Topic: 1985 VF500 basket case

[Pielz]

A buddy of mine just picked up a basket case 85 VF500 V4 (for basically nothing) and he's not part of any online communities. I told him I'd post and ask if anyone knew of the most active community with the best resources for this bike. Seems like it'll be a cool project.

[seanbarney41]

Vfrd.com.  I had an 86.  If he can put that together, he is the best mechanic ever...not a simple machine.

[Pielz]

Yeah we'll see if he can do it! Otherwise it's just getting parted out. The engine seems to be in decent shape though and it doesn't have a ton of miles. I'll be interested to see the state of things inside a little better.
 
Thanks for the tip about the website!

[Steve_K]

Was that one of the V fours that had oiling problems in the head?  Might be good idea to check that out.  BTW, friend had one and said it  was sweet handling ride.  At least the price is right.  Could be a fun build!
Steve

[Pielz]

Was that one of the V fours that had oiling problems in the head?  Might be good idea to check that out.  BTW, friend had one and said it  was sweet handling ride.  At least the price is right.  Could be a fun build!
Steve

I have no clue! Would definitely want to know that. I've heard they handle really really well

[seanbarney41]

best handling bike I ever rode...whether there was a real oiling problem is controversial and is mostly associated to the 750's.  The 500 was cursed with extremely tiny valves that were prone to dropping down into a high revving cylinder...that was the end of mine.  Unless the 85 is a lot different than the 86, these are virtually un-rebuildable due to extreme scarcity of stuff as mundane as head gaskets.

[seanbarney41]

Maybe your buddy can find some info and inspiration here...
forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,141697.msg1606433.html#msg1606433
Scott S had a thread on an 85 here somewhere too...

[Kelly E]

The best site for Honda V4's is V4MuscleBike.com
I have been riding Honda V4's since they started making them in 82'. Never had an oiling issue and I ride mine hard. Here's the one I have now.

[Pielz]

Nice, thanks a lot guys! I'll pass the word along. Kelly, that's a sick bike. Really love that color scheme

[Scott S]

Was that one of the V fours that had oiling problems in the head?  Might be good idea to check that out.  BTW, friend had one and said it  was sweet handling ride.  At least the price is right.  Could be a fun build!
Steve

 No, the 500 didn't have that issue.

 I've had a VF500. There's no way in hell I'd take on that project.