I own a Panigale 1199 and just recently bought the Firestorm 1999 as a project bike. Loving the feedback and comments about this bike, all is really positive and I can't wait to get mine on the road to go for a ride. Great video, thx
Thanks Doug, really glad you enjoyed it, I very rarely hear or read anything negative about the firestorm, its almost faultless (apart from the cam chain tensioners, which need to be changed for manual ones). It's a great project bike too because parts are easy to get hold of and there's no end of support on Facebook owners groups which i highly recommend. It'll be a bit different to the panigale though, stunning bike 😍
I have a blue 2003 VTR 1000 SuperHawk (US version), and I'm the original owner. Only 36,000 miles so far, but no issues at all with it (3K mile GN4 oil changes, brake, clutch, and coolant flushes every couple years, and fresh chain lube regularly). Just tires, a set of brake pads, and a one chain/sprockets worn out. It still rides like new and pulls equally hard and smooth from 4,000 to 9,500 RPM. My only advice is to spend the money and get a Corbin seat for it. It immensely improves the seat comfort and does not negatively affect the tank-hugging sporty riding position! The only real down sides are the 100 mile range before the fuel light comes on, and the carburetor at altitude. I live in Colorado, so the flat(ish) "plains" for us are at 5,000ft elevation, and mountain rides vary from 5,000 to 12,000 feet elevation. It's just not possible to tune a carb to have the right air/fuel ratio over that wide of an elevation range, so above 9,000ft, I can't give it more than 70% throttle without bogging down due to running far too rich. Fortunately, I don't have to because it's just as fun at half throttle with the wide power band. It really is just easy and relaxing to ride and feels like it goes way too fast way too effortlessly with no drama and a smile-inducing sound that I've never tired of hearing. I do an annual 500 mile "spirited ride" in the mountains in late summer (on a weekday when school is back on to avoid as much traffic as possible), with about 80% of that being amazing twisty scenic mountain roads. It's one of the best days of my year, almost every year. I don't mind the welcome breaks at the 6 fuel stops along the way! Great place to live for spring-fall motorcycling :) Here's what that all-day ride looks like: www.google.com/maps/dir/Standley+Lake+Library+-+Jefferson+County+Public+Library,+8485+Kipling+St,+Arvada,+CO+80005/Nederland/40.166808,-105.4606419/40.3814764,-105.5148919/40.4182792,-105.1900624/Stove+Prairie+Landing/Toponas/38.8116222,-106.117109/Bailey/39.8524303,-105.1092043/@39.8286043,-105.3858817,9.17z/data=!4m37!4m36!1m5!1m1!1s0x876b89250054e3ed:0x72ee64f8fac21f62!2m2!1d-105.1111944!2d39.8504537!1m5!1m1!1s0x876bc6c44e45525b:0x8d645c98aaec4cb2!2m2!1d-105.5108312!2d39.9613759!1m0!1m0!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x87693d9e760b05ff:0x79083c86fcc894d0!2m2!1d-105.3891557!2d40.6824814!1m5!1m1!1s0x87421de66f1ba8ab:0xa0a1d00285f051ec!2m2!1d-106.8080984!2d40.0602639!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x876b12406ebe3e01:0xad0f96177e864c2b!2m2!1d-105.4786412!2d39.4060536!1m0!3e0?entry=ttu I hope you enjoy your Firestorm as much as I enjoy mine!!!
Be careful. I bought one 8 years ago then my riding buddy bought because he liked mine so much. Then I bought another one because I liked the mods dine to it. Then he bought one that has cbr forks some other mods. Then he bought a RC51 which after I rode it I just had to have one. I thought we were done until I came across a CBX for sale near me. Here we go again. Thankfully I have a big shop.
I can completely agree (except the wheelie bit 😃) I've only ever managed a wheelie by accident amd then shut the throttle and slammed the front end down in fear 😂😂 Great handling and performance though, and the build quality is incredible. 👍
@@wsmv the trick is to open the throttle slightly before the front wheel touches down. I used to accidental wheelie on my '99 Hornet 600, which shit me up a bit...so I learned how to do it properly, on the power without the clutch. The Storm is a far more stable bike for it than the Hornet. But unfortunately my Storm is currently in pieces after a carburettor shutter retaining pin came loose and dropped into the rear cylinder during a top end speed test. :(
@@wsmv yea, tbf it's my own fault though..the needle on the clock was approaching 180mph (so probs about 165-170 in reality)...and I'd been aware of a carb shutter seeming a bit loose before I took it for that test run, I just hadn't put two and two together about why the carb shutter was a bit loose. It didn't seem to be affecting performance though, so I figured it was just age (bike has done over 70k miles). And then I guess the vibration just finished knocking it loose.
I had a 1996 Blackbird that I sold last year. For a 24 year old machine, everything worked like new and even the exhaust system was original. It had 50,000 miles and still felt like new.
Thats awesome, I've done a few repairs and serviced mine but it runs and rides really well especially for bike thats 23 years old. Honda build quality 👍
Awesome thanks David, I love the bike even with its little issues that I need to deal with (nothing major) but I felt very connected to it as soon as I started it ❤👍
Had a 98... Bought it new. Amazing bike.. Great handling save great power at all RPMs. Braided lines really improve the brakes. Runs best on Non ethanol if you can find it. Just sold it about 3 years ago. It was still a great bike, I just have a neck injury and the need to ride more upright now.
I totally understand Chris, the riding position means you're always trying to hold your head up and I'm sure it was pretty uncomfortable, I was struggling with my wrists 🥺 Amazing to own a bike fro. New that long, just shows how awesome these bikes are 😎👍
The camera view looks pretty good. I have 73,000+ miles on my '07 Road King and it still runs fine. Glad you're so happy with it. Have fun riding. Honda engineering makes them so good.
The Super Hawk is a fun bike up until 30,000 miles when they blow up they don't make it past 33 at the very most timing chain tensioner goes out at 30,000 miles and blows the motorcycle up and Hondas perfectly okay with it no recall..... I bought one with 28,000 miles on it low mileage I paid 35 for it plus the registration was back I ended up right at 4,000 plus I put new tires front and back that was 500 bike ran for 2,000 miles soon as it hit 30,000 miles I was on my way to Loon Lake in the middle of nowhere obviously no cell service but anyways I was just cruising along literally on cloud nine heaven on Earth I was going about 35 miles an hour off the throttle and soon as I started to roll back onto the throttle all of a sudden horrible noise clack clack clack stranded overnight in the middle of nowhere I had to walk all night long and bears mountain lions everywhere as I'm walking at 3 in the morning I see a big old bear shit in the middle of the road I'm still freaking traumatized a month later no joke usually I would never ride alone but I'm on a bike with only 30,000 miles on it ain't no way it's going to blow up just change the oil as usual running perfect and just like that clack clack clack I've emailed Honda I've done everything they don't care I used to think Honda was a good brand anybody that's okay with selling a 30,000 my product is not a good brand look it up on the internet they don't make it past 30,000
I like the sound of that bike!! I can't believe it's a 98, Looks like a lot of fun too!! I have a 2012 Suzuki VStrom DL650. It's known as being bulletproof, and that's proving to be true for me! Congratulations on the change up of bikes. I can't wait to see more videos from this bike. See you on the flip side, Patrick
Thanks Patrick, I do believe people when they say Japanese bikes are built so well because this feels like a new bike even though it has nearly 40k on it ❤👍
Thanks buddy, I do miss the vtr, I never expected it to be soooo good when I bought it but it blew my mind. Will have another one one day and rebuild to showroom condition 🤩👍
Honda sports bikes are always a great buy. That bike will go to 100k and beyond no problem. And yes hanging more weight over the front gives you much more front end confidence dosent it, I could really tell you were feeling that. You bought a stunner. I wonder if the screen might bug you in time but then again it is a sports bike so comes with the territory. We're here for you as well as the bike, it's not like it's a NC750 😂😂. I can tell already that could be the best bike you ever buy and can't see you parting with this one.
