I wanted my next content build to come with a challenge. According to the internet, mutual shop complaints, and social media. The three worst bikes are the Bimota VDue, BMW F650 Funduro, and Yamaha Virago 750. While these can change in rotation, they are the three I found myself agreeing with.
The F650 Funduro (a combo of fun and endurance) was BMW's first chain driven motorcycle, up until then, they used shaft drive for the rear wheel. A collaboration with Aprilia. Made its way around EU in 1994 and during those years it was marketed as a beefy off road bike but failed. Engines seized mid ride, front sprockets fell off locking up the rear tire. It evolved in 1995, made it to the USA standard by 1997 and ultimately discontinued in 2001. While not as elusive as the V-Due, there isn't a stock listed on marketplace or private sellers channels.
Bimota first started in 1973 as a plumbing/hvac company. Known for their hand in exotic racing bikes in the 80's. Until the V-Due, manufactured in 1997 as the first-ever production two-stroke with electronically controlled direct fuel injection. It didn't work, seized pistons, unrepairable engines. They pulled production in 2001 and faded out as a company and were acquired by Kawasaki in 2019. (KTM later perfected it with their TPI in 2018) This would be a superb content choice, most on the market are being passed around collectors and are not in need of a make over.
The Yamaha Virago has been one of the most commonly owned problem bikes, a little older at 1981-1983. These years had a long list of design flaws from starter, carbs, cracked manifolds, and electrical. One often overlooked is that they run incredibly weak with a poor battery. By 1984 they switched to a setup that used a solenoid to engage the starter gears directly to the flywheel. The mono-shock system was replaced with a conventional twin rear shock swingarm. Perfected again in the 1990's. Stocked on marketplace, the bike of choice this year.
Like I said above, the options for a Virago under $1,000 online is vast. I happened to find one for $500 within 200 miles of me. It has sat for years in the AZ sun, no idea what is wrong with it, they couldn't tell me what year it ran last. It's perfect!
I will bring you all along with me next weekend to pick it up and get it back to the shop.
