2018 Honda VFR800X Crossrunner Review

2018 Honda VFR800X Crossrunner Review - I've been lucky enough to ride lots of different motorcycles over the last few years, but to date I have never ridden a V4 configuration. In this video I put that right by reviewing Honda's VFR800 X Crossrunner - quite a crowded market this what with the VStrom, Versys, Tracer, Ducati Supersport and others all fighting for the same ground - is the Honda offering any good?
Big thanks to HGB motorcycles in Ruislip for making this review possible. www.hgbmotorcyc...
TMF Merchandise now available! teespring.com/...
I'm now on that Twitter thing! Join me @MissendenFlyer
You can now follow me on Facebook too The Missenden Flyer@TheMissendenFlyer
Don't forget your TMF Discounts!:-
Use "FLYER10" for your discounts on ear protection with Custom Fit Guards at www.customfitguards.co.uk
Mention The Missenden Flyer when buying from panigaleheatsh... for discounts on Panigale heat shields or throttle spacer kits. Use the code MISSENDEN to get the $10 discount on the heat shield, or heat shield/spacer kit bundle.
More discounts coming soon!
I use the following equipment to record and edit my VLOGs:-
GoPro HD Hero 4 helmet camera amzn.to/2lQVI1a
GoPro Session (4) "B" Camera amzn.to/2lTT0oz
Nikon D7100 DSLR for static and video shots with various lenses amzn.to/2lU1gEX
Lavalier microphone and sellotape for in helmet audio amzn.to/2kOZVOU
BOYA BY-M1 3.5 mm Lavalier Microphone for in-garage pieces amzn.to/2pVAf4X
Movo LV20 Dual Lavalier Clip-on Microphones for 2 person interviews amzn.to/2qQuw5r
Power Director 8 for the PC (for video editing) amzn.to/2kP3HaR
Radio mic for in garage audio amzn.to/2lpq61B
Rode VIDEOMICPRO On Camera Microphone for general use amzn.to/2qvcZwv
Rode Deadcat VMPR Windshield to kill wind noise amzn.to/2qroOWG
Neewer CN 160 LED Dimmable Ultra High Power Panel Video Light amzn.to/2qQPEs2
Goliton® Camera DSLR Triple Mount for LED Video Lights Microphones amzn.to/2rpUlGg
A pair of Lantoo LED Floodlight 50W for additional lighting amzn.to/2rpOKjs
My current motorcyles are:-
Honda CRF250L
Triumph Street Triple R
BMW R1200GS
Ducati 899 Panigale
For any additional enquiries please send a PM, e-mail me via [e-mail], contact me via Twitter or Facebook or leave a comment below...

[@charliesadv8493]

I had a VFR400R some years ago in my younger days. Although it is a small bike, it had quite a bit of kick, and the sound of that little 400 V4 engine was great

[@1000sofusernames]

Probably the biggest regret in my life is selling my VFR400. With BT090s on I could lean that thing over until had literally 3/4 of a footpeg left. It's still on the road but I wish it was in my garage.

[@AdeDaviesWales]

This review was very helpful when I was looking for a new bike recently. I bought a Crossrunner VFR800 X and love it. Thank you!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear!

[@TheJmebe]

I have a soft spot for the VFR800F - owned one of the last pre-VTEC versions. Beautifully built, good looking, great to ride on the road - quickly or touring. Not going to compete at a track day and won't take many hard laps to burn out the brakes, or overheat the dampers; but it isn't designed to be a track weapon and still makes, objectively, as the perfect road bike. Which is why I went and bought an s1000rr (heart wins over head!). However, I like the look of the current model and would love to see you ride one and pass on your thoughts. If I had one, I think the S1000RR would spend a lot of time sat on paddock stands and polished, whilst the VFR was getting 1000s of miles put on it every year.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching and for stopping by once again Jme Be! All the best - TMF

[@janiceparsons6475]

V4 Hondas have sang their siren song to me since 1982....one day. Thinking VTEC and the system on my 2005 Mustang GT are similar. Variable valve timing along with butterflies in the intake runners that open electrically at 3500 rpm. Quite the kick from that point forward....thanks for this.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sounds good to me!

