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The Ultimate road-sports motorcycle

The VFR1200F has been developed in keeping with previous VFRs; that have delivered a combination of sports and touring capabilities using the latest technologies. This motorcycle is, however, brand new. A clean-sheet interpretation of the ultimate road-sport machine – a concept driven by extensive understanding of customer needs and the adoption of state-of-the-art technologies.

In pursuit of heightened levels of control and feedback, the VFR1200F adopts the latest race-track bred technologies but adapted and evolved to create a machine that can be many things to many riders.

The harmonic growl of the flexible and responsive V4 motor may rekindle the emotions inspired by previous iconic VFRs, but its unique ‘heartbeat’ engine feel and an unrivalled level of manageability sets the new VFR apart, not only from its predecessors - but also from every bike currently available.

Engine :

The VFR1200F engine was designed to provide its rider with high speed, quick acceleration and a strong, engaging feeling coming from the engine’s power characteristics. Honda also wanted to deliver the invigorating engine sound and feel that characterise V4 sports bikes, but with an additional focus on comfortable, responsive power delivery. The new V4 engine’s performance is delivered where it’s most useful and most enjoyable. Its linear torque curve is focused in the low and mid range, making it possible for the rider to simply roll on and off the throttle while powering through bends. This effortless control makes the bike great fun to ride – this is a sports bike with real-world usable power.

Smooth Power Delivery :

There were several challenges involved in tailoring the strong V4 power for use in an all-round machine that can be used for weekend enjoyment, commuting and long-distance touring. Key elements of the VFR1200F’s power characteristics are its unrivalled response and strong torque delivery. To allow full enjoyment of the engine’s power while still providing a high level of comfort, vibration needed to be carefully managed. A unique cylinder layout was developed for this purpose. Instead of the traditional V4 cylinder configuration, with the cylinders evenly spaced front-to-rear, the VFR1200F adopts an ingenious solution in order to centralise mass and at the same time achieve a compact, space-saving solution. The rear cylinders are placed side by side but close together, while the front cylinders are more widely spaced. This layout allows for a slim, compact ‘waist’ that fits comfortably between the rider’s legs. It also supports mass centralisation, thus contributing to the bike’s balanced feel and ease of control. With no right-left couple imbalance, the need for a balancer is eliminated and friction is reduced.

A new Phase-shift Crankshaft complements the advantages of the cylinder layout. Operating with a 28° throw, it effectively reduces primary vibration and noise, eliminating the need for a power-sapping balance shaft. The new V4 typically produces more than 90% of its maximum torque (129Nm/8,750 rpm) at 4,000rpm. To allow the rider to comfortably take full advantage of this torque, delivery is smoothed by four drivetrain dampers, which further eliminate uncomfortable vibration and backlash.

Racing Technologies :

The VFR1200F utilises the UNICAM single overhead camshaft cylinder head design from the world-class CRF motocrossers. The logic was straightforward: in an environment where space, performance and weight are at a premium, this technology was perfect for a project where mass centralisation and ergonomics were prime design criteria. Also borrowed from the CRF range and the RC211V is the sealed crankcase system that reduces the pumping loss created through piston movement, and air density.

This system has never been used on a road machine before but the gains for the rider are identical - electrifying throttle response and improved fuel consumption.

New transmission layout and ground-breaking shaft drive system :

A compact new transmission layout contributes to high-speed stability, better cornering and improved traction capability. The highly developed shaft drive system features an offset propeller shaft and a pivot that expands vertically as well as a sliding constant velocity joint that takes up any variations in length during the rear wheel’s arc of travel. At the output shaft a clutch damper absorbs backlash effectively. Thanks to the rigidity of the pivot, stability is improved and throttle-to-drive delivery is much more direct.

Refined Control :

A throttle-by-wire system improves the rider’s connectivity with the VFR1200F. Providing light, precise fuel metering at all engine parameters this highly developed accuracy gives the rider increased levels of control, whatever the situation. It is another individual aspect that adds to the heightened feelings of response and control.

To aid control under intense deceleration a slipper clutch is fitted, similar to the system on the CBR1000RR Fireblade. Even under the most excessive downshifting the clutch is designed to slip, thus preventing the rear wheel from inadvertently locking up, allowing the rider to stay firmly in control.

