Honda VFR1200X Crosstourer (2017) 4,500 mile and 4 month update

[@Sinnicide]

Bought my crosstourer 2 months ago and have done 5500 miles ;) much love from WV. PS I watched your video before I bought mine and it helped lead to me buying mine!

[@Davennep]

I own a 2014 model. It’s a great bike with so much power. The weight is no problem for me at all. I think it’s good to have extra weight on the highway when riding with a lot of wind. Beacause of that the motorbike is more stable. He feel like a strong big horse. I love the vfr1200x. Honda is much better and reliable than all the other competitors. Honda is the best!

[@RichardsModellingAdventures]

So true, heavy bikes with long wheel bases deal with rough roads better and wind. I really don't like small bikes on motorways either.

[@OgiBear59]

I have the 2014 Crosstourer. Fully kitted out. I 😍 it. Ridden half of Australia. My ⛽ average is 5.3lts per 100km in all sorts of conditions. Self cancelling indicators work over 100 metre's. I'm everyday rider. I've had a GS. Hated it. Break My Wallet. I love that the Crosstourer is simple in gadgets. It's an under stated motorbike. You can ride the world.

[@MiddleagedRider]

If my maths is correct that's an average of about 53 mpg which is amazing. I'm rapidly thinking that it's more down to my riding style and I'm too heavy handed on the throttle!! Still prefer having control of the indicators myself though. Thanks for watching, keep safe.

[@nmi8286]

Ogi Bear Totally agree....truly underrated bike....

[@jfro5867]

Just bought one today, great pre reg deal at my local Honda dealership. Cannot wait to get on it.

[@56theduck]

Still Smiling?? I have a 2016 model and still can`t get the smile off my face giving it a hand full :)

[@plymouthjanner8940]

Just PX my 2013 ZZR for a Crosstourer DCT and love it.. Most underrated bike on the market. After half hour test ride I was hooked.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Glad you liked, personally didn't click with the DCT box myself. thanks for watching.

[@martysherman9034]

I bought a new 2017 VFR 1200 DCT 20 months ago & it will change over to 19,100 miles on my ride tomorrow. I am very satisfied with the performance & handling of this bike.

[@veejayuu]

Love my 2017 VFR1200X DCT. Full respect to Hatfields of Crowthorne, I won't go anywhere else!

[@MiddleagedRider]

They are great guys - thanks for watching

[@petewebb6952]

c.f. CB500X the VFR is twice the power and twice the fuel consumption and 100 kg more. I had a ST1300 and I remember when I first rode it I was fiddling with the screen as I entered a dual carriageway, looked down at my Speedo and saw I was doing 80mph without even knowing it. Yes the V4 engine is a peach. I dropped my ST1300 and struggled to get it picked up again. Sounds like counter steering is needed. I ended up with two bikes, because no one bike could do it all: T120 for looks, two up and long haul; CB500X for fun, practicality and value.

[@pauloakes5718]

I believe the fuel mpg should average about 50mpg. It did on the older bikes. I would get it mapped. Great content🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿👍

[@baricho4771]

Thankyou for an excellent review. I've been considering this bike for some time and your honest opinion is appreciated.. Think i just ordered one!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching

[@jimgordon3468]

It's funny how people complain about MPG. If your worried about that buy a scooter. It's a 1200 cc 110 hp rocket. You'll be happy you have that power if you have a passenger.

[@Max-rl8dw]

I have 2017 model, got it new from Germany in october 2019! Good bike, good engine, made some upgrades and now the bike is perfect for me! Some complain over gas use, i have avrige about 6l/100km (normal ride no slow no to fast) and with 1200cc, 130hp it is ok, at same time my budy Gs1200/2018 Adv use 5,7l so this is no big diference! I upgrade forks and rear with, hyperpro springs and now bike suspension works much better!! I got wind deflektors on side of tank, and knees and on the top of wind screen, no wind issues! Kaoko throtle controle some supstitute for cruise control, and bike is now great! By the way this all coast (Crosstourer) me a prise of about like new Yamaha Tmax 500 hier in Croatia! So rides good, great bike, i love it!! 💪😃

[@MiddleagedRider]

Have fun and enjoy!

