5 Things I hate (and love) about my VFR750 RC36
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ก.ค. 2024
- A hates and loves list for the fantastic Honda VFR750 RC36. This bike was an eBay special, costing just £1200! Let me give you my verdict after almost 2 years of ownership.
Camera used is a GoPro Hero 7 Black
Music is from the TH-cam Audio Library:
Icelandic Arpeggios by DivKid
Communicator by Reed Mathis - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
I have had my RC24 from new in 1988 and covered 230,000 miles now. Having a tidy up! I had an 800 too but kept this one and sold that, so says alot. I agree with what you say and sad you can't find people to work on them. I had a VFR business back in the 1990s and did ok, but now live in NZ and I do my own work on it. Parts are getting hard now but I agree, is probably the best bike ever made by Honda, if not anyone. And woefully undervalued, still cheap to buy. But a good one will soon be a collectors item I hope. Enjoy yours.
I have owned 8 Honda V4s. I miss every one of them. It's a sadly bygone era when a girl could get a reasonably priced motorcycle with gear driven cams, single side swinging arm, V4 engine, hydraulic clutch etc all in a dead reliable Honda.
I owned 4 VFR's over a 10 year period. '91, '94', '96, '97. Bought and sold to try other bikes. Hayabusa, Buell, FJR1300, ST1300. In 2012 Sold the ST1300 and bought a new KLR, then two years ago purchased an '18 Goldwing. The VFR still holds a place in my heart ❤😍🥰
It was a clone of the NR750, the most beautiful motorcycle ever made. Thx for the video.
As a senior VFR owner (22 years) I might have the solution for your hates.
Hate nr1: Do all the maintenance yourself Like I do. Incl valve clearance adjustments.
Hate nr 2: Just buy Pirelli ANGEL GT 2
Hate nr 3: It is, but with a good carb synchronisation it handles ok at low speed
Hate nr 4 A good Dynojet upgrade and new exhaust system. Will help
Hate nr 5. Known but with a proper set of leg muscles it will over come.
So imo no hates at all 😅
A man in love Bart 😂
A bike I have admired for many years, I got round to buying a black 4th gen earlier this year, absolutely love it
I watched your video with interest as I bought a ’95 model earlier this year. I agree with you about the centre stand. A wee trick is to park the rear tyre on a bit of 18mm plywood, it’s then much easier to roll it back onto the main stand. The mid-range power, as someone else has commented, mine starts pulling really strong from 5000rpm with a standard exhaust fitted. I can’t say I’ve been disappointed with the torque it produces throughout the rev range. I can do all my own mechanics myself so that’s not an issue for me. My main “hate” is just the weight of the thing. Being only 5’6” and 11 stone it’s a big heavy lump when you’re not rolling along 😂. Cheers for your video.
It is a lump and a bit top heavy but compared to modern stuff it compares well on weight.
I'm perhaps over critical as I've been spoiled by riding an R1200R and S1000XR which just go at any revs!
Glad you enjoyed the vid please check out the others featuring the VFR and thanks for watching and your comments.
I’m a new owner to a 97 VFR750, bought it in June. My friend has one, my cousin had a 5th gen and after talking to them I found a blue one, same owner since 2000 and 28k on it. I’ve had one of the best summers ever! I rode to South Wales from Edinburgh, taking as many A roads as I could, I’ve done a 4 day trip around the highlands and have had many days out around the borders. What a bike! She sounds almost angry when you hit 7k revs but cries for more! I’ve changed the screen to a double bubble and may get some bar risers, I’m undecided as yet that one. When I’m travelling it’s fine, but slower speeds around country lanes or the city puts some pressure on my wrists. Other than that I’m so glad I bought one, for not much money. 👍👍 from me!
I'm finding after 100 miles if relatively slow and / or bumpy I can really feel it. So yes, bar raisers are a good addition just make sure all the cables and lines are OK.
Sounds like you've already had your moneys worth out of yours. Mine was the best £1200 I've spent on a bike.
Check out my V4 sound video it really sings and thank you for viewing and your comments. Ps look to join VFR Owners UK, check out their Facebook site.
My Vfr’s got a Sbk handlebar conversion for an upright seating position. Small flat plates have been fitted to restrict the steering lock as a result because, prevents the switchgear hitting the tank and the fairing didn’t need to be cut as I’ve seen on some other bikes.
Excellent video, at first I was indignant at the title bc I have a 97 that I love so of course I wanted to know what some one could possibly hate about it, but I have to admit you are spot on with each one. I live in a hotter climate so I would add the propensity the electrical system has to cook itself to the hate list. But then there are the things that we love about them and they more than out weight the hates. Ride safe brother.
Thanks Justin, glad we are on the same wavelength 😀. I did think about honourable mentions to our good friend the regulator/rectifier and the sleepy dashboard clock, but I needed to keep it to 10 minutes!
I have the very same and same year. We have had in the family since new and with just 11k on the clock she is as new. This is one of the best bikes and engine Honda built, and as an ex racer agree about the pedigree. Happy riding pal
And you too. Love the Boobie Bros name 😀
Excellent video, I enjoyed watching your hates and loves!🙂 I own RC36-1 for 8 years. This is really good all-around street motorbike. At present, I just hate lighting, want to upgrade to LED.
