Looks like there may be a simple answer to why the owners of the later model bikes get better mileage than the earlier ones..... found this bulletin while looking for the old carb bulletin......

Service Bulletin 248809 for Honda DIGITAL INSTRUMENT PANEL | AutoMD


2003 Honda Vtr1000f Digital Instrument Panel Service Bulletin 248809

NHTSA: Action Number: 10032953 Service Bulletin Number: 248809

• Report Date:
  May 09, 2008
• Component:
  Digital Instrument Panel

Summary: Honda: warranty extension-vehicle warranty mileage. Class action lawsuit alleging that the odometers on certain 2002-2006 honda models were overstating mileage. Federal court provided final approval of settlement on 12/29/07. No models


So now I know why some guys report the 40+ mpg........ and makes me feel much better that mine is in the 30's while cruising......

 

When people ask, I tell them my mileage is on par with a Honda Civic, but no non-motorcyclists get my sarcasm.

 

Ha! the best improvement is 15/43! gets you great mileage

Seriously, I run 16/43 and my speedometer is corrected. This results in my odometer under reporting by just over 5%. My 43 mile commute shows up as 40.5. Uncorrected I get 39mpg, corrected this is about 41. Not just cruisin, but not flogging it either - all secondary 45 -55mph roads generally going 55 - 65mph with typically 2 or 3 forays to 100+
this commute is very consistent and yields 128 miles (uncorrected) to the yellow low gas light.
Dynojet by PO, flocommander, billet stacks, +4 advancer and BMC street. And this on 87!

 

I don't know about that... My buddy has a '98 and whenever we go on a ride our trip meters are usually spot on (within a few tenths at most) between gas stops.