[@Anonymous-qp4zf]

How much did pay for the bike ?

[@Max-rl8dw]

@@Anonymous-qp4zf 9800eur in Germany +3500 import costs in Croatia!

[@malcolmgardener2198]

Thanks for your reviews on this bike. I am considering one when I change my bike at the end of the year as I want a good all rounder so your review is appreciated.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Glad it was useful. Thanks for watching

[@HockeyVictory66]

I have this bike for 2 years. I agree with all of your assessments except the suspension. The rear is acceptable but the front forks rattle you over poor roads and it takes a big dive with hard braking. I will probably fix this in the future and just live with it for now.

[@SamCordery]

Great update thank you. I've put 2k miles on a 65 plate Highlander and agree with all you mention. I've come off of a couple of CRF1000 DCTs and the Crosstourer is close to twice as expensive to run. Not that I care about fuel economy. Engine is stonking, screen's awful (tried three now) and it's not all that comfy at 6'5". I have the camo colour scheme and it looks brilliant. Need to sort my suspension out and take it back to stock settings and work from there. Agree that those BattleWings impress!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks for watching and glad you enjoyed. I love that camo colour too.

[@kevinmcdonald1970]

I have one of these and i dont ride slowly and regularly get over 50 mpg!!

[@RichardsModellingAdventures]

Just paid £11250 for a new DCT. I reckon that's a reasonable price. I simply would not buy a manual gear box version of this bike. I would have considered the Kawasaki Versys 1000 but it's way more expensive and no DCT and that's a feature I now need. The shaft drive is a bonus on the VFR too.

[@nitenurse48]

Excellent review, I have 2013 CT with DCT & really like it, I agree its a workhorse, fast & comfortable so maybe its a thoroughbred. My fuel gauge usually starts to 'flash' around 160miles so I start looking for petrol then despite the gauge reading I have 40miles left in the tank, I have done 205 miles on a full tank once although about a 100 was on motorways.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks. I think I've only hit 200 miles on a tank a couple of times and that has been constant motorway cruising.

[@pl1068]

In reply to comments about fueling The fueling is perfect on years 2012-2015 the 2016 model year had to meet tighter emission standards a remap on the later models would fix it.

[@ThePigimoltedo]

Hi, thanks for your nice video! I own a 2015 DCT model and is my 2nd Crosstourer. I like the V4, that’s all! 😊

[@MiddleagedRider]

I LOVE the V4! And I like lots of other stuff, but it's nowhere near a perfect bike. Thanks for watching

[@beverke7]

Cruise control would be a big plus, I definitely consider that a great asset on those long trips.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Yes it would be.

[@anthonyjarvis522]

just to let you know , purchased one of the last few brand new bikes left in the country £9999 incl the tax £91 loving the bike, does what most of its German ,Italian, Austrian manufacturers does without the grunting Cheers TJ

[@MiddleagedRider]

Wow - that is an absolute steal! My mechanic pal reckons they will do stratospheric mileage ifserviced properly too!

[@kristinaluckett5591]

The heavy fuel consumption is interesting. My 2014 Fjr 1300 used between 6.2 -6.5 L/100km (45ish mpg). Within the first 20,000 kms it dropped down to an average of 4.5-5.0 L/100km (better than 50 mpg). My mates experience with a Honda St1300 has been similar. I'd love a 1200 crosstourer but in this class of bike the small tank and lack of cruise control is a deal killer.

[@MiddleagedRider]

My current MPG on the CT is 42.1 mpg and that's a good mix of riding Urban commuting, motorways and B road blasting. On a long motorway shift I can do 190m between fill ups so range isn't a deal breaker for me just an inconvenience at times. Having never had cruise on a bike it's a case of not missing what I've never had!!

