2016 Honda VFR1200X Review | MC Commute
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- čas přidán 2. 12. 2016
- Senior Editor Zack Courts is always arriving to office after his commute with a bunch of opinions about the bike he’s riding. Too much this, not enough that, and occasionally has some decent insights. We thought some of it might help consumers or entertain enthusiasts, so we strapped a camera and microphone to the side of his helmet and told him to turn it on when he leaves his house. A lot of him talking in his helmet is complaining about drivers, yelling at red lights, and wondering why billboards aren’t more expensive. But sometimes he actually talks about the bike, and those are the parts we keep. Got a bike you would like to see discussed? Let us know and we’ll send him home on that one next.
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It's no secret we're always trying to get our staff to work a little harder. Especially the ones that always seem to have too much to say. "Write it down!" the boss yells, exasperated. Senior Editor Zack Courts is a classic case, always arriving to office after his commute with a bunch of opinions about the bike he's riding. Too much this, not enough that, and occasionally has some decent insights that we thought might help consumers or entertain enthusiasts.
So we strapped a camera and microphone to the side of his helmet and told him to turn it on when he leaves his house. A lot of him talking in his helmet is complaining about drivers, yelling at red lights, and wondering why billboards aren't more expensive. But sometimes he actually talks about the bike, and those are the parts we keep. Got a bike you would like to see discussed? Let us know and we'll send him home on that one next.
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In my opinion one of the best allaround bikes made, plus the V4 comes with some Temperament.If you want a bike to commute all year, go motorcycle camping, occasionally go on a dirt road, and play with friends in canyons and only have the funds or room to own one bike here is none better. Plus Honda has a great network, btw I own a Beemer and a Harley so not biased here
Probably a meaningless post at this point and time, but going to throw it out there anyway just in case anyone is in my boat. Based heavily on this video and the Africa Twin video, I went against my gut and got a 2016 Africa Twin as Zack suggests here. Now a year later, the Africa Twin is up for sale and I've finally bought a 2016 VFR1200X which I'm really enjoying. The "miserable" traction control on mine is more subtle than the traction control on my Africa Twin. The power is considerably better on the VFR1200X and general street rideablility is much higher on it as well. The Africa Twin does shine in technical dirt, but really, who wants to take a 600 lb bike into technical dirt anyway, there are better bikes for that purpose.
I really appreciate these old MC Commute videos, but sometimes they are not applicable to everyone.
Did you consider the Yamaha S-10? It's due for a big refresh but that's the direction I'm leaning
I read reviews and watched videos about this bike and couldn’t disagree more with most of them. This bike @600 lbs is not heavy and very nimble. I’m 6’8 with long arms and a 38 inch inseam. This bike is very quick and fast and comfortable. The v4 is very smooth. Maintenance is low. I wanted it for street riding and to compliment my cruiser, 2018 Indian Springfield. Purchased a 16 VFR1200X left over at a discounted 10k OTD. I’m very pleased so far.
I too chose the V over the AT.. more bang for the buck and a bulletproof engine.
You guys have sold me on it! I'll order one next month.
Take delivery of mine tomorrow. I'm needing about 2% dirt 98% pavement and this seems like the perfect fit for killing hwy miles.
I have a 2016 VFR1200X and the setting of the heated grips is clear as day on the display. Also, I have put 20K miles on it and loved every mile. I sold my 2015 1200GS and my 2013 Yamaha Tenere which I enjoyed but I am loving the VFR. Other then the weight Honda made it right. It handles great and has good range. The engine is very smooth and delivers good power. If you are in the market for an adventure tourer (heavy for off-roading) I highly recommend it. It's worth looking into it.
So this bike or the super tenere im in the market?
@@holeshot1721Tenere is a different thing, engine is much more different, sounds not that good, is like bad compared to the VFR.
I owned a 17 Africa Twin and it is no way the same ride on a long ride as the VFR1200X. With 95% of most riders on the highway why would anyone pick the AT over the VFR
Since it's debut in 2012 Honda Crosstourer is often criticized in the Internet... mostly by the guys who never rode it. The truth is: Crosstourer looks like nothing interesting on paper, but it's truly amazing bike in real life. More than that, it's the best shaft adventure motorcycle currently existing. And, yes, it IS better than the BMW R1200GS. Why? Well, first of all, the DCT transmission - it's just brilliant! You wouldn't want to ride manuals again once you got used to DCT - that's how good it actually is. Second, the comfort: Crosstourer is more comfortable than the GS, since BMW vibrates from 5000 rpm and above, and Honda doesn't. Also Honda has a better windshield. Third, the dynamics: GS is not a slow bike at all, but Crosstourer is REALLY FAST! It accelerates like mad, and has a tons of torque at any rpm. Fastest and the most exciting engine in the shaft adventures category. And last but not least, reliability: Crosstourer is almost bulletproof-reliable and problem free, while GS is known to have a lots of breaks and issues.
