The VFR's newly designed instrument panel provides a centrally positioned rev counter and two large LCD readouts which show speed, tripmeters, fuel gauge and a clock.  LED indicators also provide instant notification of ABS and H.I.S.S. operations, as well as the standard array of functions.  Engine temp is also displayed and can be switched to show outside air temp' at the press of a button.

Honda claim the fuel tank is designed to make it more suitable for a tankbag.  I disagree, my tankbag fitted much more securely on both the Fireblade and CBR 600.  One plus for the new bike though is the fact that much less wind buffeting results from having a tankbag fitted than on the previous 800.  On the last model a tankbag really seemed to disturb the airflow behind the screen which resulted in some pretty bad turbulence at times.

Another point that the new tank does have in it's favour though is an increase in fuel capacity from 21 to 22 litres.  That doesn't sound much but it does translate to around 20 kilometres in distance which is nothing to sneeze at.  The touring range of the new VFR equates to around 300 kilometres during average riding.  In excess of 400 kilometres could be achieved at strictly legal speeds.

Honda's latest anti-theft system features a fail-safe electronic interlock that prevents the engine from being started by any other than the motorcycle's two original keys. Since H.I.S.S. disables the motorcycle at the heart of its ignition system, it cannot be bypassed by either hot-wiring the ignition or exchanging the ignition switch module.  This is great to see, all motorcycles should have a similar sort of system.  In this day and age there is no excuse not to.  I also see no reason why this type of security should be restricted to road bikes.  Considering the amazing rate of dirt bike theft we suffer in Australia the sooner manufacturers start providing proper security on their dirt range the better.

Sliding into place over the tail of the seat when not carrying a pillion is a colour matched seat cowl.  Disappointing is the distinct lack of underseat storage space.  I guess this is a result of having the mufflers tucked under the rear bodywork.  However the positive side of having the mufflers under the tail is the fact that the fully integrated (optional) panniers can sit closer to the bike and the pillion scores 10mm extra leg room over the previous model.  A 45 litre top box is also available, as is a taller screen.

Pillion grab handles are comfortable and well located.  Another point worth mentioning is that they are level with the height of the pillion seat and make fine tie-down points and/or they can serve as a rack to mount things on when travelling solo, without the solo seat cowl in place of course.

The new 'VTEC' VFR is a highly accomplished machine.  Most of the other bikes in this market segment offer a lot more cubes than the 781cc VFR but not many provide such a level of technical sophistication and polish.  It has enough power to get by in any road based situation but does lack that real bottom end grunt that some of the bigger bikes possess.  However the engine/gearbox combination fitted to the VFR is the most refined, dare I say classy, package I have ever sampled.

Previous VFR fans will not be disappointed in this improved new model, and nor should they be.  If you can only afford one vehicle to do everything then the VFR is still one of the smartest choices around.  Or if you already have a full tilt sportsbike and are considering a second bike for touring duties, with or without a pillion, the VFR deserves serious consideration.

Specifications

• Engine ≈ Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC 90º V-4

• Bore X Stroke ≈ 72 X 48mm

• Displacement ≈ 781.7cm3

• Compression Ratio ≈ 11.6 : 1

• Fuel Supply ≈ PGM-FI electronic fuel injection

• Max. Power Output ≈ 107hp @ 10,500min

• Max. Torque ≈ 80Nm @ 8,750min

• Ignition ≈ Computer-controlled digital transistorized with electronic advance

• Starter ≈ Electric

• Transmission ≈ 6-speed

• Final Drive ≈ 'O'-ring sealed chain

• Dimensions ≈ (LxWxH) 2,120 X 735 X 1,195mm

• Wheelbase ≈ 1,460mm

• Seat Height ≈ 805mm

• Ground Clearance≈ 130mm

• Fuel Capacity ≈ 22 litres

• Rims ≈ 17 X 3.50 'U'-section 6-spoke cast aluminium (Front) - 17 X 5.50 5-spoke cast aluminium

• Tyres ≈ 120/70 ZR 17 (Front) - 180/55 ZR17 (Rear)

• Front Suspension ≈ 43mm H.M.A.S. cartridge-type telescopic fork with stepless preload adjustment, 109mm axle travel

• Rear Suspension ≈ Pro-Link with gas-charged H.M.A.S. damper, 7-step preload and stepless rebound damping adjustment, 120mm axle travel

• Front Brakes ≈ 296 X 4.5mm dual floating hydraulic disc with Combined 3-piston calipers and sintered metal pads

• Rear Brakes ≈ 256 X 6mm hydraulic disc with Combined 3-piston caliper and sintered metal pads

• Dry Weight ≈ 213kg

• RRP ≈ $17,490 + ORC

Honda VFR 800 Wallpaper