New to this world.

Beginner doesn't begin to describe me. Only bike I have ever been on had pedals, however I came across a running 1992 VFR for $700 and jumped at it. Looking for advice, common problems, parts and anything else I might need to know. I have awhile before its 100% riding condition at least in my opinion.

 

Congrats on the purchase and welcome aboard.

A few suggestions: Take some classes. Lots of classes. We don't know you, but we still don't want you to become a statistic.

Now, once you start getting classes under you belt, need to make sure the bike is safe. Tires good (and check the manufacture date to make sure they haven't been sitting)? Brakes work? Chain and sprockets? Fluids change including oil, brake, clutch and coolant?

Gear - always a choice, but suggest you get some. Not just a helmet. Gloves, pants, jacket and boots. No sneakers. There are plenty of quality used items if you can't afford new.

We'll need to know more about the bike in order to give other suggestion. How many miles? Assuming you didn't ride it, but did the seller take it for a run to show you it works? You know any friends that ride?

Post up your location in your profile. Perhaps someone is close by that would be willing to spend some time going over the bike with you. If you were close to me, I would.

 

The person I purchased it from started it and we let it run up to temp. He jumped on it drove it around so I know it's 90% mechanically sound. I know he took of the back brakes so I'll have to put them back on. Where can I get a manual for this bike?

 

Welcome to The World Fwin!

I assume you are talking about the service manual? I'm sure at one time the manual was available for download here but I have not seen a link to it. There was a download over at VFRD but the link seems to be broken. You can try, although a little pricey, going to www.helminc.com and seeing if they have a printed version of it available. Free would be preferred, but sometimes it's just not in the cards, so you might also check eBay, I've seen them in printed as well as on a CD there.

Pliskin's advice is probably what the rest of us would say so I'll say "ditto" there. Although nothing beats hands on training, there are some good books out there that can help you out and get you started "mentally". 'Total Control' by Lee Parks, 'Proficient Motorcycling' by David Hough and if you're really feeling adventurous, the 'Twist of the Wrist' books by Keith Code and 'Sport Riding Techniques' by Nick Ienatsch.

As far as gear goes, best to go to a local shop and try stuff on. You can also check Craig's List for used gear. As far as helmets, look for SNELL and DOT and/or CE rated helmets. A helmet is really one place where you do not want to skimp out on and you'll also want to make sure you get fitted properly, so going into a reputable shop is the best place to start. Although I don't recommend buying gear "blindly", especially if it's our first time buying gear, but www.revzilla.com has some good video reviews on gear and also has good prices and great customer service. It's a good place to learn some of the features and benefits of some of the gear out there.

Like Pliskin, if you were closer, I'd be more than willing to help.

Good Luck!

 

I believe a found the service manual
ip.infinity.nu:9000/vfr/vfr750f.pdf