Post Sale Update: did not sell on Craigslist, then (as noted in the comments) went to Bring a Trailer with no reserve where it sold for $3,200 after 14 bids in Portland, Oregon.
The smallest of the Interceptors, the VF500 is claimed by some to be the best, thanks to absolutely incredible handling. The 500cc engine was a mutt of Honda parts – the bottom end from the non-US VF400F combined with two top ends from the VT250. This got you 70 horsepower, enough for 128 miles per hour through the 6 speed transmission. Redline was at an impressive 12K, and the entire package weighed about 440 pounds when ready to roll.
In their first ride review, Cycle World summed up the baby Interceptor by saying: “a bike that looks this good, handles this well, has such a wonderful engine and costs no more than its competitors is more than just a “nice bike.” It’s damn near irresistible.”
As the seller puts it, you want the 1986 model because by then the ‘cam issues were resolved, the engine was tuned for more usable power, and it has the best looking paint scheme.’ I definitely agree with the last part of the statement. This example has 41,811 miles and it’s been with the seller for four years. It’s got a few scratches but nothing unreasonable for the age and mileage, and there are lots of quality upgrades for a rider – Galfer wave rotors, stainless steel brake lines, Gold Valve emulators and upgraded springs in the forks, tapered roller steering head bearings, a Honda CBR600RR shock that’s been resprung and revalved for the application, Gustaffson windscreen, F1 slipons, new rubber hoses, new cables, new wheel bearings, two seats, and fresh tires. The seller is also willing to sell a set of spare bodywork and several spare parts separately.
Find this Interceptor for sale in Portland, Oregon for $2,450 here on Craigslist.