About some of the things Zack said in this video:
"VFR1200X is heavy" - yes it is heavy on paper, and in the garage. But all of it's heavyweightness completely disappears as soon as it starts moving. On the go it feels very light, nimble, and easy to ride. So does the GS. So does the Super Tenere. They all are big and heavy bikes when they stands still. But not heavy at all when they moves.
"The engine is character-less" - that is totally not true. I already told about the engine character above, so there's no need to repeat myself.
"The footpegs pegs are in the way when you put your feet on the ground, and the pegs should be moved back an inch or two" - yes they are in the way when you put your feet on the ground, but no - they should not be moved anywhere: they're perfectly positioned for comfort. That is why Crosstourer has a such a flawless and comfortable sitting position.
Crosstourer is not perfect - it has some areas where it could be improved (like adding cruise control, LED headlight, electronically-controlled suspensions, and stronger wheels for example), but it's still the best shaft adventure bike currently on the market. And no - I don't own this bike: I'm just not making enough. But I test rode it many times, and I also test rode hell of a lot of other bikes. Especially the adventure bikes (since I like them most). Including the most expensive and powerful ones. And Honda VFR1200XD Crosstourer DCT is the best motorcycle I've ever rode: it's fast, it's comfortable, it's reliable, it's low-maintenance, it's versatile, it's very fun and easy to ride. That is why I would totally buy it if I had a money.
Oh please Rex, tell us again how amazing you think this motorcycle is. Again the version you get is not the same one we get here in the US. And once again It is not better than the BMW R1200GS. It just isn't. If the GS vibrates above 5k I haven't noticed it and it's super comfortable with it's electronic suspension and seating position. Again I've never had a problem with my GS. It's heavier than a GS. "it's still the best shaft adventure bike currently on the market" That is just Bullshit. How many motorcycle journalist have placed the Cross tour above KTM, BMW or Ducati? I'm fairly sure the answer is none.
Lol, Derek, you're so full of lie! Well, like most of the BMW fanboys anyway. First of all, USA version of VFR1200X is identical to the European versions, except for the color graphics. So, yeah, it IS the same.
Second, yes, Crosstourer is much better than the GS. I already explained in details how and why in the comment above, so there's no need to repeat myself. Honda is just better. Deal with it.
And third, I really don't care about journalist's paid reviews and their opinion. They're often full of shit. Like in this video, for example. Or in other videos, where they say that Ducati Multistrada is a great bike, when it's just isn't (again, for example).
A stellar review from someone who's never owned one lol. It's overweight despite the non-electric suspension, has an uninspiring appearance, lacks cruise, which most riders expect on a premium touring bike, and Honda even managed to screw up the V4 sound, which is stellar on the 800. It's a mediocre bike and that explains the mediocre sales.
yayoi1 I think the weight may b a big factor in those sales along with mission cruise control,but I still think it’s nice for price and expense to run it .
So crosstourer is the best adv touring bike and multistrada is a shit bike?Haha..Have you ever owned a multistrada?Is the most excited bike ever
The V4 engine in the new 2016 VFR1200X has a horsepower rating that comes in at a respectable 129 HP at 7,750 RPM and 93 lb-ft torque at 6,500 RPM
Dyno @ 107 bhp
I’ve seen the dyno on the 2017 at 129 not 107
Still a capable bike. :)
Best underrated bike out there along with the Yamaha super ten 1200 .
Beast of an engine,minimal electronics to go wrong,build quality outstanding and no where near as common as the usual suspects.
All i know is all my Honda motorcycles give me 0 issues!! Love the brand since my Grandfather left me his Honda Dream
The forward placed footpegs are great for comfort in my opinion.
Honda wanted it to compete with the BMW GS at a more affordable price range and it does that well. You can now get new old stock for around $8,000 and that’s a great deal considering the GS is over $15,000.