[@bobatwell7505]

Great review TMF , been looking forward to your review of the CROSSRUNNER (think l mentioned l have a 2016 ! ) I was lucky to get a demo with only 500 miles and £2000 off list price came with rider pack (Acropovic , Tom Tom rider , centrestand ) not keen on the Matt black colour red is best ! You didn't mention the mounting points for the panniers . No ugly metalwork on display and the single sided swinging arm , looks great and so easy to remove the wheel , oh and the LED headlights are fantastic . Looking forward to some more of your reviews Thanks BOB

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Bob - great real world feedback - thanks

[@chrisdavidson911]

If you think this sounds good standard, find one with a proper end can! used to have a 2016 vfr800 with a 300mm delkevic, it sounded absolutely might, when you wound it up it was like a mini nascar

[@emidyl24]

we need this model in Canada but if that's the weight, what's the point, weighs as much as my GSA

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That's 242Kg wet by the way (kerb weight)...I agree it is weighty, although you don't notice it when riding....

[@KamalSingh-wc4pw]

It's funny to playback at speed 0.75 where the Missenden flyer sounds a little bit drunk 😃😈👍

[@rayduwann]

anybody foresee a revamp of the crossrunner coming anytime soon? it's been a few years

[@rgthomson100]

I hate getting the horn on the motorbike when tryin for the indicators, totally puts me off my driving

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I can understand that!

[@petery3523]

Honda seems to receive unfair criticism from the general motorcycle press (particularly here in Aus) for being too efficient and lacking of character; having previously owned a ‘95 Fireblade and a ‘05 Blackbird, I totally disagree with these criticisms. Pleased you enjoyed your experience on the VFR800X👍

[@deepsouthNZ]

i think they are the Toyota of the motorcycle world, nothing fancy just basic functional and extremely reliable machines that suit the purpose you bought them for.

[@signkutter9218]

They are rock solid , run an 11sec 1/4 mile and are very comfortable....oh the horror

[@j.r.arnolli7494]

@Praque Forqsk You're right, I miss the oilleaks, the bad cornering, the bad seatingpositions. I hate it, when the V-Tec kicks in, I hate the handling and the precise working of the gearbox. Honda, why not build a bike that has to be repaired every 1000 miles, one that doesn't sweep through corners, like the VFR 800 does, one that doesn't give You that good mileage. 😇

[@donweaver1600]

It's an incredible machine handles really well and goes like a rocket very underestimated

[@CorePathway]

V-Tec is straight-up character, is it not? I rode less exciting Hondas in my day, my favorite a ‘84 Nighthawk 700 S. Smooth, fast, comfortable. Lacking character? That perfectly linear 12 second quarter-mile speed is the character I loved then and miss now.

[@lutherbryson2460]

Someone tell Honda bring it to the US.

[@martydekkers]

I was just going to say that! I just fell in love with this thing, and in the US you can only get the 1200 :/

[@bikefreak5787]

Maybe it is coming to the US. I don’t know. But it is no longer on the market in the EU because of new restrictions regarding pollution. I’m a happy owner of the Crossrunner - love the bike. And the build quality 👍. 🇩🇰

[@timharvey5591]

I've bought one!!! Collection imminent

[@majordelays4909]

I’m thinking of buying one to replace cb500f and compliment Striple S. Would you recommend it?

[@BatterseaBill]

Good looking bike for sure, better than the V strom, it's not uncommon for these Honda engines V4 to reach 100,000 miles, extremely reliable.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good point, Honda reliability is legendary......

