I know there's a lot of S2K owners who have VFR800 motorcycles. Have you guys read the latest on the 2002 models? No increased displacement, no increased horsepower, no improvement in suspension, some minor cosmetics and they took the gear driven cams out for a chain! I know they added a VTEC but big deal! Some low-mid range grunt and better environmental numbers. I'm sorry, I'm not impressed.

I was thinking of replacing my 1998 model but no more. This is a real disappointment for me. What are your first impressions?

 

I have mixed feelings...

Pros:
- it looks beautiful w/ the underseat exhaust and sexier bodywork...a huge improvement IMO
- VTEC is not the same as in Honda's cars...it will improve HP/TQ in the low/mid range, making a more usable powerband.
- optional detachable luggage. VFR fans have been moaning for these forever, and Honda (finally) listened.
- improved instrumentation w/ digital speedo. My last 2 bikes (R1/R6) had this, and the analog one in my SV is very hard to read at a glance in comparison.

Con:
- the weight increased. WTF???

I'd def. consider one if I were in the market for that type of bike, but the Aprilia Futura would provide some still competition. If Honda gets a sale from me next year, it will be for the revised RC51.

 

VFR; I know what you mean. I've got a "99" that I think I will be keeping for a while. The new VFR body is starting to grow on me, and having ABS may be a great addition (@ an extra $1000?), but as was spoken once in the ad world "Where's the beef?" We have had several discussions about the roll the VFR fills in Honda's line-up. I maintain it's the "Tech. flagship." It just seems this time they didn't quite pull off the WOW factor they could have had with say VTEC, ABS, and 1000CC's. Just my thoughts. Besides if I bought a new bike I could not afford a S2000. I am still on the fence on that purchase...waiting for more feedback on the 2002's.

 

I know you super-sports guys could care less about ABS but since spending serious time with ABS I won't buy a new bike without it. Well, maybe the new Buell Thunderbolt ...

ABS on my BMW has saved my bacon several times on the road, and without any drama. I am a little disappointed the VFR VTEC only engages a second valve set with no lift change but I imagine the torque curve will still be worth it.

The luggage is also a big deal to me. I've had two sets of soft bags stolen so, again, I'm only buying bolt-on luggage.

I think the changes will keep the VFR in the "best all-around" bike category.

 

I agree with all you've said but I'm overall disappointed with these so-called "improvements". Hard cases vs. marginal suspension? Low end torque vs. gear driven cam drive? Under seat exhaust vs. no displacement improvement?

Not quite up to the advance billing.

I'll keep my '98 moty thank you.

 

I plan to sell my RC-51 next year for the new viffer... looks sharp IMHO and just what I need. However, I'm a little hesitant on the weight issue, I'll give it a test ride first before totally dissing it but it is on the porky side.

As for ABS, I'd rather without it... I want to feel what my brakes are doing and can modulate them just fine. Having had a R1100GS, I didn't like the BMW ABS system at all... it would kick in waaay too early and free spin far too much for comfort. Not to mention it would fault like you wouldn't believe whenever you start up.

Oh well, boys will have their toys huh?

p.s. passed 12k on the RC-51 this weekend... not bad for having the bike a year and putting 16k miles on the S2000 at the same time (oh, and only have a 11mi commute to work)

 

loki; I've never owned a bike with ABS, but I understand that it's a nice feature. Your statement about brake modulation in theory makes a lot of sense and I agree. If you are thinking (as you say) about a new VFR it's LBS might be a problem in terms of the brake modulation issue. Many people like the VFR LBS(Linked Brake System) but even after 3 years I am not really at ease with it. I liked being able to choose which brake I wanted to call on for different situations. Yes there is a degree of bias depending on which brake you call on, but you still get both regardless. As I say, many like this system. I imagine I will hear from those that do with this post, but it's just my opinion. If you do get the new VFR make sure you let us know your thoughts. The ABS is an optional feature.

 

Hmmm, I didn't know the new Intercepter had LBS... I thought only the big bikes like the Goldwing and Blackbird had them. That'd be a shame because I too like to be bias towards my brake usage.

As I said, I'll reserve judgement on everything until I can ride one in the new year... and I plan to be a hard ass on the price, don't wanna pay MSRP so I'll wait until I can get a deal on one.