Riding on a nice day...learned a couple things

[PuCaudata]

I took the bike out today riding. The group I was riding with consisted of:

GSXR-1000
GSXR-600
99 Honda Interceptor
GSXR-750
YZF-R6 (2)

and my 07 VFR.

I've learned that:
1)I don't "need" anymore power for a few years
2)the VFR will more than keep up with the 600-750 race bikes
3)the V-4 has more usable power in the midrange than most of the "inline" bikes
4)the 2-4 valve trasition for the VTEC is not noticeable in fast riding on curvy roads
5)The ergonomics for my bike are far more comfortable than most...I was the only one (besides the other VFR rider) that wanted to continue the ride
6)The sound of a VFR idling/kickin' some ass will surprise most cruiser guys
7)VFR's have much better fit n' finish than most sportbikes out there.
8)Having a liter-bike doesn't mean much if you're afraid of it
9)I'm really glad I didn't get a CBR

The ride was from Great Falls, MT to Holter Lake (south of GF) on a frontage road that follows the interstate (I-15). It was the first really good riding day this year...65-70 degrees, wind 5-10 mph SW. Great day, indeed.

[KC-10 FE]

PuC, what tires do you have, stock?

I'm quite happy with the 100hp my bike makes. I don't want more power, I want less weight. Anyone who's ever ridden a Hawk GT or Duc Monster will verify this.

KC-10 FE out...

[John451]

Originally Posted by PuCaudata

I took the bike out today riding.

3)the V-4 has more usable power in the midrange than most of the "inline" bikes

Its always nice to have a a great days ride.

on 3) the VFR does have better midrange stomp than 600's so less demanding to keep on boil over 50 miles of tight twisties but the Superbikes like the CBR1000RR / Gixer 1000 have traction motor like Midranges that kill the VFR's but the VFR's v4 pulses help the tyres maintain traction on a good dry road at WOT exiting corners without ARC'ing the rear in lower gears like Litre bikes can.

[NorcalBoy]

The traction is helped by the fact that you're carrying around a couple of cinder blocks as ballast.

[John451]

Originally Posted by NorcalBoy

The traction is helped by the fact that you're carrying around a couple of cinder blocks as ballast.

Seems I'm the lone ranger but I like the VFR's current weight as it helps squish the ripples, dips and bumps of my favourite country back roads that have some of my Sports bike riding mates whingeing about head shakes and being knocked around.

[powerslave]

Originally Posted by John451

Seems I'm the lone ranger but I like the VFR's current weight as it helps squish the ripples, dips and bumps of my favourite country back roads that have some of my Sports bike riding mates whingeing about head shakes and being knocked around.

I do have to agree with you on this point.
Here in Winnipeg,the roads are pretty much shit.(Heaving frost joints and potholes)
Guys on SS bikes get their ass paddled over all those bumpy expansion jouints and my VFR boots over them like buttah!!!(relatively speaking).
More wieght plus more compliant suspension means less fatigue over less then perfect roads which equals a more enjoyable ride!!!

I have knocked my VFR for being "porky" before but maybe I should consider that a blessing in this respect!

[chomper]

PuC, its kinda nice to get out with different bikes to compare IMO the viffer is the best all around street bike. I'm with kc don't need more hp just lose a few pounds the fun is in the twisties any one can go fast in a straight line.

[SLOav8r]

Today, I learned not to forget a real camera when you're out riding. Motorola's cellphone camera sucks ass, or else you'd see the amazing sunset and the ocean.



And +1 on the VFR being the best all around sportbike ever.

[PuCaudata]

Originally Posted by KC-10 FE

PuC, what tires do you have, stock?

I'm quite happy with the 100hp my bike makes. I don't want more power, I want less weight. Anyone who's ever ridden a Hawk GT or Duc Monster will verify this.

KC-10 FE out...

They're what came stock on the bike...Metzeler ME Z4...120/70 ZR 17 in front...180/55 ZR 17 on the rear.

What's up?

[PuCaudata]

I also wanted to mention that the 99 VFR I rode with hauled some serious ass. I had no trouble keeping up with everything else (except the literbike), but that 4th gen made me work to keep up. Now, I know...it was probably the rider being better than the rest of us. But, I totally expected to be able to reel this guy in out of every corner. Not the case...he surprised all of us today. Just thought you guys might find that interesting...for some reason

P.S. The gear "whine" does sound cool...I kinda wish mine did it.