Would the VFR800 make a good beginner bike? 

VFR800 is a good first bike for someone larger or more mature. It was my first. Never dropped it, and even took it on track. Staying out of VTEC is easy, and then it's there when you're ready for it. Plenty of room for growth. Great value.

The reason the VTEC engagement is abrupt on these stock VFR800's is due to emissions tuning. Right at the cusp of VTEC engagement the ECM leans the fuel resulting in a slight loss of power, then the VTEC engages and fuel rushes in too quickly. The EPA does its test cycle right around that point at part throttle and in order to give low emissions the fuel needs to be really lean, which is the perfect air fuel ratio of 14:1. This is why the '06 and newer VFR800's raised the VTEC at 6,500 RPM to minimize this abruptness. Although it still remains as long as the VFR's ECM is functioning like stock. As soon as you plug in an aftermarket fueling device, that abruptness is completely gone. I do mean gone! The transition is super smooth because the ECM no longer has to go to that 14:1 stoichiometric air/fuel ratio to meet part throttle emissions. I have a Power Commander 5 on my 2007 and I can crawl the bike in first gear with the throttle barely open and it rolls along smoothly. I can even do figure 8's on it. The VFR's steering is sensitive to tire profile also. Do NOT put super sport tires on it that has too narrow (too much V) a profile because the bike will fall into corners, ESPECIALLY at low speeds. Stick with sport touring tires like Dunlop Road Smarts, or Michellin Pilot Roads or similar. Their more rounded profiles compliments the VFR's rake and trail and the bike will gracefully lean into slow or fast corners. The bike will feel steady at very low speeds also and will maintain a linear steering to make low speed maneuvers very easy. You won't feel any difference in stickiness between a super sport tire and sport touring tire unless you are at the track.

A 2000 vfr 800 interceptor was my first real street bike after owning a Chinese 250 for a couple months. I loved it and really dont want any other bike after owning it.

I have ridden dirt bikes. My first bike was a 07' VFR800 and it has been great. You just need to respect it. I am kind of a cheap skate so I am glad I got this in the beginning because now I don't need another bike. It kind of does everything I want it to do, fun enough in the twisties, fast enough on the straights, comfortable enough while touring. It isn't the best at any of those, but if you want one bike, it's great!

My 1st bike IS vfr800 a6. I love it. I dropped it twice in a first week and will prolly drop it again. It was due to my stupidity. I put the top box on, heavy loaded that made it very top heavy while wet. My thoughts: power is not a problem. Vtech kicking is not a problem. Side panniers are not a problem. ABS is not a problem. Weight is a problem on u turns, tight corners and wet surface. My advice: dont put the top box untill youre comftable with the bike. It will save you mirrors and break levers 😂. Get it lowered if - as me - you cant get both feet on the ground with ease, withouth squizing the tank. Change your levers to a racing one that retracks upward when bike is dropped - you spend 70 quid but it will save you money in a long run. Use 1st gear shortly when you "click-up/nodge up your right wrist " - meaning gear up to 2nd as soon as you can (just below or around 3k) otherwise you will find it dificult to find/turn the gas grip position back into the perfect position fot a smooth change - in my case it was much lower than other gears. Unless youre on a straight, wide country line or an relatively empty motorway dont rev it above 6.6k. You set yourself up for a nasty surprise. It may even feel that somebody hit you from behind or you may think that your engine just failed as it sounds completly diferent when the second pair of valves kick in. And most of all. Love your bike and it will love you back. If you drop it - like i did - dont blame it. If you start to have doubts if you choose right - like i did - dont. You chose right, trust me. And most importantly - as this will be the hardest thing for you: If you've started to have fears, shaky hand when you fire up your Honda. When you've got that nasty lingering thoughts in the back of your mind at every pull away, every corner, every traffic lights that its too heavy and youre gonna drop it - like i did - think about your kid, Christmas, your girlfriend or a pet if you have one. Think about all those jealous numpties sitting in the furniture around you. Listen to the growl of that vtech engine - this will help you to overcome any doubts. It certainy helped me. Take it slow. Ride the clutch. Take an empty country line to practice corners. Empty Tesco parking lot is your best friend for a slow ride and feeing the weight. Take my word for it. This bike is not too heavy, too powerful or too hasty. Its all in your head.