Even though its very early days I feel a great connection with this bike and as it owes me nothing I can keep it as a project and give it some tlc in the winter months ❤👍
The bike sounds good and I'm looking forward to the restoration videos. I'm posting this comment again to try to troubleshoot the issue with disappearing comments.
6:04 (me again) - I remember a film in the 70's (I think) and a character walked out of that pub and i think turned left and within a few seconds was walking on the beach. That was the first time I realised that films were very flexible with reality.
looks like you've had a great time on the VTR and the Vtwin does sound lovely. You'll soon see how good the build quality is on these Honda's when you start working on it. Oh and i also have a side stand light but i also got a digital clock 😂😂.. Great review by the way buddy.
Great Machine Mate, my last VTR1000 had 100,000 klms on it when I Sold it, it Still Ran like New Bike!! The VTR is a Quality Machine! Except The Forks are Crap!! -It Isn't the Fastest Bike out there but I love the Torque! Too Bad Honda didn't Update the 🔥Firestorm with Fuel Injection & USD Forks! Good luck with your Storm! I'd Love to get a Black One like Yours! What a Beauty!! Stay Safe & Keep the Dirty Side Down - Cheers😁🇦🇺👍
100k 😱 wow that's got to be one of the highest milers around. Proves what a good bike the vtr is. The main reason it will struggle to become a classic is because the are all still out there riding around like new bikes 🤣 Yep. Upside-down forks and injection would have perfected the bike for many more years
I was told by an eminent mechanic who said Japanese engines in the main are very well engineered, especially the bigger capacities. That's I guess why the early triumph variants had to be so well engineered. Some Kawasaki z variants could clock up close to 100k. All about the initial running in. Proper servicing. Keeping suspension and cycle parts tip top. Proper warming up before giving it some beans. Excited for you mate enjoy 😎😎😎🏍🏍🏍
Hello TH-cam I just picked up a 2001 vtr1000 my first V-Twin and I absolutely love it only one thing going on here bike pops a lot when letting off the throttle is this normal for these bikes? it does have an aftermarket exhaust it looks like the baffles have been taken out is normal for it to pop it's not like a backfire it's more of a just pop pop pop I guess it is a backfire but you know it's not big
That was another thing I noticed too back break works amazingly well on these bikes which really helps when you're riding hard coming into the corner getting that back tire slowed down an amazing bike not even for the year just.
The popping is normal, especially with an aftermarket exhaust. It's just the cars still fuelling into a hot cylinder and exhaust when the valves are still open. The back pressure of standard exhaust reduces this. Amazing that you've been out and done some miles already, great bikes and will do anything. Mine is currently laid up while having some work done, nothing serious just some home improvements 😎👍
@@wsmv I don’t have a bike yet mate, soon hoping to put that right though. Used to ride an ER6. Would love to get back on 2 wheels and do some vlogging. Keep up the great work mate
The VTR is a great bike however Honda then morphed it into the incredible Sp1 (RC51)/Sp2 , probably the finest bikes ever to come on the market. Now 20 odd years on and they are continually rising in value and worth every penny.
I totally agree, the sp series bikes are works of art, and matched by the performance. I love my vtr and they are one of the best second hand buys at the moment because prices are low. The value will only ever go up, but perhaps not as quickly as the sp's do 🤩👍
@@wsmv I wanted to get something simple and used like any 500cc cruiser, I couldn't find anything but a VTR at $3000 CAD with 15,000kms in just about mint condition. So... I have a VTR now lol.
@Ray Hoffmann it can be, but the vtr is one of those bikes that won't bite you for every mistake, it's quite forgiving and you need to work it to get the best out of it. Take your time with it and you can do everything you want, commute, tour or race. It's one of the best all rounders love by new and experienced riders 👍
@@wsmv Ok, when drivning it just lose power, and it dies. I can restart it directly and drive off. But after a wile it dies again. Ive orderd new air filters, two small sub filters and main air filter. When open the air box it was oily inside. And the old main air filter was kind of oily on the carborator side. Any idees? Cheers, and sry for bad spelling and grammar.
The oil in the airbox is nothing to worry about, its quite normal, does it stall when you are riding or slowing down? If its when you're riding along the possibly the regulator/rectifier is breaking down. If its when you are braking and slowing down there is a modification to the carburettor breather pipes that can fix it. I joined the vtr1000 Facebook group and they helped me with a few problems I had and are really good guys. Let me know if any of that helps 👍
0.00 - On the right used to be a Pub, looks like it's closed (that's where the skittles was played). Across the road, that was a shop, we went there after school to 'borrow' sweets! and to the right of that was the Ship Hotel (pub) where we would buy a beer and a mars bar at the off licence window and go down to the church yard to drink them and hang out. 0.03 - That used to be the Chemist.
🤣🤣 'borrow' sweets. Yeah I think that pub has been closed for a while, probably since the new drink driving laws in the 80's as its miles from anywhere 😄 real shame because its a stunning location.
It's a bike which will last forever IF you do the following mods. (1) Replace the automatic cam chain tensioners with manual versions. (2) Replace the rectifier with a modern MOSFET design. (3) Stiffen the front forks with better springs. (4) Replace the cush drive rubbers with new. (5) Replace the brake lines with braided stainless steel lines. (6) Rebuild the calipers with a seals and pistons kit. (7) Replace the pads with sintered metal HH pads. If able to do so, replace the rear shock with a more compliant modern version, replace the front and rear sprockets with new, along with chain. And while you're at it, also replace the front and rear wheel bearings. If you do all that, it's a bike which will go for ever and ever and ever... with a wonderful engine too!
Oh I might also add, if you really want to, get on to Arashi discs and order a set of NC42 CB400SF front rotors, they're identical to the VTR1000F and you can get any colour you want. Rebuild your calipers along with stainless braided lines and HH pads and your VTR will stop on a dime. Easily as good as Brembos. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the VTR calipers, they have plenty of bite. The poor VTR reputation for front braking was the poor leverage in the brake lever plus unwanted expansion in the rubber OEM brake lines.
So much awesome info, You've clearly had some VTR experience 🤣 I plan to take the bike off the road this winter to strip and restore so will be looking at some of the upgrades you mentioned. The manual cct are already done thankfully but will certainly be calling on your experience around the rest. Many thanks ❤👍
Got one of those VTRs and a VFR800 - the VTR is 2000 and the VFR is 1998. You have a bomb proof bike there but there are a few problems handling wise despite the fact you think it is good, it is a very hard bike to get to turn fast and will catch you out, if you go into a corner a little quick it needs very hefty countersteer and weight transfer to get it to turn tighter, much more than you would need on your Ducati. If you look at the top of the forks you will see a ring in a groove, if it is standard it will be in the second ring down from the top. Drop the things through the yoke to the 5th ring at least that speeds the steering up and makes it a lot easier to turn. The problem is it is a very heavy metal bike with a very narrow profile with short clip-ons and because of the riding position you don't have the leverage you have on a Ducati or a Bandit. You mentioned the brakes are a bit wooden, yeah they are, not a lot of feel but putting EBC Discs and Sintered Pads on it improves the feel no end. The suspension is pretty good for Honda much better than the stock VFR which is really the much better bike by a very long way when you have upgraded the suspension - but I like twins as well I love the huge torque of the VTR and the noise it makes, the one that handles properly though is the SP1 or 2 if you can find one so if you treat the VTR as a tourer not a race bike it won't try and kill you more than once a month. Good video, I lived in WSM some years ago and was spotting roads and pubs - I had a Suzuki GS850 back in those days from a bike shop in town probably long gone by now.