I'd love to see your LED conversion when it's complete.
loves, hates all get forgotten when it comes to the fine wine of gear driven cams in an obtainable bike today. People think it has a supercharger. Wild. That's what was missing...thanks for the video
You're welcome, glad you enjoyed the watch. 😉
My 91 pulls bottom to top .Linear is the word they use.good vid .
Cheers Cornish Ninja
Great video! Very nice to be able to watch new videos during the snowy winter months here where I live. I must say I disagree with you regarding tire selection when it comes to 170. I recently bought a new set of tires, and was almost overwhelmed with the selection. And yes, I mean 170 tires. With that said, I myself own a RC36-1, and very much appreciate the option to be able to choose 180 tires. I did go for 170, as I didn't see the point of going with wider tires. Again, thanks for the great video, more of you riding it please!
And a tip before I go to bed: If you want to improve your sound quality with emphasis on the exhaust note, put your mobile phone recording sound in your backpack (while insulated with a sock perhaps?), and synchronize the audio with the video while editing. A quick double-beep makes it easier to sync up. Trust me, you'll love it.
Thanks for that feedback Rick! I've got a a big ride around Devon and Cornwall coming up at the end of April so watch out for that.
@@blueyondermoto Subscribed and ready!
I agree with your comments regarding the bikes styling, I’m restoring its predecessor a VF750F, and my main ride is a FZS600 atm, but whenever I see an R36, I think it stands up against the Ducatis in styling, particularly in that rich colour, and with the benefit of Japanese engineering thrown in. Like my Fazer it’s defiantly more sport than tourer. Lovely machine. Good find, looks mint, but I guess it has its battle scars. You definitely deserve more subs, keep it up chap. Rich.
Many thanks Rich. The strange thing is that they are still out there and are very affordable. At some point they will start appreciating ! Yes, the bike has a couple of scars but it's still very good and rides beautifully. See follow up videos!
Hi, nice video.... I have recently purchased the same model as yours but in black. I had a new Bridgestone 180 rear section fitted which not only looks much better but has no negative effect on the handling.... fits straight on with plenty of room around the tyre etc👍
I haven't changed mine yet but am thinking along the same lines as you.
Hi, great video. I owned a 1990 VFR many years ago, bought on ebay of course. The guy I bought it off wasn't a rider, just a seller of anything on ebay, so I got a bargain. On a whim I mentioned at work that I might sell it. My hand was snatched off and it was gone. I have regretted it ever since. Since then I bought a 1200 Harley Sportster, which was like a tractor compared to the Honda. Sold that about 10 years ago. Leap forward to today, and I have bought a 1997 VFR. It is been delivered to me next week as my wife is worried about me riding it the 120 miles home, as I am now ancient. Looking forward to some trips out before winter sets in. Ride safe.
Great story William enjoy your VFR part two!
I recently cleaned out the fuel tank & carburettors on my 1995, found a clogged pilot jet & all the little orifices & innards were caked with varnish & sediment so i sorted that out between carb cleaner, ear buds, tin of compressed air & vinegar which got it back to how she supposed to look from the factory !
Similar with fuel tank, i had it steeped in white vinegar for 3 days before flushing it out with de ionised water & bi-carbonate of soda to neutralise the acids .. which made it look like brand new. Had to be swift with coating the inside in a little petrol & 2 stroke oil to prevent it rusting especially if left exposed to oxygen for 10 mins …
After i got it all back together i got the carburettor fuel screws dialled in & synchronised up, she purrs & have never in my life listened to a more rock steady idle before .. zero hunting & the rev needle sits so still …
If i was you i would look at yours and see how much of a state it may be in, definitely worth doing if you plan on keeping her 😎👍🏻
That's great advice.
Great vid, my mate had one when they just came out, it was a perfect bike, commuting, touring, scratching. When i could afford it, i jumped straight to the cbr1000f, regret that now and not going for the VFR.
I had an original CBR1000F too, a big FAST old bus! Glad you liked the video, have you subscribed?! 😀
I have a vfr750, so clicked play on your video ! I think it was the RC24 that Honda made little or no money on. After the vf750 engine problems, Honda really made sure the engine was bulletproof.....and sold them at the same type of price as the fz750 and gsxr750 in 1986, even though the engine in particular would've cost much more to make. It worked out for Honda though, the vfr developed a name for quality and the RC36s sold very strongly - I'm sure Honda recouped their money in the end !
Yes it was a statement bike, never the same though after the move away from gear driven cams.
Sehr emotionaler Bericht.Ich fahre seit Jahren eine RC 36/2. In letzter Zeit denke ich über einen Verkauf nach.Ich kann mich aber nicht dazu durchringen,weil sie mir immer noch sehr viel Freude bereitet.Etwas Konzentration gehört beim Fahren schon dazu.Aber sie begeistert mich immer wieder.Also,nichts übereilen.Bin nun 73Jahre alt und ein paar Jahre können es aus meiner Sicht noch werden.
