Honda Vfr800 (rc46) Review

Used Buyer Review

The RC46 VFR800 is one of those bikes that rewards patience. Honda's gear-driven cams give it that distinctive whine at tickover — if you don't hear it, walk away, because something's been neglected or rebuilt badly. These engines are genuinely bulletproof when serviced, but the VTEC system (post-2002 bikes) is a love-it-or-hate-it affair. The transition at 6,800rpm either excites you or unsettles you — there's no middle ground. Check the frame sliders and look underneath for crash damage — these get used hard by owners who think 'sport-tourer' means 'track bike.' Inspect the exhaust collector box carefully; they rot from the inside out and a replacement will hurt your wallet significantly. Chain and sprockets are consumables, fair enough, but the rear hugger traps muck and accelerates wear if the previous owner wasn't diligent. For the money, nothing touches the VFR's all-round capability. Comfortable enough for touring, capable enough for twisty roads, reliable enough to trust completely. It's a genuinely grown-up motorcycle.