Dear Daniel, first let me congratulate you on your beautiful bike. I myself am since May 65th year and have had seven motos in my life. The latter was the Honda VFR800F and I can assure you that this is my best motorcycle I've ridden. My wife also rode a Honda but unfortunately, four years ago deceased. She had just become 52 years. I then sold the motos. When I see your joy, that makes me happy. You are a sympathetic man and believe me that you made a good choice and I'm sure you deserve it. Take good care of your VFR but first for yourself and I hope you can still enjoy many years of motorcycle riding. It was my pleasure that I am able to write these few words. Good luck in your future life. Greetings from Belgium. Your motor friend, Lucien
Lucien Vanderreken Thank you for your kind words Lucien, I'm very much enjoying this bike and practically riding it everyday. It took me a short to get used to handling it's size and power but I can now easily say I that had made the right choice! Hopefully I'll get a chance to ride other bikes and I'm glad I found a first time perfect fit.
Lucien Vanderreken - Interesting, I'm just turning 65 - been riding about 50 years - and I'm seriously thinking about buying the VFR800F. For the last ten years I've been committed to "adventure" bikes, working through Beemers to what I insider the best all rounder, a DL650 V-Strom (I've owned three). However, the road bikes still make the old heart go bump-bump and before I forget the wow of it all I think I may just need one more . . . a VFR . . . in red.
Daniel - thanks for the wonderful review and reminder of why I love my own VFR800F. I'll warn you that the V4 is addictive. I bought my first VFR (a '95 VFR750) twenty years ago and have had a '99. then an '03 and finally my 2014 model. I use it as a daily commuter as you do, and often will take "the long way" to work via some local twisties to further enjoy my commute. It is a marvelous combination of near sports-bike handling, good power and a non-torturous riding position. While I'd probably not recommend it as a "starter" bike (I started on an 80 cc Yamaha at college), you seem to have the maturity to learn the bike. I don't know if you have public track days, or track instruction available where you live, but I highly recommend this as you become comfortable with the machine. You will not believe how it does on the track, and the experience will give you the opportunity to become a much better rider. Best of luck with your moto!
Congrats on the bike, Daniel. I had a 96 VFR that I really enjoyed. Only sold it because I was too in debt at the time after 15k miles. I rode day or night in any weather.
Daniel if you read this let me say you are an inspiration . You played it perfectly you listened to good advice and wasn't swayed towards something with 150 plus horsepower. This motorcycle will leave a lasting impression on you and will always be the one you wished you had kept. I own one and don't want to let it go. Ride safe and welcome to the club.
Test rode a VFR for the first time yesterday. Unfortunately they've stopped selling them here in Canada (last year was 2015). I can say though that I had the same smile as you on my face the entire time! Best bike I've ever been on. Sounds amazing and looks even better from every angle! Can't decide which colour I like best, but that gloss black sure is sharp...
I was looking to buy a brand new 2023 bike. Saw a second-hand 2017 VFR800F in great condition. Got it. I love this bike. It will not leave my possession.
Such a great video. It is a joy to see THE joy and enthusiasm on your face and in the video that you have for yourself bike. I myself had a VF750f when I was about your age in 1992. It was a great bike, and I still think about it daily. Naturally while owing this bike, and being an avid bike enthusiast I read all the literature on the then all new VFR750. I remember the quote in the magazine. Which I will quote, hopefully reasonably accurately; “ if Jesus himself came back to earth and rode a motorcycle, i believe he would have chosen the VFR750, for it is the closest thing to two wheeled perfection that mankind could offer him.” Many years of happy safe and enjoyable motorcycling.
Great choice! Super sweet bike. I would only say though, that he would have been able to "handle" the 1200 just fine. Don't let the numbers fool you, if you know how to ride, you'll be fine.
hey Daniel..congrats(may be a belated congrats)...AWESOME dude...Even am a proud owner of Honda. A cute love on your bike will always make you feel something precious is under your palms. Great proud bro...stay awesome
Nice video! I had a VTEC model in 2004, mostly as 2nd bike. Then moved to a pre-vtec 800 some years later, traded that for the VFR1200 - wow! Sold that, back on a pre-vtec 800 now looking at this model as a replacement. The thought of another 1200 passed through my head briefly!
