HONDA VFR800 (1998 - 2001) Review
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £270 |
| Power: | 108 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (31.5 in / 800 mm) |
| Weight: | Medium (459 lbs / 208 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThe Honda VFR800i is the best version of the best motorcycle ever built according to some.
The VFR800i is a consumate all-rounder that looks great and goes better whether you’re on a track day, commuting or heading on a two week holiday with pillion and luggage. Honda VFR800i is an evolution of the VFR750, which started life as a sports bike but ended as a super sports tourer.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe Honda VFR800i is capable and stable in any situation. Nimble enough for the road no matter how fast your mates are. One step more towards the touring camp than say, a CBR600F. 90% of the time that’s great but if the fast group on track days is your aim, a Honda VFR800i is probably not the best machine for you.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityV-four layout is unusual – it’s more costly and no more powerful than the all-conquering in-line four. But the Honda VFR800i feels and sounds far more exciting and produces more grunt low in the rev range. Competitors like Triumph’s Sprint beat the Honda VFR800i for power and torque, though.
From the MCN forums...
Q. I have a Honda VFR800FI, a 1998 model. The front header pipe has snapped right at the point it joins to the cylinder head so I've had to invest in the whole downpipe collector unit.
I've never had my bike apart but I have a workshop full of tools and six mechanics to help me out so I should be all right, I've looked through Honda’s workshop manual and I can't find anything about the studs anywhere in it but I’ve heard I may need to replace them, how many do I need and what sizes?
Any other tips and advice on this would be great.
Jake, MCN forums.
A. It comes to all VFR800s sooner or later. If you buy a VFR without a stainless replacement chances are you'll be fitting one. It would be a good idea to replace the studs/nuts while you have the bike apart as they are not expensive, but the studs are only 6mm thick and snap oh so easily. If it was a rear cylinder one that snapped you would have the devil of a job replacing it.
The best bet is to carefully remove the exhaust nuts and leave the studs where they are if they are still serviceable, giving them a good clean. The old VFR400 NC21 had very tall stainless 10mm hex head cap nuts fitted to the front two downpipes as standard. Unlike a standard open-headed nut they don’t corrode as much.
See if you can pick them up from a grey import dealer or David Silver spares, and Copaslip them to avoid future seizures. We would also use new clamps and gaskets.
After all, it's a big job and if you fit a stainless system it will last forever, so you'll have peace of mind knowing you (hopefully) will never have to touch it again.
MarcusMarsh: I have a 1998 VFR800 with 38,000 miles on the clock and the suspension (and rear shock in particular) is past its best, so this winter it's time for refurbishment. I would like to take your opinion on a replacement rear shock. The choices I am looking at are either a new OE Honda shock, which I can source for just over £200 or a Hagon item at nearer £300. Is the Hagon worth the extra? I will be re-building the forks as well and will probably use Hagon springs for that.
kcmc: It really does depend on how you ride the bike. If you ride it at a sensible speed or a bit quicker, then the suspension is adequate. But as soon as you start push on, you have to set the rear shock up wrong to get it to work. The rear spring is too light (I think an extra kg would help here) so needs to be set at its hardest, which doesn't allow for any sag. If it's set one notch down it's too soft and will wallow like a pig (even with a new original shock). So if you ride hard, I would go for the best rear shock you can afford without breaking the bank. A Hagon shock is better than stock, but for another 100 quid or so I would fit a Maxton shock (www.maxton.netspinners.co.uk/). The forks are surprisingly good, but you can improve these also by fitting straight rate springs to replace the progressive type fitted. If you buy these and the shock off Maxton (and probably other manufacturers as well) they will match the springs to your fully clothed weight, so it all works a lot better.
MarcusMarsh: Thanks for the advice. Yes, I suppose I should have mentioned riding style. I'm 13.5 stone and use the bike for all things, including an annual tour of Spain (isn't that what VFRs are for?). I hardly ever carry a passenger and would describe my riding as brisk rather than full-on. I'll check out the Maxton site.
knightmoves: You may want to investigate fitting a Blade shock from a 929 or 954. You can pick up a second-hand one quite cheap and they have more adjustment then a stock VFR shock with only a bit of fabricating to do. (Try
www.fireblades.org/forums/honda-interceptor-vfr/42082-929-954-shock-install-
vfr.html) When you have clicked on this link, click the first link on the question page. A 929 shock fits best as you don't have to modify the airbox
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueNot as good as people would have you believe – but still well above average. Rectifier issue (Honda’s Achillies heel) can cause the Honda VFR800i to stop, potentially with a boiling battery. Non-Honda units are cheap and solve the problem before it occurs – later Honda units also work well on the Honda VFR800i.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentAs it’s the pick of the Honda VFR750/800s used values are high. The later Honda VFR800 V-Tec model was heavier and needlessly complex. People know Honda VFR800is last and are happy paying top money for clean bikes, even with average or above mileages. At least you shouldn’t lose much when you sell. Find a Honda VFR800i for sale.
Equipment
Honda VFR800i carries rider and pillion better than most machines except dedicated tourers and some big trailies. Superb headlights and decent mirrors. Honda VFR800i centre stand is nice in these weight conscious days. Clocks include fuel gauge and ambient temperature – impressive for the time the Honda VFR800i was made.
Specs |
|
| Engine size | 781cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 16v V-four, 6 gears |
| Frame type | Aluminum twin spar |
| Fuel capacity | 22 litres |
| Seat height | 800mm |
| Bike weight | 208kg |
| Front suspension | Preload |
| Rear suspension | Preload, rebound |
| Front brake | Twin 296mm discs |
| Rear brake | 256mm disc |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear tyre size | 170/60 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
|
| Average fuel consumption | 38 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £101 |
| Annual service cost | £270 |
| New price | - |
| Used price | £2,400 - £3,500 |
| Insurance group |
14 of 17 How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
|
| Max power | 108 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 61 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 155 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | 11.3 secs |
| Tank range | 145 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
1998: Original Honda VFR800i introduced.