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Bought an 014 a few months ago with DCT and love it. That said it is so flipping heavy though. Thanks for video enjoyable.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Glad you enjoyed. Yes they are a total beast in terms of weight. Makes my Fireblade feel like a kids toy in comparison!

[@nmi8286]

Ted Edwards Yup, it's heavy...I'm 1.7m short....but still able to manouvre and ride this bike. Great for touring, and that v4.......

[@trd4d]

I think the self canceling blinkers are one of the benefits of the vehicle. You’re much better off to not be blinking when you should blinking when you shouldn’t.

[@MsDenver2]

They are cancelling early because you done a side ways movement after you switched the indicator on. Do the move first then indicate , if you see what I mean

[@MsDenver2]

Why do so many people go on about the weight of the 1200 Honda cross tourer. My Kawasaki 1000st was 490 lbs dry and also today’s riders go on about the wind and let’s lock the bike away for winter. When I had my Kawasaki z1000st it was naked and I road it though every winter including the snow. Also my breaks were single pot front twin discs and believe me if you went fast you took ages to stop so you always had to think ahead. And my gear was just soft leather gloves with waxed over mitts and the water proofs were not very water proof.

[@yepyep27]

What’s been the average temp for the months you were riding before this video? I’ve noticed that my Hondas like warm weather over even somewhat cool. The mpg goes way up in hot weather and is pretty dismal in cooler weather.

[@roadwarrior8560]

Brilliant info, you still got this bike?

[@geoffs646]

Have now been a proud VFR1200x owner since January. After watching your excellent review,along with other recommendations from other sources.Extremely happy with the bike.Iwould really appreciate it,if you could tell me where you got your top wind deflector from.I tried to source one like yours,without success.Your help would be really appreciated.Thanks.

[@MiddleagedRider]

It's an MRA X-Creen. I think I got mine of Amazon (other retailers are available!) Have a Google for it and you should find one. Thanks for watching

[@kirstysmith463]

Ive just bought a 9 month old one £8900 full loaded 2300 miles

[@BibtheBoulder]

I haven't.....

[@michaelking9818]

Is it a good bike buddy think of getting one

[@michaeleric418]

I had owned the 2015 VFR 800 Crossrunner which seemed underwhelming after just coming of the VFR1200F. I am going to test ride the Crosstourer next week,a low klm 2017 model. I have owned a number of large bikes including the Honda CB1300 and the Triumph Sprint GT(current ride) so I hope this will be the long distant steed I am looking for with that lovely torque.

[@stevenpearson5658]

What did you think to the Crosstourer

[@michaeleric418]

@@stevenpearson5658 Put on 5000 klm since I bought it with a few 600 k ride days road, dirt and a bit of mud It is as comfortable as my CB1300 (very good) with far better wind protection. The V4 engine is a gem with torque where most needed, fuel economy is just on 5.03 litres per 100 K. The size deters many but for my 1.83 height it is no issue and the weight once riding is no problem. It handles the very ordinary Australian country roads well. I still have to do a few tweaks on the suspension but otherwise very happy with it and suits the Adventure touring role well without the big $$ of KTM's and BMW's.

[@DA-ou7hv]

36 to 41 mpg is not really great and I understand the concern given the fuel prices in the UK. I ride a 2018 gold wing. Around 1500 miles on it now and I get around 44 mpg out of 1833 cc with mixed riding. I have 6 speed manual and i do upshift at lower rpm because there is plenty of torque. I'm sure that helps the mileage. Now I'm getting this 44 mpg number off the fuel consumption indicator. I have not done at the pump math yet. I will do that as a double check.

[@robincooney1263]

Thanks for the review. 41mpg is poor - the VFR1200R does 44 - just crossed both off my shortlist as the range really is not good enough for touring.