Nice article. Great bike, but apart from some of the new electronics (self cancelling indicators & traction control), I can't see any serious reason to trade in my 2000 VFR800 FiX (Pre V-Tec). They're both pretty close to identical power (possibly mine has a bit more), no Catalyst so less restricted and I don't have the Vtec step in power but do have gear driven cams so no chain. I've already got an Ohlins rear monoshock and Maxton reworked forks, heated handlebar grips, Remus stainless steel exhaust, carbon fibre hugger, 12v accessory socket, scott oiler and I've fitted LED lights and Givi Monokey luggage. Only mods I'm now considering are a Power Commander and uprated brakes, possibly just new braided hoses or possibly replacement calipers. Whatever version you've got, just ride it! PS, I think I'm in a similar area to Daniel, so if he wants to meet for a country ride out that'd be good.
Ive finally killed my beautiful 5th gen vfr800 (although relatively minor damage shes an economic write-off) and if I were able to, this would be the only bike id consider replacing it with. The vfrs really are the perfect do it all machine; they are immaculately put together and a pleasure to ride. I just have to hear that v4 engine and no substitute will do. Unfortunately, I cant afford a brand new viffer so Im on the hunt for another (top condition) pre vtech in red (just like my recently deceased bike). Im afraid although I know the original vtech is a great bike, like a lot of 5th gen owners, I regard it as a retrograde step by Honda. The new Vfr however, is a massive improvement, borrowing many cues from the 5th gen and bringing it all bang up to date. In the nicest possible way, I'm very,very jealous :) Safe riding my friend.
+Nexus 6 Both side fairings mashed; front brake assembly and disks fukt; hand and foot levers bent or snapped. Mechanicaly she's fine but for the cost of repair I may as well replace her with a good condition new one (used 5th I mean). Or maybe a 750; I've always loved the look of those.
UK. Have you noticed how much better condition US used bikes are? I'm asuming it's down to drier weather primarily. Yes, I've noticed that good con early 800s and 750 can be had for very reasonable cost. I was also considering a zx9r but I think they'd be bland compared to the viffer v4.
+Nexus 6 Which would u go for; vfr or 9r? I love the V4 engine but a litre (ish) inline 4 ain't too shabby either. So I spose if you'd compare handling, build quality, riding position and of course the engines, that would be really useful. And thanks btw; u r very helpful and I'm grateful fr that :)
warren goldstein there are indeed some amazing condition bikes in the states. I picked up a '99 with under 4K miles on her sitting on stock rubber. Unheard of!
I also love my VFR800 (2001) as much as this guy. My first bike as well, and I love it! Probably going to ride it till it falls apart. Which could take an eternity, knowing that it's a Honda lol. Also, you should put a sport muffler on it, your ears will thank you later ;)
Nice vid mate, I ride the previous model but was looking to exchange it for the z1000sx.....however I'm being swayed to upgrade to the new vfr incarnation.
My first bike was a 1996 vfr750, loved it and still regret selling it. I now ride a BMW r1200gs and have ridden BMWs for 7 years - the only reason for this is because I was put off hondas by my local dealer, they were unfriendly, expensive, unhelpful and condescending. I think everyone agrees that Honda makes great bikes. Move your dealer network into the modern age and you'll win a lot of customers.
The dealer where I live (Netherlands, dealer is in Eibergen) has actually nice and helpful people working there, I usually go there if I need original parts, I even had some nice discounts on parts from time to time. The question is, where is your dealer located at? Perhaps it has to do more with local people's attitudes and personality rather than Honda itself. Because the main Honda guys in Japan can't really control much of how people in your country (wherever that is) are towards clients.
