Very close to buying a VFR - need some help though.

[Sirlot]

Hey everyone,

This is my first post and I do have some repetitive questions – so please bare with me. I have been researching the VFR for about 3 months now. Lot of my research came from this forum! Everything I’m looking for points to the 6th gen VFR. I currently own a 2001 SV 650s – which I really like, but I never intended it to be the bike I’d own for years. I do with my next purchase.

With that being said:

-What are some of the differences from the 2003 model to present? I found a great deal on a 2003, just wanted to make sure I wasn’t missing out on something on the later models.

-I have seen these bikes posted as VFR 800 and VFR 800A. What does the A stand for? Anti-lock breaks (link system)?

-Do all models have V-TEC? Or just 2006 +?

-I found a 2006 model for $7200 with 8300 miles. Sound like a fair deal? Just wanted a perspective on this question.

…………….

I was somewhat concerned about the weight, but everything I’ve read, I’m really not concerned about it much anymore. The last test for the VFR is for me to test drive it. But I anticipate I’ll love it.


Thanks for all your help! I enjoy this forum even though I do not currently own a VFR. I plan on owning one soon though.

[Kevin_70]

-What are some of the differences from the 2003 model to present? I found a great deal on a 2003, just wanted to make sure I wasn’t missing out on something on the later models.

In 2006 the VTEC engagement points were lowered w/in the RPM range. Engages now at 6400rpm vs 7000rpm. Not positive but I belive it disengages around 6800rpm. Supposedly this was done to improve/smooth out the transistion. Other than that, just bold new colors and graphics really.

-I have seen these bikes posted as VFR 800 and VFR 800A. What does the A stand for? Anti-lock breaks (link system)?

Yeah, ABS.

-Do all models have V-TEC? Or just 2006 +?

2002 model years on all have VTEC, known as the 6th generation of the VFR

-I found a 2006 model for $7200 with 8300 miles. Sound like a fair deal? Just wanted a perspective on this question.

Seems kinda high to me. ABS model? OEM hard bags included?

[Big3]

It took 3 months for you to find this forum?

-I found a 2006 model for $7200 with 8300 miles. Sound like a fair deal? Just wanted a perspective on this question.

Seems kinda high to me. ABS model? OEM hard bags included?

I agree... need more info

[JHKolb]

Kevin pretty much answered all your questions and to add, even though the VFR is a bit on the heavy side this really is a plus for a sport touring bike, give it a bit more stability on the highway.

And $7200 for an '06 with 8300 miles is a bit high (unless it is fully modded I.E: hard bags, cruise control, Heli bars, etc., and in mint cosmetic shape). I bought my '07 25th anniversary right out of the crate at a dealer for $9,500 back in July and right now Honda is discounting leftover bikes a great deal.

[Sirlot]

Kevin pretty much answered all your questions and to add, even though the VFR is a bit on the heavy side this really is a plus for a sport touring bike, give it a bit more stability on the highway.

And $7200 for an '06 with 8300 miles is a bit high (unless it is fully modded I.E: hard bags, cruise control, Heli bars, etc., and in mint cosmetic shape). I bought my '07 25th anniversary right out of the crate at a dealer for $9,500 back in July and right now Honda is discounting leftover bikes a great deal.

Well I stand corrected. It has 6000 miles. Got this one confused with another. It does have aftermarket rims (not sure what kind), 4 year warrenty, little extras - tank bag, tank protecter, fender eliminator.

Thanks for the answers! With the VFR being on the heavy side, how is it in the twisties, getting through congestewd traffic, slow rolls?

No - I've found this board months ago. Just been lurking off and on. Took three months to post.

[Lgn001]

Hello, Sirlot. Just so you know, if you happen to be located in California, an out-of-state vehicle has to have at least 15,000 miles on it at the time of sale, or it cannot be registered for highway use. I had to pass on a couple of bikes from different states because of this.

[drewl]

The VFR thinks it is a smaller bike and does OK acting like it. Lots of people ride them like sport bikes on their tours. You may think the difference is huge for a while after the 650, but she won't leave you hangin.

[Sirlot]

Hello, Sirlot. Just so you know, if you happen to be located in California, an out-of-state vehicle has to have at least 15,000 miles on it at the time of sale, or it cannot be registered for highway use. I had to pass on a couple of bikes from different states because of this.

Wow, never heard of anything like that. I'm located in Atl, GA.

