I have decided its time to trade in the ST1100 for a CBR F4i (haven't been doing as many long rides lately). I've started to casually look around at bikes and have noticed that a majority of them are 02s. Was there some sort of issue with the 2002 bikes or is it just coincidence that all of them are 2002? Have there been any major improvements over the last few years, in which I should look for say anything 04 or newer? I've been unable to find any comprehensive comparisions of the different years. With the end of the year coming, perhaps I should check out a dealer and see what kind of deal I can get on an 06.

Thanks for the info.

--Sam

 

I believe the biggest change EVER to the F4i was the seat change from split to banana. The RR came out in 2003(??) and I think the seat changed in 04 (??). For issues about the F4i it will be will be a noisy Cam Chain tensioner, I still don't know if it is a problem or just a noise that you have to get aftermarket parts to deal with. Search on CCT or CCTL for more info.

I think prices are very reasonable for a good F4i, everyone seems to want the new RR . But for a 'real world' bike, you can't beat the F4i.

Edit: Other difference, my 2006 has a O2 sensor, earlier models don't (I think).

 

I love my RR but I have to say that the F4i is better for a LOT of situations.

 

2000 was the last year for the F4, which turned into the F4i from 2001 and on. 2001-2003 are the split seat models, and the 2004 and on are the banana seat models. As far as the actual bike goes, there haven't been any major changes over the years besides cosmetics with the seats.

 

Thanks for the info. I'm surprised there aren't currently more F4i's for sale in the Washington DC area. Perhaps sellers are starting to realize its better to hold out and sell beginning next riding season. I have found one blue 06 (probably my favorite color scheme) with 11k miles on it asking $5800.

Anyone have experience doing a week or two trips on their F4i. From what I've read, its more comfortable than the RR. I'm not expecting it to compare to comfort/convience of my ST, but are 3-400 mile days for a week reasonable? I've riden my friends RR for a day but haven't had a chance to actually ride the F4i.

Thanks again.

 

maybe its because of the year, but i paid 4400 for my 02 with 7300 miles.. id knock off a few hundred and then offer. just me though

 

I have ridden my 02 f4i since 2003 and I havent had any problems with it. I ride it pretty hard and its got 26,000 miles on it. The only thing that bugs me is the CCT rattling and it just makes noise. I havent really messed with it at all.

 

I just did ~1000km inthree days (500 in the last day) and I found the F4i pretty comfortable. It was my first long trip and I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't broken afterwords.

 

i have a 02 and a 05!
the 02 is 600cc motor and cct makes noise
the 05 is a 599cc motor shifts like butter and smooth!! also no noise from the cct!

 

How many miles do you have on the 05, or was something fixed on the later model CTT to prevent the noise? If I'm able to talk the guy down to $5500 or so for the 06 with 11k miles on it, it may be a good/decent deal from what I can see. Although I'd feel more comfortable if there were a few more bikes listed to get a better idea. Plus I haven't seen the bike in person yet, which could definitely be a big influence.

Edit: 11k seems a bit high for an 06 but the original owner says he uses it as a commuter bike (to get HOV lane access) and its all highway miles. I've been reading several posts with f4i owners quoting 40k+ miles with the regular maintenance.

--Sam