Danke Norbert! Don't hang up the leather jacket just yet!
@@blueyondermoto I will follow your advice.
Mine's done over 200,000k and agree they are a bit ponderous low speed, especially tight turns. This changed when fitting P6's which transformed it. I've had 180's on including the P6's so the five-spoke is not an issue but then I'm rarely riding plus legal high speeds these days. Lovely example and great review.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! Yours has done very well !
Nice video, because I also own this model (1995) for almost 2 years a response to your hates, your experience with the midrange is very different from mine, good pulling power from 5000 rpm with a small boost from 6000 rpm. A sporty 180 tire is no problem (previous Battlax 020), although the current Pirelli Angel GT 170 steers better.
Compared to other VFR's I've ridden this one has the most pull under 6000 rpm, owned a rc24 1986, test drive the VFR 800 2000 and 2014.
Added some spring preload after purchase and fitted Moto-CNC handle-bar risers for more comfort.
The VFR has an open Bos exhaust ,the air filter not inspected yet because the engine runs so well.
I'm probably being super critical about its mid range, like you I've had worse, 600s for example.
Something that might help the center stand issue is to take it apart and clean and grease the pivot. My 3rd gen was very difficult to get on the optional center stand, but after servicing it while I was taking weight out of the bracket it went up on the stand so much easier. Very much a pleasant surprise.
Great tip, thanks.
Well, I had to get one, and I love it. Such quality.
They don't make them that good anymore!
Mine had 126,000 miles when I sold it. 4 paint jobs, 2 fuel pumps and 4 regulator / rectifiers. That's it. I liked my 91 the best though.
That's pretty good.....and you sold it!
@@blueyondermotoIt was getting hard to find anyone who would work on bikes with carburetors. I now have a 2007 Yamaha Fz1 I bought new, with 70,000 miles. Replaced cam chain and got the ECU flashed by Ivan. Crashed 3 times. I miss the VFR.
@@wendymotogirl I'm lucky I've got an excellent mechanic close by who has worked on all types of bikes for many years.
Had the same heavy steering issues on my 97 Vfr so, I replaced the fork springs for some progressive units.
Results were utterly amazing!
The older fork springs had „sacked-in“ by 5mm‘s after some 25 odd years so, changing them was more than overdue.
Am able to do all the work myself as an ex-mechanic but, need to make an appointment in my local workshop when things are quiet.
I absolutely love my Rc36/b and have been tempted, but for me there’s „nothing compares (🎵to you🎶).“
Yes springs do wear out, unsurprisingly, but mine don't feel too bad, putting slightly heavier fork oil in has helped mine. See my latest post on the VFR about my high speed journey at Easter.
Still a fab looking bike and sounds awesome with that can🙂
Cheers Miles...I hope you gave it a 👍
Found one in excellent condition 54000km.
Think I needed to see your video to decide and have a testride .
Greetings from the Netherlands .
Take a test ride if you can, I think you will like it. Take a look at my other videos on the VFR "300 miles on an Old VFR" and "Which is Best". My bike only cost me £1100 on eBay so it was very low risk.
I went from a 5th gen to a 97 4th gen to experience the hype and red testarossa looks. Unfortunately it didn't excite me the way my 5th gen did. Still have it, may have to keep it just for its styling and engine noise! Good video BTW.
It is the best looking of the VFRs IMHO. I had an early 800 back in the mid noughties, good bike. I'm considering looking for a good V-Tec for touring duties
I have the rc36 gen 1 model and i agree with all of what you Said. The engine(technology, sound) and pedigree was the reason why I bought it. And yes it does feel as you said at low speeds. It’s a fairly heavy bike. And yes it does pull like a train off the line, but I didn’t notice the lack of pull as you said after and up to 7k rpms. Maybe cause i rarely end up there, been riding it more in town and I’m a bit cautious..but when I do get on highway and get to those and above I don’t feel any lack off pull. It does pull but linear. It’s one of its trademarks not like the vtec and others.. well at least mine is like this. It pulls as I rev it. Doesn’t have a more pull after a certain no of revs.
I was perhaps over critical of the pull up to 7k, 7 to 8k and she really takes off.
I have a ‘97 with a two brothers full exhaust that is a bit of a tractor around town but feels like it has vtec at 6500 rpm, the exhaust note changes and it takes off like a shot. The stock brakes are superb and it handles like a dream, I couldn’t imagine a more perfect machine
They are pretty good Trust! That engine is bullet proof too. The Two Bros seems a popular mod. I don't think they are sold here though, I'm happy to be corrected on that. The trioval carbon can on mine is excellent and saves a huge amount of weight.
I’ve had my FV for 20yrs, in blue, best colour 😊 78000 miles bought it with 20k miles. Been an absolute blast. Put the 8 spoke rear wheel on with a 180 pilot road, perfick! Been all around UK and Europe, never missed a beat. Just the rectifier but relocated to air flow by radiator sat on a heat sink, sorted!
Just bought the VFR1200X for more relaxed position but can’t bring myself to part with 750. Absolute classic of all time ✊
It definitely is an iconic bike, when Honda were the by-word for quality.
