1985 Honda VF1000R

Description

Click here for an CycleVIN Motorcycle History Report on this 1985 Honda VF1000R. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

When it was released, the VF1000R was a bit of a revelation: it was Honda’s flagship, designed to showcase what the Japanese firm was capable of. It was also a huge tease to US riders, because it was initially only released in Europe only – America got the VF1000F instead, which was designed to be more of a touring bike. The R was Honda’s first road bike to benefit from gear-driven cams.

Manufactured in February of 1985, this example is VIN: JH2SC1613FM000170, Engine #: SC16E-2100232. The seller acquired it in June 2016 from a private party.

When the seller acquired this bike, “it was in running condition, but needed a little cosmetic help. I was inspired by the HRC paint scheme of the NS400R, so I decided to turn it into a 1983 NS500R tribute, the bike Freddie Spencer rode to the 1983 World Championship. While searching for parts, I was able to find a 1986 headlight and the required mounting brackets so I upgraded the headlight from the 85 rectangular headlight to the more desired dual headlight 86 set up.”

“I first rode the bike in August of 2017 and have enjoyed riding it for bike nights and a few longer rides but have only accumulated around 2,000 miles in the 5 years since, with 18,141 miles on the clock. I installed a new clutch and did an oil and filter change last year at 18,076 miles so she’s ready for the next owner to enjoy. As beautiful as this bike is, it’s not as comfortable for 2 up riding as I hoped and have decided to move on to something a little more touring friendly.”

Maintenance:
“Went through whole bike including valve adjustment, carb rebuild, fork rebuild, new shock, new drive components, tires, etc. It got a new clutch and oil change less than 100 miles ago.” The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The bike is hard to fault, but it does have some wear as you would expect from a 37 year old sportbike and there are a few spots where the clear coat has a bit of overspray and there is some boot wear on the side covers. There is some crazing in the windscreen when the light hits it just right but it’s also very clean.”

“There is a bit of surface rust in the tank, but it hasn’t presented any problems with the fuel system in the time I’ve had it.”

“In general, the bike is in excellent condition and everything (lights, horn, etc.) all function properly. The bike also comes with a factory service manual and a few spares including spark plugs, spare fuel pump front calipers and some other assorted bits and pieces.”

Currently located in Atascadero, California, this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration current through June 2023. Have any VF1000R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!