ST or VFR?

[GRN]

I'm finding that I want to push the ST13 really hard everytime I get on it. I didn't do that as much with the ST11, probably because it's geometry was a bit mellower, and for most of the same time I had the 11 I had a Ducati for the fear fix.

I don't want another raw sport bike, and I'm not sure I can justify 2 bikes (but I can't imagine getting rid of the ST either...).

VFR appears to be very suitable to some touring and long days putting back a lot of miles.

The only downside I see to the VFR is 2 up ergos.

I would love to hear from some folks that have some time on both.

[vfourlife]

I have had 3 VFR's and just got my first St1300 05'. Honestly, the VFR feels more racey with the clip ons, higher rear sets, and leaned forward stance. I can ride my ST just as fast as my VFR through the twisties. Ground clearance did show up on the ST when I ground both "feelers" off of the footpegs the last trip. Two up: huge difference. I had a 3 Givi bag set up on my last VFR and rode the boss on a few trips.....it handeled like a fat pig. Oh, I also was running Ohlins rear and Racetech front, so suspension wasn't the issue. The reason I bought my ST was for longer touring trips. Still only being 27, the VFR would even ware me down after 500 miles or so. Would I ever buy another VFR...sure, as long as they got rid of the stupid Vtec. Am I happy with my ST...abso-frickin-lutley! I'm pretty sure this is my 1 street bike. Hope that helps.

[jgilmore]

I had a 1994 VFR for 10 years and I absolutley loved it. I only switched to the ST because of a pinched nerve in my neck that has become really bothersome over the last few years. On long days, it was sometimes unbearable.

I did install Heli's on the VFR which helped a bit. But as far as comfort, there is no comparison to the ST. I can ride it as long as I want.

My wife felt like she was "hanging out there" on the VFR when 2 up. With the ST and with or without the Top Box, she feels much more "secure".

But the VFR was one sweet ride. I should have kept it, and sure I miss it from time to time.

-john

[GRN]

Thanx Ya'll.

Leo, Blackbirds are sweet bikes, not sure I can handle the reach though... left shoulder is junk. Besides, I'm too dumb to own a bike that fast.

V4, what didn't you like about the vtech? I'm looking at a cherry 2000 with just over 5K on it which I believe to be pre vtech.

[billxp]

I don't really see the need. My 86 VFR750 has been sitting in the garage since August 23 2005, the day I picked up the ST :)
I had just tuned her up, new rubber, chain sprockets etc. I'll have to get back to you in the spring and see what happens.
Poor girl looks so small next to the ST.

But then again I do see the need ;)

[STrike Eagle]

I own both an 91 ST1100 and a 99 VFR, both are great, but each has its own purpose in life. I've always felt the amount of effort required to pilot my ST through the twisties can be quite fatiguing and if you've made a bad judgement call in a turn, it takes a lot to correct all that weight and momentum. Sorry that I cannot compare the VFR with a 1300, though I have ridden a 1300 and it is a big improvement over the 1300 but it still isn't a VFR. My ST is utilized for cross country touring, trips to school where I am loaded down with books, and it is quite the workhorse. The VFR on the other hand is for more aggressive riding, fun around town, short spirited rides around the area where I live, etc. I love both motorcycles but admit, the VFR is just plain old, more fun to ride as you are not having to wrestle with 700+ lbs and it cuts through turns like a hot knife through butter. The ST is civilized and a master of many tasks, the VFR is just the thing you need to put a huge smile on your face. You have to ask yourself, what kind of riding do you do? If you tour, I'd stay away from the VFR, it just doesn't have the comfort that the ST has nor does it have storage (unless you go with the new versions and buy the saddlebags). But if twisty roads are close by and you enjoy leaning into a turn, go with a VFR.

I enjoy both types of riding, so this is why I own both. There are some great deals for used VFRs and you may want to add one to the collection. I will warn you, if you ever ride a VFR, it may change your view, as was the case with me.

[MagnumST]

I am facing the exact opposite Delima. Should I seell my 2002 VFR and move up to the ST 1300. I can't compare the two but can tell you how I view the VFR.

I think the VFR is a wonderful, civilized sport bike. It is decent for around town driving and great for local tours (100-200miles). It is way more capable than I am. Given the type of riding I do, I find it is near perfect if you can find nice sweeping or curved roads. It is a joy to ride in these conditions. Given it's decent but limited weather protection I find it most comfortable cruising in the 50-70ish mph range- enough wind to hold me up. I don't mind the Vtec. With a pair of staintunes on, I can't imagine a better sounding motorcylce. Maybe the ST?

Many will tour with a passenger on a VFR but I can't imagine it being very comfortable or pleasurable for more than a short trip. The passenger will be ridding high like most sport bikes and the seating will not be that comfortable. It does handle like a pig if you get anyone on the back that is very heavy.

I am interested in the ST for the following:

- More upright posstion for slower speeds (in town)
- More suitable for longer tours- more than 200 miles per day / mulitiple day trips
- More suitalbe for carrying a passenger
- There are not that many great curvy roads around Minneapolis where I currenlty live. I am thinking that I may not be taking much of a hit in the handling department given the fact that I don't use most of what the VFR can deliver on a regular basis.
- I have tried other bikes (Like GS 1200) that fit my future riding needs but can't seem to give up the honda v4.

If I were you I would try to find a used VFR- 1999 or newer and keep the ST. I am sure you could find a great bike in the $4-6K range. If you do much touring or appreciate the ST's comfort and wind protection you will likely miss it. My plan is to pick up an ST and see how much the VFR gets used.

[MNwing]

MagnumST.....welcome to the group. Another MN person, got my :biker: Last April and have enjoyed it more than any other bike I've owned over the year.

I also have a 05 SV650S that I use to ride to and from work and short trips around my neighborhood, but still prefer the ST overall.

Hope to see you on a ST next spring

[MagnumST]

MNwing,

Thanks for the welcome. Nice to hear from someone around the area. I used to have an standard SV650 before the VFR. It was a fun bike for around town. I am sure it compliments the ST nicely.