Some awesome advice mate thank you, will take a look at the top yoke and check where the forks are sat, im not a speed merchant in corners and probably would notice the handling until I really needed it so will do that mod straight away👍 Weston and the area look great when the sun is out, I really enjoy those 4 days every year 😂😂 There's been a couple of bike shops but I suspect it'll either be wyverns or hillmans, later on we then had morses motorcycles take over the hillmans building. Thanks for watching mate and feel free to drop any more advice on the vtr in, I'm always happy to learn ❤👍
Yes Jonah, you're right about the bars. They are a bit narrow, although in later models that was addressed slightly. But perhaps more importantly, you addressed the need for body weight placement on the bike. It's not necessarily required to hang off the seat and stick your knees way out, but certainly a VTR responds well to leaning down and inwards towards your inside mirror prior to a corner. If the OP uses that technique and also includes your very smart suggestion about raising the forks by 5mm in the yokes, a VTR can be quite delightful. I put some Ohlins springs in my forks along with appropriate fork oil and the front end is surprisingly reassuring now.
Biggest piece of junk ever built they're awesome when they run but they only run to 30,000 miles then the timing chain tensioner gives out and jumps a tooth piston slap the valve and then you don't have a motorcycle no more that you just spent $5,000 on I don't understand how there's not a recall on these bikes...... The only way you're going to make it past 32000 is by changing it out for a manual tensioner butt see here's the problem that should not be up to us that's Honda's mistake fix your mistake recall I don't give a fuck if it is an older bike I just spent $5,000 on one it only lasted me two thousand miles I worked hard for that money I stayed for two freaking years I've tried calling Honda I've tried emailing Honda nothing they are perfectly okay with selling us a 30000 mile bike and my point is not arguable look it up
If it still has auto cam chain tensioner, get them changed for manuals ASAP. I have a 97 in silver, 24000 miles and Maxton suspension. Lovely, lovely road bike, third gear on the B roads and just roll on and off the throttle and use the engine braking.
Thank you for getting into the channel Robin, I am totally in love with the VTR warts and all. Rode it this afternoon and just feel so comfortable riding it at any pace. I think I've missed an opportunity by waiting until now to buy a honda, I cant imaging how good the new ones are. The cam chain tensioner has been changed thankfully, the only issue I have is the intermittent stalling at standstill. Probably needs a really good service/tune and a good run. But I know where to come for advice 😍👍
Love the bike . Definitely need to change the exhaust. Amazing sound. Straight pipe if you can put up with it. Heavy when pushing it on breaking but that's down to the rider. Strong arms help Hill climbed the bike and when pushing it the rear suspension has a small limit . Alot of fun as a road bike. Still own one
Thanks Ross, yes I've put stubby carbon fibre cans on it and she sounds brilliant, not sure my neighbours would appreciate straight through exhausts 🤣🤣 I've had her 6 months now and love the bike, will be doing a 6 month owner review soon so feel free to add any experiences you've had with the bike good or bad that I can call on. Stay safe 👍
If its got the automatic cam chain tensioners, replace them with manual ones and replace the stock regulator/rectifier with either a Yamaha or aftermarket one. Apart from that, they're pretty bulletproof. And have the suspension set up for your weight. Stock they're good. Sorted they're great.
I love it mate! A bike with character, grunt and it sounds Beeeeaaaauuutiful 😍 Will there be a naming ceremony? There is an unwritten rule that machines are given girls names, but I have two bikes with boys names. 🖕🏼to the rules 🤪
Wierd you should say that, louigi was the first vehicle I've owned with a boys name, I feel the vtr is worthy of a female name. Perhaps something Japanese, should I open it up to ideas?
Make sure the timing chain tensioners have been changed to manual units, the stock automatic units let go without warning. Easy, cheap but essential mod.
Thanks bud, already done before I bought it thankfully, I absolutely live the bike. Giving it a good service at the moment and doing the carb vent mod to try and stop a stalling issue. Thanks for the advice though, if you have experience on the vtr I would be really grateful to hear it 👍
Thanks buddy, yes certainly was Banwell, I know you'll have a blast with the VTR, absolutely awesome bikes. Make sure the camchain tentionet has been changed to a manual one and you're good to go 😁👍
Great video, great bike, sounds awesome!! Really pleased for you mate. Looks like you've found the ideal bike for 'you'! Stuff what others think, your bike, your money, your channel, your choice. If you want to get the suspension set up for your weight etc. (it'll make a huge difference to the ride/handling). Try SWB Racing Suspension setup and servicing, based in Ebbw Vale.
@@grumpsrides6074 Exactly Grumps.... Exactly. Purely a matter of opinion. However Weston must have heard me as I've just read he's banged a pair of Delkevics on it. Enjoy the sun and the day Sir.
Great bike , same year as mine , might be worth checking whether it has the original cam chain tensioners, hear many stories about the old auto ones failing
Hi Evan, awesome bikes aren't they, it's had the mcct fitted but funnily enough they caused an issue because when I bought it the bike stalled when hot and wouldn't restart, turns out they had been overtightened 😀 All sorted now amd running sweet ❤👍
The SV was the other bike on my list but couldn't get one at the right price, apparently the SV is the only bike louder than the VTR, and everyone knows the louder the bike, the safer it is 🤣🤣 Let me know when you get one and send some pics over ❤👍
@@wsmv yea I mean, it was your first ride so going to take some adjusting. Wicked bike though, road focussed rather than race focussed which at the end of the day, is what you want eh?
Great video, I picked up a 2005 model in October 2020 with only 17200 klm's on the clock, I was originally going to buy a 2017 VFR 800F but this caught my eye..... Mine has the raised Staintune exhausts and I haven't looked back since. The bike gave me almost 50mpg on a 7-8 hour trip when I rode it from Rockhampton to Brisbane, Australia. Does yours still run with the original tensioners? I modded mine and went for the stopper method after hearing so many tragic stories regarding engine damage.
Hi, thankfully mine has the catching tensioner mod already, but im not getting anything like that sort of mpg, emptied the last tank in 70 miles but I think that's because of the fuelling issue I have with it. 😟
17k Wow that's a New Bike!! I'd love some High Rise Staintune Pipes for my Old Girl - She's got 100ks but Still Runs Great & Doesn't Look like a 100k Bike! This is My 2nd Firestorm - I Regretted Selling my Old One!! Stay Safe -Keep the Dirty Side Down 😉🇦🇺👍
I don't know why people think 50,000 miles is a lot....... it's a Honda, man. There's a CBR600 F4i on TH-cam that has like half a million miles! Now, if we're talking Ducati or Aprilia, then yeah, even 20,000 miles is already at the very end of their bikes' life. :P
I can't argue with you Gary, I have spoken to many people that have owned VTRs and nobody has a bad word to say about them. And the ones that sold the VTR all wish they hadn't ❤️👍
Good bikes built at the end of ' peak honda' they will do an indicated 165 on the autobahn. They don't really like lugging at low revs. Sort of miss my old one.