[@Enonymouse_]

Yeah i'd actually get bored with my honda before the engine died. :)

[@stavencapp]

Not uncommon for vstrom either

[@kalbit007]

I don't know about this vstrom, but one Austrian called Varahanes already did over 600000 km on his 1l V2 Varadero and get after 500k an new Affrica Twin from honda company.

[@ianmcgarrigle9510]

trying to remember not to call it a "crossdresser " is the only thing i dont like about them

[@garmit61]

Sounds amazing. I love the understated looks of Hondas. Had lots of them in the 80s. The build quality was always great. The only weak point then was there Cam Chan tensioners could stick if you didn’t adjust them regularly. Once the vfr750 arrived that problem disappeared. Nice to see a bike that the manufacturer has decided to map the engine properly rather than provide a handful of pointLess bland rider modes.

[@mikelsh9827]

I'm driving the 2016 model. The adjustable windshield is new, the exhaust is new and the 12V power output. Maybe colours are new the rest is like 2016. I added handguards and a higher windshield also a 12V power output. I bought it pricewise first but now I love it. The V4 is excellent. Petrol consumption is ok, 5.1 ltr/100km. Yamaha? My opinion: nice toys but quality on the long run is Honda. The instructor of austrian motorclub is driving a 1000cc Varadero over 600.000km. He has a new Africa Twin in addition. This bike has now 175.000 km. Long term quality is Honda, nothing else.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep - Honda sure do know how to make a reliable machine that's for sure....

[@yayoi1]

My 2016 Honda Africa Twin was the most trouble-plagued bike I've ever owned. The DCT broke, the fuel pump broke, the switch gear broke and the bike suffered from an intermittent stalling issue that Honda could not solve. Finally they called it an engine characteristic and that was that. Replaced it with a 2015 Super Tenere which has been absolutely trouble free and the build quality is notably better. Honda has gone down hill from the 90s, when I owned five of them from new, including the brilliant 5th Gen. VFR800. Watching this vid does make me miss that glorious V4...

[@travelinben1966]

If it were shaft drive, it would be just about perfect.

[@phillipparkinson7145]

Isn't the 1200 shaft?

[@travelinben1966]

phillip parkinson Yes, the 1200x is shaft drive.Although no longer made,new examples of the VFR 1200x can still be had.

[@admiralbeez8143]

Japan has basically abandoned shaft drive for anything below 1,000cc. I ride a 1982 Suzuki GS650G with shaft drive and love it, and it bugs me that the V-Strom 650 isn't a shaftie. If you want shaft drive below 1,000cc it’s Moto Guzzi or BMW...nothing else.

[@travelinben1966]

@@admiralbeez8143 I’ll go for the Super Tenere, or look for a leftover vfr1200x.A dealer told me there are still new ones in the crate available.

[@garmit61]

Until the UJ breaks in the middle of Mongolia 😳

[@easternmenace]

VTEC just kicked in yo!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yeah it sounds great when it opens up.....

[@easternmenace]

It's also a joke about Honda civic ricers who say this

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

Thanks for this. Looking for one for Leanna but at 5 feet 2 we'll need to lower it. I've always loved V engines anyway. Might be worth having a test ride.

[@hyperthunk]

Not sure if you already dealt with it Russ, but I can't recommend these bikes enough. Absolutely bullet proof, cheap to run (apart from the valve service I suppose) and really sweet handling for such a chonky boi. Also averages 10k out of the Road 5s even with spirited riding, which is really good in my book.

[@martinfrost3596]

I think this a motorcycle you buy with your head, not your heart

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very much so....if indeed there is anyone who buys a bike with their head....

[@christopherlamb9838]

Then there are those who buy bikes with their gonads: This mainly happens in the depths of winter when heated seats suddenly become a very attractive option 8-)

[@MrRAW1968]

Then you never heard the beautiful sound of the Honda V4. Especially with a more open exhaust. 😃

[@windyrun7979]

If you follow the vfr800 bikes one thing they have in common is the engine will quite literally last forever :)

[@mowman7777]

Great review as always.This bike would be a real contender if it was 50 lbs. lighter and had cruise control.

