All Categories - V4 Dreams

Gorgeous 2d-gen 700 in Florida

3/4/2019

Click on image for the C-list ad.

What: 1987 VFR750 F2
Where: Ft. Walton Beach, Florida
Why: A beautiful pearl example
Price: $4500

In the second (and final) year of the second-gen Interceptor, Honda offered only the "tariff beater" 700cc F2 model, in either blue/gray or elegant Pearl Crescent White.

This beautiful example is being offered as an "all original" bike with "some restoration work," showing only 10,000 miles. Our seller is an older gent with great taste and an eye for detail. The maintenance has been brought up to date, but no mention of a rear seat cowl. The asking price is in line with a low-mileage, mostly original F2, well-kept and ready for its next proud caretaker.

Accolades - Part 3

3/3/2019

And the hits just keep on coming. One of my favorite moto-writers, John Burns, did an online article for Motorcycle.com earlier this year titled "Top Ten Used Motorcycles Under $5000." An ambitious project to be sure, as 5 Gs will put a lot of great bikes in your garage. Heck, it wasn't too long ago that I bought a showroom new left-over Triumph Bonneville for $5250. And any number of pristine used VFRs can be had for even less. But John has come up with a viable list, and sitting at number one spot...drum roll...the Honda VFR800 VTEC.

Here's what John has to say:
"I think Honda never built the VFR1000R of our dreams because it was miffed that we never collectively fully embraced the beauty of the VFR800, specifically the sixth generation of the bike that ran from 2002 to 2013. Rather, we all complained about its VTEC system, which has that delectable V-Four breathing through only two valves per cylinder at low rpm, and all four above 7000 rpm or so. It added a bit of weight and complexity, but not really enough of either to mask a motorcycle that belongs on the shortlist for all-time GOAT streetbike: competent as all get-out for sporting use, as well as an excellent commuter and sport-tourer. Lots of people are scared off by expensive valve adjustments; three mechanics I’ve talked to tell me they’ve never seen one of these with a valve out of spec, and their advice is just ride the thing. They’re all over the place for under $5k, including the 2007 25th Anniversary edition pictured, some even with factory hard bags."

GOAT = "Greatest Of All Time" (I had to look it up)

I'm sure the VFR-isti will debate the VTEC choice, but, in fact, all the VFRs are list-toppers. Just look at all the lists they've topped over the years. Here's the rest of John's contenders:
2. Air-cooled Ducati (2-valve, belt-drive)
3. Aprilia Tuono
4. Triumph Street Triple 675
5. H-D XR1200
6. Any Buell
7. KTM 690 Duke
8. Yamaha Road Star Warrior
9. Yamaha FZ1
10. Kawasaki Concours 14

Bad Boy V4

3/3/2019

Click on image for the C-list link.

Honda was not alone in developing V4-powered models in the mid-eighties. Other manufacturers joined in with their own variations on the V4 theme.

Yamaha developed a 1200cc V4 to power its Venture, a fully-faired big tourer to challenge the Gold Wing. In 1985 Yamaha used a variation of the engine in the new V-Max, a power cruiser channelling American muscle cars of the 60's and 70's — all muscle, no finesse. In fact, Yamaha claimed 140 HP from this motor, a tall number in 1985. By comparison, the 1983 Honda V65 (1098cc) claimed a relatively tame 100 horses.

What makes this V-Max special is the low number of miles; only 230. Someone was betting on these monsters appreciating and has priced it accordingly — $7995. For more on the V-Max, here's a Retrospective article from Rider magazine.

Carb Details — Fourth-Gen

3/1/2019

Yesterday I tackled the carbs on Project 24, a 1995 VFR750 (49-state). Upon dissassembly, it became evident that these carbs had been serviced in the not-to-distant past — they are very clean and sport new jets.

The arrow points to the pilot jet air screw; see below for more on that.

(Below) The only anomaly that I came across has to do with the pilot screws. One of the assemblies was missing its tiny o-ring and another its tiny washer, which I promptly located in a neighboring carb. You just never know what someone has handed you with a new project.

