Honda has had a busy year designing the all-new 2009 VFR1000F and VFR1000GT motorcycles. Now, after the introduction of the 2008 CBR1000RR, I would expect a sportier VFR, but this is more than I can take.

And you haven’t even heard the best of it. Inspiring on the 990cc RC211V racing bike, Honda has derived their first V5 engine to be fitted on a street bike and a Ferrari-style push-button gearchange. This last move is meant to help riders get the best out of the MotoGP-style engine, but it is also suppose to be smooth and progressive. For that purpose, Honda retains the shaft final drive and the single-sided swingarm that is a VFR specific feature.

There will be two models going on Honda’s production lines, the “F” (a sportier version) and the “GT” (sport-touring), but a VFR remains a VFR no matter what. While the first reminds us of the CBR series, the second looks like an ST1300 that has undergone a diet. Just look at those lines!