Had a 97 vfr 750. Very fun bike
I put on a twobros pipe, that really gave it a much richer low res sound at low speed
There is a special way to use a center stand. Simply stand next to the bike, put one foot on the center stand lever, then by putting your full weight on the center stand the entire bike will simply rock into place
I don't think the Two Brothers replacement can is available now?
@@blueyondermoto you could try contacting two Bros with an email, or maybe get lucky with one in eBay. But ya finding parts for a 96 will be not be easy
Re your hates 3&4 you are probably riding in one gear to high I was told this with mine, and it made a big difference to my riding and appreciation of the wonderful VFR750 FV
Yes quite possibly Howard. I was being picky.
I totally agree that the 4th Generation VFR is easily the best looking. I discovered that when in a showroom with 5th and 6th Generation VFR. I wish my 5th Generation VFR had the exact same dashboard as the 4th generation. As the digital speedometer isn't much help at all. I always love seeing all other VFR's out on the road. Great bikes to own on public roads which travel much further than the vast majority.
It's great seeing these older "classic" VFRs out and about shows how good they were and still are!
Design was taken from the NR750, beautiful bike, I think the same that 4th and 5th generation are the best looking and for me the 5th generation rc46 is the last genuine VFR!
midrange power can usually be improved with a jetkit, which you NEED with any exhaust mods. i own a '97 and love it.
Just purchased a 96 with 16,560 miles. Look forward to many exciting enjoyable miles.
I'm sure you will Henry, we just need that spring weather to enjoy the ride fully!
Man...i found this thing to be VERY easy and simple to work on myself even unless carbs had to come off but still not that bad. 170 tires are EVERYWHERE here in the US, and lots of parts on ebay too it seems liek minus fairings and such
Thanks for your comment Shadow. 👍
Terrific machines. I frequently hop between new gen bikes and my old VFR..... outclassed in many ways of course but still a rock solid-do any journey-tourer and workhorse. Going up in value..... ? Just wait and see the values in a few years from now 😮😮
They are unique in their longevity and build quality. Fingers crossed their values do go up in recognition of this.
Thinking on buying a 1993 vfr 750 this helped me find out more about them it has 42,000 km..Thanks
That's great to hear that the video has been of help. Good luck with the Viffer.
you can fit a 180/55/17 on the rear NO PROBLEM. its on mine right now. plenty of room to even go to a 190 if i wanted. if you go to a better shorty exhaust pipe, jet the carbs, open airbox a little, you will get more mid-range power. i like the steady climb of power that the VFR750 has instead of the jerky power of most sport bikes. i got the 1994 vfr750, made into a cafe racer (NO FAIRINGS). 100lb diet from stock weight! BEST BIKE EVER BUILT!
That's a hell of a weight saving!
@@blueyondermoto i weighed a bucket of metal parts i took off about 45lbs. the fairings i thought were probably 40 total. & the old battery was 14lbs (switching to 2lb lithium). finishing the bike now after it sitting in project mode for 10 yrs.......cant wait to ride!
Talk to me about the super build quality, its often spouted but very little evidence is ever presented. Good Vid, have a like!
I think it's certain models and certain periods where Honda excels.
@@blueyondermoto I agree, but its such an often said thing, it has a momentum of its own.
I have a 1991 RC 36-1 with 65000 km and i total agree with you it is a superb bike
They don't make them that good any more!
I love the rc36 and have a rc46, but I dont consider the lack of aids is a "love" precisely. I wish my rc46 had abs or TC
You see I do, it's back to basics and purer more raw riding experience.
I love the sound oof my black vfr. Now I have two 94 RC 36/2 and 2000 RC 46.
Vfr 750 my first love and vfr 800 my Mistress 😊
(Vfr 750 with rear weel from RC 36/1 🤗)
It's a unique sound.
I’ve been riding a year. Bought a 95 a month or two after starting. My dad used to have a 96 and a 99, and my little brother an 88, so they run in the family.
I keep thinking of replacing it with something new but I just cannot imagine what might be as good. Maaaaaybe the BMW K1300, but that’s not as pretty.
Wonderful old bike, and rare now so everyone thinks it’s something very special (which it is!).
Hi Josh I had a 2014 K1300S and I couldn't get along with it. Very fast, fairly comfortable, but it was a long, heavy old barge of a bike. Turning circle of an oil tanker and esa suspension that made handling that was either way to hard or bouncy pogo. Try a newer VFR first!
I'm sure you have been doing it right. But my 91 vfr goes up on the center stand very easy if you grab the left side of the bars with your left hand and grab just above the rearsets with your right hand. May be different on that generation. Love the vid and bike.
I think its my bike, as I say I use the sane technique on a heavier BMW without problem. Glad you like the video. A new one coming out on Friday!
@@blueyondermoto is your bike lowered to your knowledge? That could have something to do with it just throwing out ideas. Can't wait for the video Friday.
@@matthewglaze5398 no it's definitely full ride height.
I got the same bike and the same year. Few years ago I replaced rear tire with 180 :)
Yes you can put a 180 on, but it's not recommended on that rim. Has it worked OK for you?
