From a 07 Vtec VFR800 to a Suzuki GSX1250FA or Triumph GT or....?

[VFRider]

I noticed a similar thread.

http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,69551.0.html

As the subject line says I have an 07 VFR800.  I am getting the itch for a different ride.  I am looking for info on the GSX or the GT and how they compare to the VFR.
  
The VFR just never thrilled me in the torque/acceleration department.  I find myself longing for the rush I got from my old CBR1000f on the highway.  The VFR engine feels lacking when I got up on the mountain highways.  I have done the sprocket change.

 I sat on the FJR1300, Concours, some of the big BMW's at a show today.  Those aren't my style either.  Basically I would like more torque than the Vtec VFR but not more bulk.  
 

 

[KodiakRS]

Ninja 1000.  

[Justin]

Ninja 1000.  

+1

Of course if you want more get up and go, you could go with a Busa or zx-14  

[Kneescrubber]

You do realize you'll have to change your name.

[sprint_st]

I've seen this type of question a thousand times.  What it really is asking "can you read my mind?" or "what is your favorite bike." Kinda sorta a mission impossible.  Makes entertaining conversation during the off season.     After giving my best Sherlock Holmes imitation, it looks like you want a light, agile sport tourer similar to your VFR but with more grunt.  I'm a Triumph guy, but that GT just looks porky to me.  Definitely liked the ST though and still got a Tiger 1050.  Ridden with several of the GSX's and they seem to be great bikes too.

[VFRider]

.....What it really is asking "can you read my mind?" or "what is your favorite bike." Kinda sorta a mission impossible.  Makes entertaining conversation during the off season.     After giving my best Sherlock Holmes imitation, it looks like you want a light, agile sport tourer similar to your VFR but with more grunt......

Yeah I kinda figured that.    I guess I was hoping to get a reply that goes something like, "I had VFR and got bike X and its just want you want"!!! Or maybe a real world review of either of the two mentioned bikes.  They spark the most interest for me....this week anyways.  You hit it right on the head with a light(ish) sport-tourer with more grunt..

[Rincewind]

The 1050 has gobs more power than the VFR800 with a turbine-like, linear and smooth powerband that will regularly loft the front wheel if ridden hard.  I also think the Ducati ST3 is an exciting yet refined ride in the same class.  The Ninja 1000 is not as refined but still a nice bike overall with buttery smooth low end power that goes frantic with power and vibes in the top end.

[blakebird]

I've had two Hinckley triples, an XX, VFR, ZX-14, and many other sporttouring / GT bikes like the FJR and ST1300.

Currently on a Ninja 1000, and I would suggest getting a ride on one to see if it melts your butter. Lighter and more compact than the bigger bruisers like the ZX-14, it combines a very stout midrange motor that keeps on going up top - with a flickable sporty feel and an almost standard riding position.

They're all very good bikes in the suggestions above. The Ninja has range, comfort, options like hard luggage and heated grips, etc.
If you like the VFR for it's size and sporty form factor, but want more beans....the Ninja 1000 IMO is worth a look.

The "Ninja is not as refined" I take issue with. You'll read that it's vibey up top - and to some it is (not me), but the motor is so strong from 3500-8000 that you really don't spend any time up in the upper register, and would have a string of tickets to show for it.

[vulcanbill]

I had a CBR1000F, I have a VFR800, I have a Bandit 1200S.  The Bandit makes the big goof feel like a 250.  Get the GSX, put bar risers and luggage on it and it will tickle your fancy.

I still giggle when I get on the Bandit after several years now.  It never gets old.  

[bandit1250]

Go to Maximum-Suzuki.com and find everything you ever wanted to know about the 1250. I had a 1200 Bandit, put 120,000 km's on that, now have a 1250 that is approaching 100,000 km's. My next bike would probably be another one.

[gritsngravy]

There's nothing like a big I4 for serious stomp.   I've got an 07 vfr and agree there isn't a ton of low end but it powers up nicely as the revs rise and is smooth, refined etc.   I scratched my I4 itch with a bking and love it.   If you're gonna go big definitely try a zx14, Busa along with the ninja.   From what I've read the new zx14r is insanely powerful, smooth, and refined.    

[Rogue]

If you're bored and want something new, then go for it it.

I like the VFR800 a lot.  I do understand your want for more torque.  When I jump on my 1125R, it's a whole bag of fun not only because it has much more power (and torque), it just feels more of a hooligan bike and that's what I enjoy the most.  Having said that, I rarely ever feel the VFR800 lacks power even at high elevation, passing, sport-touring, commuting, etc.  It will get to 140 mph in a big hurry so, how much faster do you want to go?  If it's power you are looking for, don't get a bike that is just a little more powerful than the VFR800.  That would be a waste of your time.  Just get the ZX14 and be done with it.  550 lbs. and 160+ rwhp, smooth like the VFR.