From what i understand the biggest difference between the 3 generations of Fs is between Gen 1&2.
I am thinking of buying a gen 2 or maybe a gen 1 but would like to know what owners think are the pros and cons of each generation. I am partial to older bikes (currently ride CX500s) and would like to know if the improvements between generations make the later model bikes a much better ride or conversely iif they lost something along the way.
Hope i am not stirring up a hornets nest
Cheers
Damo

 

This will be interesting to listen to

Well Gen 3 has linked brakes , gen 2 not, same for gen 1

Fairings are all different , Gen 2 to me seems bulkier with Fairings.

Gen 2 has shorter oem exhaust cans , Gen 3 longer , Gen 1 narrower

Speedo on Gen 1 is front wheel driven , gen 2 & 3 sprocket driven

Gen 2 & 3 seats are same , gen 1 shorter

Personally I like the unlinked brake systems ...BUT .....Gen 3's can be unlinked too.


Shoot I just like all of em ..........currently looking for a Gen 1 ...to complete the collection

 

I like the looks of the Gen 3 better than the rest (especially the tail). It also has a slightly more dependable CCT.
The Gen 1 has a skinnier rear wheel, too, which I don't like.

 

Somebody just has to say it! The gen 3 is just far prettier. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that the others are, by comparison, quite ugly...There, that should do it

I didn't like the linked brakes, some do. I got mine split and it's great.

 

I have the Gen2 which I think is the best compromise between looks, de-linked brakes and price.

The gen 3 bike will cost a lot more than the other two and I don't think I'd like the linked brakes either.

The Gen1 bikes go for a song here in the UK, so are a great buy and you get plenty of bang for your buck!

But if I was looking at a Gen3, I'd be tempted to go the extra mile and get a Blackbird

 

WHATTTTTT

You Heathen You ..... You know what this means ............. she's gonna give you hell just for
saying such a horrible thing !

 

Gen1 has had fuel pump problems where the gravity feed does not.
Some are not happy with the smaller rear tire on the early model, I have to agree. On my Gen3 I run the 180 in the rear and love it. I also de-linked.

All are the same engine but the later bikes have taller gearing (simple fix).
The Gen1 had slightly further rear foot pegs I believe.

I figured this much....just a matter of time.LOL

 

I like the Gen I. I did the rear tire Mod. to a 180. The 87' Model is the one that started it all.

 

HA! Knew that would get your goat there Sprock

 

thanks for the replies!
Personally i prefer the look of the Gen 2. Love that dodgy scooter tail light. Sorry Davethepom.
I did think Blackbird but thought they look far too new and alot like everything else.
So seeing as there appears to be no significant advances between gen 2 & 3 i think 2 it will be. Price wise there is not a major differance between a late 2 and early 3 here in Aus although gen 1 appears to be a bit cheaper.
But hey what do i know, i still love my old cx500s
Cheers
Damo