[@Torqueix]

Do you know of any VFR1200R? I suppose you ment the F. Anyway, there are quite a few bikes out there which don't have that good of a mileage range but people don't seem to care that much whenever they've fallen for those. As far as I'm concerned, I don't care either, because enjoying a range of about 350+ km doesn't appear that bad to me. At least, taking a short break in between travelling isn't that bad of an idea. But if you want to go longer distances with just one gas tank, maybe you should consider a GS Adventure (even as a German, I think Honda's build quality and reliability are superior). The VFR1200X seriously is a very unique offer in the market. Considering it's going to be discontinued, you have a modern classic right there.

[@mikealdridge5608]

I must say that I got a rollicking over the tannoy at a petrol station once for filling up whilst sitting on the bike in the same way that you were. When I went in they explained it was a health and safety issue in case of fire. Also it would appear that you can drop the bike! Lol All the best.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Yes, they're right and I really should get off to fill up. Maybe it wouldn't have happened and I wouldn't have made a dick of myself if I'd followed the rules! Thanks for watching.

[@luc1ferblack]

the thought is if you spill the fuel on to the hot bike you might go up in a fireball and whilst im not sure if that could happen I don't fancy it

[@grahamsmith827]

Can I ask how you mounted your Zumo GPS?

[@nowisthetime7461]

Does a great job of showing expressions with shoulder shrugs, head tilts, etc. while his face is totally covered by a helmet!

[@marcmattulat6585]

I totaally agree! This is a gorgeous bike. I adore and worhip it. But - yes, there is a but - there is one thing the bike does grumpily: traffic light hopping in a big city like Berlin during the rush hour. The bike is not at all made for rush hour congestion in large cities. It's made for cruising, for conquering Alps roads like Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse, for Passo di Stelvio etc. Riding the bike there feels like Heaven. That's even better than the best sex you can get. Best wishes from Berlin. Marc

[@MiddleagedRider]

Lol - nice comments Marc. I agree it's a great tourer, but I do also commute in city congestion and while it's sometimes a bit too large to filter with I still manage it without too much grumpiness!! Thanks for watching

[@marklloyd4153]

I found one in the U . S. a new 2017 for what works out to b about $8200 in pounds . Marked down a third from msrp sticker . U still seem happy with it. I’m thinking of pulling the trigger to move up from my 650 V Strom . I’m in north Florida wide open highways . 20 miles to town center the next town is like 45 miles away . I’m 6 foot 32 inch I Sean 250 pounds . Any feed back from u would b much appreciated as I like your review on this bike better than any of the others out there . So much more detailed.

[@MiddleagedRider]

At that price you can't go wrong. You will notice the torque difference from your 650 for sure. It will rev but it's at it's best short shifting riding the torque. I am very happy with it - it's not a perfect bike, but as an everyday work horse it's ideal. I admit it doesn't stir your soul every ride. It's too effortless and so efficient at covering miles quickly without any drama. I do find a few hours on motorways (your freeways) sitting still is pretty uncomfortable on the backside. It's the seat. Riding roads where you move about more, you don't feel it. Maybe a different/modified seat would change that. And it would be nice to have cruise control for those journeys too. Having said that it's more than capable of being ridden like you stole it! PS - love Florida - have traveled round most parts, Panama City, Tallahassee, Daytona Beach, Tampa, Miami and Orlando (obviously, haven't all Brits!!) - must do the Everglades at some stage.

[@marklloyd4153]

Middleaged Rider I’m in Ocala between Tallahassee and Orlando. Thanks for feed back just deciding between dct or manual . I have time .

[@MiddleagedRider]

My advice would be have a ride of both. I rode an Africa Twin with the DCT and while it's fantastic and works it just wasn't for me so I went for the manual. I'd be willing to give the DCT another go and I suspect it's the sort of thing that you get used to and grows on you as you ride more and more.