My first bike back in the day a GPZ900r. Vfr800 is pretty tame and you get used to any weight characteristics really quickly, the weight disappears anyway. Young people should have restricted hp for a while due to testosterone etc.but really it's the rider who controls the right hand twist and a 125cc can be deadly as a hayabusa in the wrong hands. Any accident above 40mph can be catastrophic for the rider. I say buy the bike you want most and ride it but remember you are responsible for your actions. Learn the principles of counter steering and get your Road sense. Don't take unnecessary risks and don't ride in groups. Put it away in the autumn - low sun and cold weather take no prisoners. The riding bit is basically the same whatever the machine so hopefully you've done the principles bit at the learner stage. Stay alive to gain more experience. Have self control. I've had one nasty off in 30 years and that was going 25 mph over wet leaves, lots of internal bleeding. Nothing to do with the bike size.

A 2010 vfr800 was my beginning bike! I been riding it for 10 years now every spring, summer & fall and NEVER... NEVER dropped it or had any troubles period!!!! Still riding!! Good beginners bike in my opinion, you learn with it!!

I just looove the sound of the VFR.

I'm a new rider and I've had my 06 vfr for 4 weeks now. The only thing I find difficult is slow maneuverability. I guess it's the weight. It's easy to balance at a stop tho. The throttle I got used to pretty quick and just keep the rpm below the 6500 and open it up on the odd strait where no one is around to feel the power. I think it's a great bike.

My first bike is a VFR 800f 2014, I never had a motor wheel machine before( four wheeler, side by side,dirt bike....) Really easy to ride, really forgiving bike for beginners, impressive mileage on gaz, good power to have fun. In my point of view if I had bought a 500 or 650 I would be bored after a few weeks of riding. If you are not sure about the weight ride a few times with 1/2 fuel tank to get use to it. I really recommand that bike relly fun !

I just got a very nice 1995 VFR750. It my first street bike. Lots of dirt bike experience. Also, I’m 48 years old and 6’-3” / 200#. Hope it’s a good beginner machine for me.

I think it's a good beginner bike. I actually preferred the FI engine. It had a very progressive engine, but now I got the VFR800F and the VTEC is smoother and also works very well under 7k rpm (before VTEC kicks in). With 9 months on it, I only felt the need to change the exhaust and the SC Project is a good option. Around 400€, when compared with the 1k€ Akropovic. Felt in love for the VFR again. My daily commute companion

The weight is the main reason why the VFR800 is not suitable for beginners. More specifically, new riders aren't used to maneuvering and stopping a heavy motorcycle especially in panic situations. I've seen more than a few VFR's (heavy bikes in general) dropped at traffic lights and at gas stations.

My first bike was a 1998 VFR800FI. Great first bike for me, maybe not everyone. Manageable power delivery wise but still fun. The weight isn't an issue if you are tall and strong enough. It's all relative. If you are 6ft and reasonably fit you will be fine.

I took a 40 year break from riding and my best friend that i haven't lived near in just about that long had always ridden so when i moved back into the state, i bought a 2007 VFR800 and now im riding again. My bike had been lowered front and rear and i prefer it that way. Riding came back to me naturally and i feel quite comfortablr riding at age 70.

I've gone from a 125cc straight to a Vfr. Once I was use to the weight it was perfect for a new rider like myself

My Vfr800i (non VTEC) makes a great beginners bike because the handling is neutral, the engine is very tractable and whilst a beginner can safely learn on it, an experienced rider can have a ball whilst holding his own against much more powerful machines. Weight at low speeds is the only thing to watch for a beginner, but the saddle is relatively low. The engine pulls hard in any gear with a top end that excites, but doesn't intimidate. I've come from inline 4's where the top end goes off like a nuclear bomb... the v4 takes time to master... the trick is to ride the torque whilst still at max lean angle. You'll shoot out of corners harder and as fast as guys on fireblades. ( I know. I regularly ride on road and track with the best ) But you still have a reasonable top end to play with too. The handling is neutral and confidence inspiring. Set the line, start to accelerate and the bike won't deviate, no matter what the road delivers. I've ridden this bike kneedown on track, 2 up, fully laden through the alps, 2 up to the shops and back - it will honestly do whatever you need it to do, including 2up, knee down madness on normal roads. Negatives? No on board storage. Brakes aren't amazing. That's about it. Positives? in addition to the above? ...that V4 Roar from an after marked end can - with its evil little crackle-and-pop on the over-run... addictive.