[@battsonbikes1919]

It does like a few features compared to the new Tracer 900 GT

[@jetstream454]

@@battsonbikes1919 Other than cruise what would those be?

[@kevinbrennan2004]

As you Brits say.."Nice bit of kit".

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@jandy2437]

Hi there, looking at this bike and loving it. Have a 2015 CB500X for 2 years now and looking at upgrading to a 2019 crossrunner for commuting and touring. Is this 2 big a jump? Want a bike that'll do for a while.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No that's a sensible choice.....

[@jandy2437]

@@TheMissendenFlyer that's great, thanks for your help. Love your videos. Cheers

[@kensimdall705]

Picked a 2018 model up in August last year. It really is a great bike. That VTec engine sounds amazing and its really comfortable (Im 6 3" and have seat on highest setting). Sadly Honda wont be making them anymore because of Euro 5. I tested a Versys and VStrom and can honestly say this is the better bike. Great review !

[@larrycrazysheepdavies]

i got vfr800 pre vtec 98n only had it year and arf love it to bits just got some cosmetic stuff ta do on her she has done 76000 miles and still feels like new

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow - sounds like you found a good 'un...

[@rolandet]

Haha cheeky blurring the speedometer ;)

[@peekster0]

Hey TMF. Just seeing this vid now. I have the 2016 version. So I dont have the adjustable screen. I agree with everything you said in the video. I had a 1999 VFR 800Fi before this and after 3 corners on the XRunner I was in love. I am 6'4 so sitting up and looking around while throwing this machine in and through corners like it is a pure sports tourer is a bliss. I do around 16k km or 10k miles on it in a year and its all recreational. I love it to bits for all the things you said, the engine, the handling. The looks. You didnt even mention the headlight! I have taken it to the track on more than one occasion and loved it there too. As you said, its a bike that is massively overlooked, also by the marketing department of Honda as the Africa Twin, Gold Wing, Fireblade and smaller CB's get all the shine. But thats fine with me. I love my Xrunner. And I dont care if somebody says it's boring because they clearly haven't ridden it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the feedback and for stopping buy!

[@randythomas3927]

Wish we could get them here in Canada. I absolutely love my 14 VFR 800 but would like to sit up a little straighter in my elder years. Lol. Great review as usual. Thanks .

[@ful48j]

You could always fit a handlebar conversion kit, which is what I'm doing to my 1999 VFR800.

[@joey1989zeus]

blurring out the speedo when he opens it up ;)

[@oleran4569]

i was nearly sold until I saw the chain and didn't hear about cruse control.

[@bikefreak5787]

I have adjusted the chain for the first time now - 7000 miles. So no worries 😉

[@14mpg]

Nice review, thanks for making it. Made me want to try one out. Why pick the GS over this? or even why pick the "big" tourers (gs, 1290 ktm, tiger etc) when bike like these have "enough" power?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very good point, a liking for electronic toys, pose value?

[@LexGrossmansDog]

Looks good, the lack cruise control is strange, since tourer is in the name. The VFR1200X also has no cruise control. Looks like a nice bike, a bit on the heavy side for the BHP, and I hope they fixed all the ignition and cylinder noise from previous years. Great review, as usual.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you sir! ...and yes, lack of cruise control, is a bit odd....

[@TheDervMan]

I’d be fascinated to know why Honda choose not to offer their customers cruise control. This is reason enough for me not to buy one, despite loving the DCT setup they offer.

[@LexGrossmansDog]

DervMan I asked that question before and I was told it was cost. The local power sports shop told me they tell customers to get throttle locks. Conspiracy theories say it’s Honda’s attempt to have everyone buy the flagship, the GW.

[@human1513]

Never understood the need for cruise control. Do lots of weeks+ riding & never once wished for cruise.

[@hudsonquay]

Shame to see so much litter at the side of the roads. Some people really are selfish, thoughtless twats.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

100% agreed....

