while.

http://www.visordown.com/road-tests-firs...24774.html

[Lunatic Fringe_imp]

Thanks for posting that review, it sounds like Honda finally has got vtec system working smoothly and a much needed boost in low end torque. I love my '07 vfr and can't see ever parting with it but should something ever happen to it I know the 2014 will be a worthy successor.

[the Ferret]

The VFR has a most fanatical fan base, which Honda angered when it made the Vtec system so intrusive. Good to hear they got it figured out or at least minimized. There are still those that will never buy another Honda VFR without gear driven cams I hear.

[Lunatic Fringe_imp]

Maybe I'm just familiar with my vtec or maybe it has smoothed out over time but I never felt the vtec kick to be a big deal. After owning a cbr1000rr and my current bking the vfr power feels quite quaint. I am liking the looks of the "new" 1100. Beautiful bike.

[thessler3_imp]

I had a 2007 VFR and never really liked it. The bars were too low and angled funny. I added Helibars but the fairing limits raising the bars to a comfortable level. The suspension was mediocre and I did not like the linked brakes. On the plus side, the motor was smooth and the bike was reliable. Many people love their VFR's. It was a great bike for some - just not for me.

I do not see many real changes on the new VFR. The riding position is still too far forward leaning to be a true sport tourer. My wrists started hurting just looking at the pictures.

[dave]

I've covered 94,000+ miles now on my 1998 VFR800 and even though I just ordered a 2014 CB1100 Deluxe, I'll never sell the VFR. I love the ease of adjusting the valves with the gear-driven cams; I am told by a mechanic that it takes 5 hours to complete a valve adjustment to a VFR with V-tec. I've added an Ohlin shock, and a Corbin saddle and have no complaints with the ride. I've taken 2,000+ mile trips 2-up six times now with, but the wife refuses to do any long trips we me on this bike anymore. I wish I could say the bike has been completely reliable, but it hasn't. I've replaced the regulator/rectifier three times now, finally replacing it with a Rick's Motorsports unit that is working well so far. I also replaced the alternator once, and the electronic speedometer sensor unit four (yes 4) times now. Other than that I completely love this bike, and I only hope that I'll like the CB1100 Deluxe as well.

[DAC]

I own a VFR and will most likely be parting with it when the CB comes in. I love the smooth power but it did feel like the suspension could have been a bit more beefy (or maybe I could be a little smaller.) Not a big deal though, it's a better bike by far than I am a rider. The riding position can be punishing for longer rides, especially if you're build big up high and a lot of your weight ends up on your wrists.

As for reliability, I had the valves checked at 26k miles (now at ~29k) and all were in spec. I don't think they really need to be done again. Otherwise, I'm putting it in top shape in the next couple weeks and will put it on the market. I'm crossing my fingers that the stator or R/R doesn't go before I sell it. Those are infamous problem spots on VFRs.

The new one? Well, I think they should have brought that one out in 2010. It's a 6th gen frame/engine with different suspension, rear subframe and plastics. Still a good bike, I'm sure, and I think big H is done with the VFR1200. (Unless they make a new ST out of it.)