I had a 250 for 6 months before getting my VFR. They really are beginner friendly. The high low end torque makes it beginner friendly imo.

I have to completely disagree with this. I went straight onto a 6th gen VFR800 and has no problems getting used to it. Yes they are heavy but I’ve never dropped mine. Basically I disagree with pretty much all the comments here. If you are a new rider go for it! Just ride according to your ability. I’ve had my licence for 3 years now and am on my second VFR800 (8th gen). Ride according to your ability and you will love this bike!!

Picked up a 2014 last year out of the crate... I hadn't ridden a bike in about 11 years so it felt like being a new rider all over again... I picked up my bike in Philly.. Rode it to Cincinnati & then on to Orlando.. It is a bit tricky getting back on a bike, but I wouldn't trade my 800 to say a CBR600 or a Kawi 650... I'm happy with my purchase, they did a good job with it.

I love my VFR, been riding for almost 10 years. Had my beginner XR125 from new up until the engine exploded on a highway last year, then I had a really bad unregistered SV1000 which I then had to sell for scrap and bought a Transalp 650. Traded the Transalp for the VFR800 5th Gen last week. It's maybe not ideal to have such a fast bike as a beginner bike, but if you've had a few others before you should be perfectly fine with it. 1 week in and i'm still driving it like my Transalp barely going past 6k rpm. I have a healthy respect for the power of this machine.

I think most of the advise you give is sound.... but one exception is for new riders to have at least a year experience before doing any road trips : i'd suggest mileage experience vs just time..... I know some guys who barely clock any time / miles on their bike, who take one course but never keep thirsty for more knowledge and stop learning because they "know it all" On the other hand you've got guys / gals who are more dedicated to continuing education about riding, who ride daily either commuting or just taking some time after work for a ride.... The rest of the people will be somewhere in the middle of these two camps, so in all reality most people should be waiting 1500 miles local riding to get a better feel / experience level before heading into a long trip.... other factors that would influence this are the "fair weather riders" these people should avoid long trips until they get some rain gear and learn to ride in the wet or cold/wet as it really does change the dynamic of your ride.

I started off on a Buell XB12X that was way too tall for me that one foot leaning is required when stopping. Still have the beast after all these years and she still outshines some of the horses in the stable when it comes to torque and handling. Infact I might just go and take her out now as a reminder...

My first bike was a 1995 ZX-6. I got it back in 2009 and kept it about a year. My second bike, which I got a month ago, is a 2010 VFR1200F, exhibits the same qualities you describe in the VFR800. As much fun as it is to ride, it IS NOT a beginner bike and is BARELY an intermediate level one. I weigh in at 237lbs which has it positives and negatives but, I still find myself using considerable muscle in certain situations around town. The 800 is roughly 40lbs lighter so, maybe its easier to live with. I would love to take the 800 out on the country highways to compare.

VFR 800 Fi and 800 VTEC are top of my list for a first bike, at the tender age of 54.

Hands down the best thing to do on these to smooth out the low RPM partial throttle jerkiness is ditch the O2 sensor and fit an eliminator + power commander and run a basic PC tune. That will get rid of the closed loop fuel control which causes most of the jerkiness. Also make sure the TB's are well balanced as that greatly helps.

Any bike is a beginner bike. Ride anything with respect and it'll respect you back. Accidents and mishaps will happen on ANY bike.

My 1st bike was a yamaha fz6 2004. Had for 6 months. Sold it and loved the looks of the vfr800. So decided to have a look for one. Bought one 2002. And my weight is 87 kgs. I will say yes its heavy. From the fz6. The vtec is nice. 1st few outings on it was iffy. To be honest jerking so done the mods made it 100 times better. To this day this bike still scares me. I have more respect for the vfr Then I did with my fz6. Great all round bike 🏍 had my licence less the a year. Ride all year round apart from snow.

Vfr800 is my first bike ! I seen a good deal and just went out and bought it first bike first time riding i learned really fast!