2000: Honda VFR800i gets minor update; slight frame changes, modified clutch, refined fuel injection, more durable electrics, improved mirrors, HISS security system.
Other versions
Honda VFR800i Anniversary: Sold in 1999 – identical to the regular Honda VFR800i except for special colour scheme.
Other Honda VFR800 reviews on MCN
Owners' reviews for the HONDA VFR800 (1998 - 2001)
42 owners have reviewed their HONDA VFR800 (1998 - 2001) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your HONDA VFR800 (1998 - 2001)
Summary of owners' reviews |
|
| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
| Annual servicing cost: | £270 |
Version: FI-X
Year: 1999
Annual servicing cost: £300
I've been riding for 20 years and have tried all sorts of bikes, but this viffer is by far the nicest bike I have ever owned, ridden, seen, heard or otherwise dealt with. I bought my first one just after breaking my arm in an accident (before the bones had knitted, yeah, I know) because I just could not pass it up, and I was never disappointed -- until it was stolen; I was then very disappointed and had to deal with the lackluster handling, comfort and performance of a CBR600F until I bought another one.The bike really will do anything - I'm not a track junkie so perhaps it's not for you if you plan to race, but it holds up well enough riding with any other big bikes I've seen. Two up performance is effortless, as is distance riding. The bike handles perfectly, especially as I'm on the shorter side for a male rider; I feel more at one with the road aboard this steed than any other bike - the only bike I've found better in the Twisties is it's little brother (vfr400) and that's no-where near as practical as an every day bike.Commuting wise this bike is so effortless I always arrive at work grinning (even when I have a hard day ahead).I've done some distance runs, but didn't manage to try a proper European tour as it got nicked just before I planned to go - add some givi luggage and I don't think I'll have any trouble at all with doing a nice euro tour with my better half.I know some people just don't get this bike, but they tend to either be the kind of people who are better off riding one of those BMW bikes that look like a lanky fish, or the poser types who ride a hayabusa once every other Sunday in the months of July and August - for everyone else, this bike is perfect and I can't recommend it highly enough.
No bike I've ever ridden has the character of this beast. It melts away like nothing else, just me and the road; I'm only reminded the bike is there by it's gorgeous growl. Everyone slated the DCBS combined braking - in my experience it actually helped reduce fork dive and in no way did it reduce the enjoyment, performance or ease of the ride - largely i think the nay-sayers are just resistant to change - I may even say it's one of the innovation s this bike launched. Stopping power is spot on, I've had more trouble with smaller bikes!
Arguably the best thing about the VFR is the v-4 16 valve motor. It is phenomenal. The sound, torque throughout the range with no uncontrollable madness (cough sv650 cough) in all weathers. It grunts. It growls. It wails. It loves every moment, and so will you. Nothing compares, even other v-4s, and it's multiple TT-winning heritage pours out of every twist of the wrist.
Cannot fault the quality really - the fact that there are so many good examples of this 22 year old bike around is a testament to this.There are some mods you can make which may benefit you, but the only work I've had to do is things you'd expect to need replacing on a bike this age. Everything is solid, especially the engine which, like pretty much any Honda, will just keep going.
Depending on how you ride it, I reckon between 30 and 50mpg - not the most economical, but my CBR600 costs me more per mile than the VFR. Like most bikes it does like higher octane fuel; I found it was actually cheaper per gallon with 97 Ron than with 95.
The single side swing arm is great, makes chain adjustment even easier.In terms of accessories; paniers and a top box are a great addition - I have givi 47-litre top box with matching panniers and hardly notice them in term ls of the ride, and they can fit a lot in there.Trues: Bridgestone BT-021 or BT-023 all day long
Version: Fi-X
Year: 1999
Bloody thing never goes wrong, never unreliable, never uncomfortable, that’s why I’ve had it 17 years. Gagging for an excuse to buy a new bike but there just isn’t one. (Well I did get a VF750C as a summer poser for a while, fun, but was too low for me.)
Perfect balance of sport and tourer, can easily do 100 miles between stops. I’m 1.86m tall and middle aged and this bike is just perfect for long distance riding (including London-Madrid over three days). Wide and comfortable saddle (fabric cracked after 16 years, found a used spare on eBay)
Bang on the money.
Built like a brick outhouse, no significant deterioration after 20 years.
Servicing costs depend on how you look after it! But very unlikely to have any big surprises.
Add a top box if you need to commute stuff to and from work, plus heated grips for winter riding. You’ll have changed the rectifier by now, and if you haven’t yet got a full stainless steel exhaust by now, you soon will have. A bubble screen worth it for taller riders as well. That’s pretty much it.
Buying experience: Paid £4450 for a 5000 miler in 2003. Some 17 years and 35000 miles later, with a FSH and garaged or covered since new, must still be worth a grand. What could be better?
Year: 1998
Had the bike since new, Pirelli Diablo Rosso II, Max Torque End can makes it sound great, power commander and K N air filter, upgraded the reg/rectifier ( only time the bike ever let me down) still puts a smile on my face.
Sharper brakes would be good.. Still like the linked brakes though
Buying experience: Bought it new from a dealer, all went well.
Version: FiY
Year: 2000
Annual servicing cost: £100
Fitting Maxton suspension front and rear made the bike more like it should have been from the factory. A couple of hundred more cc and more torque would have been nice too. I’ve had the VFR for 13 years and will never part with it. It’s such a brilliantly capable machine that, even now, I find much more recent models a bit disappointing one way or another. I know many think of it as an old man’s bike, but how come I frequently find myself showing a clean pair of heels to litre plus sportsbikes and other flavour of the month models? And others are to be heard telling of its lack of character... A fine handling V4 with direct racing heritage... Characterless? I reckon anyone who moans about any motorcycle being bland is probably saying much more about them than the machine! I certainly would recommend a VFR800 to a friend. A few mods make it a hell of a bike.
