Hi, I currently have a 1990 FL model that runs pretty well and is in fairly good condition.
( Have fitted K&N filter, Full stainless manifold and end can, Braided brake hoses and iridium plugs )

Recently there have been a few of the later models ( 95 to 99 models ) up for sale in very good condition and at reasonable money.

Is there much of a difference or any advantage ( other than just age ) to moving on to a later model bike ?

Cheers Dean

 

The main change was the "Dual CBS" breaking system. Other than that it was mostly cosmetics with an new tail light and other small things.

 

Just my opinion, and at the risk of offending many of you, I think that Honda tightened up the lines of the last generation of F's and thus the latter years look better than the earlier models.

 

I agree that the later bikes have a cleaner and more streamline look. But not enough to justify changing from my own 1990 bike
that runs well and is in pretty good shape.

I was expecting that they may have updated much more than the styling.

Not a big fan of the CBS ( tried a blackbird with it on ) - I would probably de-link it if I had it on a bike.

Guess I will wait until parts become difficult to get and then look at a blackbird with VFR800 bars ( seems to be the logical next step )

Cheers Dean

 

I wouldn't trade my 90 for a newer model, strictly because I prefer the earlier color schemes.

 

I've owned a 92 & 96 and other than linked brackes and marginally broader power curve, I never noticed a difference.

 

That's EXACTLY what I've got. I absolutely LOVE these things!

 

Link brakes, which I have heard are a bit yucky due to the fact it was Honda's first attempt, and a fatter tire I think. I would stick with the one you have to be honest. Only better thing is the tire. If you want something newer and better, the 1100XX or a VFR800FI would be the ticket. I went from a 1988 Hurricane 1000 to a 1998 VFR800 and it is night and day. I can really get over in the corners on the VFR. Lighter and more comfortable, IMO. Also the sound of the Staintune mixed with gear driven cams is music to my ears...

 

Link brakes are fine, these things are not race bikes and the link rakes actually improve stopping distances.

 

I believe late 80's and early 90's in a proper condition are the most worthy models. Earlier models carry older design and tech solutions and the newer ones climbs up into a price segment where there are more modern bikes for the same money. E.g. in Sweden the price for a late CBR 1000 F can be as high or even higher than an early bird (wasn't that a satellite). Still, for those who need premium comfort the latest CBR 1000 F may be a strong candidate. The only real disadvantage I can see with an old bike as e.g. the CBR 1000 F is that the brakes are not really up to date and that must be fixable. Apart from the brakes, I cannot see any fault with the bike, which still is a very good mix of the best from different types of bikes.
Some people claim that you can drive a lot quicker on roads with a modern bike than with the CBR 1000 F. I don’t agree since the pace will then need to be on atrack level that is insane to apply on roads.

http://www.probertencyclopaedia.com/...d&offset=0