Yeah low revs are not a pleasant experience, feels like it's gonna throw a piston, but awesome bikes. I'm considering letting mine go in the summer but then everyone who's had one regrets getting rid of it 🤣🤣
Thats awesome, thank you. Exeter is a brilliant channel that I'm afraid I'm nowhere near the same quality but I'm trying 🤣 have subbed your channel too, I love the ride games and TT life on the edge but not very good at them 🤣🤣
I sat on 9 bikes in a dealers yesterday & a yellow version of yours was one of them! 👍😎 OK so it's a wee bitty much for me to handle at the minute & now need to ask you your height & inside leg size, like I'm a weirdo? 😂👍
Haha, I'm just over 6ft and I think about 32 inside leg. It's more than comfortable height wise and I can pretty much flat foot on both sides. The power is so carefully controlled its an easy bike to ride too. I would recommend one to anyone because it literally can do anything. 👍
@@wsmv The fact I'm 5ft 7.5", so vertically challenged in the bike world & also have a short ass it seems, with a 29" leg! ☹️ On a + note, my Mrs is only 5ft 1", so I'm like a giant at home! 😂👍 I think I'll own a lot of bikes in the years to come & will mostly be older stuff with a bit of personality! 👍😎
The only benefit of being tall is you have to change the smoke alarm batteries 😃 I'm learning now that older bikes save you money and have so much more character than new stuff. I can't 2ait to get my second bike whichI reckon will be an older one 😉👍
@@wsmv No ladders required at your end! 😂 Bike shopping is great fun, even just online, but glad i at least sat on a few! 👍 The Honda dealer had 6 CB125R's all lined up & sold ready to move out, but i wasn't shopping for another 125 for once! 😁👍
I disagree with the sound, I think the Ducati 821 was a fantastic sound, with just the standard pipes and the Honda Firestorm is muted with standard pipes, so much that over 70mph you can’t hear the engine.
Both are on aftermarket exhausts, and I've worked hard recently to soundproof my helmet to improve the audio so that might be the reason. I am toying with the idea of an external audio recorder to beef up the sound on my vids buttake nothing away from the monster it sounds incredible 😍
@@jameswaterhouse-brown6646 had to look up the meaning of visceral 🤣🤣 But I think I get it, that feeling you get inside, especially when you ride bikes 👍
This is what I don't get we all know that they don't make it past 32 33 thousand miles videos are all over the Internet this is a 30000 mile bike once they hit 30,000 or 33 the timing chain tensioner goes out and they blow up but nobody wants to get behind me on this recall I know they stopped making them an 05 but still does not make it right Honda owes me a motorcycle. I took the best care of that like I do all my bikes I got two thousand miles out of it spent $5,000 nobody wants to get behind me on this Recall why? A bike should last longer than 30,000 miles Honda owes me a bike or Fix-It recall something you can't tell me it's okay to buy a bike at 28,000 miles I write it for a couple thousand and it blows up right at 30,000 miles just like all the videos say but I did not see before my bike blew up I can send them to you this page all day long it is a known fact these bikes do not make it past 30,000 miles unless you change that sh-t out
I totally understand your frustration, I agree this is a well known weak point on these engines but at this time so long after they stopped producing them I don't think honda will do anything about it 😢 Have you contacted them directly or gone to their social media page?
Love my vtr .. there’s a reason why I sold my zx6r and r1 and still got the vtr
You haven't lost a subscriber. You have gained one. They are an amazing bike ❤
I agree malcolm, and thank you. Got a few things going on with bikes coming up but a new vtr build is looking likely 👍
I own a Panigale 1199 and just recently bought the Firestorm 1999 as a project bike. Loving the feedback and comments about this bike, all is really positive and I can't wait to get mine on the road to go for a ride. Great video, thx
Thanks Doug, really glad you enjoyed it, I very rarely hear or read anything negative about the firestorm, its almost faultless (apart from the cam chain tensioners, which need to be changed for manual ones).
It's a great project bike too because parts are easy to get hold of and there's no end of support on Facebook owners groups which i highly recommend.
It'll be a bit different to the panigale though, stunning bike 😍
I have a blue 2003 VTR 1000 SuperHawk (US version), and I'm the original owner. Only 36,000 miles so far, but no issues at all with it (3K mile GN4 oil changes, brake, clutch, and coolant flushes every couple years, and fresh chain lube regularly). Just tires, a set of brake pads, and a one chain/sprockets worn out. It still rides like new and pulls equally hard and smooth from 4,000 to 9,500 RPM. My only advice is to spend the money and get a Corbin seat for it. It immensely improves the seat comfort and does not negatively affect the tank-hugging sporty riding position!
The only real down sides are the 100 mile range before the fuel light comes on, and the carburetor at altitude. I live in Colorado, so the flat(ish) "plains" for us are at 5,000ft elevation, and mountain rides vary from 5,000 to 12,000 feet elevation. It's just not possible to tune a carb to have the right air/fuel ratio over that wide of an elevation range, so above 9,000ft, I can't give it more than 70% throttle without bogging down due to running far too rich. Fortunately, I don't have to because it's just as fun at half throttle with the wide power band. It really is just easy and relaxing to ride and feels like it goes way too fast way too effortlessly with no drama and a smile-inducing sound that I've never tired of hearing.
I do an annual 500 mile "spirited ride" in the mountains in late summer (on a weekday when school is back on to avoid as much traffic as possible), with about 80% of that being amazing twisty scenic mountain roads. It's one of the best days of my year, almost every year. I don't mind the welcome breaks at the 6 fuel stops along the way! Great place to live for spring-fall motorcycling :) Here's what that all-day ride looks like:
www.google.com/maps/dir/Standley+Lake+Library+-+Jefferson+County+Public+Library,+8485+Kipling+St,+Arvada,+CO+80005/Nederland/40.166808,-105.4606419/40.3814764,-105.5148919/40.4182792,-105.1900624/Stove+Prairie+Landing/Toponas/38.8116222,-106.117109/Bailey/39.8524303,-105.1092043/@39.8286043,-105.3858817,9.17z/data=!4m37!4m36!1m5!1m1!1s0x876b89250054e3ed:0x72ee64f8fac21f62!2m2!1d-105.1111944!2d39.8504537!1m5!1m1!1s0x876bc6c44e45525b:0x8d645c98aaec4cb2!2m2!1d-105.5108312!2d39.9613759!1m0!1m0!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x87693d9e760b05ff:0x79083c86fcc894d0!2m2!1d-105.3891557!2d40.6824814!1m5!1m1!1s0x87421de66f1ba8ab:0xa0a1d00285f051ec!2m2!1d-106.8080984!2d40.0602639!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x876b12406ebe3e01:0xad0f96177e864c2b!2m2!1d-105.4786412!2d39.4060536!1m0!3e0?entry=ttu
I hope you enjoy your Firestorm as much as I enjoy mine!!!
She rolls along nice 👍 bikes from the 90's were fantastic 👍👍👍👍👍👍
It is a great bike with a good noise - nothing sensible about a v twin litre sports bike with no rider aids - love it !!
Totally mate, love it ❤👍
Love the carb grunt, what a beauty, prober old school. Glad to see you're happy with it mate. Seems a steal at £1800.
Yep that's what I thought plus it gives me a project for next winter too. I would like to get her back to a really good standard ❤👍
@@wsmv Buzzing to see the work you get up to
I just picked up my new 1998 VTR 1000 yesterday with 24000 miles on her, she's dangerous man, I love her, safe rides.
