2016
Honda VFR1200X
Honda
announced it is bringing its full-size adventure bike to U.S. shores in the
spring. The 2016 Honda VFR1200X, which debuted in overseas markets in 2012 as
the Crosstourer, will now be sold in America. It joins a highly competitive
market comprised of the BMWR1200GS, Yamaha Super Tenere and Triumph Tiger
Explorer.
The
VFR1200X is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1237 cc V4 engine that reportedly puts
out a claimed 127.4 hp @ 7750 rpm and 92.9 lb-ft of torque @ 6500 rpm. The V4
is a descendant of the engine used in the 2010 VFR1200F. The 2016 VFR1200X will
be offered with two transmission options, a standard six-speed gearbox or
Honda’s Dual Clutch (DTC) Transmission. The DTC option allow riders to change
gears manually with a pair of paddle-style buttons or they can opt to let the
motorcycle automatically shift through gears.
Each
transmission option comes with Honda’s Selectable Torque Control that gives
riders the capacity to dial in engine output of the shaft-driven motorcycle
based on traction conditions. The push-button system features three different
torque output options or can be turned off altogether. The VFR1200X has
combined ABS, a linked braking system which distributes pressure evenly between
front and back when applied. Dual 310 mm discs with Nissin calipers anchor the
front while a 276 mm disc tethers the rear.
Suspension
duties are provided by a 43 mm KYB inverted fork with both spring preload and
rebound damping adjustability. The Pro-Link Rear Suspension features a KYB
shock with adjustable rebound damping and a preload adjuster dial. The VFR1200X
rolls on a 19-inch spoked wheel up front and a 17-incher on back.
Handy
features include a “one-hand-adjustable windscreen” with a range just over
three inches, standard handguards, and an accessory socket to charge smart
phones or other devices. Plenty of Honda Genuine Accessories are available for
the 2016 VFR1200X, allowing riders to ride more comfortably or bolster its touring
capabilities.
The
largest-displacement adventure-touring model in the Honda lineup is projected
to be available in U.S. dealerships May 2016 at a price TBA.