You may well be right, it is good to hear that my experience is not typical of the Honda dealers around Europe. As mentioned, I am a Honda advocate and actually own a CRF250l as a fun, offroad second bike, but service that myself. I am in Scotland and my local dealer is in Glasgow. There is a clothing and accessories branch within the dealer's showroom, which I visit occasionally - it is modern, well stocked and the staff are knowledgable. However, the dealer side is quiet and old fashioned - Shame as I would be riding a VFR800f if they could get their act together! A number of other riders from my local IAM advanced riding group feel the same way.
You can still service the bike yourself, it isn't that hard. However I think that a 7th gen would be a bit more complicated than a 5th gen though. But still, quite doable if you're not hamfisted with two left hands.
I was really tempted by the red one but in the end, the black one appealed to me more. I did think about whether it would be harder clean but I'm guessing from seeing the red version on my travels that it's probably the same amount of effort.
Can I ask you the top speed? Does it pull from 100 till top speed? I have a BMW 1150 twin 02. It is a dog over 100. too many cars coming up behind me now. I am looking around for a VFR, but also looking at BMW S1000R. close in price- however, the BMW has 160hp. it may be overkill, but nice to have the power to keep safe. defensive.. get me??
+fred nouvertne The VTEC kicks in at about 95mph in 6th gear, for whatever good that does you. I'll let you Google the top speed yourself, as I've no intention of reaching it on mine.
I own a 1998 that I literally consider a friend. I've ridden it across the US several times, which has a way of making an impression. I'll never sell it and would recommend a VFR of any generation without hesitation.
you might not love you bike so much... because your are damaging the place where the key is inserted with the other keys and the key-chains. It hurts me when i see it.
The bike is bland, the performance weak, the mirrors are not meant for turn indicators, my 1000 SX will walk all over this bike and leave it for wanting, Honda has lost their way, they really need to change their direction.
Dear Daniel, first let me congratulate you on your beautiful bike. I myself am since May 65th year and have had seven motos in my life. The latter was the Honda VFR800F and I can assure you that this is my best motorcycle I've ridden. My wife also rode a Honda but unfortunately, four years ago deceased. She had just become 52 years. I then sold the motos. When I see your joy, that makes me happy. You are a sympathetic man and believe me that you made a good choice and I'm sure you deserve it. Take good care of your VFR but first for yourself and I hope you can still enjoy many years of motorcycle riding. It was my pleasure that I am able to write these few words. Good luck in your future life. Greetings from Belgium. Your motor friend, Lucien
Lucien Vanderreken Thank you for your kind words Lucien, I'm very much enjoying this bike and practically riding it everyday. It took me a short to get used to handling it's size and power but I can now easily say I that had made the right choice! Hopefully I'll get a chance to ride other bikes and I'm glad I found a first time perfect fit.
Hey Daniel. Do you still have the VFR here in the Spring of 2017? I am thinking of getting my second one. I had a 96 for 15k miles in 2000.
Lucien Vanderreken - Interesting, I'm just turning 65 - been riding about 50 years - and I'm seriously thinking about buying the VFR800F. For the last ten years I've been committed to "adventure" bikes, working through Beemers to what I insider the best all rounder, a DL650 V-Strom (I've owned three). However, the road bikes still make the old heart go bump-bump and before I forget the wow of it all I think I may just need one more . . . a VFR . . . in red.
What a beautiful post Lucien. How are you holding up young fella. Give us a shout to let us know you're still kicking and screaming.
Lucien a real gent.
That dude just can’t stop smiling when he’s talking about his bike.
You got to love that!!
I can understand English only a little bit,
but I really felt his love of motorcycle.
Just a joy to see your joy. That Is what true biking is all about. Not the thrill but the joy.