Picking an old girl up in a couple of weeks, can’t wait, 2003, stock, bright red with 24k miles. started on an old Fazer 600 lovely bike six months ago broke it and now upgrading can’t wait! 🤞

"That's what new riders do, they do weird things"

2000 vfr800 is my first bike. I've had no problems with it. Though I do come from a youth of dirt biking so maybe this is why. Cuz I'm small and I do agree the weight is the only thing that's made me a lil uncomfortable but otherwise it's been amazing. I'm even learning to wheelie lol... rip 'n dip ...!!! ♡lee

This video is really about the jumpy 6th gen VFR800 VTEC (02-13). The earlier 5th gen '99-VFR800 (Fi, non-VTEC) was my first bike @ 200lb 6'2". Never dropped. I was fairly responsible, rode it from age 28 to 34. I found its throttle very precise and confidence inspiring. Linked brakes probably helped. Smooth highway ride. Most miles were highway commuting, some lane splitting, some weekend rides. I wish I never sold it.

Picked up a 98 VFR800FI last night and this bike is angry and insane. I rode a fuel injected GSXR750 years ago and I thought that bike had crazy power. This VFR just adds even more low and midrange power than the GSXR. I don't know how 170-200 liter + bikes can be fun to ride on back roads after riding this bike. I learned real quick with this bike though, 156 miles non-stop 80-90mph to bring it home. What a beast of a bike!

The vfr800 is my first bike I have had dirt bikes before but the vfr800 is my first street bike. Also my vfr800 had the flapper and snorkel mod done and block off plates for the pair valve. Good video though. I do agree if you haven't ever been on 2 wheels you should probably start on a lot smaller bike.

I agree... Not a beginner bike as weight is up top... Can catch a new rider off guard in a slow turn.... Xtra weight keeps it stable at higher speeds though Vtec can be a lot of fun... I have found that the amount of kick you get from it depends on the gear you're in and how aggressive you are with the throttle..... That is to say if you twist the throttle hard and crank through the gears you're going to get a real pop when the Vtech kicks in (esp in tne lower gears)....wind on the throttle normally and cruise through the gears and the Vtech is very subtle (almost unnoticeable in the upper gears)....been riding 2005 vfr800 for 4yrs now and really like the bike.

it depends on what you mean by "beginner" it's not good as a first bike. It's too big, powerfull and heavy BUT. I'm a beginner. My first bike was a kawasaki er5 (500cc, 48 HP, 180 kg/397 lb) and after 3 months i bought the VFR800 and i can say that it's perfect for me. It's not uncontrollably powerfull, i like the size and i got used to the wheight. So, in short... the VFR 800 is not a good first bike but it can be a great beginner bike. It depends on the rider. BTW i got into motorcycling for comuting (thats's where the KAWA er5 was great) but especially for long distance touring (and thats where the VFR is great)

My 02 VFR800 is my learning and beginning bike. After taken and passed the motorcycle course I don't have anyone to let me ride their bike. I loved the bike when I saw it and decided to purchase it from a used bike shop in Jan 2015; very low miles 5000 for a 02. Now I've put a lot of miles on it currently 16000 miles; rode it to Charlotte NC once that's the only long distance ride I've ever made which was fun. The only issue I have is the weight. It is too heavy for me; I am only 157lbs I've dropped the bike about 4times due to the weight. It is my daily commute to work. I think it will be a great beginner bike for anyone who is a responsible driver. People think I was crazy when I told them a 800cc was my first bike. I love the bike

There is no such thing as a “beginner” bike. My first bike was an FZR1000, and I never had any issues.

I'm 17 and I started on my dads 05 VFR800. After the msf course on the 250, the power didn't feel too bad, but the brakes and the weight got me and I dropped the bike on the first ride. I've dropped the bike 3 times but I've gotten a lot better. The weight is a bit of an issue for new riders, but if you've taken the class then the power isn't really that much on an issue.

Nice vid - the 8th gen adresses some of the issues you mentioned with the 6th gen's suitability for new riders: 1) it weighs less and has a lower center of gravity with the elimination of the underseat exhaust, 2) VTEC has a smoother transition now, 3) traction control (on deluxe version), 4) bike is narrower due to moving radiators from the side to the front making it easier to get feet on the ground. However, I still wouldn't recommend it as a first bike - I would recommend a used Ninja 300 instead to learn on. But I think the VFR800 makes a great next bike for those who want to move up in the direction of a supersport from a 250/300 but aren't ready for 175 hp.

Just bought a vfr vtec about 4 months ago. first bike for 38 years absolutely love it. Definitely do the snorkel though. It's definitely a more sporty riding position than I had imagined.

