Braking performance from the radial-mount/six-piston calipers and 320mm discs equipped with the latest-generation linked ABS was likewise surprisingly good. The linked braking is much more subtle than previous versions, and overall power and feedback were excellent up to the fairly high point of ABS intervention.
Bring On The DCT Version
While the standard base model VFR1200F will surely be overshadowed by its semi-automatic brother when the DCT model finally hits the streets, there's a lot to be said for the human-shift version. Those who have been waiting on Honda for an upgrade from their older VFR800 or similar machine-but don't want the weight, complexity, and additional cost of the upcoming semi-automatic transmission edition-would do well to take a close look at the standard VFR1200F. That said, we have to admit that we can't wait to try out the DCT...
| 2010 HONDA VFR1200F |
| TEST NOTES |
| + |
Superbly smooth, strong, linear power |
| + |
Surprisingly nimble handling |
| + |
Very competent suspension, brakes |
| - |
Almost 600 pounds |
| - |
Annoying flat spot in powerband |
| - |
Could use a little more range |
| x |
Sure to be overshadowed by the
DCT version |
| SUGGESTED SUSPENSION SETTINGS |
| FRONT |
Spring preload-9mm of adjuster showing; rebound damping-6 clicks out from full stiff |
| REAR |
Spring preload-13 clicks in from full soft; rebound damping-0.75 turns out from full stiff |
2010 Honda VFR1200F
MSRP: $15,999
Engine
Type: Liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-stroke 76-degree V-four
Displacement: 1237cc
Bore x stroke: 81 x 60mm
Compression ratio: 12.0:1
Induction: PGM-FI, 44mm throttle bodies, single injector/cyl.
Transmission: 6-speed
Chassis
Front suspension: 43mm inverted cartridge fork, 4.7 in. travel; adjustments for spring preload, rebound damping
Rear suspension: Single rear shock absorber, 5.1 in. travel; adjustments for spring preload, rebound damping
Front brake: 2 radial-mount/six-piston calipers, 320mm discs
Rear brake: Two-piston caliper, 276mm disc
Front wheel: 3.50 x 17 in., cast aluminum alloy
Rear wheel: 6.00 x 17 in., cast aluminum alloy
Front tire: 120/70ZR-17 Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart CQ K
Rear tire: 190/50ZR-17 Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart K
Rake/trail: 25.5 deg./4.0 in. (101mm)
Wheelbase: 60.8 in. (1545mm)
Seat height: 32.1 in. (815mm)
Fuel capacity: 4.9 gal. (18.5L)
Weight: 595 lb. (270kg) wet; 565.6 lb. (256.5kg) dry
Instruments: Analog tachometer, LCD display panels for digital speedometer, fuel gauge, clock, ambient air temp, odometer, dual tripmeters; warning lights for EFI malfunction, turn signals, high beam, neutral, coolant temp, oil pressure
Performance
Quarter-mile: 10.23 sec. @ 136.82 mph (corrected)
Top speed: NA
Roll-ons: 60-80 mph/3.14 sec.; 80-100 mph/3.50 sec.
Fuel consumption: 30-37 mpg, 34 mpg avg.