Specifications

Top speed:     155mph
1/4-mile acceleration:     12 secs
Power:     107bhp
Torque:     59ftlb
Weight:     218kg
Seat height:     805mm
Fuel capacity:     22 litres
Average fuel consumption:     38mpg
Tank range:     170 miles

 

Insurance group:     14
Engine size:     781cc
Engine specification:     16v V-four, 6 gears
Frame:     Aluminium twin spar
Front suspension adjustment:     Preload
Rear suspension adjustment:     Preload, rebound
Front brakes:     Twin 296mm discs
Rear brake:     256mm disc
Front tyre size:     120//70 x 17
Rear tyre size:     180/55 x 17

 

Engine
MCN rating     rating is 4
Owners' rating     rating is 4

A wonderfully even spread of power is the hallmark of the VFR and the Honda VFR800 V-Tec doesn't disappoint, making a claimed 107bhp at 10K. Along the way you might notice the V-Tec gizmo making a little step up around 7000 revs, but it's hardly a Kawasaki ZX-10R style lunge for the horizon. Like VFRs of old, the Honda VFR800 V-Tec motor simply gets on with the job, but is deceptively quick while it does it.

Quality and Reliability
MCN rating     rating is 3
Owners' rating     rating is 4.5

Anyone who has owned a gear driven cam VFR will wonder why Honda went back to camchains on this V-4 cylinder engined Honda VFR800 V-Tec. Sadly, they're in danger of being able to say `told you so' to owners who have had the Honda VFR800 V-Tec recalled for camchain associated work under warranty. Apart from that, the Honda VFR800 V-Tec looks built to last 100,000 miles, but does need some expensive servicing along the way.

Ride and Handling
MCN rating     rating is 4
Owners' rating     rating is 4

The Honda VFR800 V-Tec steers a little slower than some rivals, like the Sprint ST, or ST4S, and offers a plusher ride than average. But the slightly soft suspension doesn't dive at the front too much under braking, as the CBS system puts some braking force to the rear disc to balance things up a bit. In a word, the Honda VFR800 V-Tecs handling is neutral.

Value
MCN rating     rating is 4
Owners' rating     rating is 3.5

Available new in ABS and non-ABS braked versions, the Honda VFR800 V-Tec is a bike that impresses you from the moment you see it `in the metal.' It oozes class and sharp-edged purpose from every fairing panel. Honda VFR800 V-Tec resale values are pretty good too.

Equipment
MCN rating     rating is 3
Owners' rating     rating is 3.5

There's a big problem with going touring on the Honda VFR800 V-Tec - there's no luggage space whatsoever. It costs about a grand extra to buy the hard luggage set from Honda, then add on more cash for heated grips, perhaps a replacement screen too as the stock screen is a bit low. On the upside, the Honda VFR800 V-Tec has a 22 litre gas tank, comfy saddle, a grabrail and a centrestand.

Model History
2001: Honda VFR800 V-Tec launched.
2003: ABS option for Honda VFR800 V-Tec appears.
2006: Honda VFR800 V-Tec's Reworked V-Tec system now kicks in 200rpm lower down range, Honda claims it works smoother too. Clear indicator lenses, fairing panel tweaks and new colour schemes too.

Other Versions
Honda VFR800 V-Tec ABS: Same as standard model but with ABS braking.

Information from:  http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/bikereviews/searchresults/Bike-Reviews/Honda/Honda-VFR800-V-Tec-2001---current--/