1988 Honda VFR 750 F (RC24) – Project Bike/ 34,379 km

The Story Behind the Machine

The Honda VFR750F represents one of the most significant chapters in motorcycling history. When it was unveiled at the 1985 Paris Salon, Honda introduced a motorcycle that would redefine the "sport-touring" segment and establish the V4 engine as a legend on both road and track . The VFR750F (chassis code RC24) was the machine that brought V4 technology—previously reserved for Honda's exotic RC30 homologation special—to a wider audience, combining racetrack-derived engineering with genuine everyday usability .

At its heart lies a 748cc, liquid-cooled, 90-degree V4 engine producing 105 PS. The engine featured gear-driven camshafts, a design choice that gave the VFR its distinctive whine and legendary reliability . The 1988 model year introduced significant updates: a 41mm front fork, 17-inch wheels front and rear (replacing the earlier 16"/18" combination), and larger 296mm front discs . The chassis was a twin-spar aluminium frame with Honda's Pro-Link rear suspension, delivering handling that was years ahead of its contemporaries .

What makes the VFR750F truly special is its duality. It could tour comfortably, cover thousands of miles with minimal maintenance, and yet, when the road turned twisty, it would carve corners with a precision that betrayed its sporty intentions . Owners have reported covering 220,000 miles on these engines—a testament to their mechanical robustness . The VFR's V4 engine, with its unique firing order and gear-driven cams, produces a sound and feel that is unmistakably addictive .

Today, the 1988 VFR750F is recognised as a modern classic—an essential part of Honda's heritage and a beloved machine among enthusiasts worldwide . While its racing sibling, the VFR750R RC30, commands prices upwards of €40,000–€50,000, the standard VFR750F offers much of the same engineering excellence at a fraction of the cost . This motorcycle represents an accessible entry into the world of V4 Honda ownership.

The Bike (Condition)

This 1988 Honda VFR750F is offered with 34,379 km on the odometer—moderate mileage for a VFR of this vintage. However, the motorcycle has been stationary for the past two years and requires recommissioning.

Mechanical Status:
The engine was running when the bike was parked two years ago. It will need to be started and brought back to life—typical for a bike that has been sitting. The front brake system requires a bleed and fluid change as a minimum. The owner purchased this motorcycle as a restoration project but, due to age and other commitments, has decided to pass it on.

Cosmetic Condition:
The bike is described as "saine" (sound/healthy) but with "pas mal de travail" (quite a bit of work) needed, especially aesthetically. The cosmetic condition is where the majority of work is required.

Consumables:
Both tyres are NEW—a significant saving for the next owner.

Mileage:
The odometer reading of 34,379 km is notably low for a VFR750F. Many examples of this age have covered well over 100,000 km, with some exceeding 200,000 miles .

Documentation:
The vendor possesses the Carte Grise (French registration document).

Ideal Buyer:
This VFR is intended for a "bricoleur averti" (skilled home mechanic) who enjoys bringing classics back to life, or alternatively, as a parts donor bank for someone who already owns a VFR750F .

Known Issues (Full Disclosure)

•  Engine: Stationary for 2 years – requires recommissioning and starting

•  Front brakes: Require a full bleed and fluid change

• Cosmetics: Significant aesthetic work needed (exact details not specified – to be assessed upon inspection)

•  Charging system: Known weakness on RC24 models – the regulator/rectifier is prone to failure and should be checked 

•  Carbs: Carburettor emulsion tubes are a known issue on VFRs – if the bike ran poorly before being parked, this is a likely culprit 

•  Cooling pipe: The pipe running at the bottom of the V is exposed and can cause burnt hands – a common VFR quirk 

• ✅ Tyres: New (fitted)

• ✅ Documentation: Carte Grise present

What's Included

• ✅ Carte Grise (French registration document)

• ✅ New tyres (front and rear)

• ✅ Keys

• ✅ Engine (known to have been running when parked)

Why Bid?

This 1988 Honda VFR750F offers an accessible entry point into one of Honda's most iconic and beloved model lines. The VFR's V4 engine, gear-driven cams, and timeless styling make it a motorcycle that is both rewarding to restore and a joy to own.

The vendor has clearly stated their reasons for selling – advancing age and a collection of other motorcycles means this project is surplus to requirements. For a skilled home mechanic, this VFR represents an opportunity to acquire a low-mileage example of a future classic at an entry-level price, invest time and effort in bringing it back to its former glory, and enjoy one of the best sport-touring motorcycles ever built.

The new tyres represent a significant saving, the low mileage is a major plus, and the VFR's legendary reliability means that once recommissioned, this bike should deliver many more years and kilometres of riding pleasure.

Buy a low-mileage VFR750F project at an entry-level price – invest your time, not your fortune, and own a piece of Honda V4 history.

Sold as-is, where-is. Good luck and happy bidding!