Honda’s use of the V4 engine platform has become a trademark of the storied Japanese manufacturer – long before other makes adopted the configuration, Honda had cemented its reputation on and off the race track with its now legendary VFR and RVF race and street bikes. The V4 engine layout has many inherent advantages, perfect primary balance, compact packaging and of course that wonderful exhaust note.
While the Interceptor got its start a few years earlier, it was initially marketed as a VF in different engine displacements, so while this VFR700 shown here is considered the 3rd generation it was actually the second to carry the VFR moniker and become the model that so many regard as the gold standard in sport touring bikes. The previous version of the VF series of Interceptors suffered camshaft issues that left Honda scrambling to resolve the issue (which they did) before the new VFR model launched in 1986. In response to those quality issues, these new bikes were in some ways over-engineered and set the standard for the typical high quality fit and finish that Honda is so famous for today.
The VFR700 shown here is the smaller displacement version Honda offered at a steep discount to subvert the 750cc import tariff rules in the United States at the time of the bike’s release. Honda also produced and sold the 750cc version and both bikes were nearly identical (right down to the carburetors), though the 700cc variant had a shorter stroke to reduce displacement. The bike is powered by a 90 degree V4 with 16 valves operated by gear driven cams producing just over 90 horsepower at the crank.
Weighing in around 500 lbs, the VFR had a twin beam aluminum frame, box section aluminum swingarm and disc brakes front and back. Suspension was Showa with a monoshock in the rear and a rebound adjustable 38mm front fork. The front wheel was 16″ and the rear was 18″ which was fairly typical of bikes during this period. The VFR was not only a sales success but it went on to become one of Honda’s longest running and most loved models.
Manufactured in October 1986, this example is VIN: JH2RC2626HM100165.
The seller states he has put 18,164 miles on the bike and the odometer currently shows 30,523 miles. “I purchased this bike in May 1994, so I have owned it for 31 years.”
Maintenance:
The seller states: “I have done almost all maintenance myself, and have a lot of receipts from parts/upgrades over the years. The oil gets changed yearly, and brake fluid and coolant were last changed three years ago. I have the factory Honda tools for valve adjustments (and are included in the sale), and were last adjusted at approximately 24,000 miles. VFR’s are pretty bulletproof and this one has needed nothing but routine maintenance over the years.”
Modifications:
The seller states: “Braided steel front brake lines, Ohlins fully adjustable shock, Race Tech Gold Valve cartridge emulators and linear rate fork springs (both set up for a 160 pound rider), Laser stainless steel exhaust with uninstalled db killer insert included, K&N air filter, Rick’s Electric MOSFET regulator/rectifier, AGM battery.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT45 tires with date codes of 0518 and 4718.
The sale includes two keys.
Also included in the sale is a brand new NOS fuel tank, NOS petcock, OEM exhaust, oil filters, Honda valve adjusting tool set, new unused Samco silicone radiator hose kit, original tool kit, owners manual, service manual, parts book, and stock shock.
NOS fuel tank.
Laser Exhaust baffle.
Honda tools for valve adjustments.
Honda service manual.
Original rear shock and other original parts are included with the sale.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Shelburne, Vermont, this Honda is offered on a clean Vermont title. Have any VFR700 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
