Honda VFR1200F DCT Bike Overview
The ‘DCT’ part of the Honda VFR1200F stands for ‘Ducal Clutch Transmission’ and although this bike shares a lot of similarities with the earlier VFR1200F it is this new clutchless, semi-automatic transmission system which really rockets the VFR1200F DCT into a league of its own.
The engine remains much the same as the original VFR1200F so you can expect the even and flexible power of a Honda V4 motor. Where is differs however is in the transmission. With the VFR1200F DCT you get two full automatic modes and a clutchless manual option which is operated via a tiptronic push button. This style of transmission is something entirely new in the world of biking and does take some getting used to but once you have the hang of it you will find the whole thing works seamlessly to produce a beautifully smooth ride.
The VFR1200F DCT is heavier than its predecessor by an extra 10kg and so long as you don’t expect this bike to handle like a sports bike then you will no doubt be impressed with its ability to take corners. This is a great bike for touring, with a comfortable riding position and plenty of grunt when required. It is also revolutionary in terms of its transmission and for that reason comes with a high price tag. This is something you would have to weigh up when considering what you want from your bike; if it is to ride something utterly ground-breaking then the VFR1200F DCT might just be the bike you need.
Honda VFR1200F DCT Bike Spec
- Capacity1237cc
- Top speed165mph
- Weight277kg
- Average fuel consumption42mpg
- Seat height815mm
- EngineLiquid cooled, 16v, 4V, shaft drive
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Owner Reviews
Pros
Ultimately I love the usability of the VFR1200. Supremely capable in all conditions and requirements.
Cons
The only slight flaw is the well reported low tank range. Only through the size of the tank (as I've reported), not economy related.
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Sublime feeling of quality engineering. Comfort, for me, has never been an issue on either short or long journey's. However I am of a lightweight build and other riders of, shall we say Robust build, have had issues with the comfort of the O.E. seat and have felt it necessary to replace it with a customised item. I do genuinely believe the size and build of any rider has a bearing on the perception of comfort on any bike. The same principle may also apply to pillion comfort but I cannot share an opinion for that, suffice to say, my wife and daughter have both mentioned that the big VFR is the most comfortable they have been on.
Honda's build quality is starting to become legendary, the 'VFR12' is, in my opinion, a benchmark of that legend. Obviously a well cared for bike is going to retain its functionality but we are all well aware of the toll the British weather can take on machines. My bike is a 2011 model and I keep it outdoors with only a rain cover (no choice). Never had so much as a corroded nut, quality lasts. I cannot comment on any flaws on the reliability front because I've never experienced any with this bike. Utterly dependable, utterly reliable, never let me down and I've never even had a suspicion of any going 'out of sink'.
The 'VFR12' is fitted with ABS and the well proven Honda linked braking system as standard. When coupled with the twin 'Six-pot' callipers up front and 'four-pots' at the rear it provides immense, secure, stable stopping power under all road conditions. I use them with implicit trust. (Choice/condition of tyres the only limiting factor)
The 'VFR12' just feels luxurious to ride, the turbine-like smoothness of the V4 motor dominates the experience. This is not a lightweight sports motorcycle but once she is moving the weight is almost discreet. Any 'excess' weight is carried low down, both by the motors positioning and by the fact that the perceived heavyweight label is mostly due to, the very impressive, shaft drive. As mentioned previously, I am of a lightweight build (10st wet) and have absolutely no problem hustling through the twisties. Tyre choice is important on any bike and we all have our favourites, however I have tried various makes and the bike tracks like a train on motorways and corners predictably stable.
As stated previously, the 'VFR12' engine dominates the experience with this bike. Turbine smooth with 170bhp (reported), arm wrenching torque on tap and never missed a beat, what more could you ever need or ask for? (I'm sure some will) :-)
I find the running cost's comparable with any other large capacity bike, favourable in fact to many, even a lot of smaller bikes. The Honda H.I.S.S. (Honda Ignition Security System) provides considerable discounts on Insurance. Many people equate the 'VFR12' poor tank range with poor economy... this is a fallacy. I consistently return 160-170 miles before the (excellent) fuel gauge shows down to last bar. Considering the tank is 14 ltrs (3 gal), I believe that's in the range of 50-60mpg. Not to shabby. I concede that the range, because of tank size, is not ideal for a bike with touring aspirations, but is not overly restrictive either.
Pros
A great bike for touring, comfortable and well balanced, bags of power when needed, slightly heavier that my previous motor, which was a Burgman 400.
Cons
Bigger fuel tank
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Bigger fuel tank