I've always loved the bike. Anyone here with enough saddle time to form an opinion? I'm not selling the Hawk; I think it would look great next to a VFR in the garage.

 

I had an 02 (identical thru 05, 06 has some upgrades). The best all around bike I've ever owned (4 other VF/VFR's). I have modified superbling into the closest thing I can to a VFR (better egos, VFR tank/seat).

The V4 doesn't have as much grunt as a VTR, of course, but does have a tad more on the top end; however, t it's at a much higher rpm limit. Very comfy, polished, makes great noise (with pipes or bafflectomy) and handles great (nearly perfect balance between the sharp/stable compromise IMO) with a SSS and a CENTERSTAND (what a concept)!

A tad too heavy as it's designed for 2up and hard bags and could use a tad more power IMO but is more than adequate to keep up with just about anything in the twisties but it will kill other sportbikes on long distance routes.

Just like the Superhawk it's not sought after by the squiddly crowd, so you can find good to great deals on used ones.

 

For what it's worth I test rode one a few years back at a dealer demo day. I found the engine to be very smooth yet it lacked the roll-on torque that I have grown to love in my VTR. The seating position was nice and the ride and handling were pleasant. I took my gf with me and she found that it lacked character, was too refined compared to the Storm (maybe she just missed those vibes, lol).

I think it would make a pleasant bike to own and a nice additon in the garage.

Mikstr

 

Ya remember to get it up to where the V-tec kicks in around 7,000rpm I think then the bike really goes.