The 1987 Honda VRF750R a Classic Racing Replica
There is not better sound in this world when it comes to engine note than a 1987 Honda VRF750 RC30 on full throttle, or even on half throttle for that matter. You can keep your wailing inline fours, you can even keep your screaming two-strokes, the deep guttural drone of the 360 degree crank V4 is simply beautiful. It has the rare ability to make anyone who has any interest in motorcycles stop what they are doing and simply listen and smile as it passes by.But even stationary the Honda VRF750 RC30 draws a crowd as it's probably one of the most beautifully engineered motorcycles ever produced. The 1987 Honda VRF750 is a machine made by the very best brains in HRC at a time when they could do no wrong. Every single component on the Honda VC30 is designed to perfection. If it needs to be on the Honda VRF750 RC30 for racing purposes then it is a case of no expense spared, however if it's a road requirement, well, that isn't quite so important... is it.
Which is what initially made me chuckle when I sat on the Honda VRF750 RC30. It's such a special motorcycle and carries a high level of detail, then you look at the clocks and switchgear and it's all bog stock Honda. It's such a contrast to the rest of the motorcycle.
Reach inside the little lip between the fairing on the lefthand side and pull out the crafted choke lever, thumb the starter, and she purrs into life. Like just let the Honda VRF750 RC30 tick over, well you can, being a Honda it'll sit on tickover all day without missing a beat, but something inside you won't allow that. You have to blip the throttle to hear that exhaust note rise and fall.
Snick first gear, and after a degree of clutch slip to combat the tall first gear, you're away. On the move the only thing that really dates the Honda VRF750 is its riding position. It's surprisingly comfortable and relaxed for such a focused machine. Back in the late '80s and early '90s race reps weren't extreme and although it would be sacrilege, you could happily, comfortably commute on the Honda VRF750 RC30.
But it was its engine and handling that secured the Honda VRF750 RC30 a place in the history books, and even today the Honda V4 is good. With a claimed 112 horsepower it isn't hugely powerful, but it delivers its power in such a linear fashion and with such a constant and steady drive of torque that it feels far gruntier.