[@G91YS]

Hey Missenden! went to Honda this weekend, got an offer for a brand new bike and will order it in June. I was torn between the F750GS, Tiger 800XRt and Tracer 900GT but the Honda wins my heart. I've just test ridden the F750GS but really cannot like a twin as much as a 4 cylinders...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough!

[@thewinnershracer8870]

I've got the VFR800F and think it's brilliant.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good stuff!

[@almitch3155]

After watching your video and one from Mark Pulling I took one of these bikes for a test today. 2018 model with 6k miles. Great bike, the vtec sounds awesome. Bought it!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hey congratulations!

[@ful48j]

You forgot to mention one of the VFR's trademarks, the single sided swing arm. This dates back to the VFR750's of the 1980's and predates those on Ducati and Triumphs.

[@Saxymancan]

Developed by ELF in France for the Honda endurance racers of the 1980's and beyond, actually heavier than a double sided swing arm, but did facilitate quick rear wheel changes. Not really functional for the road bike with the exhaust on the wrong side.

[@ful48j]

@@Saxymancan If it's not really practical for the road then why have Ducati and Triumph copied it for their premium models and what is the 'correct' side for the exhaust? There is no incorrect side for an exhaust. This is especially irrelevant if the exhaust exits at a high level underneath the pillion footrest, as it does on the Remus Grand Prix fitted to my VFR800 FiX, or under the seat (again found on earlier VFR800's and then used on Ducati, MV etc..). It may be that a single sided swingarm is heavier than a lightweight racing braced aluminium swingarm, such as fitted to race-replicas or track bikes, but probably no more than most box steel swingarms. The biggest issue with a single-sided swing arm is the development and manufacturing costs, which are higher than a simple twin sided unit; however, this is more than outweighed by the advantages. Apart from making rear wheel removal cleaner, faster and much simpler , without the need to take off the sprocket, chain or brake calliper, it is also almost impossible to misalign the rear wheel thus eliminating the need to ensure that the chain tension adjustment is carried out equally on both tensioners. Apart from aesthetics, which has a significant impact on motorcycle design, it's those advantages where a SSS is superior to a classic twin sided one.

[@WyreForestBiker]

Not surprised you liked it the engine is a peach , its dad the VFR 750/800 was widely regarded as the best all-round motorcycle in the world for the best part of a decade. I have a good friend with huge experience working in the industry who swears by his 16 year old VFR and would never part with it .. speaks volumes .

[@MrAndrew1953]

Very nice bike, that has most of the things I'm looking for. Should come with a centre stand and a bar over instrument pod for GPS. Only fly in the ointment for me is chain drive, prefer shaft drive.

[@travelinben1966]

Agreed.Enter the Moto Guzzi V85 TT.👍

[@1963MO]

Really enjoyed your review of this bike, helped me make a decision. I’ve just purchased a 3 year old one, 16 plate, with the akropovic exhaust, top box & centre stand, love the sound, easy to handle, good protection, great handling too for the size. Thanks for sharing.

[@vernonfewtrell5735]

Me too with Sat Nav included

[@stardustdreamfactory1947]

Thanks for this - didn't know it existed. Back in the day, I was torn between the Blackbird, VFR and the Sprint ST - went with the Sprint, not disappointed. Still fondly recall the V45 and V65 Sabres.

[@everythinggaming7938]

Surprised there is no DCT version, I expect because its only 800cc and they wanted to keep the sporty feel......hmmmm

[@adrianvatamanu727]

There must be something special about this bike. I've watched a lot of your reviews and you sir have a relaxed style of riding, but it looks like you had some fun with this VFR. I'm in the market for a sport adventure bike and this might be the one for me. Thank you for all the good reviews!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you like them!

