Besst First Gen VFR to buy?

Looking to complete my collection of significant bikes of my youth. a VFR is number 6 on my list. I had a '85 VFR500 Interceptor.. Bought used and it was a nightmare with cam problems. I've read that '86, '87 VFR700's are the most reliable and best buys.

Any and all input will be greatly appreciated.

My present collection consists of:
- 1964 Bridgestone 60 Sport - Survivor
- 1966 Honda CL160 - Restored
- 1972 Yamaha AT1 125 Enduro - in the process
- 1976 Honda CB400F - Restored
- 1975 Yamaha XS5B - restoration nearly completed

 

From 86 onwards, VFR700/750's have a pretty bulletproof engine. All of the cam wear and camchain tensioner faults with the 82-85 engines were dealt with. The only bits of the 86/87 that I personally don't like (and I owned 3 of them) were the fork diameters and wheel sizes, which are all pretty small by other/modern standards. However given the rest of your collection, this clearly isn't an issue for you! If it were my decision I would look for a later model (1990 onwards) which has modern wheel widths, beefier cartridge forks and the single-side swing arm.

IMO there's little practical difference between the 700 and 750 for performance (unless top speed or 1/4 mile times matter to you) and the equipment is identical. IIRC the 87 VFR700 was said to have some improvements to the spring/damper rates over the 86. Bottom line I would buy the one that had the best chassis/bodywork as the mechanical bits should be OK.

 

Thanks much that's what I hoped to hear. Remember I'm trying to replicate my original bikes, but without the inherent flaws. Skinny fork tubes and unusual tire//wheel sizes are inconsequential.

 

The 1986/7 VFR700/750's are the ones to own! After the original and best VFR, they became heavier and more sport touring oriented, in my opinion.
I also still have a soft spot for the 83-85 VF750's too! The 500 model was supposed to be a real gem as well. No cam problems, great looks, and a torquey engine. Ah, one day... when I get a bigger garage!