Honda VTR1000F

The Honda VTR1000F was a 90° V-twin sport bike produced by Honda from 1997 to 2005. Known worldwide as the Firestorm, in the USA it was marketed as the SuperHawk.

Innovation

[file:1998 Honda VTR1000.jpg|thumb|1998 VTR1000]
The VTR1000F was introduced in 1997 using an all new 90-degree V-twin engine and a HMAS fork and shock. The bike also ushered in several new design concepts for Honda such as the semi-pivotless frame, where the engine is a stressed member with the swingarm bolted directly to it. Other innovations were side radiators, single-casting engine case, connecting rods with cap screws instead of nuts, and 38 mm intake valves, the largest Honda has ever used on a production motor at that time. It had the largest carburetors ever put on a production motorcycle. In order to overcome response irregularities typical for larger V-twin engines, Honda specified different camshaft profiles and intake manifold dimensions for the two cylinders, and the power control of the engine was praised in motorbike surveys. Cycle World list a quarter-mile time and speed of 11.03-second/124.26-mph.

Model history

In 1999, the VTR1000F featured new silver wheels.
From model year 2001, Honda introduced a number of upgrades. These included increasing the tank from 16 litres to 19 litres, internal modifications to the front forks, black wheels, smaller indicators, and a less extreme riding position. A new LCD dash display comprised fuel level, engine temperature, dual trip mileometers, odometer and clock. A Honda Ignition Security System immobiliser also became standard. The US model "Superhawk" never received the larger tank, instead retaining the original 16 litre.
In 2005, the VTR1000F was discontinued.