Honda VFR1200F - The New Sports Tourer on the Block
Honda VFR1200F - The New Sports Tourer on the Block
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There have been a great number of hotly anticipated motorcycles over the years but the excitement and speculation that sprang up around the new V4-powered Honda VFR1200F must surely rank up there with the most fervent.
Honda originally showed off a V4 concept bike in late 2008 at annual trade show Intermot, held in Cologne. The model's distinctive design set tongues wagging and speculation - fueled expertly by a number of teaser websites and leaked information - was rife as to what was next in the pipeline.
The company finally put fans out of their misery in 2009 when it officially announced the VFR1200F and fully unveiled the machine at that year's Tokyo Motor Show. Production of the sport touring bike began in October 2009 and the start of 2010 saw initial models delivered to dealers.
So, what is it about the VFR1200F that has enthusiasts so excited? Well, one of the main reasons is that while the bike is available with a conventional sequential manual transmission system, it can also be supplied with automatic dual clutch transmission - which, although well established in the likes of BMW and Volkswagen cars, is a first in the motorcycle world.
The dual clutch system sees one operate fist, third and fifth gears, while the other is responsible for second, fourth and sixth. Three modes are selectable: fully automatic, sports and manual.
In terms of the engine, the VFR1200F's V4 utilises the Unicam single overhead camshaft distribution system which has already had an outing in Honda's offroad motorcycles. The positioning of the crank pins and the cylinder firing order have also been specified in a way so as to reduce vibration.
The dual combined braking system on show in previous VFR models have taken the leap over to the 1200F, while anti-lock brakes are included as standard.
Aesthetically, the bike is a winner, with a layered fairing design lending the model a unique shape while maintaining optimal air flow and heat management. Prospective purchasers can choose from three colour options - Candy Prominence Red, Pearl Sunbeam White and Seal Silver Metalliic.
The VFR1200F costs £11,596 on the road and comes with three years' roadside breakdown cover and a three year warranty. And with cheap Honda motorbike insurance available for bikers willing to shop around it looks like an overall good deal for a phenomenal machine.
Those lucky enough to own a Honda VFR1200F and require Honda motorbike insurance [http://www.bennetts.co.uk/You-and-Your-Bike/Bike-Manufacturers/Honda-Motorcycle-Insurance/] should look no further than Bennetts who specialise in bike insurance [http://www.bennetts.co.uk].
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