The bike is one of THE great all-rounders. Happy everywhere, it’s as good for commuting as it is long, fast, high mileage days on challenging roads. The brakes are fine - some are dubious or dismissive of the linked brakes, but I’ve never had a problem with the linking, even on snow and ice where I’d tend to use the rear only sometimes. Which, contrary to the belief of some, you can do with this system under light braking. Undeniably, compared to modern machines, the brakes are a bit lacking, but still adequate for my needs.
The engine is awesome! Yes it would be even better with more capacity and torque, but against that is the fact that you are encouraged to rev the bike and use the gears, when the midrange becomes quite intoxicating and with a soundtrack to match. Low speed and transition from off to on throttle can be a bit jerky, but not terrible. Balancing the starter valves if it starts to become more noticeable helps. As does dumping the PAIR valve system.
Generally speaking, yes, it’s very well built. And the engine is a superb bit of engineering. Finish wise, I think the 750’s are better, but the 800 is still excellent. The bike’s 20 years old and has some corrosion on the clutch cover, the exhaust system looks awful but is actually fine, and the fairing fasteners are more marked than corroded. The rear subframe has been repainted, as have the fork legs (several times). The wheels were powder coated several years ago but need refinishing again - take care who you get to do them!In more recent years I’ve treated the bike twice a year with ACF50 after deep cleaning - well worthwhile. My bike is what would be considered high mileage (a bit shy of 70,000 miles, so about run in) has been used year round for most of its life and, yes, it’s a bit dog eared for sure. But it’s a 20 year old workhorse that’s been ridden hard and not at all pampered. That it’s still up and not only running, but running better than ever is a testament to the VFR’s quality.
I do, and always have done, my own servicing, maintenance and repairs so costs are small. The VFR isn’t the easiest bike to work on. Need to remove plastics for most things is a pain, the engine configuration places a lot of stuff inaccessible, between front and rear cylinder banks. And whoever sited the thermostat so the throttle bodies need to be removed should be tortured or castrated... Preferably both.
The standard bike is let down badly by its budget suspension. I found it inclined to shake its head and be very upset by white lines, banding and road defects when getting a move on. Handling is great with the Maxton mods and with everything well set up it’s certainly a match for many more modern/more sporty bikes. Other mods I,ve made include (as stated above) removing the PAIR valve system. Replacing the whole charging system (after it failed on mine) included a Shindengen FH020AA MOSFET regulator/rectifier and wiring direct to the battery (completely bypassing the original setup) with substantially beefed up wiring and electronic protection should be considered essential. As should investigating, uncovering and removing a pointless earth block buried in the loom near the r/r. Not only will that avoid (or cure) a number of odd electrical gremlins, but the bike will feel altogether smoother for it. I’ve wired the bike for all sorts of accessories (heated kit, electric supply to a tank bag, USB for camera and various other outlets, all running via a Rowe PDM60 electronic power distribution module - not cheap, but a brilliant bit of kit. I also replaced the standard horn with a pair of Stebel Magnums. Not as aggressive sounding as the Nautilus - more... authoritative! Even truckers get out of the way. And I love watching the tester’s reaction at MOT time! A hugger should be considered essential, and a fender extender too. I have a Gidibi chain oiler fitted (the Cobra Nemo is identical apart from being badged and about 3 times the price). This was easily fitted and works way better than a certain well known UK device, which seemed to like putting more oil on the rear tyre than the chain, even when turned right down! Tyre choice? Dunlop Roadsmart III are a very, very good choice. Superb performance in all conditions, predictable, agile and decent tyre life. That said, out of curiosity, I have fitted a pair of Conti Road Attack 3s and really like what I’ve found since, but time will tell, and I’ll always be very happy to revert to the Dunlops.
Buying experience: I bought from a local Honda dealer 13 years ago. Price seems irrelevant due to the time since. Knowing what I now know about the VFR, I wouldn’t have any qualms about buying privately, or buying a high mileage bike once it had clearly been treated well and serviced correctly. These days, they can be had for little money and, in decent condition, are a steal.
Version: The best one.
Year: 1999
I have owned over 30 bikes and been riding for 50 years. Apart from my VFR I have an MV and an 1999 Fireblade. Every time I ride the VFR i am amazed at how great it rides for a 20 year old machine. The engine is fantastic, I wish I could have afforded one when they were new. In the end lots of bikes have come and gone but the VFR is still in the garage.
Ride to work on country roads plus a little town stuff, no problems, easy and fun to ride. Have done longer runs (500ks a day) again not bad, a bit of knee and bum pain but I am over 6 foot so most bikes, other than the GS I owned would be more of a problem.
Engine feel, power and noise great plus reasonably economic. What’s not to like. I have owned bikes with a lot more power but other than on track this is enough to keep me entertained, for day to day road use I am more than happy with it.
Just the usual rectifier, the exhaust is still holding up and the bodywork looks good. A few rusty nuts and bolts, but I have seen worse on 2 year old bikes.
Do my own, oil and filter. Fitted chain and sprockets. Cost of a valve check is high. Have purchased a shim set so looks like a nice winter job. I upgraded the suspension front and back some years ago, they weren’t that bad but with over 50,000 miles on the clock I thought it could do with it.
Reasonable amount of info on the dash and nicely laid out, gear indicator would have been nice. Fitted heated grips and now ( I am old ) bar risers. It does have adjustable suspension front and rear, seems a lot of new bikes can’t say that. People seem to give this model a hard time, not sporty enough, or not comfortable enough to tour on. All I can say is every time I let someone take it for a ride they come back singing its praises, enough for some to have gone off and found their own.
