Gen 4 Review - the best road bike ever built

Was checking out for any new news on the VFR1200 and found this rather complimentary review on the 4th Gen in MCN. Must admit its looks right on the money except of course the bit about the best bike ever built, its a very close 2nd to the 5th Gen. :biggrin:



MCN overall verdict ***** ( from 5 )

For many, bike journalists included, the best road bike ever built. In 1994 Honda revised an already exceptional motorcycle, giving it super-model looks while still retaining those quintessential VFR qualities of legendary reliability, consistent performance and supreme comfort. The bodywork become less angular and gained Ferrari-esque louvres on its side panels.

Engine MCN rating ****

Although lacking the power of newer machines, the VFR’s sublime V4 still impresses. It never gets out of breath and the near tidal mid range wafts you along on waves of unflustered power. For newcomers and more experienced riders alike this bike rewards with a forgiving ride and silky smooth power delivery.

Ride and Handling MCN rating ****

A new frame, swingarm, wheels and exhaust all cut 10kg (22lbs) from the VFR’s dry weight, but this is still very much sports-tourer instead of sportsr. The ride is smooth, the handling neautral and predictable. Only the slightly soft suspension limits heroics. But that together with the relaxed riding position and armchair-like comfort of the seat means that you arrive feeling human and thirsty for more.


Equipment MCN rating ****

Plush, comforting and classy without being extraneous. The pillion handles fold away neatly beneath the seat. There’s a streamlined pillion cover. The dash is classy and thorough (and includes a digitial clock and fuel gauge). The mirrors are good and there’s a main stand. A slight criticism would be the low screen and lack of a fuel gauge, but that’s being picky.

Quality and Reliability MCN rating *****

For a Japanese superbike, the VFR is about as good as it gets. Build quality is sublime, reliability (apart from a few duff alternators and suspension that gets soggy over 20,000miles) is total. Don’t let high mileages put you off: VFR head over 75,000 with impunity…


Value MCN rating *****

A Honda PR man once (fairly) famously joked that “I don’t care how much a VFR costs, it’s worth three times as much.” He’s not far wrong. The VFR750 remains both revered and relevant and although used preices remain healthy, it’s still one helluva lot of bike for the money…


Full Linky:
Honda VFR750F (1995-1998) - Honda Motorcycle Reviews