The VFR800 VTEC is my 2nd bike and I really enjoy it with the full Delkevic system.... BUT... My reasons why it wouldn't be a good starting bike: -The sitting position (enlarges rider errors, leaning on the bars) -Jerky low rev handling compared to other 4 cylinder bikes (stalling and falling) -Handlebars and turn angle (not really beginner friendly) -Requires more input/lean from the rider to turn A naked 4-cylinder 600 is a far better choice (CBF600 for example)...

this bike is an absolute champion!!!!! the V tech is perfect because you can acually go 45 around town without the bie trying to go into warp speed........but ohh man is warp speed there when u want it... and the torque curve is monster,,, power everywere in every gear. honda life

I’ve been riding (a lot) for close to 50 years. Presently, one of my bikes is an ‘09 VFR. My opinion is that any bike can be used by beginners if - and only if - they know how to ride it where they’re usually riding it. This implies learning how to ride it where they ride it, which implies being taught how to ride it where they’re ridding it. All that aside, the VFR (if maintained and has good rubber) is truly an excellent motorcycle.

I started on a Vtec VFR! I miss it so much 😭😭 very good beginner bike

My beginner bikes, VFR800 5TH and 6TH Gens. On the sixth, 24 thousand miles in less than a year! Yes, it is heavy. VTEC can be an issue. Always, always take six months to get used to your bike. Removed fairings on the fifth when beginning. Yes, you will DROP it. Get back on and continue. Wear good gear, read, practice, watch video, take MSF course, get expert help, get permit, ride in a better order than listed. I just rode and listened to experienced riders and shop owners everyday all day.

I rode a 1990 VFR to 130k miles. It was still running well when I sold it. My current VFR is a 1998 with 93k miles. Both are fabulous bikes but I don't recommend them for beginners. The clutch is unforgiving and it's too heavy. But they are highly reliable and sound amazing. Everyone should experience a VFR at some point in their career.

98 VFR800 is my first bike, I got it over a year ago. Having never rode any form of motorcycle before hand I would say it isn't the best beginner bike, but by no means a bad bike for a beginner. I personally never found any difficulties with the overall weight of the bike, but it definitely is unpredictable at low speeds. Basically, the bike doesn't want to go slow.

The best way to get experience is to get miles under your belt. Variants in environment will also be a benefit. But riding into downtown or busy metro area in the beginning is probably not a good idea, because you don't want to get overwhelmed with large amounts of traffic, crosswalks, pedestrians, signs. Working into more stressful riding conditions over the course of time will give you more confidence and ultimately more experience. Start on slower back roads with minimal traffic will give you a time to feel out your particular bike and slowly graduate to more stressful situations. Gotta crawl before you walk is a good moto to live by.

As a side note the 8th gen vfr doesn't have a spike when vtec hits...the power still rises the same but it's no longer a hiccup in turns. The sound bark just tells you that you're in 6500+ rpm. The weight is the real issue if the new rider is short. The seat can be low, but it's heavy compared to 650ies or so at very slow speeds it can be a bit of a whale. It'd be a perfect 2nd bike though for shorties. That and honestly, the fit and finish is just above and beyond. Mine had liquid paper "QA" checks on every single bolt when i got it new.

Which is why everyone should start out on a Hayabusa lmao. And the first thing that comes to mind when you say snorkel is the kind that you put on an off road truck that will see lots of river crossings lol

Xj600 divi is by far the best beginners bike. So easy to use, incredibly predictable and cheap as chips should you throw it down the road.

I cut my sportbike teeth on a '93 3rd Gen VFR 750. It was such a fun and comfortable bike to ride! I wore out a couple sets of knee sliders on that bike. Then I moved up to a '95 CBR 900RR. Was a great bike too that redefined Warp speed!

I'm 6'2 245 pound VFR800 first bike perfect fit just don't go crazy on the road ..respect and stay in your lane ..beside the weight .

I just bought a 2000 800 VFR after having two ZX 12R Ninja's I wanted something under a liter, I didn't need a 185 HP bike anymore. Looking forward to riding it for the first time tomorrow.