Buying experience: Brought privately from the original owner. Turned up to look at it, his wife was holding their first baby. I said I would have it and take it now, I thought he was going to cry, and I don’t mean the baby. It was a reasonably low mileage one around 10 years ago, but would have been happy to buy with higher mileage if there was a service history.
Year: 2001
Annual servicing cost: £200
Smallish fuel tank, forks could be inverted forks like 1000rr and separate braking. Love the reliability. Never had the regulator issue, love the sound with SC Project can on the exhaust. Side radiators must go.
Suspension could be better. Think Ohlins. Seat could be better. Seargant.
Needs to come up to at least 150 HP
only problem, front wheel bearings, cheap and easy fix.
I service it. Rotella T6 synthetic is awesome oil.
hugger fender would be good.
Buying experience: Private. Deal of the year. 62K on it. $1500 Canadian dollars not abused. Definitely had previous drop, but little to no damage.
Year: 2000
After 50000ish miles, most of them 2 up with luggage it remains the perfect touring machine. WE have probably visited 12 countries, furthest probably Morocco. Perfect for me all day, pillion probably about 4-5 hours. Have thought about a replacement for many years, but nothing in my view is as good an all rounder as the VFR. Downpipes now looking a little tired, but otherwise very good condition.
2 up with luggage it becomes perfect. Posssibly a little stiff with just me on my own.
Buying experience: Bought new from Redline in Colchester. It was either the Honda or a GS. Could not get GS on time so went with the Honda. So glad I did. It was also offered at a discount.
Year: 1998
Annual servicing cost: £200
A truly reliable and fun machine, not the most exciting ride out there, but for £1,500 it’s about as good as you can get. I use it for commuting and it does exactly what I ask of it. With a Delkevic exhaust it sounds great, especially higher up the rev range.
Stable and predictable handling. No it won’t keep up with a super duke around Brands Hatch, but unless you are a track day regular how many times are you going to ask this if a VFR?
Exotic enough sound and plenty of grunt far earlier in the rev range than my 1998 blade.
Excellent finish, fork leg lowers have needed some attention, but that’s not unusual for any 20 year old bike. It’s a bike I don’t worry about when I get on first thing in the morning as to if it will start or not.
The £200 covers an oil change and set of OEM brake pads I fitted this year.
Under seat storage is minimal. Take a rucksack!! Heated grips are a must for winter..
Buying experience: Private sale. £1,500 with 44k in the clock. Good cosmetic and mechanical condition. Don’t expect to lose any money on it if I ever come to sell her...
Year: 1998
Annual servicing cost: £180
4.5 would be a better rating as it ain't perfect (what is?), and it's not the best at anything. Glorious, elastic, flexible engine.Even after 10k miles (I bought it at 19k about 18 months ago) I never get tired of that hard knuckle of midrange that starts around 6k and only tails off just before the rev limiter. And the sound? Oh my. With full stainless system with carbon end can, it starts as a lovely lumpy tickover, to a general burbly loveliness when doddering about, to a hard, even, purposeful moan. Just wish it had the adjustability and quality of my old CBR600F's suspension, and was a bit less lardy, and a bit less serious. The CBR was a rock at any speed, despite being lighter. You can tour on it, but I haven't, and it hasn't made me want to. I'm 41, and after 60-70 miles my legs are complaining to the point where I'm taking my feet off the pegs and stretching them out, but that's probably just me. Main problem with it is that it's nigh on 20 years old, and after so much searching I can't find anything to replace it. I think it's exceedingly handsome from any angle, and even with the miles and the age, its detail is a testament to the the fact that when Honda built it, they were not trying to balance the books to a tiny price. I still I ride it every day in all weathers and all seasons, and there is no visible corrosion anywhere, save for a bit of aluminium whitening on some barely visible areas.
Brakes have never needed more than two fingers, and I've never locked up either end since I've had it, even when the roads are icy. Linked brakes are on loads of modern bikes now. They were a good idea then and still are. Suspension is fine, but bumps are not as controlled as they could be. 20 year old suspension though, so it's going to be tired.
Perfect for the road. Just enough power to feel exciting, with vibes that are never annoying, just a pleasant reminder of having something working underneath you.
Loses marks on the reg/rec. Replaced with a MOSFET unit and never had a problem since.
Little more expensive as I've done two oil changes, and replaced the chain and spark plugs.
Fuel gauge, dual trips, clear dials. Almost docked it a mark because there is no gear indicator, but it felt unfair to punish it for inability to count gears.
Year: 2001
Annual servicing cost: £500
While tending more to sport than touring per se, this bike does a wonderful job of both. Raised the bars slightly to achieve a more upright position. Helps alot on longer hauls. Why Honda chose to adopt VTEC and drop gear driven cams is frankly incomprehensible. The 2001 was the last of their fifth Gen VFR'S, and is the best bike they've ever made in this man's opinion.
Some riders don't care for the linked brakes but I don't even notice them. Braking is great. Ride might be a touch soft, but on longer hauls it helps.
Bike engines don't get appreciably better than this one. Smooth power delivery across the band. Revs freely and breathes well. Little in the way of vibration. A great motor.
Exceedingly well designed and well executed machine.
You can pick up a fairly low mileage Fifth Gen for a few thousand bucks, and it represents one of the great bargains in the world of motorcycling.
Equipping the bike with hard bags would have been nice. It IS supposed to be a sport-tourer after all.
Buying experience: Purchased privately. Was originally bought by a Navy man who passed it on to his son, who sold it to me. Had 6,000 miles on it when I bought it from him in 2016.
Version: Fi1
Year: 2001
Annual servicing cost: £1,400
The sound.Lovely off beat burble. Scorpion end can fitted, OE was a bit flat. Downside is those linked brakes,work perfectly but in long term ownership they require the dedication of an amphetamine fed cat to change fluid and bleed properly. Just far too complicated a system for long term/high mile use.