Awesome mate, is it your first vtr, this is my first and I absolutely love it 👍
@@wsmv sure is mate, she is powerful haha! I love her so far! Nothing bad to say
Be careful. I bought one 8 years ago then my riding buddy bought because he liked mine so much. Then I bought another one because I liked the mods dine to it. Then he bought one that has cbr forks some other mods. Then he bought a RC51 which after I rode it I just had to have one. I thought we were done until I came across a CBX for sale near me. Here we go again. Thankfully I have a big shop.
The VTR is just lovely! Must be one of the best bikes I’ve ever ridden. And good choice, mate!
Thanks Julian, I am loving the bike ❤👍
Love my Storm, absolutely amazing bikes. Wheelie good fun, and brilliant in the corners too.
I can completely agree (except the wheelie bit 😃) I've only ever managed a wheelie by accident amd then shut the throttle and slammed the front end down in fear 😂😂
Great handling and performance though, and the build quality is incredible. 👍
@@wsmv the trick is to open the throttle slightly before the front wheel touches down. I used to accidental wheelie on my '99 Hornet 600, which shit me up a bit...so I learned how to do it properly, on the power without the clutch. The Storm is a far more stable bike for it than the Hornet. But unfortunately my Storm is currently in pieces after a carburettor shutter retaining pin came loose and dropped into the rear cylinder during a top end speed test. :(
Oh crap that sounds really painful mate 😣
@@wsmv yea, tbf it's my own fault though..the needle on the clock was approaching 180mph (so probs about 165-170 in reality)...and I'd been aware of a carb shutter seeming a bit loose before I took it for that test run, I just hadn't put two and two together about why the carb shutter was a bit loose. It didn't seem to be affecting performance though, so I figured it was just age (bike has done over 70k miles). And then I guess the vibration just finished knocking it loose.
I had a 1996 Blackbird that I sold last year. For a 24 year old machine, everything worked like new and even the exhaust system was original. It had 50,000 miles and still felt like new.
Thats awesome, I've done a few repairs and serviced mine but it runs and rides really well especially for bike thats 23 years old. Honda build quality 👍
Great video 👍, love the new bike! Proper old school superbike no tricks or toys. Camera angle looked good, keep 'em coming 👌
Awesome thanks David, I love the bike even with its little issues that I need to deal with (nothing major) but I felt very connected to it as soon as I started it ❤👍
@@wsmv Good to hear 😊 I'm sure you'll enjoy her even more once you get her how you want. 👌
I've tried watching this 3 times now but kids & bloomin customers interrupting me.
I'm glad you enjoy the bike & all positive reactions.
I'm blessed with the support mate, I love this community to bits. ❤👍
Had a 98... Bought it new. Amazing bike.. Great handling save great power at all RPMs. Braided lines really improve the brakes. Runs best on Non ethanol if you can find it. Just sold it about 3 years ago. It was still a great bike, I just have a neck injury and the need to ride more upright now.
I totally understand Chris, the riding position means you're always trying to hold your head up and I'm sure it was pretty uncomfortable, I was struggling with my wrists 🥺
Amazing to own a bike fro. New that long, just shows how awesome these bikes are 😎👍
The camera view looks pretty good. I have 73,000+ miles on my '07 Road King and it still runs fine. Glad you're so happy with it. Have fun riding. Honda engineering makes them so good.
Thanks Greg, I'm really pleased with it, ride safe bud 👍
The Super Hawk is a fun bike up until 30,000 miles when they blow up they don't make it past 33 at the very most timing chain tensioner goes out at 30,000 miles and blows the motorcycle up and Hondas perfectly okay with it no recall..... I bought one with 28,000 miles on it low mileage I paid 35 for it plus the registration was back I ended up right at 4,000 plus I put new tires front and back that was 500 bike ran for 2,000 miles soon as it hit 30,000 miles I was on my way to Loon Lake in the middle of nowhere obviously no cell service but anyways I was just cruising along literally on cloud nine heaven on Earth I was going about 35 miles an hour off the throttle and soon as I started to roll back onto the throttle all of a sudden horrible noise clack clack clack stranded overnight in the middle of nowhere I had to walk all night long and bears mountain lions everywhere as I'm walking at 3 in the morning I see a big old bear shit in the middle of the road I'm still freaking traumatized a month later no joke usually I would never ride alone but I'm on a bike with only 30,000 miles on it ain't no way it's going to blow up just change the oil as usual running perfect and just like that clack clack clack I've emailed Honda I've done everything they don't care I used to think Honda was a good brand anybody that's okay with selling a 30,000 my product is not a good brand look it up on the internet they don't make it past 30,000
I don't watch for the bike, I watch because you entertain me. There are a million vloggers out there with better bike that bore me stupid.
Thats is such an awesome thing to say mate, you've been so supportive and as always I really appreciate It ❤👍
I like the sound of that bike!! I can't believe it's a 98, Looks like a lot of fun too!! I have a 2012 Suzuki VStrom DL650. It's known as being bulletproof, and that's proving to be true for me! Congratulations on the change up of bikes. I can't wait to see more videos from this bike. See you on the flip side, Patrick
Thanks Patrick, I do believe people when they say Japanese bikes are built so well because this feels like a new bike even though it has nearly 40k on it ❤👍
@@wsmv I've loved all mine so far!!
Love it! Great vid, awesome bike, good chat 👌🏽
Thanks buddy, I do miss the vtr, I never expected it to be soooo good when I bought it but it blew my mind.
Will have another one one day and rebuild to showroom condition 🤩👍
I've had mine 6 years and love it. Nice roads too,I'm in Midsomer Norton so ride around there a lot
Nice one Adam, we are spoilt for good roads around here 🤩👍
Honda sports bikes are always a great buy. That bike will go to 100k and beyond no problem. And yes hanging more weight over the front gives you much more front end confidence dosent it, I could really tell you were feeling that. You bought a stunner. I wonder if the screen might bug you in time but then again it is a sports bike so comes with the territory. We're here for you as well as the bike, it's not like it's a NC750 😂😂. I can tell already that could be the best bike you ever buy and can't see you parting with this one.
Even though its very early days I feel a great connection with this bike and as it owes me nothing I can keep it as a project and give it some tlc in the winter months ❤👍
@@wsmv good times to come on that one 👍🍻
The bike sounds good and I'm looking forward to the restoration videos.
I'm posting this comment again to try to troubleshoot the issue with disappearing comments.
Sorted mate, how strange that it's different commenting from the app??
Happy now though 🤣
Lovely bike I’m jealous, ant wait for the weather up here to turn better and w3 can ride again 👍🏼👌
6:04 (me again) - I remember a film in the 70's (I think) and a character walked out of that pub and i think turned left and within a few seconds was walking on the beach. That was the first time I realised that films were very flexible with reality.
looks like you've had a great time on the VTR and the Vtwin does sound lovely. You'll soon see how good the build quality is on these Honda's when you start working on it. Oh and i also have a side stand light but i also got a digital clock 😂😂.. Great review by the way buddy.
Thanks mate, loving it so far, feels such a nice ride even though it has so many miles on it 👍
Camera view is perfect mate! :-)
Bike sounds sweet as too!
Thanks bud, I'm loving riding it (essential journeys obviously) ❤👍
@@wsmv From Monday we can play mate, I can't wait!