Hi, I love my VFR 800 vtec abs, its my first bike, after taking my license - in Denmark that requires 29x45 min of theory and 22x45min of driving classes, then a theory test, then a practical exam maneuvring on a track, then driving in traffic. Just make sure to make the pair valve mod at least, it does alot for the low speed jerkiness, as you mentioned. I am curious about one thing though, whether you hunt vtec when you drive or you choose to gear up and have a more smooth ride? Doing highway stuff fx 110-120km/h you could be in third gear in vtec land or in fifth gear in smooth operator land? Thanks for your videos, they provide part of the reason for choosing the VFR 800 as my first bike 😉

I have the previous VFR800Fi, got me a new VFR1200F and sold it. Tried some other bikes. Went back to the VFR800. There isn't a better bike on the planet. Even my old 2000Fi is better then anything else. Got my wife a 2001Fi last year and she adores it. So much fun, so much power and it handles like a racer. If you ever been to Germany on the Autobahn, it has no problems keeping up. And in Austria in the mountains it's amazing. That said; it's no way a beginners bike, do not buy or try one before some years experience, this bike will kill you, it will.

The VFR can be a beginner bike, if the rider is a responsible person. The biggest obstacle to overcome would be weight.

A California model 750 has significantly less power than the 49-state versions. A well-running 49-state will put 95hp to the wheel. My 750 was a CA model before I swapped the cams. It initially dynoed at 83hp to the wheel. There is a difference of 5mm lift on the intake cam lobes.

The Interceptor is a bad beginner bike solely because of the weight also because they're fast but I've let so many beginners ride/sit and some reason they can't ever feather the clutch and have trouble catching themselves at stopping .I had a month on my cbr250 so technically I started on my fz6 which I think is an amazing starter. Bit powerful but doesn't take much damage when dropped, easily flat-footed, very smooth, comfortable position, lots of steering angle compared to the Interceptor

My 1st street bike was a 1986 VF 1000 R Monster the sound hey im still alive that the thing be safe brother roll that power on

I love my Y2K 5th gen. It is the best bike I have ever owned and I have owned a lot of bikes.

There's a lot of crap written in the comments here from 'antis' A pre-Vtec VRF was my first bike. I've done over 20,000km on it with no problems or drops. I'm quite a tall/strong guy and took to riding pretty easily. I've now ridden on 4 continents on various bikes including an 800lb+ Harley fully loaded with a weeks luggage and a passenger. If you are relatively strong, sensible & a fairly natural rider then a VFR can serve you well. If you are not a natural and jerky or nervous, too short / slightly built to keep it upright if it tips a little at a standstill, or likely to think you're Valentino Rossi after 6 weeks riding then it's not for you. I also have a small aircooled 500cc single with lower clip ons, more rake than the VFR and it's a lot harder to ride in a straight line at low speed. Low speed stability is not about weight.

While the VFR is possibly one the best bikes ever built. It's heavy, fast enough to frighten, but has a poor turning circle, The plus side is reliability, great handling,good lights and the coupled brakes. I've a 2001 fi which is fun to ride fast but wouldn't recommend anyone buying a performance bike without proper training. Start with a 250..

I got a VFR800 2002 as my first bike. It's a lot heavier than the Suzuki Gladius I learnt to ride on, but I would argue an easier bike to ride. Main downside to the VFR for me is the weight. As a 5'10" 11 stone guy I find it quite a pig to manhandle. Its quite a lump to manouver in slow traffic; so if people plan to do a lot of that, there are better bikes around. Overall I like the bike a lot, comfy, good build quality, and goes way fast enough for me :)

I've been riding dirt bikes for years and am new to the street and my first bike is a 2015 VFR800. I can handle it no problem and so far I love it. I would say that this is not a bike you want to learn controls on. You'll probably dump it for sure. If you need to learn controls get a 250. Also regarding the vtec power I'm 230 and I can hear the extra valves in the vtec open but can't feel it. The way the salesman made it sound I was ready for a 2 stroke power band boost...I was a little disappointed. Overall it's a great bike.

bought a vfr800fiy as a beginner bike 10 year ago best thing i ever done still riding it nothing else will do

Good beginners bike 400 to 600cc 4 stroke. .Old days 350cc RD Yam to 500cc H1 Kwaka 2 stroke far too fast for beginners. !25 cc to 450cc four stroke good to learn on. Now you can get a faster bike but take professonal coaching first. Mistakes on public roads equals more danger to life.Ride Safe.