@@blueyondermoto Yes, it has worked. What is more I did at Honda dealer with their recommendation :)
I have a 1999 model...
a fifth gen VFR 800 fi.. (1998- 2001)
I only have it a few weeks, but she's a great machine, much of what you say here applies to the fifth gen VFR..
I find the bike mildly sore on the wrists after moving up from a 2004 BMW f650 GS, which was a very comfortable bike to ride..
Then again, that might be something to do with my age, posture and riding style.
Hate trying to get the fairings on and off...too many screws.. and the center stand's leverage point is definitely miscalculated.
Just pop something a couple of inches high on to the ground and bump the back wheel on to it, then she's about doable, but still no doddle.
But, I love the sound of her, and she does resemble a two wheeled Ferrari , mine is also red.
Not sure if I love the whine of the camshaft cog set, but her V4 is a beautiful sound to ride to, until the wind blots it out.
She handles well, and brings a smile to my face any time I ride her. Although my shocks feel a little too oversprung . too tight for crappy Irish roads... keep meaning to adjust them for a softer ride.
She does attract psycho drivers though.
Some people see a bright red motorcycle, and think "Movie action scene time", particularly on a Dual carriageway.
Like a red flag to a bull with some drivers.
Looking for a cheap and appropriate luggage set for her at the moment.
Another thing that might not be easy...
But she's worth it.
Come Summer, I hope to get the most from her.
Good luck with the luggage, let us know what you get.
You may also like the BlueyonderMoto Facebook page and website
Hi I have the 5th gen 800 and have Givi racks fitted with panniers and top box .
Panniers are the 22l which are adequate and slim for filtering with 47l top box
I like the look of the 750 a little more than the 800's. The 750 is a little understated in styling, kinda like the Honda ST series, where the 1100 is a more mellow style than the 1300. I like both styles, in both series though.
Yes I agree with that.
Wat kind of windshield do you've got? I've got the stock one but with my 193cm it's quite a bit to short for me 😂
Hi its a double bubble from Powerbronze. I'm not sure if they are still available as it's 3 years since I bought it. It's very effective and I think it looks great.
Same time period as the NSX car. One day I’ll own both. Maybe both in dark green or silver.
A great combo.
I miss my bike 1995 vfr ❤
I’m new to road motorcycles. I’ve had dirt bikes for years and years; as of yesterday, I own a 1995 VFR750. It has 52000 miles on it and it not in flawless condition. (It also came with a spare engine (‘96 with 18K)).
I’m a little concerned about the stock rear shock being enough for my 200 pound body..?
Also, I’m about 6’-3” and wondered about a taller seat.
I enjoyed your video and look forward to spring in Michigan.
-Chris
Yes I think a new shock would be the first thing on my list if I were you. Most good quality sellers / manufacturers will provide a spring to match your weight. A thicker seat may help give you more room too. You may also want to think about bar risers?
....oh and have you given the video a Like and have you subscribed? 😉
Thanks my friend. I have a cb500 from 2001 and I'm thinking on evolution. Already have on my mind the fzs600 fazer 1st model, cbr600 f3, cbr600 f4, and the vfr750 rc36
I'm a Honda man. Had a number of CBR600F's and a CBR600RR it sounds like both would suit you
@@blueyondermoto thanks for that. Btw I suffer a little from my wrists and stuff riding my cb500 long time. Do you think it will be a problem on a cbr?
@@leandroserrano8258 yes it may be Leandro, the CBR600F is quite a sporty riding position so too is the VFR though bar riser conversions are available which may help.
Oh okay. Thanks. I have to think a bit better about it and maybe ride one or two
@@leandroserrano8258 yes give them a try
I would add pushing the machine round my small covered yard area is a bit of a nightmare. Thinking of getting a CRF300 Rally instead.
Nothing worse than your home turf being tricky for maneuvers !
I just bought a vfr750!
Great choice, I'm sure you will enjoy riding it.
@@blueyondermoto thanks mate!
Have the same bike, if there's not much midrange then you're probably looking at a restriction in fuel flow within the carb. Take it off strip it down and give it a thorough clean (or find someone to do it) and you should see an improvement.
Hi Jamie, since then the bike has been looked at by Steve Scott in Mansfield (see other videos) and she's running perfectly (touch wood). I think my expectations of the performance were possibly too high!
Just wondering could you help me how do you adjust the headlight thanks
Hi Eamon, I'm not able to give you advice on this, however, if you ask this on the VFR750 RC36 Facebook forum I'm sure someone will be able to help.
Have you checked the air filter, a K&N filter can ruin the pulling power in the low revs, too much air unless in combination with a complete tuning ( carburetors, exhaust, filter)
A Yamaha Thundercat I owned for a few months ran much worse with a K&N filter compared to the dirty original filter to be replaced.
The VFR 750 RC36Il is one of the best sporty motorcycles that time, the feel of a sports bike without folded up, usually prefer it to the Blackbird I own for 1 year, fast and comfortable but much less sporty feeling.