Don't let the weight spec put you off too much. Bikes carry weight in different ways. I came from a v-strom650 to this bike and it feels like a lighter more agile bike everywhere but the parking lot. After putting some good tires and protection pieces on the bike, I can outride everything I ever did off-pavement on the v-strom, and I got around on that thing
It's nice to see some words of truth and wisdom from the bike owner in this sea of stupid comments from the people who never rode this bike and have no idea what they're talking about.
I had an 06 1000. God I miss that bike. Wish I kept it and the Ducati together because they truly do cover every base.
I love the windscreen feature.
It'd be nice to have that on a bike one day. For now I'm just taking the touring screen off for the town and back on for long rides. Curse my vanity!
Tonight I have learned about dashamahoozits and shaft jack. Mission accomplished!
:D
Very cool engine sound. I like the V4. This is very good bike for very long trips, specaly with the DCT.
Marcin S iam 48 and never 1x have i not wanted to shift gears. 3 things that make a motorcycle fun- Kick Start/Hand Throttle /Gear Shifter with foot.
@@michaelj.kastner5165 kick start? Lol
The Morse code line was funny 😂👍
The flashing light helps people who are colorblind. If you have multiple colors its not going to a) help the colorblind and b) help people assign what color = what number.
cagednm69 in my country colorblinded people can't get a driving license
Matthew 1 sad. There are countries that let people without an arm or leg ride motorcycle though.
True
look on the loeer right dash for grip heat settings.
Cage, I hope you're making a joke, otherwise you're a moron.
Good review, things like those grip lights and traction control are things I want to hear about with enthusiastic riding style
Then don't listen to this guy because he is wrong on both counts
Honestly mateI have owned 42 bikes and this is probably my all time favourite tourer. I don't think your review captured what a great tourer it is. Also turn the traction control off if you don't like it and stop whining. Also your sister is OK couldn't give her the thumbs up but she is OK.
Regarding the heated grips, the setting appears on the bottom right of the dash, shows the grips are on and the heat level chosen :)
I don't pay attention to the light, The dash tells me everything I need to know.
are you sure, I am searching for info about this, and on the crosstourer board I didnt find anything about this display on the dash...
Bottom right corner of the dash (2016) shows a heated grip icon which cycles numerically as you press the handlebar control... No idea of its on older models
Heated grip setting is displayed on the dash.....traction control has 3 settings plus off, so can be tailored to your preference, however, it doesnt make up for the jerky ham fisted riding here......motor has 127hp......there is no "shaft jacking".......very misinformed review.
This was informative. I’m going to have to see if I can change the TC setting on my 1200f
@@n300zx931 no traction control on my 2010 1200F in the USA.
Really brilliant video. subscribed
Once Honda adds electronic cruise control and update the traction control to be like the Africa Twin, I would be very interested. I have an NC700X with the DCT and that’s another plus for this bike. They weren’t going for the high rev, high horsepower market. I prefer the mid range torque and the Honda reliability vs the hyper performance and high maintenance cost of say a Ducati Multistrada or a BMW GS.
Haha a "brisk" 72 degrees. I don't even have any layers going at 72, it's pretty much dream riding temp, 65 even better. Full gear, no overheating, perfection. It's 40 here now and warm for this time of year.
Probably want to watch other reviews for a more accurate information on this sweet bike.
Me too
Can you by any chance test ride the crossruner 800 or the cb 1000r ?
Please make a full-on review of the CRF250L RALLY ones it's going to be available! Please! You guys make the best reviews on YT!
Did u manage to turn off the blinkers yet? :)
The hoarse power of the VFR1200X is not 107!!In fact it is 127hp!!I have one of them !Thanks for the review!
If it's detuned that much, maybe a custom tune would gain back some of that power.
is the vfr1200x shaft driven? vs the vfr1200f being chain driven? because that could explain some of the power loss
Good review man thanks
I really enjoy mine.
I know you would have to take a longer route to work, but you gotta review the 2017 grom for commuting!
I commute on my 2015 every day but I have the luxury of being able to use the freeway in my country :p
Thanks for the honest review. I'm really hoping for a Honda competitor to the r1200gs one of these days.
evan002 Africa twin
Not really.... the Africa Twin is more of a killer V-Strom than an R1200GS rival.
Way less power, way less in the way of creature comforts, but WAY more capable on dirt.
This review is not honest at all. Actually this bike IS a competitor to R1200GS. More than that, Crosstourer is actually better than GS. I don't own any of these bikes, but I test rode them both multiple times, and Crosstourer is obviously better.