"don't go out of state until you have a year under your belt" ok, i'll just do a trip from San Diego to Eureka to Shasta to Bishop and back (1700 miles all in one state)

the linked brakes on these bikes are the best! I didnt know how much I liked them until I lost my VFR and bought a honda 919.

the VFR or any 500 lb bike isn't a great beginner bike. the best beginner bikes are dirt bikes or endure bikes you can trail and street. get something you can really ride and lay down even before you start just street riding on full sized bikes

A new rider on a VFR800 is more likely to be in his/her 30s

I bought a VFR800 as my first bike... it is an awsome bike, it realy is but... my first trip I dropped it on a standstill. The weight of it takes you off guard especially if you learned how to drive on a mono cilinder like me.. The bike weighs a rough 250kg with a full tank. While driving the bike is light and very maneuverable but you need to know how to drive a sportsbike. It took me a about a year to get comfortable on the bike, playing with the V-Tec, slow cornering and fast cornering,... My bike is a 2007 one, the engine is smooth, the 4 cylinders start to work at 6500rpm it is manageable but once you get to 80km/h you need to drive it like a sportsbike (good body positioning and weight destribution) else you will think the bike is irresponsive. Once the V-tec starts, the bike feels like a beast. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't have taken the VFR800 as a first bike but at the moment I don't think I would ever buy an other one. I dono how you compare the VFR to a dirt bike... Without the V-Tec it is a manageable touring bike for middle-long trips

There is so much difference from one rider to the next it's really hard to say. If you have rode off road quite a bit I would say you would probably do fine on a VFR800 but if you have no riding experience I would say start on a 500 twin or smaller.

i think the linked brakes alone would make this bike difficult to deal with as a beginner. I have a 98 vfr800 and it took me a while to get used to them. The big problem is that feathering the rear brake in low traction and when trying to keep the front end down will actuate the front calipers. It really changes how you approach the brakes. I know that as a beginner I would not be able to process those types of nuances.

Looking into picking one up myself I love the vtech and the sound. I priced out insurance and its double for a any 600rr so the vrf will be the best of both worlds for me good power and more sporty then my f800gs

Much as I love the VFRs, they are certainly not a beginner's bike and not even legal as such here in Europe. Who suggested they'd be good for a beginner? Daft idea. Also, the power figures quoted in the video are incorrect - unless you're dealing with special versions to suit local regulations. Here in the UK the very first VFR750 was quoted as 105 hp and the latest VFR800 is also quoted as having 105. There have been slight variations along the way, but nothing significant. The VTEC system causes a step in the torque curve that is probably fooling you into thinking there's more power. Frist rule of engine power comparison is only compare like with like. The manufacturers always state output at the crank and no-one else is ever able to measure that. Also, however you measure it, the atmospheric conditions at the time will have a significant effect so unless measurements are done under controlled conditions (as the manufacturers can and do) they must be done at the same time, on the same machinery which is never the case. Comparing the measurements taken on different machinery, on different days is essentially meaningless.

I agree. I think this is a poor choice for a beginner. Too heavy. Also, the stock fueling makes the throttle snatchy at small throttle openings. Very good video! Beginners considering the VTEC VFR should pay attention to your video.

I'd agree that the VFR800 is a not the best for first time riders. I had a VF500 Interceptor which was perfect for a starter bike.

NOT a beginner bike. Used Suzuki GS500, ninja250, any dual-sport. Don't wreck an expensive machine. Yourself included...

Definitely not for someone totally brand new to riding. Age and being more mature has nothing to do with it. As an owner of an 07 VFR, it's definitely a wonderful sport tourer and very easy to ride however it is big and heavy. Lighter, more nimble and lower HP bikes will and always should be the go to for beginner riders. My first bike was an '85 Suzuki GS 450 for 5 yrs and after riding the heck out of it and getting miles and experience, I stepped up to a CBR 929. And I'll be riding till I'm too old to swing a leg over

Even a VFR750 is too much for a beginner. A beginner is someone who has not riden a bike before. If you are learning to ride a bike. You want to be on a GN250 or something. Something small, light, low torque, low accelleration easy. A beginners bike is a bike you only want to keep hold of until you have learned to ride. So 6 months or a year of buzzing around on a little bike then you graduate to a big bike.

How did you attach your phone mount if I may ask?