[@marklloyd4153]

Middleaged Rider I don’t no any dealers that let u test bikes . The states r funny like that . I figure the Africa is a little better all around than my Strom but not what I want I’m really looking for a bike like yours ,GS ,RT,Tiger ,but the VFR is a bargain .55% less than tiger and a 110 percent less than theBMWs I’ve seen. I’m sold on Honda for so many reasons. Really leaning to the DCT. Do u experience any shaft bash when riding ? I have heard it mentioned but don’t c much about it other than in comments sometimes. Enjoy the good weather u r coming into with winter leaving .

[@MiddleagedRider]

@@marklloyd4153 Wow! I seriously wouldn't buy a bike with such a massive change from the norm (like a DCT box) without having a go to see if I liked it. I know I'd have to convince the dealer I was serious but having done that if they didn't let me have a try they could sod off!!! As for the drive shaft - yes there is a little backlash. I really noticed it when I first rode it, only ridden chain drive previously and it can make on and off the throttle at low speed a bit jerky, but to be honest I don't notice it now and probably have adjusted my riding style around it. The plus side of no maintenance, no lubing, no tensioning etc FAR outweigh the little lash they sometimes is through the shaft. No shaft drive will be perfect, although others have said that the BMW is smoother. As I said not a massive issue for me.

[@jbeee333]

Hi, great review, just wondered what mount you have for the Garmin Sat Nav.

[@simonvienot]

Great review. I own one and I share every word you have said, except that I have the DCT and believe me it makes the beast even more effortless and efficient (and much smoother for the passenger). Would you mind sharing the specs of the screen extension you have mounted ? As you said the stock screen is a bit short and too narrow unfortunately. Cheers.

[@Inked_CR]

Did it get a quickshifter/ blipper and cruise control? Cheers

[@thewinnershracer8870]

I love my Honda VFR800F but the two things I dislike are 1) the weight 242kg & 2) those bloody self cancelling indicators. I find myself flicking the switch 2-3 times at intervals to make sure they don't turn off at the wrong time. Great review though👍

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks. I personally don't like the styling of the current VFRs despite them being stonking bikes to ride by all accounts. I did consider a Crossrunner. Lovely bike, but after test riding the Crosstourer, I knew I'd miss the torque if I went for the Runner! I do exactly the same. Constantly flicking the switch to keep it on. Fear I'm going to wear it out. Must be giving it like a year's worth of normal use in a month!

[@colheyes]

I'm on my second CT. Interested in your comments about 5th to 6th gear changes. I've also had that horrible false neutral occasionally, and found that you have to be really firm pushing up with your foot if accelerating hard. I've also tried clutchless up changes from 2nd all the way to 6th and had no problems at all!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Firstly with 9,000 miles on the bike, the gearbox has got smoother and better but I still get the issues with 5th & 6th. Clutchless all the way up the box into 6th is fine with me too. I've just done a big touring trip and think I've nailed it. I'm sure it's down to my foot position and the pressure being exerted. You can give it a nice lazy flick in any gear up to 4th and it's fine, but for 5th & 6th I have to make sure that my toes push up, thereby giving it the full lever travel. If I try and shift with more of my foot under the lever i.e my ankle closer to the lever (the top of the foot above your instep) I find the lever doesn't get a firm or positive enough upshift and perhaps not full lever travel and I get a load of crunching and grinding and a box full of neutrals. Hope that helps.

[@Gloop243]

Thanks for the review. I have a Varadero and thinking about changing it as would prefer a shaftie. Fuel range is an issue as you say. The Vara will do about 220 miles before going on to reserve so that is an issue. And how did you manage to get above 45mpg on the 339. It is a sod of a road. Lol. I have traveled it many times so I am fairly local to you. I think that perhaps the cross tourer will not be for me. I firmly believe 200 miles min before reserve. Just in Spain at the moment and averaging 47mpg. Oh and the Vara on the bends sticks like glue. I'm using road pilot? Really good.