Nothing is obvious buddy, explain why it's better, give points for and against, don't go claiming something as "obvious" as it means absolutely nothing.
The Africa Twin is a wierd one, it's punching above it's weight so it made people compare it to the 1200s and 1300s however that's wrong as it comes up short, when you compare it to the lower 650-800s it comes up strong, its stuck in between like the Versys 1000 and the V-Strom 1000 and both are at best sketchy off road and okay on road so it pretty much got that corner beat... Honda needs to redesigned it a bit, allow upper crash bar installation points and different seating options, jam a bigger engine in there and give more hp and torque and better electronics and give it a better on road mode to compete with the fact that both the GS and the KTMs give quite a good ride on road. This will of course make the price go up which is a problem as the Honda is picked usually for being cheaper.
The Crosstourer is more of a competitor to the KTM 1299 Super Adventure which is not designed for off road only touring, much like the crosstourer, and it lost this battle.
I already explained in details why Crosstourer is better than the GS in other comments over here. No need to repeat myself - just read that comments.
Everything you said about Africa Twin is totally pointless. You obviously have no idea about adventure bikes, and what are they designed for. Versys 1000 is a 100% road bike (just like Ducati Multistrada, BMW S1000XR, Triumph Tiger 1050) - it's really stupid to compare it with Africa Twin and other true touring enduros. V-Strom is a 95% road 5% slightly offroad crossover bike. Just like the R1200GS/GSA, VFR1200X/XD Crosstourer, Triumph Tiger Explorer, and others. Again, no competitors for the true big touring enduros. The only actual Africa Twin direct competitors are other big touring enduros: BMW F800GS/GSA, KTM 1090 Adventure R and 1290 Super Adventure R, Triumph Tiger 800 XC. That's all. Africa is clearly way much better in almost every aspect than the BMW and Triumph, so Honda's only real competitors is KTMs. They have more top power, more bells and whistles (1290 only), but they are more expensive, and probably not even remotely as reliable as Honda. With it's seat height of just 850 mm in low position (870 mm in high position) Africa Twin suits everyone. Together with low center of gravity Honda is surely the most user friendly bike in the category, while all the other bikes with their 880-890 mm seats are suitable for tall people only (especially offroad). Honda also have the clearly most robust engine in the class with the lowest compression ratio of only 10:1 (comparing to the high 12:1 on the BMW and ridiculously high 13.1:1 on the KTM) That means Africa Twin may easily ride on the low quality low octane fuel from the third world countries, and BMWs and KTMs can't: they'll blow their engines very soon if you put a bad fuel in them. This happens pretty often with the BMWs. So Africa Twin is the only modern touring enduro which is capable of easily doing around the world adventure trips without any problems and hesitations. That's why Honda Africa Twin is currently the king of the true adventure bike segment by far.
And Crosstourer is currently the best shaft adventure bike. I haven't test rode the KTM 1290 Super Adventure yet, so I don't know what it's like to drive. But we know for sure that it's not even closely as reliable as Crosstourer is. And it's probably not as comfortable as Honda (because of the KTM's V-twin's vibrations). Besides, high-end touring bike with a chain? Lol, that's just pathetic.
Has anyone taken this bike off road? Does the foot peg position make any more sense in that environment? Does the power / torque help or hinder the experience?
Man, it's such a shame they got rid of the gear driven cams on VFRs... That gear whine is love
Is that a RallyFighter at 4:57 on the left? So many rad cars in these reviews
Outstanding review, Zack. Excellent presentation style and one-liners. As important, great insights and info. Right now I'll pass on the VFR1200X thanks to your review - that saves me time and gives me confidence in my shopping. Cheers, brother.
I would really like to here what you think of the VFR1200F. The sports touring version.
Can you make that happen???
Owning a vfr1200f I recomend this bike very much. The engine has a lot of caracter in my opinion. But certaonly ot takes somw months to get to know the bike and to adopt to its abilities. It is a fun bike,but not an easy to handle bike, becauae it is quite heavy as well. The main thing is smoothness and comfort!
Funny how harsh Zack was on MANY aspects of the bike, and then "such a good turning radius". ROFL Excellent video!