No way is VFR800 a beginner bike. Been riding almost 30 years , had quite a few different models and makes , all time favorite for me is the FJR1300 Yamaha. Best beginner bike i can possibly think of is a CBR500,the CBR 500 is super easy to handle , super reliable and very comfortable for new guys. I currently own a 2017 VFR800 and would never let a begginer ride it , you need experience , especially if you choose to mess around with the track control and tweak the engine.

Not the best choice for a first bike, but not ridiculous. Would definitely recommend one of these over a 600cc supersports to a new rider. My VFR800 felt about as quick as my ZX6R (up to about 100mph), but nowhere near as mental. It had about 5hp more than my ZX but the power delivery was a lot more predictable and easier to manage. 600s are nutter bikes.

I've just bought a VFR800fi (1999) as my first bike. I take on-board all of the comments here and appreciate the wealth of experience from other riders. I've not intentionally ignored the opinions but I actually hope to understand the risks you've mentioned and factor that into how I ride. I bought it at the weekend and on my 2nd day of ownership I took it for a long (100+ mile) ride around the Trough of Bowland in England. Partly to familiarise myself with it and partly because I couldn't get enough of riding it. The weight hasn't been an issue for me (I don't want to tempt fate) and I've been taking it easy. I've had a little play taking it up towards double figures on the tacho and I'm well aware that it has more power than I could safely use right now. That makes me treat it with respect and care. I've had it 4 days now and probably done about 250 miles on it (pleasure rides and commuting) and I'm getting more comfortable with the bike but still not thrashing it. I've nothing to prove and don't need to be first away from the lights every time or the fastest down the straights. I've been driving cars 19 years and done advanced driver training which doesn't make me a better driver but does make me recognise potential hazards earlier. I think that helps me as a new rider, as does being in my mid-30s and not a teenager.

My first bike was a GS Adventure, it’s whatever you feel comfortable on for me

I got a Vfr800 for my very first bike. Found a good deal, I couldn’t even ride it home. The owner dropped it off for me. I taught myself how to ride in about a month or so.

Totally agree. VFR 800 (FI and VTEC) are NOT beginner bikes. They are quite rough at very low RPM, the FI delivers a strong punch at midrange, the VTEC kicks in very quickly, so they can put a beginner in trouble. Don't forget that they have both a old detuned SBK engine (RC 45). The VFR 750 is much easier, and a CBR 600 is even better for a beginner.

My first bike was a CBR1000F and it was perfect for me. 🤷‍♂️ That being said I had ridden dirt bikes for a long while first

This is going to be my first bike! I plan to daily ride this beauty.

Great first bike, I'm 11 stone wet through and jumped on 1 5 days after doing my test.. not overly quick and comfortable

Anyone who said it isnt, started on a 300. Or a 250 with they lame ass. I learned on a 99 vfr. Dropped it trying to park in the driveway. Lol. If i wouldve rode it more before trying to park on a hill...

Actually that's a little bit incorrect, you CAN hit the brake if you bring the bike just above knee drag, and you would be suprised how hard. Now, do I recommend it? NO I don't, unless you absolutely are coming in hot, but even then just because it's possible doesn't mean it's easy. It's something everyone should practice in a closed environment once they become pretty experienced with their motorcycle. This was not intended to argue, just to give a little further advice that's all. And yes I've done this myself.

Dude you have no clue about top heavy. The VFR800 has been improved in every way from the old 750. There is no top heavy feel. There are no issues with weight. The bike weighs 500, not a bad thing for a Sport touring bike. You dont get knocked down in the wind as much. The bike dont need to be a lightweight race bike.

Im hoping come spring i can pick up my own, hopefully silver, VFR800 :) love the V4, love a little comfort, love how that body style looks too.

Been riding for a few years now. Mostly Dirt Bikes and Yamaha 650 Cruiser. I'm looking to do a daily 45 min commute. Really want something kinda quick. Picking between a 2015 VFR800FD New for $7,999 or a 2017 CBR1000RR ABS for $10,600 Both bikes are New old stock. Rode my buddies Ninja 2019 636 and I was in love. But these bikes seem like bargain money wise. Just can't decide.

my first big bike after passing my test was a vfr800 never had any problems with the weight

Any bike is a great beginner bike if you ride it to the coffee shop and back during the summer. In fact people will justify buying just about anything as a first motorcycle... that does not make it a good choice. If you want to admit it or not your chances of dropping, laying down or plain wrecking the bike go up if you hop on a higher displacement class before getting seat time in something tamer.