I know- VFRs are considered junk bikes by many. I’m fixing these for my kids focusing on 92, 93, 94 models since they share many parts. These VFRs look decent, decals and parts seem abundant (probably for good reason).
The chrome VFR is pretty close to done and turned out nice. There is some pitting on the chrome but the bike is mostly original so I didn’t feel too bad [buying it for $189 on ebay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/256281599549). Both wheels on the chrome VFR have bent lips- likely curb damage . Should they be salvaged? Or is it better to seek replacements? I’d like to keep it looking as original as possible but I’m having a hard time finding replacements that look similar to the originals.
The black is in rougher shape. But it was free on FB Marketplace. I tore it down and and soaking in metal rescue and using an ultrasonic cleaner on the parts (see chain). The frame is dented/creased (see photo). Is this frame trash? I bought a [black 94 VFR frame on ebay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/256138468854) to swap out.
Any suggestions or tips on power coating or chrome plating? Got a quote for $150 to powder coat. Should I avoid bikes that need frames refinished or seek them out if I can get them cheap enough.
Former-Neat-4258 on
I would clean it as best as you can and ride them. The chrome one looks nice, you can come across a replacement wheel set eventually. I personally wouldn’t spend the money to chrome dip a VFR, it’s like buying $10k wheels for an old Honda civic. Just clean them up and ride them.
2 Comments
I know- VFRs are considered junk bikes by many. I’m fixing these for my kids focusing on 92, 93, 94 models since they share many parts. These VFRs look decent, decals and parts seem abundant (probably for good reason).
The chrome VFR is pretty close to done and turned out nice. There is some pitting on the chrome but the bike is mostly original so I didn’t feel too bad [buying it for $189 on ebay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/256281599549). Both wheels on the chrome VFR have bent lips- likely curb damage . Should they be salvaged? Or is it better to seek replacements? I’d like to keep it looking as original as possible but I’m having a hard time finding replacements that look similar to the originals.
The black is in rougher shape. But it was free on FB Marketplace. I tore it down and and soaking in metal rescue and using an ultrasonic cleaner on the parts (see chain). The frame is dented/creased (see photo). Is this frame trash? I bought a [black 94 VFR frame on ebay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/256138468854) to swap out.
Any suggestions or tips on power coating or chrome plating? Got a quote for $150 to powder coat. Should I avoid bikes that need frames refinished or seek them out if I can get them cheap enough.
I would clean it as best as you can and ride them. The chrome one looks nice, you can come across a replacement wheel set eventually. I personally wouldn’t spend the money to chrome dip a VFR, it’s like buying $10k wheels for an old Honda civic. Just clean them up and ride them.