These later model carbs have the pilot screw in a unique location under the carb body. The screws also use a special D-shaped socket head, probably an attempt at foiling home-brewed adjustments which would run afoul of the factory emissions settings. I have the required socket, but I always take a minute to cut a groove into the head of the screw to allow a straight-blade screwdriver to work with these jets. This gives me a little more finesse in adjusting the air mixture. And, speaking of adjustments, I also take the screw out a bit from the factory setting (1 5/8 turns out) to a full 2 turns. This enriches the mixture just a bit for better drivability. Or at least that's my story, and I'm sticking to it.
(click on an image to enlarge)

(Right) The next thing I came upon was this DynoJet needle, indicating a jet kit has been installed. This bike features a K&N air filter and Micron muffler, so the jet kit makes sense.

Another interesting feature of these last carbureted VFRs is that the floats are non-adjustable. They're either correct...or they're to be replaced. Fortunately, mine were right on.

After a full service, these carbs are ready to be reunited with their V4. But first, I'll check valve settings and compression. The final step is syncing the carbs.

Project 24 Strip-down

2/23/2019

Project 24, a 1995 VFR750, was stripped of its robes yesterday. This is always the first stage in my process and reveals both the cosmetic condition and much about the mechanicals. In this case, the bodywork is showing a few small cracks here and there along with small areas of rash. After a thorough cleaning the plastics are broken down into their component pieces, repairs are made, then the paintwork sanded and machine buffed.

With the carb set removed I immediately give a peek into the intake tracts. It's difficult to get a good photo, but these are probably the cleanest I've seen on an old VFR. Carbon buildup is common on the upper valve surfaces and even works its way up the stem. At 39,000 miles these valves are barely affected.

The carbs also look pretty clean (they've likely been serviced at some point) but they'll get a full cleaning and o-ring updates.

The engine valley under the carbs is usually a mess, and this one's no exception. Fifteen minutes of cleaning does wonders. I take care to cover the intakes with zip-tied plastic for cleaning and storage. Those small hoses will be replaced while I have access — for more on that procedure, see the Maintenance page; "Small Coolant Hose Generic Replacement."
(click on an image to enlarge)

A fresh set of Avon Spirit GT tires arrived this week, but that's a ways down the road.

John H. Haynes, 1938-2019

2/22/2019

John Haynes, founder of the Haynes Publishing Group and creator of the ubiquitous Haynes Workshop Manuals, passed away on February 8th at age 80. A car and bike guy from an early age, John discovered his publishing niche in 1965 when he realized that the factory service manual for his friend's "bugeye" Sprite wasn't suitable for the home mechanic...so he made his own. The rest is history, as they say, with his company going public in 1979. John's success allowed him his next passion — collecting. He founded the Haynes International Motor Museum in 1985, which grew to an impressive collection of more than 400 significant automobiles and motorbikes.

By all accounts John was genuine, compassionate, focused on family, and a true gentleman. His life and values were a reflection of The Greatest Generation in the best sense, and his legacy lives on in home workshops worldwide, including my own. Enjoy the ride home, John.

Chicago Bike Show 2019

2/16/2019

The Progressive IMS bike show is in town this weekend, and Patti and I continue our tradition of visiting the show on Friday afternoon, followed by a stop at Rex's Italian Deli to grab a big chunk of the best lasagna in town to take home for a late supper.

This year's show was a step up from past shows and featured a great addition called Discover The Ride, meant to expose the sport to the next few generations of riders. Allstate sponsors Kid's Zone, a small track for tots to wheel around on electric-assist balance bikes. Then there's the XDL Wheelie Experience (we passed) and the Dyno Experience, designed to teach newbies how the whole clutch/gear shifting thing works.

But the huge draw was the New Rider Course, which encouraged non-riders by actually getting them out on a real motorcycle on a carpeted oval track. Patti has never ridden solo, so she's the perfect candidate. Participants begin on Yamaha electric-assist bicycles to demonstrate that they have the basic skills, then gear up, get a briefing, and jump on detuned Zero electric motorcycles for their first ride! Instuctors from Total Control are there as coaches. The whole process took about a half-hour and it was worth it. Patti did awesome and loved the experience. (Right) Patti's group getting their bicycle briefing.

(Below) "Eyes up — Look where you want to go!"

Honda's display is very complete, with an emphasis on where the market is these days — little bikes (Cub, Monkey and Grom) and ADV offerings like the upgraded Africa Twin. Not an Interceptor in sight.

I did, however, find a VFR over in the Pit Bull booth, being used as a demo mule. Really classed up their product.

