True of course, but I wasn't much concerned by what Honda describe it as or call it.

VVT = Variable Valve Timing

VTEC doesn't vary the valve timing, duration or lift, it makes two of the four valves in each cylinder work at low revs and all four at higher revs. (But I'm sure you realise this).

I do :) But like I say, that's all definitions. You could still call that variable valve timing, just with 0 as one of the settings for one set of valves.

Whatever the correct names,the current systems are pretty crude.They are all two stage systems with one map for the lower end of the rev range and another for the top.Whether that is two valves going to four or a genuine second cam profile coming on stream matters not,you still have low\high rev tuning,one or the other.
If you could have a different map for every RPM\gear\throttle scenario there is scope for massive progress.
You could build an engine of about 600 cc with the top end of a superbike,the bottom end of a Harley and anything you wanted in between-------In theory,and no doubt at a price.

I know several people who, after getting a quote for their up-coming major VFR VTEC service, where the timing is checked, have put their bike straight up for sale. The additional hours of labour are apparently quite severe.

The other problem of course is that if you put something so different on a bike the independant trade are not so sure on how to service them, so you are more likely to be forced* to stick to the (much more expensive) franchise dealer with their "factory trained" technicians.

It is good that Honda and others are experimenting. Progress needs it and you have to try things in the real world sometimes. Can't blame them for it and hopefully knowledge will increase as a result of it. Personally though I'll keep clear for now!


*this may be just in your mind of course