I'm new here and I spent a lot of Sunday searching and learning a good amount about these bikes. The 98-01 VFR's are the ones that really call to me as they seem more simple than the newer ones (IMO), it's also fuel injected unlike the older ones (I dislike carburetors!). Anyway, I found two local bikes, one that has 15K miles, Metzler tires, Corbin seat, European Frame Slider (are these good, better than most?). He's asking $3500 because it was in a 10mph drop where he rashed some of the left fairing, crankcase and dented the tank. Is this bike worth it, or should I be looking at the $4200 10K mile VFR with aftermarket windshield, D & D exhaust, Genmar bar risers? Both bike are red (not my frist choice) and I have a feeling that if i wait for a yellow one it will cost more than these or take longer to find Lastly, as with my previous bikes I plan to ride this to work, which is under 2 miles away, with the occasional weekend (and sometimes weeknight) 50-60mile cruises that do not include much highway riding. Would this bike suit me okay? my previous two bikes both cruisers (83 Shadow 750 & 96 Magna 750) so I have little experience on these fully faired bikes. Should I just forget about the VFR and stick with the Magna? I wont be able to purchase a VFR (if this is the future bike for me) until I hear back from the insurance company if my Magna will be considered totaled or not (which should be some time this week). I would greatly appreciate any comments/input regarding these two bikes I posted and input on whether this may or may not be the right bike for me. Thanks!
This bike is perfect for you. You described my routine as far as commuting and getting away occasionally. The $4200 sounds good seeing as how bar risers and new pipes are two of the most popular mods to these bikes. Take a look at it, listen to it, test ride it if possible. Good luck.
I'd work with the $4200 bike. Fewer miles, doesnt need a new fairing and tank, etc... Since you are used to cruisers, you'll probably appreciate having the bar risers and aftermarket windscreen. It still won't be a standard, but about as close as you can get on a sportbike.
The bike will most likely suit your needs to a tee. Your situation sounds similar to how I came to own a VFR. I knew very little about them until I ran into one for sale. I bought it and have been happier with this bike than any bike before it. I have had it over two years now, and enjoy as much or more than when I first got it. It's just a great all-around bike. Good luck. Oh I'd go for the lowest damage bike as if you want to fix those probs, they'd cost over $1000 probably, and they'd drive you nuts. Now, if the lower priced one will drop $1000, then get it and you can decide on fixing it with the saved money.