My arse needs a break before i run out of fuel on a long run. Once did 650 miles in one day. Never again without a better seat.
Not as torquey as i thought but you get used to it. Eats my sons CBR6 and gets eaten by a real sports bike.
Exhaust eventually rots away, mine now sounds like a dumper truck on methanol. Stainless replacement sitting in the shed to be fitted this spring. Gulp! Fork legs past their best and the wheels have that white surface corrosion that needs a powder coating firms attention. Always been reliable and put up with my half arsed cleaning and maintenance,though i change oil regularly.
Higher if serviced at a dealer. My costs were the rough sum of service items, tyres,chain and sprockets etc worked out over a three year period. Average 11000 miles a year.
Michelin pilot road 4's have me scraping pegs in the summer, not sliding or dodgy in the winter. Love them. Double bubble screen was a waste of money, Honda had it right (6ft2 me). Scottoiler does save money but makes a hell of a mess.
Buying experience: Private sale,paid £1700 and it was a fair sale. The bike was near mint when i bought it with 30k, now 77k and cough cough, well used.
Year: 1998
Annual servicing cost: £400
Finest Sport-Touring bike ever conceived. It's V45 based motor is excellent. Would I recommend? A friend reported finding a low mileage, excellent condition example for sale at an astounding price; I told him run-not-walk to buy it.
Smooth confident rides on twisty back roads at reasonable speeds are what it does best; neither me or the bike are track stars, so warp speed is not my thing. I did hold it at 120 MPH for 2 minutes once on a safe rural road and was surprised at how absurdly smooth and absolutely NOT scary it was.
Outstanding motor; the FI is managed very well giving smooth response at every speed and in every gear. The cooling fan often makes itself known in slow traffic but i tend to avoid such situations; I run Evans coolant so it will never boil.
Everything on my bike has fared well; however my previous Honda Sabre V45 suffered the infamous regulator/rectifier failure a long way from home. I was saddened to find that problem had not been resolved on the VFR800. It is possible to upgrade the R/R to a unit similar to that used by Yamaha. I did that a few years back and now ride further with greater confidence.
I do all service myself; major expenses are tires, oil & filters. A Scott oiler greatly reduces chain wear/adjustment.
It is all good. I have heli-bars for a bit less of a crouched riding postion. The 2000 year mirrors on riser blocks allow one to see more than ones elbows. Upgrading the headlight bulbs to 55W H4 was easy and worthwhile. I had a gel pad added to the stock seat. A K&N cleanable air filter has worked well. Evans coolant gives confidence in longevity and minimizes coolant checking. A Givi wing rack with side and top box is superb for long distance touring. A Givi windscreen flips the air blast away better than the stocker. I settled on Metzeler tires after trying others: I will be going to their BC-01 series this year (2017)
Buying experience: It was a leftover in 2000; the price was good. Sad that more riders could not recognize the value of this terrific machine.
Year: 2000
comfortable, powerfull enough, excellent sound with aftermarket can, brilliant brakes when bled correctly, good vision at night and decent tank range also handling very good.
my dual linked brakes are spot on as i regularly bleed them and clean the pistons when i change the pads, no brainer really.
Excellent ;-)
only flaw as with most Honda's is the regulator rectifier, get a relay fitted for heated grips/sat nav etc and your'e all good to go.
only consumables as with any other bike, depends on how much mileage you do....
Limited underseat storage but as you will never break down with this bike you dont need tools...
Year: 2000
Annual servicing cost: £200
I've had all types of bikes ranging from sports, big sports touring, modern retro etc but keep coming back to the old faithful 5th generation and best model Honda VFR made.
Linked brakes are good but down on outright stopping power.
These rack up high kms with simple maintenance. On my 4th VFR800fi and although they could do with another 30hp and 40nm of torque nowadays there's just something special about this 5th gen gear driven camshaft engine. Fit a staintune highrise pipe and you have one of the best sounding bikes still today.
Runs like a swiss watch. Simple mods make the charging system reliable
Valves rarely go out of adjustment
Year: 2001
Annual servicing cost: £100
does everything well enough. smooth, quiet, yet great V4 hum as the rpms rides. i have three givi bags and a custom windscreen. two HIDs, and two HPLEDs. Handles very well in wet and windy weather. Styling is still appealing. i have had it since 2003. i road test bikes, but this is still the only one in my garage. I do get 49 mpg on regular. AMSOIL makes it run smooth. Worst feature: center stand hard to get on when you have givi bags with stuff in them.
rides very well even on bad roads. had others wanting to ride mine back on a trip. brakes are upgraded to EBC HH+ pads. Front and rear shocks have been upgraded. Front with heavier fluid, and rear Ohlins, all set up at the race track.
love the quiet at start, and mid-range V4 hum at rpms. engine horsepower and torque curve is linear like an electric motor. Good torque from 2500 up. 4000 is a good rpm for cruise, and hot weather. i live in the desert and larger radiator option would be nice but i have not had it overheat yet. they say keep it below 240 degrees F. The cam driven engine is much better than the VTEC.
i only had a needle bearing changed at 45K. no rectifier problems even in this heat. i did put a 10$ computer cooling fan on it.
Overall it is a start and go bike. i don't do any repairs per say. Once in a while something needs attending to but it is every other, or every third or fourth year. I have 45000 miles on it so far. Runs better than the day i bought it. No plans to change.
great all around bike. i modified mine. HIDs, HPLEDs, custom touring windscreen, 3 givi bags, tail lights that go on during deceleration, and flashing lights when i apply the brakes. i put on six extra lights, and lots of reflectors. They see me at night and at day. i put a fan on the rectifier. i have a light telling me what my voltage is. i run pilot road 3s, came from pilot powers. loved them both. only 5k on the 3s, look brand new. great in wet weather, good stopping power, always in control, no drama. Easy to add accessories as no CAN-BUS.