Why don't they have differing colors rather than the flashing lights for the heat levels on the grips? I'd say its in keeping with the grand scheme of things on the rest of the electrics such as the fault codes displayed using the flashing light on the dash
It's not you! I eagerly awaited the VFR1200x's arrival here in the states and when my local dealer got one in the showroom, I promptly visited them and sat on the VFR1200x. The first thing that I noticed was that when I put my feet down, the footpegs were in the way! I was so heartbroken, because I had my heart set on the VFR1200x as my touring machine because of that awesome V4 engine. However, I just couldn't get past the placement of the footpegs and it was as showstopper for me! Also on my wishlist, are integrated cruise control, heated grips, a gas tank that is at least 6.6 gallons or larger, and a center stand. Honda, you have a winner here. Just get these things fixed!
That has to be one of the best bike reviews on CZcams! Most reviews I can only watch a few minutes of, get bored, and then click off, but this I didn't want to end, lol!
Beemer heads are something else...
I am reading through the comments, and I am wondering how many people took the time to consider that he may have been talking in WHEEL horsepower? I own a VFR1200F, if you were wondering. Yes, stock they make 170ish hp at the crank. They also make 145ish horsepower to the rear wheel, so the number he stated is correct if he is talking wheel horsepower from a dyno. What happens when you dyno a 1200X with its 130ish crank hp? You get around 107ish at the rear wheel. Critical thinking is a thing... just saying.
It's really just detuned to meet crappy US regulations. I live in Europe and the VFR1200X has 130 HP.
OddBallPerformance bingo
@@PanagiotisFoM1989 No, it's not. The 1200X in the US was rated at 127-129hp. When you dyno them on a rolling road they put down 105-110hp at the rear tire.
@@PanagiotisFoM1989 it's tuned for broader torque, not " crappy US regulations" The US is more relaxed on regulations compared to the rest of the world. A Delkevic full exhaust and a reflashed ECU unleashes a bunch of horsepower.
Actually, he didn’t do his homework on the bike and he got the horsepower wrong. If it been talking about crank horsepower versus real horsepower, he would’ve stated as such. The man’s a little bit whiny. I felt like I was listening to my wife complain.
Can someone advise me where i can buy the adjustable screen? Just got my new bike yesterday and yes i can unbolt my screen and lift it up, but not like the one in the video.
David
It comes standard on the 16' and 17' vfr1200x. I don't think you can buy one, unless you go to Honda and buy the oem assembly.
My favorite all-around bike I ever owned was a '94 VFR750. I have a Transalp and long said that the ideal bike would be the VFR750 engine in a dual-sport frame. The VFR1200X comes soooo close to achieving that, but falls short.No gear driven cams (but at least no V-Tec, as far as I can tell!), goofy 1980s LCD tach, weird heated grip interface instead of a simple dial knob, and neutered output along with awful traction control. What a shame. Plus, who decided to put nice tubeless (?) spoked wheels on this, but standard tube-type wheels on the Africa Twin?
I have a 2012 VFR 1200F and the traction control is the same. Just cuts and you’re left wondering what happen?
I'm about to take possession of one of these great looking machines, but I'm a little worried now about all this talk about the power 'cutting out' when the traction control kicks in. When does the power come back? Do you just throttle off then on again, or is there a time delay before power is resumed?
Purchised a red VFR 1200X Crosstourer two months ago MY 2017 with 15000km, a bike l didn't noticed before. Unique concept with V4, Kardan, DCT, upside down front fork, single rear swing. I guess no other bike have this combination. Grip and seatheater are not necessary for me. I love it after 3000 km riding. My other bike is a US, an lndian Chieftain Dark Horse. Regards from Hungary!
Do you guys have MC Commute using KTM 1190 adventure/r? just wanna get some info of it. cheers.
great in depth review man.can't wait to see more like that.
Actually this review is very subjective and one-sided. Reviews should not be like that. They should be objective and unbiased - which is exact opposite of this review.
How did he get both horsepower numbers wrong?
What a satisfying review. Well done.
trac. control, emissions equip., etc. there's your weight. then it's DEtuned. it's a paper-rating anyway. yank it on the dyno!
shaft or chain?
The default traction control on the Africa Twin is equally intrusive and annoying. Mine would cut in all the time on my DCT, felling like I suddenly was running out of gas. The only saving grace is that it's easy to turn off on the fly.
it is may 2021 now, and i just watched your ducati v4s review - looks like ducati finally caught up with honda after 5 years. also, noticed that the duc v4s tops your list now - does it take an msrp of 24K USD to achieve that ranking ? this bike taught ducati what to put in their v4s, and it doesn't feature in your leaderboard !