[@magnusjsvensson]

I was thinking of trade my ct to gsa but i am splited in this decision .love this machine so much,gsa has better suspension and lighter,better fuel economy just dont know,besides gsa way Moore expensive,worst case scenario is that I regret it.honda dont sell it here in Sweden anymore.cheers

[@jage6126]

The intro is from a swedish GXR1000 with growler exhaust, right? ;)

[@nomoremrniceguy368]

Nice review. Sounds like you're getting on just fine with the bike. Shame about the economy side. I've got an '02 sv650s and it's ridiculously good at 60 plus mpg for what it is. Also have a '99 honda cb500s and it's over 50 mpg. They're a damn sight lighter than your bike though. Both are good touring bikes but getting on a bit now. It would be nice if you got a chance to review other bikes too.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks. Even my Fireblade gets better economy! It's downside but hey ho that's what you get for a big cc engine or maybe it's down to how I ride it 😉 I've reviewed a few other bikes mainly Honda though as I have a relationship with my local dealer. I've found dealers are reluctant to let you out by yourself until they really know you (in other words - bought a bike from them!)

[@wayneericksen5374]

Your gals must be different than US gal. I have put 50k mi on a 2009 Ninja 650R (EX650) and I get 43-46mpg US.

[@stephenshirreffs4540]

Hi great review what sat nav bracket have you got .

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thanks. From an Italian company called Engimoto engimoto.it/prodotto/honda-crosstourer-1200-my-2016-parabrezza-variabile/

[@HockeyVictory66]

These are not selling well here in the US. A 2016 DCT is being advertised for $13k and I am sure that price can be negotiated. Waiting to see if I can get one for around $10k.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Go for it. Try your dealer at the end of the month or sales quarter, the time when they're desperate to hit their sales targets and go in with a cheeky bid! After all if you don't ask, you don't get! Thanks for watching

[@stevenlefebvre2991]

I just picked up a new left over 2016 model for $11,000

[@donhartmann569]

I love my 2016 vfr1200x. I have 20000 miles and ride all year. I added veefour cruise control givi s mono key side cases heated grips and tkc 70 tires. I get around 50 mpg commuting to work. I traded my 09 vstrom 1000 and sold my 11 klr after i bought the vfr. Best bike i have owned

[@addicted2baseballrgd21]

Saw one for 9K, very tempting. I did notice if you want luggage, looking at another $1400 .

[@andymotorcyle]

Liked my last 2014 crosstourer but 2017/18 models have less kit and higher price. I have found the plastics are put together very poorly. I actually regret getting the updated version especially with the build and those bloody indicators.

[@MiddleagedRider]

I test rode the previous model and didn't notice any difference in build quality to be honest. On my bike I think the plastics are pretty high quality and the fit and finish is immaculate. Think most manufacturers have increased prices quite dramatically over last year or two. Tough to get a top litre bike for under £15k these days for example whereas you could pretty much have any 4-5 years ago. Where we do agree is those pesky indicators. Just wish there was a user option to either turn off or adjust the self cancelling. Thanks for watching.

[@ivorbradley6794]

Hello has your bike got a centre stand how do you get it on the centre stand is there a knack i had lots of bike’s no trouble on the stand please help best regards ivor

[@MsDenver2]

The weight of the bike doesn’t matter it’s technic

[@luc1ferblack]

does this bike put off a lot of heat? im switching from a st1300 which gets very hot in the summer

[@MiddleagedRider]

Up until these last couple of weeks I would have said no - but I really noticed the heat from the engine this last week. Maybe that's to do with the freakish hot weather in the UK. On the 30 degree plus days I have been very conscious of feeling heat radiating into my boots and lower legs. Backside and top of legs have been fine. In less extreme temps I can honestly say I've never noticed the heat. Thanks for watching

[@thork86]

If you could only have one bike in the garage, would you keep the Crosstourer or the CBR1000RR? Love the videos, keep them coming, sir!