It's the standard air filter
Blue yonder, US dollars would be $1,587. That is a steal! Congratulations. It is a pretty bike. I have a ‘98 VFR800FI and I love it.
2 years of trouble free (almost) ownership
Hate 1 - it’s not that complex - I’d say it’s a fiddle to get to stuff to do the work as it’s very compact. Most jobs mean all,the fairing panels have to come off but after that it’s not big electrical tech and I’ve done all the jobs bar the valve clearance checks myself on mine since I got it in 2021. This year I chose to put the bike in with a workshop who knew their way round a VFR for the valves clearance checks as he had the tools and experience to lift the cams and buckets to reshim etc if needed ( at 28k they didn’t ). Haynes and Honda manuals are your friend as well as a couple of good Facebook groups.
Hate 2 - Ive fitted an 8 spoke ex RC36-1 so now have the 180 tyre.
Hate 3 - Low speed - yes it’s a bit wobbly at low speed , very nose heavy so requires a bit of input to get it moving in the right direction.
Hate 4 - yes it’s linear but gets spicy at 7 but still not slow
Hate 5 - agreed it’s a struggle. Along with its weight I always sit astride it when taking it of the the C Stand as I don’t want it to get away from me.
I use Steve Scott, as does my VFR friend Ian Liddle.
@@blueyondermoto despite the bike living mainly in North Wales I used the Motorcycle Workshop in Bolney West Sussex for my valve checks. It’s convenient and I spend quite a bit of time in the South too plus it gave me an excuse for nice run out down the Sussex and back to Wales. Tony at MCW was very complimentary and said condition wise my bike was comparable to some 3 year old bikes overall.
They do wear well. Many modern bikes unfortunately don't age as well.
I have a '94 VFR750 with a tick over 100K miles now. I love my bike. For your hate #1 - I do all of my own work. I've had the bike for 20 years now, and know it inside and out. Just adjusted the valves last weekend for a 1,000 +/- mile trip next week from Boston, MA to MD for bike week. Nothing here is overly complex, honestly. For your Hate #2 - I run a 180 rear tire on my 5-spoke original rim. I had been in 170's most of it's life, and had to do an emergency tire replacement 400 miles from home and they had a ton of 180's. I have not been back to a 170 since. That was 10 years ago. For your hate #3 - I have no comment, I don't notice it anymore. For your hate #4 - I have a jet kit along with the aftermarket (also carbon) muffler. I have had to swap back and forth with the original muffler occasionally, and don't notice any change in midrange. So a jet kit might help you. For your hate #5 - I might have to agree with you. LOL
My hate #1 is the fact that I have two solo cowls, one with a broken tab, and one with a cracked tab. grrrr. Hate #2 are those condoms on the mirror stalks. I swapped mine for a set of 2000 VFR mirrors with the thin stalks and no rubber. MUCH better looking. Hate #3 - the damn voltage regulator/rectifier. It melts the wires and connector. Carry a spare or upgrade to the MOSFET setup. I'll be doing that next spring, as I had to replace my wires and connector a few weeks ago while 300 miles from home. I knew about the issue as it's happened to me in the past, so I had a spare pigtail set in my saddlebag and cut and spliced the wires into place in a Harley parking lot. Hate #5 - living in New England caused the stock exhaust head pipes to rot out and had to be replaced this spring. Just went with an eBay set used, though it IS quite nice that England has such an awesome following and new parts availability. My condolences for the loss of the Queen today!
Thanks for those brilliant comments. Glad you're with me on #5! 😀
I tip toed around the RR issue, it's all Hondas of that era, even the later V-Tecs like to combust the electric system.
I've been going to get around to the mirrors myself, there's an outfit that sells ones that copy later Hondas for around £70 so it's on my list too.
Glad you liked the video and great to have your interaction.
Not really a good idea to have the sun directly behind you as you film. Also you should film more of the bike as you talk.
Anyways you have a nice looking 4th gen VFR 750. Did you upgrade the front forks as well as fitting the Hagon rear shock?
I was looking for a really nice mint VFR750 myself, but then one came along in the form of a red 5th gen VFR800Fi 1998 with 4k miles on the clock, mint like new, so I bought that and still have it. That was 7 years ago. Now has 6,200 miles on it. All dry summer miles. It's still like it came out of the showroom save for a high level exhaust that I fitted last year. It's a keeper. I still fancy a VFR750 96/97 though. But then there are so many bikes I fancy at the moment ............. Can only ride one at a time.
Re the light, in December you have to take it when you can but afterwards I was cursing not positioning the bike differently.
Sto per ritirare una anche io e i tuoi consigli mi saranno utili apprezzo le tue sensazioni nel descrivere le caratteristiche di un mezzo dalle linee bellissime e dal suono coinvolgente al di là delle pure prestazioni grazie
Grazie Antonio
I have had my VRF for 23 years. Never had a problem getting tyres. If the bike feels ponderous at low speeds. Get Conti Road Attacks. 7K revs is midrange.
To me mid range is 5 to 7k. It has a power kick at the same point as my old NC23 400RR.
Will think about Contis, though Bridgestone BT016 will most likely go on. Its not non availability, its lack of options compared to the 180s.