This bike puts 106hp to the rear wheel vs the multi v4’s 150 or so. The multi is sooooo much faster and better in corners. The Africa Twin 1100 is also better than this bike in almost every way as well.
Footpeg problem with putting feet down is a problem I also noticed on my CB500X...
Zack mistakenly states there is no 'shaft-jack' control which is not true. The geometry of the shaft has been specifically designed to prevent this effect. I not only own a VFR1200F, but have ridden many Fs and Xs and never noticed any problem such as Zack mentions. Makes me think he's looking for problems.
He says it's not exciting, but really, what does he expect? It's an Adventure style bike not a MotoGP race replica. But for that, it is a far better road bike. Does he find the BMW GS more exciting? Why? I've ridden both and certainly prefer the VFR. Not that the GS is a bad bike. Far from it, but I think the VFR is simply better. That V4 motor is fantastic, even though they de-t.., er, sorry, re-tuned it to lower the torque curve.
Not perfect of course and the TC is far from good. What surprises me is that Honda have a very good bike whose flaws could easily be eliminated to make it a fantastic bike (that even Zack might find exciting), but they've done nothing with it apart from minor updates like the windshield adjustment. Maybe they're hoping it'll just die, like the F model. Such a shame as they are both great bikes. You can't beat a good V4.
The Crosstourer gets 133bhp in the UK. Are you sure it’s that low in the USA?
Hopefully you'll be able to do a commute on the Ducati Super Sport.
MC Commute request: How about the Super Tenere, Zack?
Torque man, torque! High HP is only good on track, keep it in your Sportbikes. You lose 2 ft lbs of torque, but you make it 2,225 RPMs lower. Much more off-road friendly as well as street friendly.
I am hoping this release is probing the interest and touching up the refresh. It is an old bike in a new market and I am hoping the next model will be awesome... Corning/lean traction control, please? On road/off road top level mode options? some day...
It's makes 80ft lb, it's not much for a 1200cc V4.
From 0 to 7500 rpm VFR1200X makes more hps and ft lbs than any of it's direct competitors (which is other adventure shafties), including the GS. And VFR1200X is second behind the Triumph above 7500 rpm (but still ahead of GS). So Honda has enough power and torque. Best in the category so far.
If you think the F version lacks torque in the middle of the RPM range, you have obviously never ridden one. They make 90% of peak torque from 4000-10,000rpm, and still pull very strong between 3 and 4k. The X just has the advantage from off idle to 3000, which is pointless on a bike like the F, but that doesn;t mean the F is anemic in that lower rev range either, far from it. The F isn't a track bike, it's a sport touring bike, and it has a very WIDE power curve that makes it useable in day to day riding...and a track if you want to do so...
The footage being right in the place where you want to put your leg, same on the africa twin. It needs getting used to i guess. Traction control is the same as on the AT. You are completely right that is saves some situations on wet, greasy roads. Three months of practically no rain in Belgium made for very slippery conditions when it does rain. The traction control does help a lot on roundabouts. It is annoying when you want to take of in a hurry, it does cut your power off.
Did they review yamaha fjr 1300.
Cruise? And- what happens with that traction control, off road?
they only made this for 2 years correct? 2016 and 17, don't see any later years on this in the states anyway, maybe in europe
what glove is that?
Your numbers are wrong mate. 129 for the cross tourer, 170 for the 1200 f. Now the vfr 800 cross runner is around 107 hp. Nice review other than that! 😉👍🇬🇷
Man I need a cup of coffee after hearing about Honda's bike...
Thank you very much for your candor. I think I can now take this bike off my list. Sad, because I had really high hopes...
I like those gloves, what is the brand of ???
is that Kriega 15 or 20?
Like the VFR1200F before it, the X is not a good $16,000+ (MSRP) motorcycle. It is, however, a very nice bike in the $10-11K range new, which is what I picked it up for. There are a lot of quality components here, but Honda messed up on the finishing touches. The on/off throttle jerkiness was my biggest complaint, and a common one. A G2 Throttle Tamer ($75) solved this problem for me, by smoothing out the first 1/4 roll on. The TT has transformed the bike, and I'd highly recommend it as a must have add-on to this model. But hey, I get the annoyance of having to make such a change, and that's on Honda. It should also have cruise at the asking price, again on Honda. But with the throttle sorted out, I thoroughly enjoy this quality motorcycle. To each their own.
