Honda VTR1000F Super Hawk reviews

I recently purchased a new '02 leftover VTR1000F. It isn't too hard to get a good deal on these as Honda hasn't done too much with them apart from some minor revisions in '01. This bike makes really good low and mid range power. It doesn't have much of a top end hit; but that isn't really what this bike is all about anyway. This bike makes very short work of back road. Power coming out of corners is fantastic. The bike is deceptively quick but is really noticable if you hop on a 600 after riding the VTR. The reasons why I gave it only 4 stars are as follows: The stock suspension needs some help. It is way too soft and the front dives during hard braking. I am fitting race tech springs and valves this week to correct this. It is a relatively cheap fix. I will also be raising the forks a bit in the triple clamps. The rear suspension is 'ok' but is a bit stiff. Again, there are aftermarket solutions (Fox TC shock, Ohlins, etc)..but they are more expensive. The brakes are pretty soft as well. Again an affordable aftermarket solution exists. Fitting braided brake lines (only the front is really needed) makes a big difference. I'd also recommend swapping for a more aggressive pad. After riding a YZF, which features phenomenal brakes, for the last 3 years I found the brakes on the VTR substandard. Carburetion is not exactly spot on and benefits from a jet kit, especially in the sub-3500 rpm area. The bike really does not like running at low revs. The best benefits seem to come from the Dynojet kit. Throttle response is much improved. I should also note that many people recommend slip ons (there are many options), but I still have the stock silencers. Finally, the seat is pretty stiff. I still have the OEM seat but am considering picking up a Sargent replacement which seems quite nice. Show less

I have owned a 99 model since new. Only 5000 miles. Not a single problem. Typical Honda reliability. Handling is sufficient for most abilities. Get a set of slip-ons. I highly recommend two bros. high mounts. Change the seat (rock hard). Horrible range, about 120 miles per tank. I guess the new ones have a bigger tank. Great fun, big bang for the buck (don't pay retail, buy a leftover model), huge torque wheelies. Show less

I own a 1998....and have so for several years...it has a ton of low end torque making it a great back road burner...you will surprise many other riders with this power delivery...I easily out-ride one of my pals who rides a new R1...he just can't keep up in the twisties...I did a race tech on the fron forks..I am a big guy (over 200 pounds)...bike is easy to work on as well. Show less

I just got my 02'Superhawk this summer and have already put 3,500 trouble free miles on it.This bike is really user friendly and does not throw you any curveballs;even when pushed to the limit.The front forks could be a bit stiffer for my taste,but I do weigh about 225#.Some stiffer springs should cure that.Otherwise I have absolutely no complaints.The SuperHawk will get you down the twisty backroads as fast as any other machine. Show less

I recently bought the 2002VTR 100 Superhawk and have fallen in love. I can beat any 600 on the road, including top end and I love the sound. I have a pair of two brothers slip ons and it moves like no other. Thanks Honda! Show less

I bought the 2000 (wish I would of held out for the 2002) VTR 1000. Then put the ART carbon Oval Race can and K&N jet kit with the K&N air filter. What a power difference. I also put Dunlop D208 GP race take offs on it. I can stick the bike into any corner at break neck speeds and it won't slip. Easy corner transition and really comfortable. Highly recommend the Sargents saddle. I have 5000 miles and no problems. Had the 93 VFR 750 with 45,000 miles before I sold it. Needed more power and Honda reliability. Got it with VTR 1000. Any questions email me. Show less

Bought my VTR 1000 when it won bike of the year - 1998. Have logged 18,000 miles on it - and never had a problem. Honda is amazing - new bike, motor, everything and its stone-reliable! A relaxed sport-bike capable of blazing street speeds (perfect)! don't fool yourself - you can keep up with any sport bike out there on the street, if YOU can ride the bike to its abilities. Mods: V&H ss2r Carbon fiber cans, double bubble screen.. Like Cycle World said " its a machine of the Gods" (now, if they would only raise the speed limit to ... 120 mph or so...) Show less

haven't had this 2001 model (same for 2002) long but am really impressed. Grunt like nothing I've ever ridden, including Bandit 1200, XJ900 Diversion, 1998 R1, TRX850, and still a fun top end (nothing like the R1 though, but so what?). Nice to ride at a relaxed pace as well as pushing hard. Yoshimura RS-3 sound great:- nice and throaty. 1st to 2nd gear change a bit clunky at low revs but still low miles. All changes buttery smooth at higher revs with some load (clutch optional). Lifts the front at will, but its easy not to as well. Steers beautifully and holds its line well. My first Honda and great quality with lots of nice touches. SUMMARY: Torque city, works with you, not intimidating, not boring. Highly recommended. I LOVE IT MORE EVERY RIDE. Show less

Downers: It isn't the "Super" Hawk we all hoped for when Honda discontinued the original baby V-twin sportbike. Handling feels heavy (a 600 it ain't). won't throttle wheelie as advertised. Short range. Mirrors ('nuff said). Front brake lever pinches fingers against grip (can't correct). Mediocre suspension. UPs: WILL throttle wheelie if you work at it a little. Handles extremely well if you set up your entries correctly. Can't be beat for grins at the exits. AWESOME top speed for a twin (155mph indicated). GREAT for Saturday night at the Sonic drive-in. ("Wow, what's that?) Acceleration? No one's touched me up to 130mph, espec the TL1000 with aftermarket cans and mappable iginition. (Grin) Summary: Needs aftermarket exhaust cans, K&N intake kit and a Jet kit; a Corbin seat; a few more teeth on the rear sprocket; MAYBE some adjustable clip-ons. Thumbs down to Honda. The RC51 is a dirty trick to sqeeze more money out of the buyers. This is one of the best bikes I have ever ridden. Honda could have gotten everything right the first time without telling us "oh, by the way, the RC51 is what we decided the SuperHawk should have been when we decided to take it racing." Worst Feature: I'm stuck with the best back-road twisties-eater I've ever owned...... in Kansas! Someday I'll see the Santa Cruz moutains again. Feel free to email w/responses or suggestions. Show less

I've been jumping from bike to bike for a few years now and I have finally met my mate. This bike is "flickable", fast, sounds great, is comfortable (with Heli Bars and a throttle meister), and is one helluva Deal's Gap Asphalt Surfer. Get out right now and buy yourself one! Show less