Daniel - thanks for the wonderful review and reminder of why I love my own VFR800F. I'll warn you that the V4 is addictive. I bought my first VFR (a '95 VFR750) twenty years ago and have had a '99. then an '03 and finally my 2014 model. I use it as a daily commuter as you do, and often will take "the long way" to work via some local twisties to further enjoy my commute. It is a marvelous combination of near sports-bike handling, good power and a non-torturous riding position. While I'd probably not recommend it as a "starter" bike (I started on an 80 cc Yamaha at college), you seem to have the maturity to learn the bike. I don't know if you have public track days, or track instruction available where you live, but I highly recommend this as you become comfortable with the machine. You will not believe how it does on the track, and the experience will give you the opportunity to become a much better rider. Best of luck with your moto!
Congrats on the bike, Daniel. I had a 96 VFR that I really enjoyed. Only sold it because I was too in debt at the time after 15k miles. I rode day or night in any weather.
Welcome to the VFR brotherhood man, glad you love it!
Daniel, congratulations so happy! A fine machine for a fine man, I wish you many years of happy motoring!
Brilliant enthusiasm. Great to see from a newer biker.
I own a VFR750F and i can tell you, you did a great choice. As a all around bike it is really good and reliable.
Daniel if you read this let me say you are an inspiration . You played it perfectly you listened to
good advice and wasn't swayed towards something with 150 plus horsepower. This motorcycle
will leave a lasting impression on you and will always be the one you wished you had kept.
I own one and don't want to let it go. Ride safe and welcome to the club.
Test rode a VFR for the first time yesterday. Unfortunately they've stopped selling them here in Canada (last year was 2015). I can say though that I had the same smile as you on my face the entire time! Best bike I've ever been on. Sounds amazing and looks even better from every angle! Can't decide which colour I like best, but that gloss black sure is sharp...
I love your enthusiasim for riding. Ride safe.
I was looking to buy a brand new 2023 bike. Saw a second-hand 2017 VFR800F in great condition. Got it. I love this bike. It will not leave my possession.
great review. it's nice to hear someone gushing over a purchase. We so often hear the opposite.
you have one of the best motorcycle engine's ever made.
I love my VFR 800. On my 4th one now. It's immensely comfortable, all day.
Such a great video. It is a joy to see THE joy and enthusiasm on your face and in the video that you have for yourself bike. I myself had a VF750f when I was about your age in 1992. It was a great bike, and I still think about it daily. Naturally while owing this bike, and being an avid bike enthusiast I read all the literature on the then all new VFR750. I remember the quote in the magazine. Which I will quote, hopefully reasonably accurately;
“ if Jesus himself came back to earth and rode a motorcycle, i believe he would have chosen the VFR750, for it is the closest thing to two wheeled perfection that mankind could offer him.”
Many years of happy safe and enjoyable motorcycling.
Thanks Daniel, I went for a red one in the end, great bike, hoping your still enjoying yours!!!
I think Daniel’s radiant smile says it all! Can’t wait to get my hands on one 😍
Great video. I have a VFR1200F at the moment but am considering downsizing to the 800.
The smile says it all! VFR is the portal to another world.
owning a bike in any city is a must!
Wow. Great video. Thanks for sharing!
Oh what enthusiasm, I'll get him into some more reviews if I were a marketing manager.
I think he likes his new bike ;@).
I have a VFR 800Fi 1998 with 4k on the clock.
I like it too.
+Alex Morgan I like it very much. The big 16k £££ service is just round the corner >_
4k? Where did you find that?
Great choice! Super sweet bike. I would only say though, that he would have been able to "handle" the 1200 just fine. Don't let the numbers fool you, if you know how to ride, you'll be fine.
hey Daniel..congrats(may be a belated congrats)...AWESOME dude...Even am a proud owner of Honda. A cute love on your bike will always make you feel something precious is under your palms. Great proud bro...stay awesome
+Anand M Cheers dude :)
Daniel Giscombe great video, out of curiosity do you still have it? How do you find the weight?
Such a great series... I would love to see more and I would of loved to of done my 1988 mini with you that I bought. Best fun I think I'll ever have
mikeyBIA Hi Mikey, Send us an email with some more details and we'll see if we can do something with you. editorial@autotrader.co.uk
Auto Trader .