Ne posseggo una rossa del 1999!!!! Gran motore! Hai fatto bene a comprarla! La moto Consuma un po', ma ti ripagherà con la guida!!!! ✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️
Grazie mille
So amazing fantastic, thanks to sharing good afternoon have a great wonderful day and stay connected and stay safe and god bless
Many thanks for watching my friend ❤👍
Great Machine Mate, my last VTR1000 had 100,000 klms on it when I Sold it, it Still Ran like New Bike!! The VTR is a Quality Machine! Except The Forks are Crap!! -It Isn't the Fastest Bike out there but I love the Torque! Too Bad Honda didn't Update the 🔥Firestorm with Fuel Injection & USD Forks! Good luck with your Storm! I'd Love to get a Black One like Yours! What a Beauty!! Stay Safe &
Keep the Dirty Side Down - Cheers😁🇦🇺👍
100k 😱 wow that's got to be one of the highest milers around. Proves what a good bike the vtr is.
The main reason it will struggle to become a classic is because the are all still out there riding around like new bikes 🤣
Yep. Upside-down forks and injection would have perfected the bike for many more years
I completely understand you. I have a vtr as well since almost 8 years. I never give it away
Bought mine new in '02
It says a lot about the bike when people keep them for so long 😍👍
You can't beat the sound of a big V-Twin, those pulsing 500cc pistons give you thrills..........
I was told by an eminent mechanic who said Japanese engines in the main are very well engineered, especially the bigger capacities. That's I guess why the early triumph variants had to be so well engineered. Some Kawasaki z variants could clock up close to 100k. All about the initial running in. Proper servicing. Keeping suspension and cycle parts tip top. Proper warming up before giving it some beans. Excited for you mate enjoy 😎😎😎🏍🏍🏍
Thanks bud, I love the bike and feel its got many miles left in it (famous last words 🤣)
Hello TH-cam I just picked up a 2001 vtr1000 my first V-Twin and I absolutely love it only one thing going on here bike pops a lot when letting off the throttle is this normal for these bikes? it does have an aftermarket exhaust it looks like the baffles have been taken out is normal for it to pop it's not like a backfire it's more of a just pop pop pop I guess it is a backfire but you know it's not big
I totally agree with everything you're saying I just picked mine up but I've already put 600 miles on it I took a 300 mile ride yesterday
That was another thing I noticed too back break works amazingly well on these bikes which really helps when you're riding hard coming into the corner getting that back tire slowed down an amazing bike not even for the year just.
The popping is normal, especially with an aftermarket exhaust. It's just the cars still fuelling into a hot cylinder and exhaust when the valves are still open. The back pressure of standard exhaust reduces this.
Amazing that you've been out and done some miles already, great bikes and will do anything. Mine is currently laid up while having some work done, nothing serious just some home improvements 😎👍
Fun ride and great bike! Keep on riding and be happy 😁
Thank you, I love it and can't wait to be aloud out properly soon ❤👍
Lovely bike lovely bloke...
Cheers pal 👍
I love the part about the wife. You are lucky to have that. It's a fight ever ride I take for no reasons.
Thank you Abe, it's great to have a partner who understands the importance of needing time to clear your mind, and the bike does that for me ❤👍
For my VTR it was love on the first sight....and it stay that way.
I totally get that, It will be a sad day if I ever have to get rid of the vtr 👍
Great vid. My first time coming across your channel. Subscribed.
Awesome, thank you mate. Hopefully will keep you entertained . Do you ride/have a channel?
@@wsmv I don’t have a bike yet mate, soon hoping to put that right though. Used to ride an ER6. Would love to get back on 2 wheels and do some vlogging. Keep up the great work mate
Thanks bud, fingers crossed you'll be back on it soon, I'll try to keep you entertained until then 😁👍
The VTR is a great bike however Honda then morphed it into the incredible Sp1 (RC51)/Sp2 , probably the finest bikes ever to come on the market. Now 20 odd years on and they are continually rising in value and worth every penny.
I totally agree, the sp series bikes are works of art, and matched by the performance. I love my vtr and they are one of the best second hand buys at the moment because prices are low.
The value will only ever go up, but perhaps not as quickly as the sp's do 🤩👍
I think the Firestorm will soon become something of a classic. And like the best affordable classics it is something you can service yourself. 🙂
You may well be right. The biggest problem the vtr has before it becomes a classic is that its so bloody reliable there's still loads out there 🤣🤣
@@wsmv I wanted to get something simple and used like any 500cc cruiser, I couldn't find anything but a VTR at $3000 CAD with 15,000kms in just about mint condition. So... I have a VTR now lol.
Very nice, you won't regret the purchase 👍
@@wsmv people don't believe me, I'm a noob so it's quite intimidating though.
@Ray Hoffmann it can be, but the vtr is one of those bikes that won't bite you for every mistake, it's quite forgiving and you need to work it to get the best out of it. Take your time with it and you can do everything you want, commute, tour or race. It's one of the best all rounders love by new and experienced riders 👍
I think you are doing a fantastic job behinde and infront of the camera. Keep it Up
Many thanks 👍
@@wsmv
No, thank you. Can i aska a motorcykeln question? I have a VTR 1000f 2900mil 2004.
Of course mate, I will help if I can 👍
@@wsmv
Ok,
when drivning it just lose power, and it dies. I can restart it directly and drive off. But after a wile it dies again. Ive orderd new air filters, two small sub filters and main air filter. When open the air box it was oily inside. And the old main air filter was kind of oily on the carborator side. Any idees?
Cheers, and sry for bad spelling and grammar.
The oil in the airbox is nothing to worry about, its quite normal, does it stall when you are riding or slowing down?
If its when you're riding along the possibly the regulator/rectifier is breaking down.
If its when you are braking and slowing down there is a modification to the carburettor breather pipes that can fix it.
I joined the vtr1000 Facebook group and they helped me with a few problems I had and are really good guys.
Let me know if any of that helps 👍
0.00 - On the right used to be a Pub, looks like it's closed (that's where the skittles was played). Across the road, that was a shop, we went there after school to 'borrow' sweets! and to the right of that was the Ship Hotel (pub) where we would buy a beer and a mars bar at the off licence window and go down to the church yard to drink them and hang out. 0.03 - That used to be the Chemist.
🤣🤣 'borrow' sweets.
Yeah I think that pub has been closed for a while, probably since the new drink driving laws in the 80's as its miles from anywhere 😄 real shame because its a stunning location.
It's a bike which will last forever IF you do the following mods. (1) Replace the automatic cam chain tensioners with manual versions. (2) Replace the rectifier with a modern MOSFET design. (3) Stiffen the front forks with better springs. (4) Replace the cush drive rubbers with new. (5) Replace the brake lines with braided stainless steel lines. (6) Rebuild the calipers with a seals and pistons kit. (7) Replace the pads with sintered metal HH pads. If able to do so, replace the rear shock with a more compliant modern version, replace the front and rear sprockets with new, along with chain. And while you're at it, also replace the front and rear wheel bearings. If you do all that, it's a bike which will go for ever and ever and ever... with a wonderful engine too!
Oh I might also add, if you really want to, get on to Arashi discs and order a set of NC42 CB400SF front rotors, they're identical to the VTR1000F and you can get any colour you want. Rebuild your calipers along with stainless braided lines and HH pads and your VTR will stop on a dime. Easily as good as Brembos. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the VTR calipers, they have plenty of bite. The poor VTR reputation for front braking was the poor leverage in the brake lever plus unwanted expansion in the rubber OEM brake lines.
