Market Segment:
Sport touring motorcycle, known for its V4 engine, comfortable ergonomics, and sophisticated engineering. Positioned as a premium, reliable, and versatile sportbike.
Competitors:
Competed against other high-performance sportbikes and sport-touring machines of its era, such as Yamaha FZR1000, Kawasaki ZZR1100, Suzuki GSX-R1100, and BMW K-series models.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a balance of performance, comfort, and reliability. Notable for its unique Pro-Arm single-sided swingarm (on later models), V4 engine configuration, and advanced (for its time) chassis design.
Covered Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive and detailed, implying hundreds of pages typical for factory service manuals).
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Complete engine service, engine firing order, timing chain service, clutch removal and installation.
Fuel System:
Fuel system service, carburetor overhaul/tuning (for applicable models).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Gearbox service, removal and installation, transmission details, driveshaft service.
Cooling System:
Cooling system service, radiator, fan, hoses, thermostat.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system service and repair.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, suspension service, repair, and adjustment.
Brakes:
Brake servicing procedures, front and rear brake systems, hydraulics.
Electrics Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, electrical system diagnostics, charging system, ignition system.
Bodywork Chassis:
Bodywork repair, panels, fairings, frame inspection.
Maintenance:
Factory maintenance schedules, routine servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Fault finding, diagnostic procedures for common issues.
Repair Rebuild:
Factory repair procedures, complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, component replacement.
Installation Removal:
Component removal and installation procedures (e.g., clutch, gearbox).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and factory repair procedures.
Engine Type:
90-degree V4, DOHC, 16-valve
Bore X Stroke:
70.0 mm x 48.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 98 hp @ 10,500 rpm (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 52 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm (varies slightly by year and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Four 36mm Keihin carburetors (CV type for most of this generation).
Fuel Capacity:
4.8 US gallons (18.2 L)
Length:
Approx. 2,150 mm (84.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 750 mm (29.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 207 kg (456 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)
Max Load:
Typically around 400 lbs rider + passenger + luggage.
Safety Features Available:
Optional Combined Braking System (CBS) with linked front and rear brakes on some models. Anti-dive front forks designed to reduce brake dive.
Active Safety:
Effective disc brakes front and rear, responsive chassis, good rider visibility.
Passive Safety:
Robust frame construction, designed for stability.
Infotainment System:
Not applicable for this era of motorcycle. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Combined Brake System (CBS) on some international models. Anti-dive front forks.
Connectivity Features:
Not applicable.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, incandescent tail and turn signals.
Instrument Panel:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, various warning lights.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (refer to specific year for exact Honda recommendation).
Major Service:
Valve clearance checks typically recommended every 12,000-16,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF, or 10W-30 API SG or SH. Capacity approx. 3.2 L (3.4 US qt) without filter, 3.4 L (3.6 US qt) with filter.
Coolant:
Honda HP Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 1.8 L (1.9 US qt).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic clutch fluid (if applicable, as it's hydraulically operated).
Common Wear Items:
Cam chain tensioner (can become noisy), fuel line cracking (due to age/material), regulator/rectifier failure (common on many Hondas of this era), fork seal leaks.
Engine Reliability:
Generally very reliable, known for its robust V4 engine. Early models might experience some minor electrical issues. Cam chain noise is a common point of attention.
Honda Reputation:
Honda is renowned for its engineering excellence, reliability, build quality, and innovative designs across all its product lines, including motorcycles.
Vfr Lineage:
The VFR line, starting with the VFR750F RC24 in 1986, established Honda's reputation for high-performance V4 sportbikes. The 1990-1996 generation (RC36) marked a significant evolution with styling updates, improved aerodynamics, and refinements to the V4 engine and chassis, including the introduction of the Pro-Arm.
Production Period:
1990-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Motorcycle Journal Reviews:
Consistently praised by motorcycle publications for its V4 engine character, handling, build quality, and versatility as a sport-tourer.
Performance Ratings:
Rated highly for its blend of sportbike performance and long-distance comfort.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with emissions standards of the time; manual will detail specific procedures for emission control systems if applicable.