[MrWilson]

Anyone got any recommendations of possible problem areas that I should know about on th '99 VFR. I'm going to check one out on Sat. and it would be good to know what to look out for.

[Red Rider]

The regulator/rectifier is known to cause problems on VFR's. Ask the owner if it's been replaced. If not, check the connections for signs of melting. That generation of VFR800's are known to be bullet proof...it's a great bike (wish I still had mine!).

[-Z-]

As a general rule, I'd check for any signs of scuff marks on the frame and swingarm, any sort of grinding or squealing noises when it's fired up, play in the throttle, smoothness of shifting when you work the shifter after the bike is warmed up, even if you don't really ride the bike. Also, how the brakes and the clutch feel. Since both are hydraulic, sponginess could mean it needs to be bled, the fluid needs to be changed out, or that the lines are getting too soft from old age and usage. Also, check for things like any sort of damage to mounting points for things like the fairings. May sound obvious, but a lot of people look for plastic damage but don't check things like how they fit or the condition of the mounting points.

Since it's a VFR, it's likely to have a lot of miles on it, so be sure to find out if/how/when/where the valve adjustments have been done.

Since it's an early 5th gen (98-99), if it has the mirrors that are held on with cross-tip screws, make sure they aren't stripped. Don't ask how I know to check for that one.