CHASING THE V4 SOUND

JAY’S CALIFORNIA-SPEC HONDA VFR750F

Some motorcycles don’t wait for the right timing—you buy them the moment the obsession takes hold. For 25-year-old Jay from Doncaster, his journey with a 1990 Honda VFR750F began a full year before he was even legally allowed to ride an unrestricted machine. Bought sight unseen, original to California, and kept dry-stored in mint condition for 36 years: a West Coast survivor now finding its stride on the roads of Sheffield and Leeds.

**HONDA VFR750F**

“Motorcycling has been the biggest social kick I’ve ever experienced. My circle has tripled in size, and every night there’s somewhere to be or a road trip to plan. I honestly just wish I’d done it sooner.”

Driven by an addiction to the crossplane V4 soundtrack and drawn to the surprisingly accessible entry point of 90s Japanese classics, Jay took the gamble. Following a careful recommissioning process—upgraded braided lines, sintered pads, and a custom retrimmed saddle—the heavy-weight sport tourer became a daily essential, burning through 7,000 miles in just one season. For Jay, this VFR is more than built steel and fairings; it’s the catalyst for a whole new chapter of road trips and community.

**THE RIDER**

**Name:** Jay (25)
**Base:** Doncaster / Sheffield / Leeds, UK
**Garage / Life:** Rescuing kittens, fixing machinery for friends, and riding every spare moment.

**THE MACHINE**

**Model:** 1990 Honda VFR750F (US Import / California Specs
**Spec & Mods:** Custom retrimmed saddle, braided brake lines, sintered pads, refreshed suspension, and carbs. Upcoming: White powder-coated wheels, Michelin Road 6 rubber, and a high-exit Delkevic stainless exhaust system.

IN CONVERSATION WITH JAY

RWN MOTOZINE: What has joining the motorcycle culture meant to you so far?
Jay: Motorcycling has been the biggest social kick I’ve ever experienced. My circle has tripled in size, and every night there’s somewhere to be or a road trip to plan. I honestly just wish I’d done it sooner.

RWN MOTOZINE: What is your core mindset when you get on the bike?
Jay: Ride your own ride. In general, if you enter every junction or roundabout with the mindset that everything that happens to you is your fault, it drastically improves your positioning, visibility, and mental presence. Everyone who’s had an incident wishes they’d done something differently—so put yourself in that mindset before every single ride. Also, surround yourself with people whose riding style makes you comfortable.

RWN MOTOZINE: If budget were no object, what is the ultimate dream machine?
Jay: The last-generation V4 Panigale with the single-sided swingarm. Essentially the Italian exotic version of my VFR—just twenty times more expensive!

RWN MOTOZINE: Jay, thank you the time, and for keeping the raw spirit of the culture alive.