@Blueyonder Moto Bridgestone es are the absolute worst tyres for this bike. It simply reduces to lean into corners on them. Put Contis on and it turns on a sixpence.
@@theflyinggauntlet interesting Jeff, personally I've always found they have been great on everything from a K1300S to a CBR600RR
@@blueyondermoto Not on a VFR though. As mentioned I have had mine for 23 years. I have used Bridgestone, Metzeler, Contis, Pirelli and Dunlop. The Bridgestones were, by a country mile, the worst.
It is a nice looking bike👍 but I’d like to know where in the uk you managed to find a great road in lovely sunshine yesterday. It’s been foggy and miserable all weekend here in Yorkshire. Have a great Christmas 🎄 👍
Sunny Pembrokeshire Nick.its a rarity believe me.
I had the first VFR Monoshock in Red with white wheels. Beutiful and from new. So Beutiful in detail. It could do the Nurenberg ring, and tour Spain two up with soft baggage. That is a major point, with two people the VFR is stabhle, the CBR is not. Only fault, on a hot day in France or Spain it cooks your legs. The 800 does not. Ride on
I had a scarlet coloured 1989 model (with white wheels too) much lighter and sportier than my 1996 bike. Great bike that unfortunately came to a sticky end after I had a big accident on it! Thanks for your comments Peter.
Not difficuly bikes to work on yourself if you know what your looking at. They're actually really straight foward engines, reg/rec burning out caused by the tiny loom is the main issue... also cant really compare a 25+ year old bike to a new machine...
The center stand... theres a knack to get in on, once you've figured that out, its a breeze
Agreed on the knack, just that it's much easier lifting on to the stand on my heavier BM ! Reg /Rec failure on older Hondas is a real achilles heel, I had this issue on my old Baby Blade CBR400RR. Fortunately, it was an easy and cheap fix, no damage to the system as a whole
@@blueyondermoto yep.. most suffer with it. Mine never failed but I fitted the vfrness loom and new reg/rec for peace of mind !
@@samgoddard6738 that's interesting I'll look that up Sam. Thanks for your interest in the video and replies. If you haven't 👍and subscribed I'd appreciate it if you would do so, it really helps with TH-cam algorithm and exposure for the channel. Al.
@@blueyondermoto definitely worth looking at. Mind you... mine was ok... 120,000 miles on it aswell!
Will do 👍🏽👍🏽
The reason you are missing midvrange torque is because of your exhaust. Change it with the original exhaust and you will get a very torque motor. The VFR runs best on stock exhaust.
It's actually better than it was with the stocker, much lighter too.
@@blueyondermoto Also Dynojet stage 1 helps, with or without K&N filter.
@@BurntHippy1 ah yes the good old dynojet kits. To be honest the carbs probably need a full clean too.
Thanks for a very straightforward review of a bike that's over 25 years old - no VFR or any bike of its age (come to that, any bike of any age) is without fault. To your hates:
1) don't let the complexity of the V4 put you off doing routine servicing. Yes, doing valve clearances is a right old faff, but mine's got 150K km on it, and its tolerances are still within factory limits. Change the oil and filters regularly, find a decent bike mechanic for the trickier jobs - that's about it.
2) the rear 170/60-17 is a pain to find. IME a 180/55 fits, is readily available and I can barely notice the difference.
3) Ponderous at low speeds: the VFR was set up as a bit of a lazy-steering bike; the headstock angle is quite lax, the front suspension was designed to soak up bumps. Improving the steering and the front suspension can be done quite cheaply - fit CBR F4i front forks, put a shim under a (properly adjustable aftermarket) rear shock, twiddle with the fork oil/ air gap settings. Needle-roller head bearings help. Also: tyre pressure matters - keep the front at 36psi, it works.
4) Lack of mid-range is a difficult query to answer - it depends what you expected (it's a '90s 750 with carburettors, not a fuel-injected litre bike) and what you had before. In any case, get the carbs working to the best of their ability and at the very least, get them balanced. And fit a new air filter.
5) The centrestand is easy - lean on it with yer left foot with all yer weight, give the grab handle a bit of a tug and up she comes.
All your likes/ loves are the same as mine and the same as anyone who's owned one. Yes, there are faster bikes and more comfortable bikes and cheaper bikes, but none of them are replacements.
This is mine: www.flickr.com/photos/56546711@N03/8505809392/
Interesting about the forks mod. I owned a couple of CBR600F's both great bikes with quick but predictable steering. I shall look in to that.
The rear shock is a Hagon replacement and that did sharpen the responsiveness of the bike. Felt very firm initially, due in part to the expired life expectancy of the OE unit already on there.
I think the mid range is my expectation rather than the bike, overall its difficult to fault. At its age and mileage (53k) its remarkable how good it is to ride. I was nit picking!
Is that R1 forks and brakes on your bike?
@@carlandersson4982 no entirely standard forks and the petal brake discs were already on the bike when I bought it so I'm unable to say which brand they are.
