Interceptor/VFR vs 600 CBR F4

Dave K · 05-27-2007, 6:27 PM

I currently have a CBR F4. Yes it is a fun bike, it quickly becomes uncomfortable and not really a joy, just to go for a ride. Is the VFR more comfortable? Is the performance alot less than the CBR? Yes, I have a Goldwing, but I would like a little more performance as well, just not uncomfortable as my CBR.

gt702 · 05-28-2007, 9:17 PM

Do you intend to play on the track, or just the street?

The VFR in either the 750 or 800 form is a very capable sport bike for the real world. Not cutting edge, but more than capable anywhere near sane on just about any road in this country. And it is a very comfortable bike. It will easily get you from where you are, to the fun roads in SE Ohio and WV, a lot of fun there, and back if you like. And still be able to walk into work the next day.

It is a little heavier than the F4, but you handle the GW, so it should not be an issue. The VFR is down a few top end HP from the F4, but makes up for it in midrange torque. I'm on my 3rd since '95 (a 750, then 800, and back to a 750) with almost 100,000 miles total, making annual pilgrimages to SE Ohio, VT/NH, and occassionally to Texas and Colorado on it ... just to get to good roads (michigan sucks for that

There are several active VFR mailing lists and forums if you want more information.

Check one out and make up your own mind. And welcome to the list

Dave K · 05-28-2007, 10:10 PM

Yes, I would like more info and sites to read. When I take the CBR out for a nice evening ride you either have to be aggressive in your riding to get on the cushion of air, or your wrists ache pretty quick. I love the racy look, just not the ride stance. But, I do love the power, but I am willing to sacrifice that for an enjoyable ride. I am not a track rider, though a few good hot turns are fun. A ride more than 30 mi. down the Interstate to even get to SE Ohio would be better if the CBR was on the trailer.

gt702 · 05-29-2007, 11:49 AM

If your only issue is the bar height, have you looked at risers (Heli-bar, Genmar, etc.) ? I'm not sure how high you can go on a CBR, but even a little might help. I put adjustable bars on my RC51, which raised the outer end by about 1.5" (kept the same height at the fork tubes) and it made an amazing difference in comfort ... I can ride it from SE Mi to SE Ohio for the weekend and back with no problems. For under $150 you could have everything you want.

The VFR is a little bigger bike, and the bars will be higher and more comfortable. Powerwise, you would see about the same as on the CBR-F4, but the VFR would get to it differently ... broader torque vs. a more peaky rush.

The VFR Homepage
VFRD - vfrdiscussion home
VFRworld - Honda VFR, VTEC, and Interceptor Community Forums and Information
Honda VFR Club - powered by vBulletin
http://www.vfrworlds.com/

I haven't looked at the last 3, so can't vouch for that. The first is one of the first in the States, the second a spin-off that is very active. It is amazing what you can find with Google. Use "VFR Forum" and you'll find many more from around the world. The VFR is a very popular bike in Europe and Australia.

toad · 05-29-2007, 6:40 PM

If you want a more comfortable long distance ride, get the VFR. I owned a 1995 VFR750 and a 1990 CBR600F4. The CBR is a great bike to rip around town and put on the track but the VFR is a more comfortable heavier bike that is more suited for the highway. Personally, I liked the response and sound from the v-4 engine and still regret selling my VFR. I rode a new CBR600RR yesterday and liked it... but nothing like the VFR. The CBR will feels 'fluffy' after riding a VFR. My next touring bike will probably be the VFR. It still looks cool but feels more like a substaintial bike on the long road.