To start, I am beyond satisfied with the new Viffer. This is my first bike after about a five-year hiatus from two wheels. My last bike was a CBR600, so I was itching to mount another sport bike. However, I've gotten married within those five years, so I was also in need of a more...
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To start, I am beyond satisfied with the new Viffer. This is my first bike after about a five-year hiatus from two wheels. My last bike was a CBR600, so I was itching to mount another sport bike. However, I've gotten married within those five years, so I was also in need of a more passenger-friendly bike. I was originally considering the ST1300, but once the Viffer popped up on my radar, it wouldn't leave. Now, I'm sure I wouldn't have been disappointed with the ST, as long as I had made sure I didn't test ride the VFR. Riding comfort is decent: far more comfortable than the CBR, but you're still in a "sporting" position, vs. a touring position. I will be addressing this (see upgrades). I can easily place both feet flat on the ground, so reach is not at all an issue. I don't think I'll ever reach the performance level this bike is capable of when it comes to cornering, at least not on public roads. We'll see about some track time. Acceleration is outstanding and breathtaking. I love the responsiveness, though the power band does require some getting used to. Once that learning curve is over, this bike feels so tossable. It does NOT feel like a 600 lb. machine. I do want to mention the exhaust note, because I believe that is a major feature of this bike. Anything below 6000 rpm is fairly subdued, but enjoyable. It makes this growling/groaning sound. However, at the magic 6000 rpm mark, the exhaust valve opens and the sound changes dramatically. This is the best description I can come up with: imagine if Johnny Cash were capable of screaming like Zach de la Rocha from Rage Against the Machine; it gives me the goosies! The VFR will definitely satisfy any sport bike enthuiast looking for something with decent touring capability. But don't be mistaken, if you're going to call the VFR1200F a SPORT-touring model, the major emphasis is on the word "Sport." I've been averaging between 39 and 41 mpg, so I'm definitely happy with the gas mileage. I did the initial engine and final drive oil change myself, and this was a breeze to do. The oil filter is very well placed and very easy to get to. I can see myself happy with this bike for the remainder of its useful life.
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