[@TARRN47]

My first bike was a 2016 VFRX which I put 27000 miles on before swapping for a GSA 1200. I found that the front suspension was extremely soft on hard braking but other than that it was a great bike to get started on. Lack of cruise control was another reason to swap as well. Cost of ownership was quite expensive as well.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What do you put that down too - servicing costs???

[@derekfarnworth1855]

Great review had a test ride at the weekend loved it, so easy to ride took it up some nasty hilly roads in Wales after just 30 minutes of my test ride, no drama's very easy to handle. It reminds me of my Honda CBF1000 its not super sexy but just does the job. Result of test ride I've ordered one thanks again great reviews.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations Derek!

[@OperationFoxley19441]

Finally bought this bike!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations!

[@OperationFoxley19441]

@@TheMissendenFlyer It was your review that done it for me I was sold after watching this so I waited for a good price and traded in my NC 750x for a good price. No regrets, the Crossrunner 800 is a great bike.

[@johnharris7353]

Seems a cracking bike!...but I've got a '97 Blackbird with only 20K miles, so, since I'm 67, I'm done!

[@destroyerxd4499]

Great review! Wish we had this in the USA! It's the perfect motorcycle.

[@MyRp123]

VFR800X and the Tiger 1050 still not available in the U.S. What the +%$#...? We only get the VFR1200X that gets 33 mpg!!!!!!!!!

[@robinwaistell441]

Hi great review. I had one of the early crossrunners I loved it. Lovely smooth sweet engine with the V tech extra power gave it a split personality. She would quite happily cruise along all day but if you wanted to attack the B roads and have a few thrills then she could deliver.My only negatives were the screen needed heavy modification for my 6ft frame and eventually I found the leg room a bit cramped. Apart from that a great un cluttered bike easy to ride and enjoy. How about a review on the BMW F 800 ADV youve done plenty on your 1200 GS give its smaller brother a go!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I am waiting for an F800 to become available for me to ride then I'll do you that review for sure Robin!

[@OperationFoxley19441]

I love this bike, Thankyou, I'm thinking of upgrading from my Honda NC 750X, I'll get one second hand not paying 10,000.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough

[@christiansymonds]

What’s wrong with the NC?😀

[@TheDervMan]

The valve checks on VTEC motors takes ages so cost a fortune, check it out before buying!

[@derekclark9411]

NC is one of two Hondas to get 10/10 in bike magazine (in DCT format, the non DCT must be 11/10 :-) ) The other Honda is the Africa twin. As much as I like my NC, ITs a fantastic commuter and has some charecter, however, I do find it wanting sometimes on the Motorway, the extra power of the Crossrunner would be of benefit. I would seriously consider replacing the NC with a used Crossrunner in the future. As the OP says £10k is a bit steep, especially when you consider the price of a Tracer 900 & Duc MS 950, which IMO are much more better bikes.

[@zzrwood]

Derek Clark Actually, the VFR800x also gets 10/10

[@vgl402]

Fuel consumptio if you travel fast 160 -180klm/hr?

[@paulholmes3639]

Had a 1998 vfr 800 pre v-tech and the engine not was addictive. Lovely motor

[@ful48j]