[@MiddleagedRider]

Impossible question to answer - but I'll have a go! For my current riding habits (commuting, blood biking and fun) it would have to be the Crosstourer. Can comfortably do long rides with big miles and easy to carry luggage and stuff and you can have some fun on it, especially now I've had the suspension set up tweaked. If I was purely riding for fun just going out for the twisties and a laugh, no question the Fireblade. Luckily I don't have to make that choice and am fortunate enough to not have to compromise what I buy. Don't get me wrong, the Crosstourer can be fun - I did a track day on it and had a blast but I would miss the Fireblade a lot - always come back with a huge grin on my face!!! Thanks for watching.

[@thork86]

@@MiddleagedRider thanks for the reply! As I can only have one scooter at a time presently, I'm debating going back to a supersport from the CT. I agree, if I were commuting I'd hang onto the CT without a doubt, but as it's more of a toy for me I may have to go back to a CBR... thanks again!

[@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff]

Averaging 50 MPG (Imperial) on a Triumph Tiger 1200, 40 MPG seems low?

[@MiddleagedRider]

I've just done a big touring trip to Germany and it's been interesting with regard to MPG. On the motorway runs there and back sitting at between 70-90 mph I was easily averaging 50-53mpg. On the twisties in Germany (giving it a royal spanking) I was averaging between 37mpg (lowest) and 44 mpg (highest). So my experience is reasonable consumption on a constant throttle gentle cruise but thirst like an alcoholic with "spirited" twisty riding. Thanks for watching

[@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985]

Thanks for including the correct measurement Terry. Being a Brit review, we need to specify standard vs imperial MPG. Honestly MPG is a horrible metric as it’s not linear. l/100km is more useful.

[@bobvanderwest9358]

What does the term "agricultural" mean in reference to the gear box?

[@jfro5867]

Agricultural is a throwback word meaning a gearbox you would expect on an old farm tractor. i.e. Notchy and not very nice to use. I have just bought a Crosstourer, the gearbox is fine. Honestly. Every bike has its own 'feeling' and you get used to it. Ever tried a BMW gearbox?

[@bobvanderwest9358]

@@jfro5867, thanks for explaining, I really appreciate it. I've never tried a BMW gearbox, but I have driven an old farm tractor. I worked on a local farm for a few summers when I was a young man, so I'm all-too-familiar with that "notchy and not very nice to use" feeling of an old tractor gearbox, so your explanation makes sense to me now. Haha! Thanks again. :)

[@jfro5867]

No worries you are very welcome. IMHO the gearbox is very nice indeed, well spaced ratios and positive in use. Certainly on par with all my other bikes. Shaft drive does have a heavier and more deliberate feel than chain drive but its a small price to pay for zero maintenance and a clean back end. Dont be put off. 👍👍

[@MiddleagedRider]

From this I meant it's a bit heavy and clunky and not as precise as I would like. That's when comparing it to my CBR1000 gearbox. It's fine and I'm more used to it now, but it really does need a positive and firm action. You can't lightly snick up the box.

[@callumjohnson9433]

Does the 1200 have v.tec like the 800?

[@HockeyVictory66]

No. The X has a modified version of the VFR1200F Sport Tourer engine that is focused on more low end torque.

[@callumjohnson9433]

@@HockeyVictory66 good to know thanks. No one seems to specify these details in relation to the engine. I like vtec but I'd prefer less and more simple servicing.

[@scotwilson4169]

Yeah 41 mpg is pretty bad, on my ‘12 Tiger 1200 I never get less than 45 mpg, and that’s with a good spanking. If I ‘just’ ride fast and smooth I’ll be getting more like 50mpg. Every tour I’ve done I’ve averaged 50-52 mpg since I generally don’t spank it around

[@MiddleagedRider]

Thirsty it is. Must be the mix of roads I ride and my the way I ride. I found that at a constant 80ish MPH when I was touring in Europe this summer that I could get 53-55 ish

[@matthewfoyle4421]

Have to disagree. I can up shift 3 4 5 6 no problem with nil clutch. Very smooth ! Down shifts are possible with minimal clutch. The overall handling is very impressive considering what it is. It responds very fast to steering input because it has a lot of weight up high. Turn in is fast. Front fork should be larger in diameter. Braided front brake lines help to sharpen the brakes. Note: this not a sports bike or even a sports tourer. It was made for rough dirt roads. Go and buy a sports tourer ! Too bad most people doing reviews are stupid.