Nice video! I had a VTEC model in 2004, mostly as 2nd bike. Then moved to a pre-vtec 800 some years later, traded that for the VFR1200 - wow! Sold that, back on a pre-vtec 800 now looking at this model as a replacement. The thought of another 1200 passed through my head briefly!
Nice article.
Great bike, but apart from some of the new electronics (self cancelling indicators & traction control), I can't see any serious reason to trade in my 2000 VFR800 FiX (Pre V-Tec).
They're both pretty close to identical power (possibly mine has a bit more), no Catalyst so less restricted and I don't have the Vtec step in power but do have gear driven cams so no chain.
I've already got an Ohlins rear monoshock and Maxton reworked forks, heated handlebar grips, Remus stainless steel exhaust, carbon fibre hugger, 12v accessory socket, scott oiler and I've fitted LED lights and Givi Monokey luggage.
Only mods I'm now considering are a Power Commander and uprated brakes, possibly just new braided hoses or possibly replacement calipers.
Whatever version you've got, just ride it!
PS, I think I'm in a similar area to Daniel, so if he wants to meet for a country ride out that'd be good.
The smile alone says it all
Ive finally killed my beautiful 5th gen vfr800 (although relatively minor damage shes an economic write-off) and if I were able to, this would be the only bike id consider replacing it with. The vfrs really are the perfect do it all machine; they are immaculately put together and a pleasure to ride. I just have to hear that v4 engine and no substitute will do. Unfortunately, I cant afford a brand new viffer so Im on the hunt for another (top condition) pre vtech in red (just like my recently deceased bike). Im afraid although I know the original vtech is a great bike, like a lot of 5th gen owners, I regard it as a retrograde step by Honda. The new Vfr however, is a massive improvement, borrowing many cues from the 5th gen and bringing it all bang up to date. In the nicest possible way, I'm very,very jealous :) Safe riding my friend.
+Nexus 6 Both side fairings mashed; front brake assembly and disks fukt; hand and foot levers bent or snapped. Mechanicaly she's fine but for the cost of repair I may as well replace her with a good condition new one (used 5th I mean). Or maybe a 750; I've always loved the look of those.
UK. Have you noticed how much better condition US used bikes are? I'm asuming it's down to drier weather primarily.
Yes, I've noticed that good con early 800s and 750 can be had for very reasonable cost. I was also considering a zx9r but I think they'd be bland compared to the viffer v4.
+Nexus 6 Which would u go for; vfr or 9r? I love the V4 engine but a litre (ish) inline 4 ain't too shabby either. So I spose if you'd compare handling, build quality, riding position and of course the engines, that would be really useful. And thanks btw; u r very helpful and I'm grateful fr that :)
warren goldstein there are indeed some amazing condition bikes in the states. I picked up a '99 with under 4K miles on her sitting on stock rubber. Unheard of!
Nice, Best of Luck from the USA/NJ....Ride Safe
The VFR 800 is the perfect motorcycle. Amazing
I have a red 07, love it, best bike for me. Great vid. Greatings from Sweden
ISP BrotherWolf did you ever had complications with your bike? Is it reliable?
I also love my VFR800 (2001) as much as this guy. My first bike as well, and I love it! Probably going to ride it till it falls apart. Which could take an eternity, knowing that it's a Honda lol.
Also, you should put a sport muffler on it, your ears will thank you later ;)
Already put my deposit on this bike, I hope Auto Trader can do a review on vfr 800.
We shall endeavour to get one done!
We'll make it a priority Frank Guo !
that is one geniuinely happy vfr owner lol
Nice vid mate, I ride the previous model but was looking to exchange it for the z1000sx.....however I'm being swayed to upgrade to the new vfr incarnation.
Great vid, he seems like a cool guy as well. Would love to do a vid with my oldschool 1993 VFR750!