[NeverlosT]

my vfr is quick. if you have the nuggets and skill it will do all you want and more. that and it is comfy to ride for a looooong time. Cant beat it. But haggle on those prices, thats too much green. peece.

[infonm]

I just bought a new 06 OTD for 7200 + tax. Non-abs.
I'd keep looking. Deals can be found.

[Action]

It does have aftermarket rims (not sure what kind), 4 year warrenty, little extras - tank bag, tank protecter, fender eliminator.

I'm curious as to what kind of rims it has. The only aftermarket rims I've seen for the VFR are pretty expensive. If you take it for a test ride snap a picture. The warranty is good, make sure that its transferable. Good luck!

Action

[Sirlot]

I just bought a new 06 OTD for 7200 + tax. Non-abs.
I'd keep looking. Deals can be found.

Nice! I like the sound of that. I will definitly look around. I haven't had a chance yet to visit some dealers around GA to see what's on the floor.

[KrautBurner]

if yo ulook around,

you will find several dealers tend to "specialize" in "new non current" bikes

I picked up my "new" 2004 in April of 2006 (with 00,001 miles)
ABS, 5 year Honda warrenty, Tax, Title, and over $1K worth of Gear (Arai Helmet, Joe Rocket Jacket, Gloves, Alpine* boots, ect...) for $10,000 Out the door

my local dealer has 2 white 2006 viffers right now

[jev]

You can find several good deals if you look around. Just found an 07 Anniversary edition on ebay for $8700 with extras in NC. Be wary of buying from dealers that have a super low price listed. Usually, they try to add on outrageous prep and doc fees. There's a dealer in Charlotte NC that advertises great prices, them rapes their customers with $200 set up fees and $200 doc fees etc, etc, so by the time you pay all that, you're paying more than you could've somewhere else.

[JHKolb]

if yo ulook around,

you will find several dealers tend to "specialize" in "new non current" bikes

I picked up my "new" 2004 in April of 2006 (with 00,001 miles)
ABS, 5 year Honda warrenty, Tax, Title, and over $1K worth of Gear (Arai Helmet, Joe Rocket Jacket, Gloves, Alpine* boots, ect...) for $10,000 Out the door

my local dealer has 2 white 2006 viffers right now

True - a dealer near me just listed a "NEW" 1996 KTM Duke 620, 1 mile, never gassed, must have been sitting in a crate in the back of the warehouse under a tarp or something. Looks like a pretty cool bike. As well as a 1997 KTM 200 dirt bike. They were only listed for a day and they sold.

http://www.montgomeryvillecc.com/pre...7R0&veh=748839

http://www.montgomeryvillecc.com/pre...7R0&veh=748842

[azpnshr]

Sirlot, I was in Gwinnett County til last year....that being said, you know that driving quite a distance really isn't that big a deal to go look at potential bikes. When I was there and looking for wheels, I'd include a 100/150 mile radius just cause everything is sooooo spread out! I think Lawrenceville Honda had some deals on the VFR, but not positive. You might also think about trying to find a local rental for the day....I rented one before I bought mine; did all the research and wanted to test drive for an extended distance before I put down the cash and POSSIBLY find out that it wouldn't 'fit the bill'. Best money I've spent just to confirm my findings (and NO buyers remorse!!!!). Good luck and happy hunting.

[reg71]

Hello, Sirlot. Just so you know, if you happen to be located in California, an out-of-state vehicle has to have at least 15,000 miles on it at the time of sale, or it cannot be registered for highway use. I had to pass on a couple of bikes from different states because of this.

yeah, I just heard of a guy who got a smokin deal on an RVF then it had too few miles so he couldnt register it. he thought he'd beat the system so he changed out the speedo/odo. They caught it at the dmv. he was asking how to fix it now and I said, 'track bike'. He'll never get that thing straight in the system now.

[chris in va]

I'll be selling my 99 here soon if you're interested. Might save some $$$.

[foxfire1]

You'd save money on valve adjustments, anyway.

[RVFR]

yeah, I just heard of a guy who got a smokin deal on an RVF then it had too few miles so he couldnt register it. he thought he'd beat the system so he changed out the speedo/odo. They caught it at the dmv. he was asking how to fix it now and I said, 'track bike'. He'll never get that thing straight in the system now.

How sad is that.