@@blueyondermoto I ment on taxus750's bike, that was unclear! He had a link to his bike :)
@@carlandersson4982 Sorry for the late reply but yes 2006 R1 forks (well spotted). It's a set-up I bought off a mate of mine who designed it originally for his '04 VTEC and no, it's not a simple thing to do.
mmm,think i'll stick with me RC 24
That's the great thing about bikes, there's one to suit everyone. Btw I had a 24 too!
I put a nitron shock on the bike it made such a difference.
Yes I did consider a Nitron but settled on the Hagon. You ride around soggy handling for ages and only realise how bad it was when you replace the shock. Mind you after 50k miles to be expected
@@blueyondermoto yes mine was 22 years old. You get used to it soon as I put the shocker on had the front fork internals upgrade and new tyres it was amazing the difference. I spent a lot on it but plan to keep her for good. Hoping to get a nc750x next year to do some touring on .
@@neilwiddison6529 the NC is an underrated bike. Thanks for the comments, appreciated. Also did you like and subscribe? See also my other vids you nay also like.
@@blueyondermoto I will mate and look after that vfr.
For gods sake why cant anyone make those side fairings with the naca ducts for cheap. I wish those ebay guys were cheaper. I love this bike and swap between her and my cb1100 during the summer.
I've got a modern BMW and also prefer the riding experience of the VFR
I bought a 95 rc 36 because i heard they were great bikes very comfortable but very fast and sporty , nice video shame about the music over your voice though, tone it down a bit and it would be much better .
Thanks for the feedback, will bear it in mind.
Your hates are really subjective, sorry!
My opinion:
Tyre size is not correct. It should be 170 and there is a lot of options you can choose from! Plus it must steer shittier at 180. The bike needs a pretty pointy back tyre (will help with low speed steering as well). Ive checked old 1990’s folders about tyre profile for these.
Complexity == second to none. Even the fairing bolts are a dream for maintenance!! They even split the battery holder into two pieces so you can remove the shock in 15 minutes:) Ive worked on this bike since day one that I had my license. Its a dream to work on because it is not demanding and not complex. A bmw r1200 is much more complex. I know because i have rebuilt an r1150 twinspark this year (thank you coronatimes). Damn motronic!!!
Midrange pull == do some tuning! And dont forget that this v4 has an immense bore but less stroke and a really funny firing order. (Almost crossplane) It peaks a bit at 4k and then again at 7k.
My hates;
the fairings for a 1993 are not to be found NOS so im screwed if i drop it.
Fuel consumption is terrifying. Mine does 1l per 16km. Thats efficient for these v4s. Most do 1/14 or less.
Brakes: they invented this bike to ride, not to brake. They literally use the same brakes as a pan european…
Suspension: the bike flies through the curve like a nodding indian on a magic carpet
They're supposed to be subjective, opinions can't be anything else. I know 170 is the correct tyre size the point I was making is choice is limited compared to 180.
It's going to feel down on midrange compared to you other bikes. I find my vfr a doddle to put on the centre stand . You are not worthy of a vfr lol.
Tis true I think my springs need refreshing. Spoilt by how easy the BMWs are
Thanks for this. I enjoyed the review. I have the 92 vfr and love it---but also have that same issue about being 'ponderous' (though never used that particular word before in my life!) on 90 corners, at slow speeds, etc.. compared with my previous 750 (a "79 yamaha special). I might be wise to also replace the rear shock, though it is pretty comfortable overall. I haven't had the experience with a rider on back to join me so far. (cue tiny violin) Do you have a more comfortable after-market seat reccomendation?
I notice yours has a much higher tail section beyond the seat. I wonder the reason. Is that a storage compartment?
Stay safe on those narrow roads--especially driving on the wrong side like you do over there across the pond! XD
Cheers!
Good morning from a sunny UK 🇬🇧. Yes, the shock replacement does help along with heavier fork oil. Since that video I've also replaced the head bearings with quality Japanese ones, again improving the feel (removing that slight click from play in the steering head bearings, noticeable when you come to a halt).
The tail cover slips over the standard dual seat (you remove the passenger grab handles). The tail units were available on this model from Honda (not sure about in the US though) many have now been lost or damaged and finding a replacement at a sensible price is difficult. Im not sure if this was available on your model, if so with hunting you may find a genuine or a copy. I leave mine in place all the time as the bike looks so much better with it. I've found the standard seat really comfy so not considered replacing it. If I did I'd look at getting it refoamed and covered at a specialist seat upholsterer. There are a few good ones here in the UK and I'm sure in the US too. Good luck and thanks for watching!
I commented on FB, don't ever sell never ever thats the exact model i had
No intention of doing so at the moment John.
Hello! I have the same bike, and i love it, i have change the rear wheel to the eight spoke from the rc36-1, it fits perfect and looks very good. I also have changes the mirrors to them from the vfr 800, They look much better :-) Greetings from Denmark
Thats great Lasse, I may look at retro fitting an 8 spoke wheel.
Exactly that, the RC36/1 wheel is the way to go, but as it is in big demand, expect to pay big money..
Regards the lack of mid range, I believe that's a characteristic of the /2 I don't find my /1 lacking in that department.
The carbs were changed between models, and I think that the power curve changed considerably.