I agree that, as an owner and rider of VFR’s since 1996, the VFR is a brilliant all-round bike. My current bike, a 2000 VFR800 FiX (pre Vtec) has had quite a few modifications, the most significant being fitting a handlebar conversion kit that allows the fitting of standard tubular bars (Renthall low-street are my preference) which provides a similar riding position to the VFR800 crossrunner. It’s capable of keeping up with many of the current crop of bikes on the twisties and also happily commuting to work or cruising along on touring trips with my camping gear loaded in to Givi Monokey luggage. However, Honda missed an opportunity, and the boat, in 2008 when they decided to develop a new VFR. They could have delivered what VFR owners wanted, which was an a new VFR1000 with advanced technology and more power, but in a similar ‘package’ to the VFR800, with a smooth torque curve, keeping the weight down to no more than the 800’s 238Kg (wet), returning to the gear driven cams fitted to my model and junking the widely disliked cam chains and their associated adjusters fitted to all VFR800 Vtec since 2002, keeping the VFR’s renowned reliability, sporty ride quality and the comfort & practicality of a tourer. They decided instead to create the 1200 which is a bike with an excess of touring and technology features, but too heavy with a shaft drive & optional DCT gearbox, making the total mass at least 267Kg (wet). It’s also thirsty on fuel and has a smaller petrol tank, limiting range to less than 150 miles, thus neither suited to touring or sporty riding. As it lacked the sportiness of the VFR800 it put it more in the same category as the Pan European but without the range or comfort and at a much higher price. However; I’m now in the process of changing my bike for a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX as it offers significant performance, technological and safety advancements over my 21 year old (but perfectly running) VFR. That is why the Ninja 1000SX has taken the crown as the best, reasonably priced, practical, sports touring bike with proven reliability. In terms of value for money it can’t be beaten, especially if it’s bought in standard trim and the owner fits the accessories they want and need (alternative screen, heated grips, luggage, frame sliders, tank pad, phone / SatNav mount & a nicer / lighter exhaust). Yes, I would have liked a bike with a single sided swing arm but that’s a nice to have not essential. My only significant gripes with the Ninja 1000SX are the lack of a centre stand, which makes servicing and roadside repairs quite difficult and the small and relatively flimsy panniers as compared to my 20 year old equivalent and better priced Givi luggage.

[@Steeler_SE]

Nice impartial review. I took mine down to the Dolomites, loaded up with luggage. Then had a great time going up and over the passes and abusing the vtec. I have no idea what I'll replace my 2015 model with - it's everything that I want from a bike.

[@olibo2253]

This is the corona virus of sports touring... the VFR 800 F is a sport tourer, this is definately not - this is at best an adventure tourer... without much adventure in it. So more like an old man's bike/ commuter type of bike. Please dont water down the sports touring category being making this category mistake :)

[@roadwarrior8560]

Don't see why they can't put a decent sized front mudguard on instead of that tiny thing, also they should offer a handguards option. rear definitely needs a hugger. great review as always.

[@BatterseaBill]

Check out William Gloege on YT, big adventure tours on a African Twin.

[@ikigairyusu8796]

Nice , I took out a Tracer 900 GT yesterday as Ive had my heart set on this.....Awesome Bike but to much fancy Electronics going on & NO engine Breaking!!? This Bike seems right up My Alley , Basic Electronics Practical & Fast Enough. How do You Compare it to The Triumph Tiger? Honda Engines are Bullit Proof & as a generalisation very easy to work on as I'd have to change to Iridium Sparks , Performance Air Filter , AfterMarket Exhaust , Lithium Battery as a Standard for any Bike I obtain now. Cheers

[@Profabdesigns]

To always Ben classed as a sports tourer, so what’s is new?? Just more behind the curve Honda PR bullshit!!

[@79BrunoR]

You mentioned you'd choose this bike over a Tracer 900.... Would you choose it over a Tracer 900 GT?

[@battsonbikes1919]

A question i would like to know also. There a few features missing from the Honda compared to the new Tracer.

[@philp6221]

Thanks for the review looking for another bike didn't know it exhisted one to add to my list

[@carlosandleon]

How would you compare this to the Versys 650 comfort wise?

[@TheMalevolentPath]

RWU forks look very odd in 2018 - reminds me of my bandit

[@PhilipBallGarry]

Just before Christmas I bought one of these Andy and I love it! It's obviously screwed together well being a Honda - but more than that exudes quality everywhere. There's nothing on it which looks out of place (apart from the TC button as you mentioned) which wasn't something which could be said of my previous Tracer 700 which had bracketry thrown on as though Yamaha had forgotten certain items till it was too late to engineer them properly. Can I just point out that both F & R suspension is adjustable for both preload and rebound. And again it's of high quality and manages to be both plush and controlled which is particularly rare for a standard production motorcycle. A real magic carpet ride! Thanks for your review, which along with those from Mark Pulling and Cager on Two Wheels definitely helped with my buying decision. Ta

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad it was of use! Enjoy the bike....

