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Last night I massaged a 2012 ZX14R rear shock into my 1990 RC36. I expected an easy, cheap improvement over my 25 y/o stock Showa, however, preliminary testing is proving to be far, far better than even I anticipated. It feels like the rear shock from the big Kawasaki beast was built for the early model viffer, giving it a dominant stance, and as an unforeseen bonus it breathed new life into my bone stock front end. I originally intended to post this up only after a thorough test period (at least 1000 miles, pushing it under various conditions), but I'll save that for an update now because it looks and feels so good that I got anxious to share. So keep in mind that this experimental, and for the moment should only be attempted by those who have a basic understanding of suspension systems and those who are comfortable with simple to intermediate level modifications. I believe this could be a new serious option for those who want a "budget friendly" suspension upgrade that will provide the look, handling, and adjustability of a high-end custom shop setup. These legendary 3rd gens aren't getting any younger, and it's getting harder and harder to find decent (read: affordable) aftermarket support. Soon it will be a necessity to improvise upgrades and fixes for the whole damn bike, but that's what I really like about owning one ;) How about you? .

I have a 1990 VFR that was in almost pristine condition. During a recent move, it slipped on the trailer and suffered some minor fairing damage - cosmetically, it is going to be fine, but it is no longer quite so immaculate. One of the issues is that the left middle fairing got "popped" out of place - essentially, the stress pulled the leading middle fairing attachment bolt through the fairing and it looks like the 1/4 turn fastener at the front of the middle fairing piece that joins it to the lower cowl/belly pan section essentially broke off/damaged the "tangs" that engage the fastener - at any rate, it will no longer engage. I've repaired the damage done to the middle fairing mounting hole, but can't seem to find the correct part number for the riveted on "clip" that engages the fastener. Does anyone know what part number or of a source. Best I can find, it would appear Honda only sold the lower cowl as an assembly and didn't have a separate number for the attachment plate. I can use a "speed nut" type of fastener, but then the attaching bolts won't be "original" and won't match the other side - and I'd really rather try to keep the "vintage" appearance.

I'm new to the VFR as I just bought this 1990 VFR750F over the weekend for $700 and drove it home (which was quite scary given the condition of the tires and how it didn't want to lean). The trooper currently has 55k miles on the odo. The seller had owned the bike since 2003 and it was his first bike. I believe he was only the second owner of it and left it completely stock other than the rear fender. Ultimately, I plan on building this into something much sleeker and lighter weight than stock. Something sort of cafe racer / tracker style. I don't care to keep the bike looking original but am quite fascinated with the history of the VFR series. I have read hours of articles, forum posts and watched countless videos on the bike already. Seems I got quite lucky finding a 3rd gen and getting a seemingly great deal. I have already ordered some parts: Sheet of all parts/costs $188 - Tires: Shinko 705 120/70r17 radial and 170/60r17 radial $220 - new brake rotors, pads (and might need a caliper rebuild kit) $ 57 - complete front fork rebuild kit (bushings, seals, etc.) $ 17 - Maxima 5WT Fork Oil $ 9 - Mahle oil filter $ 21 - Honda GN4 10w-40 engine oil Not sure if I want to do a front fork conversion or not. I figured I'd rebuild the stock ones and try them some more before deciding but what are most peoples thoughts here? Don't know yet if I have the Cali version but if I have EVAP and PAIR then I plan on deleting them. This thread didn't really help but at least I know it's possible. This V4Dreams seems helpful even though he hasn't specifically had a 3rd gen 750. If you're interested in any of my other projects (unfortunately few are documented): 2005 Subaru OBXT build

Having dug out all those old brochures I might as well share the 1990, 1991, and 1992 VFR750 as they appeared in the Canadian brochures of the day. As before I have somewhat large jpg scans if any is interested.

Going thru the bike, getting it ready. What a mess. Last owner used grease for the chain and is everywhere. shock is on its way from Jamie, have a hell of a time getting the old one out brake lines are out and getting made. just wondering if i could use a standard/generic fuel filter? and need to drain the coolant, does anyone have a pic or diagram where the block plugs are? playing with the exhaust...has anyone ever just left the muffler off and ran with the collector box? more of my retarded ideas