Here's a great idea for us coffee lovers — a hipster coffee stand (note requisite hipster in requisite knit cap). It was actually very good brew and just what I needed after a few hours of moto-strolling.

In the classic bike area, I found lots of eye candy, including this awesome display from the Chicago Norton Owners Club, featuring these pristine bikes: a Norton single and an HRD Vincent 1000.

Parked nearby was this lovely take on a neo-classic sport bike kinda thing. It's based on a 2018 Indian Scout Bobber, and features some beautiful custom fairings and Ohlins suspension. Maybe not my style, but impressive build quality.

Suzuki is highlighting their new Katana model (in background) by positioning it next to an original. Other than that seat, Patti and I agreed that the old one is better-looking. Just showing our age, I suppose.

If anyone doesn't think that Royal Enfield is a rising force worthy of notice, a visit to R.E.'s display should bring them out from under their rock.

Beyond their new 650 twins the company has this gorgeous V-twin concept bike on display. If anyone knows how to do visual balance and style, it's R.E.

The badge says "838," there's a single-sided swingarm, a unique fork with radial Brembos and a bobber vibe second to none. Smaller bikes are the future, and manufacturers would do well to take notice or risk playing catchup to these guys.
(click on an image to enlarge)

Indian's big push is on their new FTR 1200 lineup. They were all displayed, so I tried the Tour model on for size. Didn't really fit my physique, but I'm pretty sure I'm not their target demographic. Great-looking designs with impressive fit and finish. I predict much success for Indian with these bikes.

(Below) Harley-Davidson has their usual impressive boutique at center stage. I didn't linger, but the wall of tanks caught my eye. H-D needs to make no excuses to anyone for their paint and chrome quality. A surprise appearance from Confederate, showing off five models.

Displaying the increasing variety at IMS, the Adventure Out area, sponsored by BDR (Backcountry Discovery Routes), featured a cool place to relax, browse some ADV gear, and take a virtual reality ADV ride, along with guest speakers. I think this is the kind of thing that will help our sport find its future.

Speaking of virtual reality, I saw at least three interactive VR displays scattered around the show. Another taste of the future.

Well, we had a great afternoon and a welcome winter's break. I got to throw a leg over some new models and get inspired by all the custom stuff on display. I've been attending this show for about seven years now and I will admit I saw it becoming stagnant and repetitive. Now I sense that changing. And change is good. As was the lasagna.

Aussie Anniversary 800

2/13/2019

Back in 1999 Honda offered a uniquely-styled version of the fifth-generation VFR800FI for the Australian market and dubbed it a 50th Anniversary Edition. It's meant to commemorate fifty years of the Honda Motor Company, with a color scheme reflecting the early generations of Honda racers, using Honda's familiar red and silver with a yellow swipe. A recreation of the first Honda winged foot logo displays proudly on the fuel tank.

Reader Kim P. recently acquired this beautiful example as a garage mate to his second-gen Interceptor. His bike sports a gorgeous Staintune slip-on and a bobbed rear fender but is otherwise stock condition. Congratulations to Kim on a great find!
(click on an image to enlarge)

A Video History of the Honda VFR

2/12/2019

Known as a "motovlogger" (yes, it's a real thing), HeroRR is a serial YouTube video producer. His channel features a lot of Honda content and he's a VFR fan. One of his more ambitious projects is the video presented below — The Incredible History Of The Honda VFR. It's a very complete and fast-paced historical account of the V4 sport bikes from Honda with some personal perceptions thrown in based on having owned a few of the VFR models discussed. There's a few small mistakes, but generally an accurate overview.

I was surprised to see one of my bikes, Project 9, pictured at 5:30. Enjoy.

Market Watch - Eighth-gen Interceptor

2/11/2019

Click on image for eBay link.

Unsold: $6211 with 31 bids
Update: Unsold at $6003 w/24 bids

From Timbrook Honda in Winchester, VA, a new 2014 VFR800 DLX in pearl white has failed to meet reserve with bidding to $6211.

This kind of result is significant in that it paints a real-time picture of current market value for a given model. You do need to make value adjustments for factors like time of year, location and potential shipping costs, plus additional dealer costs — in this dealer's case the buyer would have to add $614 in dealer fees. Timbrook's website lists this bike at $7999. That shows us a serious disconnect between the seller and the market.
UPDATE: Timbrook has relisted this bike at $7999 or make offer.