Unique exhaust and exhilarating sound :

Engineers and designers alike focused not only on the new engine’s power and delivery, but also on its feel and sound. They chose a configuration which would emulate the briskness of a typical inline-4 engine’s performance but deliver this with the beat and feel that are pure V4. The exhaust layout was made as compact as possible with the assembly of catalyser-containing exhaust pipes placed on one side of the sump and the exhaust pipes of the rear cylinder bank placed on the other side. On the bike’s right flank a stylish triangular-shaped muffler highlights the styling lines of the bodywork. The combined induction and exhaust notes create a raw, compelling sound that is authentic Honda V4 and distinguishes the VFR1200F from any other motorcycle. At idle it pulses smoothly, hinting at the engine’s huge performance potential. Each twist of the throttle releases a burst of instant V4 aggression that becomes a thrilling howl as it rises quickly through the revs. The sound and beat of this engine contribute to the unique character of this new sports bike and are as essential to the design as the bodywork or riding position.

A key element in the raw emotion of this V4’s sound is the exhaust system. Engineered to provide excellent cornering clearance and minimal intrusion to the rider’s and pillion’s feet, the high-volume, twin outlet high-chrome muffler produces an unobtrusive but fantastically stirring note. At low revs the noise is off-beat and bass-rich. Further up the rev range, once the servo-operated valve is opened, the noise changes to a truly inspiring, hard-edged V4 howl to stir the emotions.

Chassis :

The VFR1200F frame, suspension and drive components are brought together in a unique configuration that facilitates both sports bike power and smooth stability. Its strong aluminium twin-spar diamond configuration frame is both lightweight and rigid. The swingarm and driveshaft length are optimised without extending the overall length of the motorcycle. The long swingarm contributes to balanced, confident manoeuvring and exceptional high-speed stability.

The swingarm is complemented by a compliant Pro-Link rear shock absorber with adjustable rebound damping. At the front, sturdy 43mm telescopic forks with adjustable preload provide smooth and assured control. Together, these systems ensure a comfortable ride, even with a pillion and luggage on board, and add to the overall feeling of total control.

High Performance Brakes :

The VFR1200F is equipped with the most highly developed brake technology for all-round sports bike use. Powerful new six-piston callipers for the front and two piston callipers for the rear act on large discs (320mm at the front and 276mm at the rear). A Combined Braking System creates the optimal balance of front and rear braking forces. The addition of a standard-fit compact and lightweight ABS supports both the motorcycle’s sports riding potential and its touring proficiency.

Instrument Panel :

The VFR1200F instrument panel combines sophisticated styling and practicality. Shielded by the tilt of the aerodynamic windscreen, its elegant design fully complements the airy and spacious feel at the front. It also adds to the sensation of total rider control.

A large, sporty analogue rev counter and a digital speedometer are surrounded by LCD readouts of the fuel, coolant temperature levels and fuel consumption. The display also includes a clock, ambient temperature display, HISS indicator and ABS indicator.

Pannier Mounts :

To enhance the touring potential of the new sports bike, the rear is equipped with integrated luggage mounts. These mounting points are unobtrusively cast into the injection moulded under-seat area and pillion footrest mounts. They allow easy installation and removal of specially designed optional panniers without interrupting the motorcycle’s clean styling.

Ergonomic Hand Controls :

The VFR1200F is the first motorcycle to feature state-of-the-art ergonomic revisions to the handlebar and switch layout. The designers looked at the time required to reach controls comfortably and the ease of operation, particularly considering the hand position during cornering. As a result, the VFR1200F has new handlebar switches and a new layout with reversed horn and indicator controls. The indicator switch shape is designed around natural thumb movement for effortless operation.

A wide range of optional equipment has been developed by Honda Genuine Accessories specifically for the VFR1200F. These accessories were designed in line with the new all-round sports bike concept and in every detail, from the choice of materials to integration with the bike’s contours, they complement its styling and performance. They include:

• A 35-litre pannier kit that fits the bike’s integral pannier attachments with no need for any additional conventional pannier stays. Operated with the motorcycle key, the panniers are aerodynamically shaped and coloured to match the motorcycle’s bodywork. The left pannier can hold one full-face helmet.
• A sleekly designed 31-litre top box featuring a locking, quick-detach mounting system and a lid that matches the motorcycle’s bodywork. The top box can hold a full-face helmet as well as other luggage.
• Tough nylon inner bags for the top box and panniers. Light grey with a Honda Wing logo, they come with carrying straps and handles. As an extra convenience feature, the pannier inner bags can be zipped together for easy carrying.
• A 13-litre tank bag with a preset for easy installation.
• A luxurious Alcantara seat for extra comfort
• A sporty 3-position adjustable add-on screen that integrates perfectly with the standard windscreen to extend wind protection for taller riders.
• A replacement lower seat with a narrow profile which provides easier reach to the ground for shorter riders while maintaining the bike’s carefully designed ergonomics.
• A pair of slim heated grips with an integrated controller for maximum comfort and compact design integration.
• A motorcycle navigation kit with a unique controller that allows operation without removing hands from the handlebars. An earphone and car kit are included and Honda dealers are included in the POI list.