Great bike. Have a dilemma: this from 2018 or 2019 or a brand new Vstrom 1050XT? This seems to be a hard one.
I'm here for same reason. VStrom has the same comfort, bulletproof engine, LED lights, Cruise control & is 30-40Kg lighter (Japanese VFR is 'only' 275 Kg). Makes my choice easier.
@@ZoltanGiber This is so true. Drop by, you may like it. :)
Can you do a another on two wheeles
You got the traction control backwards. 3 is the most intrusive, not the least intrusive. You would have been happier on 1. Also, it was never intended to be like the standard VFR or even compete against Tenere’s or Multistrada’s. It’s a leaner adventure style long haul bike compared to say, the Goldwing.
Would this fit a 5"7 person
No too tall IMO. I’m 5’11” and it’s ok but not sure if you are shorter. Try it?
thx... for the honest review
Actually, this review is not honest AT ALL - it's very subjective and one-sided. Reviews should not be like that. They should be objective and unbiased - which is exact opposite of this review.
How the fuck would you know? Have you ridden a US version?
i admit it i'm freaking jealous on your job brah! :D
Thanks Zack for the review
isn't it 127hp?
106whp not 106bhp.
I think your commute videos are GREAT. I think you should honestly let him ride most new and noteworthy bikes for the commute videos. They are great and BETTER than ANY OTHER reviews out there. It's honest and from a bikers point of view.
So many CZcamsRS attempt bike reviews but have no clue what they are talking about. I like ChaseOnTwoWheels but seriously go watch one of his reviews it's horrendous and gives null for real information.
Thank you for these videos.
Dude, you don't know what you talking about. This review is extremely biased and one-sided. It is as far from being honest as it gets. Reviews should not be like that. They should be objective and unbiased - which is exact opposite of this review.
It's an expert opinion from a person who's ridden a lot more than you and a lot more than most riders. Anyone can look at the specs and make their opinion. A riding review is a review of the stuff that's subjective. If you don't like his reviews than please stop watching them.
What was that red car across the intersection at about 5:00?! A lifted sports car?
griffithd05 3 years late, but it is a local motors rally fighter.
Do you think you'll be able to commute on the new Ninja 650 some time next year? I'm really not sure whether I should go for the FZ07 or the Ninja... :C
Love your channel!
107 HP, that sucks. I have the VFR1200F and 145 HP is nice. Sounds like the TC is the old 2009 crap, any updates to the DCT?
DCT was updated for 2016 model with same sensors and logic as the AT minus the G mode
Wish it had the storage compartment like the NC750x
107hp, holy cow they neutered that motor, I thought the VRF1200F had 175hp. So how does this compare to the Africa Twin, I assume the size and power levels are similar?
Lol. Go learn the difference between the crank horsepower and rear wheel horsepower after you return from school.
Think you answered your own problem with the TCS Softhands !
Am I alone in thinking from the moment he started talking he had a downer on this machine? And for the record I neither own one, nor intend to own one.
Yeah - it does seem like he got out of the wrong side of the bed that morning.....
Totally! I haven't watch a lot of these older vids by him but man he was grumpy on this bike.
What backpack do you use?
EndermanAPM Looked to be a Krieger R15 or R20. Got to be the best brand of motor bike back pack on the market.
Really sad we don’t have the VFR 1200X in Canada
Checking that turnsignal button very often...! 😉
This makes a great case for the Suzuki V-strom 1000, especially the 2018 version coming soon. same overall package less 2 cylinders, shaft drive, and close to 100 lbs. Even has the same goofy footpeg placement. Oh yeah, $4000 cheaper!
Except it doesn't have the V4. Another uninformed comment. The weight means nothing unless you're taking it offroad.
With less weight a motorcycle doesn't need as much engine and seriously it doesn't produce that much power or torque especially for a V4.
No shaft drive I'm getting the Honda
Thanks for the review. Honda always gets its pricing wrong; the VFR1200X is just too expensive for what it is. It's also unjustifiably heavy. I would like to see a video on how you could take 100 lbs off this bike and then see how it rides.