Buying experience: i was renting bikes, and this was one of the rentals they were selling. i rode this one and a VTEC and chose this one, 13 years ago. still the only bike in my garage.
Version: VFR 800 fi
Year: 2001
Annual servicing cost: £150
Never had a problem, performs well in every category
A real all rounder, a 200 miles trip is easy, suspension is comfy
Perfect except in low rpm (under 3000) not so much torque
100% reliable
Buying experience: I found it the best VFR
Year: 2001
Annual servicing cost: £100
Been riding 40+ years, the 5th Gen VFR is the best all-around motorcycle I've ever owned or ridden. I've nothing negative to say about it.
Oil, Oil Filter, Air Filter, Coolant, Brake/Clutch fluids, Chain cleaner
All I've added is a power outlet, a throttle lock, and a truck.
Buying experience: Bought my first VFR in 2001, sold it to a friend after 26K miles. Bought my second 2001 VFR in 2012 with 1245 miles on it. Currently about 6K miles.
Year: 2000
Annual servicing cost: £200
Where else can you find a bike capable of 140 mph, 50 mpg, and a 250 mile range? There is a reason for all the five star ratings, the 5th gen VFRs are that good. I put 70,000 miles on two 5th gens in 66 months. My 98 had 117,000 miles on the odo when I sold it last year, and was running strong. I sold it to get a low mile Y2K bike for $2,400. These bikes run great, don't burn oil even at high mileage, and are solid, all around motorcycles. I am 6' tall with a 32 inch inseam, and have logged several 13 hour/500 mile days on the stock seat. Leg position gets a little cramped after 3 or 4 hours in the saddle, but by that time I'm ready for a pit stop anyway. If the ergonomics fit you, the 5th gen VFR is hard to beat.
Used my bike for commuting and weekend rides (some of them 12 hours plus). Suspension is a little on the soft side. Forks have adjustable preload, Showa mono shock has adjustable preload and dampening.
Bullet proof engine. Power really comes on above 7000 rpm. Gear driven cams sound fantastic. I have had Vance & Hines and D&D aftermarket exhaust, but the bike runs best with the stock can. Oil change requires removal of the front left fairing. Valve checks require removal of both radiators and the throttle body. Camshafts must come out to adjust the valves (shim under bucket).
The electrical issues are overblown. The regulator-rectifier is a well documented weak point on these bikes. The stator on my 98 lasted 68,139 miles before failure. Aftermarket wiring harness conversion is a popular upgrade: totally unnecessary in my opinion. However, a functional voltage monitor is recommended.
Cost for oil and filters, and a few parts here and there. I service the bike myself.
Pretty basic instrumentation: Tach and speedo. Idiot lights for high beam, oil pressure, neutral, and check engine light (FI light). LCD display has total miles odometer, two trip meters, and engine temperature.
Buying experience: Purchased used from a private party. 1998: 58,000 miles, paid $2,400 for it in 2010 2000: 24,900 miles, paid $2.400 for it in 2015
Version: 2000 VFR800Fi-x
Year: 2000
Annual servicing cost: £50
Excellent all rounder that is top quality and engineered to last. If the VFR800 were a fine wine the 5th gen from 98 to 02 would be the vintage years. Look at the quality and standard of engineering. Get a good unmolested, well cared for bike and get better rate of return than you will get in a bank account.
Excellent do-it-all-bike
Check out how many hits are on Youtube of engine/exhaust compilations and decide for yourself! Engineered like a Swiss watch
Probably better quality that most bikes made since. After a period of some poorer quality bikes in the 80's, Honda completely over engineered the pre V-TEC VFR's.
With gear driven cam V4, this was Honda's showcase model
Everything you need with no silly gimmicks
Year: 2000
fantastic bike which sums up this bike altogether
Year: 2000
Best sports tourer ever........
Buying experience: Purchased new in July 2000 from local Honda dealer. Only modification to extend the mirrors. Replacement tyres, chain and cogs are the only costs incurred apart from service costs. It is in showroom condition and when parked up draws attention from other bikers. In 2000 it was viewed as the best sports tourer, in 2015 nothing has changed, in my opinion.
Version: Fi W
Year: 1998
Annual servicing cost: £100
Used all year round but does have a few gremlins such as the electrics can let you down on high mileage bikes.
very sure footed, brakes are great, handling perfect and plenty of power when you need it.
solid and faultless
mechanically perfect
I do my own servicing which is very easy, but have spare set of fairing fasteners handy.
Buying experience: bought in 2008 with 18000 miles for £2600 at the asking price
Year: 2001
Phenomenal overall bike. I doubt I will part with her easily.
Buying experience: Purchased privately from original owner with only 1800 miles on the clock and 8 oil changes over the lifetime of the motorcycle. Yes 8 changes in 8 years and only 1800 miles.
Version: Fi
Year: 2001
Perfect!!! :-)
Perfect!!! :-)
Perfect!!! :-)
Perfect!!! :-)
Perfect!!! :-)
Buying experience: Perfect !!! :-)
Version: VFR800FiW
Year: 1998
Annual servicing cost: £150
Never had less than 52mpg! So have no idea what they did to get 38 mpg....must have had a fuel leak.
Only bike I can ride for 220 miles between tank refills without having to get off for a break. Just a brilliant design.
The best thing about this bike. Power and torque in abundance from 3000 rpm, but do use high octane quality fuel if you want it to run ultra smoothly.
Rectifier went so tried a cheap Ebay item which lasted 165 miles! Purchased a proper Honda update rectifier and never missed a beat since.
