Excellent observations on the VFR and since I still have my 07 RWB thought I would throw in my $.02. I prefer my 07 for commuting over the 01.
The slightly lower 1st gear of the 6th gen is perfect for ultra-smooth launches. Almost no clutch slippage just release and twist...love the seemless forward thrust. Short shifting up to speed is automatic transmission smooth. The daughter prefers pillion on the 6th gen because of this fact...but I am sure the RWB color scheme endears it to her as well.
I drilled openings in the top of the 4 pipes and the sound while riding is fantastic. It is nonexistent above 70 unless your are in Vtec but accelerating around town, under acceleration it has a wonderful, exotic sound that lures me into turning it further and holding it longer every time.
It is muted enough to not be offensive.
The exhaust mod changed the character of the bike completely...for the better. It is still the smooth, classic Gentlemans Express it always was, just more engaging.
Late winter and spring in Florida has been special this year. Drought conditions and mild weather have allowed 1,500 motorcycle-mile months since February. Forget what kind of bike I am on. Motorcycling the last few months has been so good it hurts. Flying (without actually leaving the ground) on a modern motorcycle is so visceral and exciting...yet sophisticated and graceful at the same time...that it borders on sensory overload. I truly feel sorry for those who never get to experience a well-ridden motorcycle on a twisty road. One of the ultimate expressions of life.
@#$%mn VFRs...they always get me so philosophical. Time to head to the range.
KEB