Your completely missed it, a part from getting all the numbers wrong you complete missed the real bike. Load it up with gear, a lot of gear, 2people and a lot of gear and you'll find out where this bike excels. Best price point, bang for buck two up touring machine on the market. You didn't even unleash the V4. It's not a commuter. Duh 🙄
Nice video
Wondering why u are constantly pushing button with your thumb on your left hand
I take it that these didn't do over very well since they were only out in 2016 and 17?? See quite a few new ones still on cycle trader for $10,000 good deal on a $16,000 bike.
Poor and inaccurate reviews like this don’t help because people are put off. These are excellent road bikes, tourers. Owners love them and put MEGA miles on them.
Read the owners manual before commenting on the system or controls of a bike. Thats what owners do and there is no good excuse for providing false information through ignorance when the info is available. And the AT has the same TC as the VFR so keep that in mind.
I find these commute reviews quite biased. Love the On Two Wheels stuff, but when it comes to reviewing practical hardware, maybe the mag should find someone more suited to the job.
Everything seems to come down to a comparison of things that make good repli-racers. People who would buy this bike may like to know the weight, but don't really care if it's heavier than a ZX-6 or what have you. In fact, some riders may prefer a little road hugging weight, particularly if they're apt to ride in wind. Also may prefer a bike with a frame sufficient to carry another person and luggage. More important, does it carry the weight high or low?
They also aren't likely to care that it doesn't make as much top end power as an Aprillia RR. Is the power it produces smooth and linear? Much more important to me than it's top speed.
The TC thing is a little overdone too. It's a street bike. Why on earth would it have a TC setup to work on a Moto GP bike. Not exactly apples to apples. If it's not raining, just turn it off.
The shaft jacking comment was useful. As was the unusual heated grips, though my guess is that that's something one would get used to pretty quickly. I'm sure Honda has Human Factor engineers who study that kinda thing.
Comparing it to the AT is also confounding. Just sitting on the AT, the front brake felt like mush, the suspension bounced around like it was made of Slinkies, and the seat was thin enough to use as a replacement for a banana seat on a 1970s bicycle. In all those aspects, the VFR felt way more suited to street riding to me.
I love the concept, but what I found is that the bike was way too tall and top heavy for me. I could barely get it off the kickstand in the showroom. It also doesn't come with luggage and what Honda makes for it is hideous. Price doesn't bother me much, but it should come with cruise control and a proper shaft for that style and price of bike.
Biased? It's one person's opinion, of course it's biased, but Zack has ridden a lot of motorcycles a lot.
No doubt about it. He's a fast guy and likes bikes that fit that profile. If one wants the skinny on the best hyper track bike, Zack's opinion would be a gold standard.
But this bit is called "commute." 160 hp and tires that are capable of running 180 mph and how much easier it is to steer a bike that's 40 lbs lighter at 100 mph aren't really applicable. Why some of these bikes are even chosen is a head scratcher. Is someone really thinking the best way to drag their laptop to and from work is balled up in a racer's tuck on a 959?
If you've ever commuted any distance, you'll understand that things like clutch lightness, how well the bike handles at low speeds, the smoothness of on/off throttle response, the ability to carry things, the seat height, the ergonomics, cruise control, self canceling signals, plushness of suspension over crappy city roads and so on are FAR more important to a commuting rider than top speeds and M50 calipers.
No, simply someone who actually uses bikes to actually commute would be sufficient. And not just in Sunny So Cal, but in rainy Portland or freezing Toledo or over beat up roads in New Jersey.
He's a fast guy? Zack has liked several motorcycles on his commute series that weren't high performance motorcycles. He's ridden the Scout 60, Grom, R-nine-T scrambler, Versys 650, and A CB500F.
Not a matter of like, but a matter of reviewing the bikes on the basis of their supposed use.
In fairness, I just watched again and he did make some decent points about the general features of the bike, though not as they pertain to commuting per se.
I used to commute on an 800lb+ Victory and it was fabulous for that job and in general. I now have a little sub 500lb bike which is great fun, but wouldn't make near as nice a platform for commuting as the Vic. IOW, just citing a weight number (or other) from a spec sheet tells me nothing about how it would affect my ability to commute on it.
If the idea is, the Africa Twin will be lighter to pick up if you dump it on a dirt road, okay. Most of us aren't commuting on dirt roads though.
The non offroad version doesnt have timing gears as far as i know but i dont own one
4:51
WTF os that red car on the left?
Rally Fighter. Leno has an episode on them.
P. S. Multistrada has 150 HP. That's pretty exciting bike. What were Honda engineers thinking??
This guy got it wrong the crosstourer has 129hp not 107!