Honda parts work and are well priced. Even at 17 years old it never needs corrective maintenance, save one rectifier
Has everything you need and I get on very well with the combined braking system.
Buying experience: Buy one that has just been serviced and had the valve clearances checked as doing properly costs a packet.
Version: FI
Year: 2001
It's still a good bike.
Well built, very few corrosion. Good Honda reliability....... No regulator problems, yet. Had to replace the thermostat at 50,000kms. It was stuck down and motor overheated in hot weather. Spare and new parts are easy to find online. I was unsatisfied with the riding position and the seat quality. So i bought a new seat (it's hard as a rock), installed convertibars to raise the handlebar position and added an X-screen to protect from wind. Not perfect but much better...... For me! Overall, a pretty and good machine. I really recommend the 98-01, but I'm not so sure for the V-tech version.
Version: FI
Year: 2001
Perfect!
Duel brakes
Version: Pre vtech, 5th generation
Year: 1998
A relatively light and compact sports tourer with a glorious v4 engine. The riding position is a oerfect compromise between long distance comfort and short blast sporty crouch. I admit that I've neglected maintenance on mine for two years as its getting long in the tooth, has a high milage and is getting a bit tatty to look at; the bike has coped perectly well and hasn't (yet) complained. (Reg/rec issues mentioned below have nothing to do with servicing).
Excellent and excellent
With a free flow exhaust, the growl and scream at high revs is fantastic. The whine from the gear driven cams at lower revs annoys some and does sound a bit like a milk float but its drowned out by the exhaust most of the time.
Perfect with the (big) exception of the bloody reg/rec; I've had to replace mine twice in 6000 miles, each time being left stranded a long way from home when the problem occured.
Refer to 'overall' comments above :)
No electronic aids or factory luggage options available. Not a problem for me (i prefer using rucksacks) but it does mean it falls a bit short compared to newer sports tourers.
Year: 1998
Had a 750 vfr many years ago pleased with it.Now in my seventies and feel 800vfr a little crampted.Could do with lower footrests and higher bars.
Linked brakes a two man job to bleed,my arms not long enough!!
Vfr 800 bought with 37k on the clock.Needed new fork seals and rectifier and stator.
Too early to say yet apart from the above costs.I do my own maintenance usually.Fuel injection added to a tank full and now getting 45 mpg easily and super smooth engine.
A taller screen would be a bonus
Year: 1998
Higher handlebars, lower foot pegs, a Sargent seat and a taller Givi sport-touring windshield has made my '98 a comfortable sport-touring bike. Only problem has been the darn regulator that went out on me. I replaced it with a heavy-duty 50amp, larger wires and a fan. That was 7 years ago and no problems since. The best VFR800, in the states, is the '98 and '99 because in 2000 Honda changed the exhaust and put a catalytic converter and smaller exhaust pipes. I also had a 2002 6th generation VFR800 and didn't like the V-Tech and higher exhaust pipes. A clean '98 or '99 is becoming very collectible. Also, the 5th generation is far more better looking than the new silly looking sport bikes with their little tails up in the air.
After many years of only buying the latest machines,this bike has opened my eyes to the wonderfully rich world of older machines.the last two bikes i owned were a 2008 mt03 and a 2012 fz1n. The Vfr is way more practical than the fz1 and I genuinely don't notice the reduced displacement at all and nearly as much fun as the mt03 (itself a seriously underated machine which I still sometimes miss). The overriding impression on the Vfr is one of pure quality with a truly sublime engine.I had to replace the reg/rec after 1300 miles of ownership (no surprises there) but other than that (and 4000 miles later) it has run sweetly and trouble free. The sound is exquisite (fuel can and snorkel removed); the control are creamy smooth and the riding position is perfect. And I think it looks really stunning (red). Mines in good nick but as soon as I'm able I'm gna treat her to a full respray and bring her back to showroom condition. A truly magnificent motorcycle.
This bike epitomises what bikes should be like. No nonsense, pure fan in any road (or track), either solo or two up with full travelig paraphernalia. Great engine, great brakes, great chassis, buit quality out of this world, could do with a better shock. Mine is 14 Y.O. and still looks like new.
I had a 2001 model I did 39,000k on it. The exhaust rotted away at 30k and was one of the most difficult jobs I have ever had to do. The valve clearances were hard to do. As for the riding the fuel economy was poor and the range limited the rear shock needs uprating if you carry a passenger and luggage. The regulator rectifier let me down on a country lane at 1am on the isle of man. I de linked the brakes but it did not really work well after that the calipers need changing if you do. After 39k I failed to see the point it was not as well built as it should be, the chain needs carefull adjustment if it is to last mine had a scott oiler. I brought a 2003 fazer 600 and that did everything the VFR800 could but was cheaper to run easier to maintain had better brakes more comfortable and the performance is not far behind. As for the VTECH VFR800 that's a ridiculous waste of cash. My advice buy a Blackbird or a z750
I bought a 1998 model in 2009. It was not my first choice of bike to return me to biking after a very long break. It was bought at a bar-b-q at a friends and I fell in love with the look of it. After renewing the exhaust system, getting hold of a Fuel end can off e-bay, putting some bar risers and an MRA touring screen on it, I cannot think of any reason why I would want to go out and buy any other bike. I would not want to go any faster, would not want to accelerate any quicker and I think you would be hard pushed to find anything more reliable. I have not rode the latest R1 or GTR 1400 because this bike does everything and more I could possible want from it. I love the way it looks, love the sound, great headlights, beautiful at motorway speeds and easy around town. I still look in showrooms and other bikes at bike meets due to my passion for all bikes but I am so glad that I get on my VFR to ride back home. Perhaps one I ill get something newer but I know the VFR wil always be my favourite.