[@kevinwilson528]

What about the throttle response, admittedly a good engine but spoilt by the fuelling, all of the owner's I have spoken too complain about the slow speed hunting, which has been described by some as unrideable in town, and the fly by wire is like a light switch, the slightest bump causes movement of the throttle hand causing the bike to accelerate/decelerate, dangerous if you hit a bump midcorner. Not good Honda.

[@timwilson1060]

Hi.iv had my CT for 3 years now riding it in town.touring and out on it most weekends weather permitting.iv not had any problems like you mention maybe it's the way they are ridden??

[@MiddleagedRider]

I've not found any slow speed hunting. Yes the throttle can be a bit sharp but you soon adjust to that. One thing a lot of riders do it grip the bars too hard and therefore bumps will twitch the throttle more. If you loosen your grip a bit your hand will iron out some of that.

[@hessel3937]

well glad you like it. here they cant seem to get them sold so they try to get rid of them by adding stuff for free. there defo not popular and i can see why.. the thing is just too heavy and for what it is (somewhat of an adventure bike) its completely unsuitable for its purpose... i testrode one during a honda introduction day a year ago and i returned within 15 minutes. ah well, to anyone his own i guess...

[@MiddleagedRider]

The fact their not popular is even better in terms of getting a deal. With discounts they are a lot of bike for the money. Yes it is heavy and you notice it on and off the stand but you really don't when riding. As for the adventure thing. Most "adventure" bikes are never taken off road and if you're truly into off road riding you'll buy a lighter bike than a KTM Super Adventure or BMW GS too so I don't buy into that argument. The reason they're not popular is they don't have all the bells and whistles and brand snobbery. Honda is seen as a dull and boring brand (true to a certain extent) and because it doesn't have cornering ABS, IMU, etc etc the media don't give it any airtime. Don't get me wrong it's got it's flaws and is a bit boring, but as a do everything bike it's devastatingly efficient and cheaper than the competition.

[@Kumarthanki]

Good bike, but now needs needs a facelift and a lower ( say) 800m seat height. Then this will very popular...:)

[@jage6126]

41 british mpg? My 2001 Honda varadero manages 40 mpg, driven like a granny. Sounds like typical honda gasoholism

[@MiddleagedRider]

Over the 25k miles I've covered on it it's averaged 42 British MPG. But then it is a V4 1200cc and my right wrist can be a little heavy!

[@nmi8286]

A great alternative to the GS.......

[@MiddleagedRider]

It's not as trick and doesn't have the bells and whistles of the GS, that said if you find the right deal it doesn't have the same price tag either!!

[@ianmills35]

My RT 1200 does 55mpg.

[@MiddleagedRider]

Wow - that's excellent, having 2 less cylinders obviously makes a massive difference to MPG - I can only just get 55mpg doing a constant 70mph on the motorway.

[@alexmorgan3435]

285kgs!!!!!!! Far too heavy and too thirsty. No cruise control. Honda needs to up it's game.

[@MiddleagedRider]

You only notice the weight when you are pushing it around. You don't even feel it with slow speed riding.

[@matthewfoyle4421]

GO AND BUY A CAR

[@SatansSpatula]

I always wanted a dual sport version of the VFR750 I owned, so I was really excited when I discovered the VFR1200X. Come to find out Honda completely botched it. They went to a 76-degree V4 instead of the super smooth 90-degree V4 of the past, not to mention the loss of the delightful gear-driven cam whine. The wheelbase is almost 3.5 inches longer than an R1200GS, and it's around 100 pounds heavier! The instruments are awful 80s-style digital nonsense. I'm so disappointed.

[@kopa7473]

Couldn’t stand a reviews on the go, noise, muffled voice and who cares about the countryside scenery.