That is one happy dude !!
My first bike was a 1996 vfr750, loved it and still regret selling it.
I now ride a BMW r1200gs and have ridden BMWs for 7 years - the only reason for this is because I was put off hondas by my local dealer, they were unfriendly, expensive, unhelpful and condescending. I think everyone agrees that Honda makes great bikes. Move your dealer network into the modern age and you'll win a lot of customers.
The dealer where I live (Netherlands, dealer is in Eibergen) has actually nice and helpful people working there, I usually go there if I need original parts, I even had some nice discounts on parts from time to time.
The question is, where is your dealer located at? Perhaps it has to do more with local people's attitudes and personality rather than Honda itself. Because the main Honda guys in Japan can't really control much of how people in your country (wherever that is) are towards clients.
You may well be right, it is good to hear that my experience is not typical of the Honda dealers around Europe. As mentioned, I am a Honda advocate and actually own a CRF250l as a fun, offroad second bike, but service that myself. I am in Scotland and my local dealer is in Glasgow.
There is a clothing and accessories branch within the dealer's showroom, which I visit occasionally - it is modern, well stocked and the staff are knowledgable. However, the dealer side is quiet and old fashioned - Shame as I would be riding a VFR800f if they could get their act together! A number of other riders from my local IAM advanced riding group feel the same way.
You can still service the bike yourself, it isn't that hard. However I think that a 7th gen would be a bit more complicated than a 5th gen though. But still, quite doable if you're not hamfisted with two left hands.
I would really love to see more of these!
I want your happiness for my own!
How reliable is this engine?
IT COMES IN BLACK!?
Does he know that you can change without a clutch anyway
Very nice bike. Hello from anglesey.
Nice bike!
Bigger faster lighter bikes every where, none built so solid and classy..... the smile says it all.
MC love stories!
How's that for a video series?
Nice video
You´re very happy! Nice!!! :)
Very nice bike you have there. May I ask how tall you are?
Hi Vincent, I'm 5'10"
Not sure on a black or red one??? Is the black harder to keep clean?
I was really tempted by the red one but in the end, the black one appealed to me more. I did think about whether it would be harder clean but I'm guessing from seeing the red version on my travels that it's probably the same amount of effort.
@@danielgiscombe7760what do you ride now Daniel?
@@jayflash2035 CB1000R 2019
Can I ask you the top speed? Does it pull from 100 till top speed? I have a BMW 1150 twin 02. It is a dog over 100. too many cars coming up behind me now. I am looking around for a VFR, but also looking at BMW S1000R. close in price- however, the BMW has 160hp. it may be overkill, but nice to have the power to keep safe. defensive.. get me??
+fred nouvertne The VTEC kicks in at about 95mph in 6th gear, for whatever good that does you. I'll let you Google the top speed yourself, as I've no intention of reaching it on mine.
lol. thanks anyway. try not to lug the engine. thank you. :)
Your surname is very similar to mine, although mines Discombe.
Just thought I'd mention that 😂
Wonderful wonderful wonderful soul and wonderful bike 👍
I own a 1998 that I literally consider a friend. I've ridden it across the US several times, which has a way of making an impression. I'll never sell it and would recommend a VFR of any generation without hesitation.
Broooooo! I want a VFR now! 😂
What a beautiful bike. If I sell ever my yamaha this will be my next bike. There's a reason the police escort riders use them!
Mate. You're supposed to ride a massively long string of rubbish bikes before you get a VFR, otherwise it's like marrying your childhood sweetheart.
you might not love you bike so much... because your are damaging the place where the key is inserted with the other keys and the key-chains. It hurts me when i see it.
Realised it soon after video when I heard the clattering and removed them
Looks like the performance is brilliant but its just so bloody ugly.
It's only a VFR!
The bike is bland, the performance weak, the mirrors are not meant for turn indicators, my 1000 SX will walk all over this bike and leave it for wanting, Honda has lost their way, they really need to change their direction.