So much awesome info,
You've clearly had some VTR experience 🤣
I plan to take the bike off the road this winter to strip and restore so will be looking at some of the upgrades you mentioned.
The manual cct are already done thankfully but will certainly be calling on your experience around the rest.
Many thanks ❤👍
Not an underwhelming choice at all - it’s got character and I’m eager to see how it performs for you 👍
Got one of those VTRs and a VFR800 - the VTR is 2000 and the VFR is 1998. You have a bomb proof bike there but there are a few problems handling wise despite the fact you think it is good, it is a very hard bike to get to turn fast and will catch you out, if you go into a corner a little quick it needs very hefty countersteer and weight transfer to get it to turn tighter, much more than you would need on your Ducati. If you look at the top of the forks you will see a ring in a groove, if it is standard it will be in the second ring down from the top. Drop the things through the yoke to the 5th ring at least that speeds the steering up and makes it a lot easier to turn. The problem is it is a very heavy metal bike with a very narrow profile with short clip-ons and because of the riding position you don't have the leverage you have on a Ducati or a Bandit. You mentioned the brakes are a bit wooden, yeah they are, not a lot of feel but putting EBC Discs and Sintered Pads on it improves the feel no end. The suspension is pretty good for Honda much better than the stock VFR which is really the much better bike by a very long way when you have upgraded the suspension - but I like twins as well I love the huge torque of the VTR and the noise it makes, the one that handles properly though is the SP1 or 2 if you can find one so if you treat the VTR as a tourer not a race bike it won't try and kill you more than once a month. Good video, I lived in WSM some years ago and was spotting roads and pubs - I had a Suzuki GS850 back in those days from a bike shop in town probably long gone by now.
Some awesome advice mate thank you, will take a look at the top yoke and check where the forks are sat, im not a speed merchant in corners and probably would notice the handling until I really needed it so will do that mod straight away👍
Weston and the area look great when the sun is out, I really enjoy those 4 days every year 😂😂
There's been a couple of bike shops but I suspect it'll either be wyverns or hillmans, later on we then had morses motorcycles take over the hillmans building.
Thanks for watching mate and feel free to drop any more advice on the vtr in, I'm always happy to learn ❤👍
Yes Jonah, you're right about the bars. They are a bit narrow, although in later models that was addressed slightly. But perhaps more importantly, you addressed the need for body weight placement on the bike. It's not necessarily required to hang off the seat and stick your knees way out, but certainly a VTR responds well to leaning down and inwards towards your inside mirror prior to a corner. If the OP uses that technique and also includes your very smart suggestion about raising the forks by 5mm in the yokes, a VTR can be quite delightful. I put some Ohlins springs in my forks along with appropriate fork oil and the front end is surprisingly reassuring now.
Great advice been toying with dropping the steering a bit and you've confirmed it works 👍
Biggest piece of junk ever built they're awesome when they run but they only run to 30,000 miles then the timing chain tensioner gives out and jumps a tooth piston slap the valve and then you don't have a motorcycle no more that you just spent $5,000 on I don't understand how there's not a recall on these bikes...... The only way you're going to make it past 32000 is by changing it out for a manual tensioner butt see here's the problem that should not be up to us that's Honda's mistake fix your mistake recall I don't give a fuck if it is an older bike I just spent $5,000 on one it only lasted me two thousand miles I worked hard for that money I stayed for two freaking years I've tried calling Honda I've tried emailing Honda nothing they are perfectly okay with selling us a 30000 mile bike and my point is not arguable look it up
If it still has auto cam chain tensioner, get them changed for manuals ASAP.
I have a 97 in silver, 24000 miles and Maxton suspension. Lovely, lovely road bike, third gear on the B roads and just roll on and off the throttle and use the engine braking.
Thank you for getting into the channel Robin, I am totally in love with the VTR warts and all. Rode it this afternoon and just feel so comfortable riding it at any pace.
I think I've missed an opportunity by waiting until now to buy a honda, I cant imaging how good the new ones are.
The cam chain tensioner has been changed thankfully, the only issue I have is the intermittent stalling at standstill.
Probably needs a really good service/tune and a good run. But I know where to come for advice 😍👍
Love the bike . Definitely need to change the exhaust. Amazing sound. Straight pipe if you can put up with it.
Heavy when pushing it on breaking but that's down to the rider. Strong arms help
Hill climbed the bike and when pushing it the rear suspension has a small limit . Alot of fun as a road bike. Still own one
Thanks Ross, yes I've put stubby carbon fibre cans on it and she sounds brilliant, not sure my neighbours would appreciate straight through exhausts 🤣🤣
I've had her 6 months now and love the bike, will be doing a 6 month owner review soon so feel free to add any experiences you've had with the bike good or bad that I can call on.
Stay safe 👍
If its got the automatic cam chain tensioners, replace them with manual ones and replace the stock regulator/rectifier with either a Yamaha or aftermarket one.
Apart from that, they're pretty bulletproof.
And have the suspension set up for your weight. Stock they're good. Sorted they're great.
I've got mcct but I thinknits on the original reg/rec. Will take a look at your recommendations, thanks 👍
I wouldn't change my storm for anything,well,possibly an SP-2,but it's got everything you need especially the acceleration.
Absolutely, I've been scratching, cruising, and touring on mine. Very underrated bike that can and will do everything 😎👍
I love it mate! A bike with character, grunt and it sounds Beeeeaaaauuutiful 😍
Will there be a naming ceremony? There is an unwritten rule that machines are given girls names, but I have two bikes with boys names. 🖕🏼to the rules 🤪
Wierd you should say that, louigi was the first vehicle I've owned with a boys name, I feel the vtr is worthy of a female name. Perhaps something Japanese, should I open it up to ideas?
@@wsmv that would be quite cool 😎
Make sure the timing chain tensioners have been changed to manual units, the stock automatic units let go without warning. Easy, cheap but essential mod.
Thanks bud, already done before I bought it thankfully, I absolutely live the bike. Giving it a good service at the moment and doing the carb vent mod to try and stop a stalling issue.
Thanks for the advice though, if you have experience on the vtr I would be really grateful to hear it 👍
Just selected this video as I'm thinking of getting one....and hey that looks like Banwell 😂
Thanks buddy, yes certainly was Banwell, I know you'll have a blast with the VTR, absolutely awesome bikes.
Make sure the camchain tentionet has been changed to a manual one and you're good to go 😁👍
6:46 "I'm getting a bit of a blow around my helmet" - Oh lucky you!
Great video, great bike, sounds awesome!!
Really pleased for you mate.
Looks like you've found the ideal bike for 'you'!
Stuff what others think, your bike, your money, your channel, your choice.
If you want to get the suspension set up for your weight etc. (it'll make a huge difference to the ride/handling).
Try SWB Racing Suspension setup and servicing, based in Ebbw Vale.
I will get in touch nearer the summer months mate cheers, do they do it while you wait?
@@wsmv yep, doesn't take long.
@@grumpsrides6074 Sounds awesome ? Sounds absolutely shite. Stick a set of Delkevics on it, and then you'll know what a V Twin should sound like......
@Moon Cat. all a matter of opinion, each to their own.
@@grumpsrides6074 Exactly Grumps.... Exactly. Purely a matter of opinion.
However Weston must have heard me as I've just read he's banged a pair of Delkevics on it.
Enjoy the sun and the day Sir.