[eddievalleytrailer]

yeah, I just heard of a guy who got a smokin deal on an RVF then it had too few miles so he couldnt register it. he thought he'd beat the system so he changed out the speedo/odo. They caught it at the dmv. he was asking how to fix it now and I said, 'track bike'. He'll never get that thing straight in the system now.

Why in the world would CA want a used vehicle to have 15000 miles on it to be able to register it? I can only think they don't want non-CA models in the state? But, if it passes the emissions test, why do they want it to have miles on it? I'll never figure out what those crazy CA law makers are thinking. I'd just put the bike on the center stand, put it in high gear, hold the throttle at 80 mph with a little tape, and let her run for 187.5 hours.

[Mainjet]

Actually the rule is 7500 miles, they don't want people bringing in new out of state bikes( smog issues). I bought an FJR 1300 in phoenix last year with only 2000 miles, to my horror I found out a week later that I could not register it. While researching this on the web I found some very sad stories. One guy bought a new $45,000 GMC diesel truck in Utah while on vacation, and had to sell it for a $7,000.00 loss because they would not register it. I sold the FJR on Ebay to a guy in North Carolina, & he shipped it. I only lost about $100.00 on the deal, I was lucky. Be aware residents of the peoples republic of Ca.

[eddievalleytrailer]

If anyone in CA wants to buy a new out-of-state bike, send it to me, here in TN. I'll be glad to put the first 15,000 (or 7500 which ever it is) miles on it for you. Then I'll send it to you.

[Sirlot]

Sirlot, I was in Gwinnett County til last year....that being said, you know that driving quite a distance really isn't that big a deal to go look at potential bikes. When I was there and looking for wheels, I'd include a 100/150 mile radius just cause everything is sooooo spread out! I think Lawrenceville Honda had some deals on the VFR, but not positive. You might also think about trying to find a local rental for the day....I rented one before I bought mine; did all the research and wanted to test drive for an extended distance before I put down the cash and POSSIBLY find out that it wouldn't 'fit the bill'. Best money I've spent just to confirm my findings (and NO buyers remorse!!!!). Good luck and happy hunting.

Cool - I plan on having about the same radius. One thing that sucks is most dealers don't have thier bikes listed. So I plan on making some calls before I drive out to far. But Just keeping my eyes and ears open.

I never thought about renting one for the day! Great idea. Searching local rentals right now.

[vfr=>]

If you are near Atlanta, check out WOW motorsports. They usually have some pretty good deals on used bikes! Welcome to VFR forum.

[Sirlot]

Well looks like I found me a VFR. Hopefully picking it up this weekend. 06 White with 1900 miles. Already eqiuped with Corbin seat, Factory side bags and Heli bars. Man this bike is beautiful! And can't stop thinking about it. Oh paid $9700. The transaction is final yet, but I don't forsee any problems. Crossing fingers.

[pvancle]

Here's the dirt on registering out-of-state vehicles in CA:

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr9.htm

"NOTE: California law prohibits importing and/or registering a new vehicle with less than 7,500 miles at the time of purchase unless it meets or is exempt from California Emission standards. If you acquire a 49-State vehicle (manufactured for all states except California) from another state or country, you may not be able to register your vehicle in this state."

Fortunately, the 6th gen vfr meets CA Emission standards. The bike you buy in TN is the same that sold here in CA.

[drewl]

You just have to have it smog tested like any other vehicle.

[pvancle]

On Honda's website, it states that VFR (07-08 models) meets CARB standards. CARB is California Air Resources Board. Looking at archive articles on the 2002 VFR, I see that the '02 engine met CA emissions too. Here's one from Motorcyclist:

http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/fe...tor/index.html

Before I purchased my current VFR, I looked at buying a used one in NV and did all of this upfront research about getting it registered the state.

[eddievalleytrailer]

Well looks like I found me a VFR. Hopefully picking it up this weekend. 06 White with 1900 miles. Already eqiuped with Corbin seat, Factory side bags and Heli bars. Man this bike is beautiful! And can't stop thinking about it. Oh paid $9700. The transaction is final yet, but I don't forsee any problems. Crossing fingers.

1900 miles??? How in the world could anyone pay big bucks for a new bike and only put 1900 miles on it? I don't doubt the mileage because I see very low mileage bikes around here for sale. I'm glad you found a better-than-new VFR. Now, do something about that mileage. Have fun and ride it.