Inside the 2016 Honda VFR1200X

Honda is expanding its adventure-touring lineup with the announcement of the 2016 VFR1200X, as a large-displacement complement to the Africa Twin CRF1000L, NC700X and CB500X. Based on the VFR1200F sportbike (gone from the Honda lineup since 2013), the VFR1200X has many features in common with the F model.

Powered by a 76-degree V-4 with Honda’s Unicam valve train and a displacement of 1237cc, the VFR1200X has touring-friendly features like a six-speed transmission, shaft drive, linked braking with ABS, and an optional Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). The laced-wheel combination of a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear gives it adventure credibility, though it will likely be a machine in the 600-pound range (and has a V-4 motor).

Suspension travel numbers have not been released, but the front fork is a 43mm inverted unit with the rear getting a linkage-assisted single gas-charged shock (the swingarm is single sided). Adjustment at both ends is limited to spring-preload and rebound damping.

The forks jut out at a relaxed 28 degrees and the wheelbase is a roomy 62.8 inches. The seat height is 33.5 inches, so it does have an adventure-style perch. A 5.7-gallon tank should take the VFR1200X a fair distance between fill-ups, and the windscreen can be adjusted with one hand.

To manipulate the power more efficiently, the 2016 Honda VFR1200X has different power modes. Called the Selectable Torque Control system (HSTC), the rider can push a button to select any one of three levels of engine torque restriction. Also, the system can also be turned off if the rider prefers full power. Honda Selectable Torque Control will be offered the manual-transmission and Automatic DCT editions of the VFR1200X.

“We’re very excited to offer such a well-rounded offering of adventure-touring models in the U.S. for 2016,” Lee Edmunds, Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications at American Honda states. “The introduction of the VFR1200X to North America follows on the incredible reception of the Africa Twin. With the NC700X and CB500X also set to get important updates for 2016, Honda has a model to suit the needs of any adventure-touring enthusiast.”

If you want the 2016 Honda VFR1200X, prepare to wait, as it won’t be in showrooms until May 2016.

2016 Honda VFR1200X Specs:

• Engine: 1237cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke Unicam 16-valve 76° V4
• Bore x stroke: 81 x 60mm
• Induction: PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
• Compression ratio: 12:1
• Transmission: 6-speed
• DCT: Optional
• Final drive: Enclosed shaft
• Front Suspension: 43mm inverted telescopic forks; spring-preload and rebound damping adjustment
• Rear Suspension: Pro-Link with gas-charged damper, spring-preload and stepless rebound damping adjustment
• Front Brakes: Dual 310mm discs
• Rear Brakes: Single 276mm disc
• System: Combined ABS
• Front Tires: 110/80-R19
• Rear Tires: 150/70-R17
• Rake: 28.0°
• Trail: 4.2 inches
• Wheelbase: 62.8 inches
• Seat height: 33.5 inches
• Fuel capacity: 5.7 gallons

2016 Honda VRF1200X Color:

• Pearl Black

2016 Honda VFR1200X MSRP:

• TBD