Great bike , same year as mine , might be worth checking whether it has the original cam chain tensioners, hear many stories about the old auto ones failing
Hi Evan, awesome bikes aren't they, it's had the mcct fitted but funnily enough they caused an issue because when I bought it the bike stalled when hot and wouldn't restart, turns out they had been overtightened 😀
All sorted now amd running sweet ❤👍
Older Hondas are superb bikes. Personally, I'd get the brake line fluid changed if it hasn't been done already.
Good shout, I've got a stalling issue to sort but I think you're right getting the brake done before the performance is the best plan 🤣👍
I’ll be staying, I am really interested to see how you get on with the VTR. I have a hankering for an SV1000 which I would love to have as a 2nd bike.
The SV was the other bike on my list but couldn't get one at the right price, apparently the SV is the only bike louder than the VTR, and everyone knows the louder the bike, the safer it is 🤣🤣
Let me know when you get one and send some pics over ❤👍
@@wsmv will do, plan is to change my main bike this year so we will see what money is left!
@@blitzer109 that's what I did mate and really pleased with the bike I found after paying off the ducati
Well you’ve just gained a subscriber here 👍🏻 with regards to the handlebar position, I believe after 2001 they raised them.
Thank you very much, I quite like the position, it's just the right mix of sports and comfort. Awesome bikes ❤👍
@@wsmv yea I mean, it was your first ride so going to take some adjusting. Wicked bike though, road focussed rather than race focussed which at the end of the day, is what you want eh?
Absolutely mate, iv kinda fallen in love with the vtr 👍
Great video, I picked up a 2005 model in October 2020 with only 17200 klm's on the clock, I was originally going to buy a 2017 VFR 800F but this caught my eye..... Mine has the raised Staintune exhausts and I haven't looked back since. The bike gave me almost 50mpg on a 7-8 hour trip when I rode it from Rockhampton to Brisbane, Australia. Does yours still run with the original tensioners? I modded mine and went for the stopper method after hearing so many tragic stories regarding engine damage.
Hi, thankfully mine has the catching tensioner mod already, but im not getting anything like that sort of mpg, emptied the last tank in 70 miles but I think that's because of the fuelling issue I have with it. 😟
@@wsmv Mine has the larger tank so that would help considerably.
17k Wow that's a New Bike!! I'd love some High Rise Staintune Pipes for my Old Girl - She's got 100ks but Still Runs Great & Doesn't Look like a 100k Bike! This is My 2nd Firestorm - I Regretted Selling my Old One!! Stay Safe -Keep the Dirty Side Down 😉🇦🇺👍
@@purebloodheretic4682 It's up to 23k now...
Wow, someone's been having some fun 😁👍
I don't know why people think 50,000 miles is a lot....... it's a Honda, man. There's a CBR600 F4i on TH-cam that has like half a million miles! Now, if we're talking Ducati or Aprilia, then yeah, even 20,000 miles is already at the very end of their bikes' life. :P
Awesome bike
I can't argue with you Gary, I have spoken to many people that have owned VTRs and nobody has a bad word to say about them.
And the ones that sold the VTR all wish they hadn't ❤️👍
Good bikes built at the end of ' peak honda' they will do an indicated 165 on the autobahn. They don't really like lugging at low revs. Sort of miss my old one.
Yeah low revs are not a pleasant experience, feels like it's gonna throw a piston, but awesome bikes.
I'm considering letting mine go in the summer but then everyone who's had one regrets getting rid of it 🤣🤣
Not sure if it was the sound or not but it sounded a little but rough/chuggy at the bottom there. Only mention it as my storm doesnt do that.
Could be the sound but she is a little chuggy, havent had the carbs balanced yet. 😎👍
Mate I'd do Swing Arm & wheel bearings / fork oil bike will be fine for another 23 years it's a Honda 🤠
Absolutely mate, 🇯🇵
Thanks for that!!
You're welcome buddy 👍
Sent here by Exeter Rider 👍🏽👍🏽
Thats awesome, thank you. Exeter is a brilliant channel that I'm afraid I'm nowhere near the same quality but I'm trying 🤣 have subbed your channel too,
I love the ride games and TT life on the edge but not very good at them 🤣🤣
@@wsmv Everyone starts from somewhere..youre welcome and thank you too bud
You should do a 1yr review mate.
Good idea matt. I don't think my opinions have changed much though, it's still bloody awesome 🤣
I sat on 9 bikes in a dealers yesterday & a yellow version of yours was one of them! 👍😎
OK so it's a wee bitty much for me to handle at the minute & now need to ask you your height & inside leg size, like I'm a weirdo? 😂👍
Haha, I'm just over 6ft and I think about 32 inside leg.
It's more than comfortable height wise and I can pretty much flat foot on both sides.
The power is so carefully controlled its an easy bike to ride too.
I would recommend one to anyone because it literally can do anything. 👍
@@wsmv The fact I'm 5ft 7.5", so vertically challenged in the bike world & also have a short ass it seems, with a 29" leg! ☹️
On a + note, my Mrs is only 5ft 1", so I'm like a giant at home! 😂👍
I think I'll own a lot of bikes in the years to come & will mostly be older stuff with a bit of personality! 👍😎
The only benefit of being tall is you have to change the smoke alarm batteries 😃
I'm learning now that older bikes save you money and have so much more character than new stuff. I can't 2ait to get my second bike whichI reckon will be an older one 😉👍
@@wsmv No ladders required at your end! 😂
Bike shopping is great fun, even just online, but glad i at least sat on a few! 👍
The Honda dealer had 6 CB125R's all lined up & sold ready to move out, but i wasn't shopping for another 125 for once! 😁👍
What sort of market are you in now?
i like your windshield, whats it called?? 0:
Hi snow, its a powerbronze double bubble screen, here's the link to their site www.powerbronze.co.uk/honda-vtr1000-firestorm-400-h118.html
@@wsmv thanks i def want to replace the stock shield
I disagree with the sound, I think the Ducati 821 was a fantastic sound, with just the standard pipes and the Honda Firestorm is muted with standard pipes, so much that over 70mph you can’t hear the engine.
Both are on aftermarket exhausts, and I've worked hard recently to soundproof my helmet to improve the audio so that might be the reason.
I am toying with the idea of an external audio recorder to beef up the sound on my vids buttake nothing away from the monster it sounds incredible 😍
Visceral
Thanks........ I think 🤣🤣🤣
@@wsmv ha!
Your safe
@@jameswaterhouse-brown6646 had to look up the meaning of visceral 🤣🤣
But I think I get it, that feeling you get inside, especially when you ride bikes 👍
What's gender fluid?
It keeps your mirrors cool in the summer 😁
This is what I don't get we all know that they don't make it past 32 33 thousand miles videos are all over the Internet this is a 30000 mile bike once they hit 30,000 or 33 the timing chain tensioner goes out and they blow up but nobody wants to get behind me on this recall I know they stopped making them an 05 but still does not make it right Honda owes me a motorcycle. I took the best care of that like I do all my bikes I got two thousand miles out of it spent $5,000 nobody wants to get behind me on this Recall why? A bike should last longer than 30,000 miles Honda owes me a bike or Fix-It recall something you can't tell me it's okay to buy a bike at 28,000 miles I write it for a couple thousand and it blows up right at 30,000 miles just like all the videos say but I did not see before my bike blew up I can send them to you this page all day long it is a known fact these bikes do not make it past 30,000 miles unless you change that sh-t out
I totally understand your frustration, I agree this is a well known weak point on these engines but at this time so long after they stopped producing them I don't think honda will do anything about it 😢
Have you contacted them directly or gone to their social media page?