We'll thats what it said in a Mag review I read back in 2000 which sold me on my '99 50th Anniversary which I purchased in '05 with 2000miles after totalling my previous '03 VFR Vtec. 32000 mainly fun Sport touring miles on must say besides replacing the original SH579A11 R/R with Honda Upgraded SH689DA R/R in '08 has been 100% reliable. Good points brilliant Sound both from GDCs and Arrow end can enjoyed both through twisties and city commuting, great tank range, comfort for up to 750mile days, competent handling everywhere enough to stay with sainly ridden Superbikes especially good on iffy surfaced unknown back roads. Absolute contentment after 6 years with the expectation I'll remain contented for another Six. Negatives only the thought it may not last me forever which only surfaces in my minds background whenever a mate trades their Gixer/blade in on yet another new model.
As the review says, this is the best version of the VFR and the RC45 derived V4 gives this bike some soul! And lovely strong strong torque through the rev-range. Handling is very decent for a heavy(ish) bike and the linked brakes are up to the job. I bought mine 99' model earlier in 2010 and have already added 8'000 miles having toured through Ireland, the UK and Europe, the bike has been a complete joy. All-day comfort, good instruments and not such a stretch to the bars making a good first sportsbike as well as a decent tourer. The only problem i've experienced with the bike is a blown rectifier which ruined the battery. Luckily i was close to home as the bike completely died! So make sure you check this if looking at a pre-2000 model as the rectifiers are made of chocolate. These bikes are becoming pretty cheap now and parts are not a problem. High miles aren't an issue with these bikes either. Buy a clean one, fit a decent exhaust and look after it. You won't regret it! :)
Of all the bikes I have owned this stands out as a brilliant machine. I own a '98 VFR800 and it still gets regular use even though I also have an '05 FZS1000 in my garage. The V4 engine is like no other and an absolute joy to ride. The fact that the bike carries a bit of extra weight compared to a full-on sportsbike gives it an advantage both in terms of road holding and comfort. Despite being 11 years old mine is still used for touring and this year covered over 2000 miles in two weeks of riding around Spain. A lot of bikes get a lot of hype and this is one of the few machines about which it is all true! Other bikes will come and go but this will always have a place in my garage.
A fantastic bike for long distance commuting on motorways and cross country for a bit of fun. This is my first big bike and I am really happy with it.
I had an evening swap from my Yamaha FZ6 fazer to a VFR800. Riding position takes a bit of getting used to after the wide handlebars on my FZ, and it's a while since I've leaned on the bars as well so that was a bit odd. Also, that one's done 34k, not too much for a VFR but I think they've been hard miles so it feels a bit tired, but still rampant. So, what are the plusses? Well, it goes like a scalded cat. My god, the torque is fabulous. It snaps away from lights, really, like it's trying to get away from me. It is super comfortable, especially for a "sports" riding position. The noise, well, what can I say about the harmonising of the gear cams and the V4 burble. Do you know what? It reminds me of the V8 cars I've driven - Rover V8, BMW X5, Bentley Arnage - it sounds like them and, strangely, it feels like them too. It's so smooth. The instrument panel is very good, scary how high the numbers go on the MPH bit. Maneuvrability is surpisingly good for such a big, heavy machine, but then Honda's have always impressed me with their ergonomics. What are the minuses? Well, the main ones have to be that it is a smidge high. I didn't have any problems with it, but if it were mine I'd fit a new rear shock and lower it by 15 or 20mm. The engine braking is REALLY noticable. After an inline-4 it is shocking how it snaps you forward when you let off the throttle. I do miss the big whack of power that comes in on my FZ6 around 6k though. All the oomph lives up the dusty end of the rev counter and I did think that the VFR had all of it's party tricks at the lower end of the rev counter. I have to confess (and I know you'll not be too harsh on me when I say this) that the VFR did make me behave a bit like a hooligan. I found my self gunning for gaps I'd not attempt in the FZ as that whack of low-end torque really makes you feel nimble and I rode in a much more positive way. There was no need for the constant dancing on the gears. I really, really want to try one of the newer VFR800s now to see what they are like with variable valves. I'd also like to see what a fresh one feels like. What's more I can really see my self moving up to one of these towards the end of the summer.
This is my first bike and so I can't speak yet with years of experience, however, if you're looking for a bike (like I was) that handles like a dream, eats motorway miles, has a great level of performance, is comfortable and is good on insurance too - then the VFR800i is the one for you! ..I read tons of reviews about the VFR800i before buying and after finding the 'one' I made the leap of faith.. no regrets! If you have found 'the one', then don't hesitate. Have fun and be safe!
35,000 miles and the only non wear and tear problem was a broken LCD circuit board, which cost about £200 to fix. The linked brakes were a bit crap, but braided hoses sorted this out. It does 180 miles to the tank, and is comfy for the pillion as well. The wife has done over 10000 miles. What can I say - It's more reliable than any car I've owned, and sounds better too. The only other thing it really neeeds is a remote adjustable pre-load for the rear suspension if you plan to tour with luggage and/or pillion.
Wanna keep up with the Blades (only .2 sec slower to sixty if you can keep the front down...) Fancy a relaxed semi-touring riding position which isnn't cranking your neck all day? Don't want to spend half your life refuelling? (180-200 mile tank range). Fancy a forgiving ride that won't try to chuck you off every time you overcook the breaking into corners? Desire something even the Mrs. doesn't mind riding pillion on for a few hundred miles? (Saves leaving your ear plugs in!) This is the Bike... It will do anything, good communter, scratching, touring, fun on the lanes, loves the big sweeping corners, anything... (OK I'll draw the line a MX!) Awesome Bike, older pre-Vtecs getting cheap now, find a low miler and your laughing... Enjoy :o)
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Side view
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Instruments
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Front view
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Front view
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Rear view
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Engine
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Engine
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Engine
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Riding
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Riding
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Side view
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Side view
Honda VFR800i motorcycle review - Side view