[@waynecompton7612]

Good Evening TMF, Thank you for another super review . I am sure if you ever tried a Honda S T 1300 Paneuropean you would be so impressed by how smooth the engine and ride is . Please if you get chance, ride one because you don"t know what you are missing. Take Care .

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'd love too - another of the Police's favourite bikes! ...well for a while...

[@biteingbonobo]

Very nice review. Best i have seen about that bike on youtube. And that includes reviews from professional motorcycle journals. Subscribed.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Thorsten and welcome along!

[@SleekitFkr]

Great review as ever. Can you get your mitts on the vfr1200 Crosstourer?

[@hartley383]

Another great review. Maybe get a go on VFR1200 Crosstourer at some point? Im on my second, DCT this time. Have to say the 800 is a better looking bike than the CT.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'd like a go on the 1200 I must say....

[@JLOSTAFF1]

You're right - overlooked and I don't know why. (A bit like the CB 1100 RS, hint hint!) Another enjoyable review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hint received ;0)

[@tomolitravels2276]

Great Bike, superb engine. Perhaps my gripe being 6' 3" is that your legs are in quite a tight tuck and so perhaps not fantastic for really long rides. Took mine to Norway and suffered a little but it didn't stop me enjoying the trip.

[@davianbrayan2585]

I know im randomly asking but does any of you know a trick to get back into an Instagram account? I somehow lost the password. I love any assistance you can give me!

[@canaanbraxton5256]

@Davian Brayan instablaster =)

[@davianbrayan2585]

@Canaan Braxton Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site thru google and Im trying it out atm. Takes quite some time so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@davianbrayan2585]

@Canaan Braxton it did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thanks so much you really help me out !

[@canaanbraxton5256]

@Davian Brayan no problem :D

[@Ze-Germanzuk]

Blimey, I haven't seen a Gulf petrol garage in years.

[@fragdad]

Aw shit, think I want one.

[@kenmorrison1725]

Always liked the face lifted version of this bike, the only thing I've been told in a negative way is V4s cost more in the maintenance department. I also think if it's being touted as a tourer it should have cruise control. Great review as always .

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Ken - appreciated....

[@jonathandavies6811]

Another excellent review from your good self. Interested to hear would you prefer this or the Multistrada 950 you had on a long term loan?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

This is certainly better value - close call, brain says I'd have this, heart says Ducati....

[@CBRboy1717]

Honda produces the same bike concept with 3 different engines. The CB500X, the NC700X/750X, and the VFR800X. Seems like kind of overkill to me?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Possibly - I suppose sales are what tells the story!

[@CBRboy1717]

True, but I was thinking of those as being larger machines, where these 3 occupy the middle segment. I rode the Crosstourer recently and really disliked it...

[@deniscalvert6826]

Having ridden both a 750nc and a crossrunner very different machines to ride

[@CBRboy1717]

Denis Calvert I've thought about a dirt cheap used nc700 as a city bike.

[@T21-TwentyOneTrailers.]

@@deniscalvert6826 wish one you prefer ?

[@kiwi7211]

Hope you review Aprilia Tuono 1100RR soon!.. or Factory :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So do I, I've yet to ride any Aprilia (no local friendly dealers alas).....

[@chandlerbing6951]

What is better VFR800X or VFR1200X?

[@Lone_Wolf1064]

Excellent review - thank you! Looking to upgrade to one of these from my NC750X for a bit more poke. Cheers! 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good choice!

[@Malyjurek]

Morning Yes I had a VFR800 before my BMW 1200GS loved the bike did over 250 000 trouble free km and the sound was joy to your and everyone around you's eares :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...and how does your GS compare Paul?

[@Malyjurek]

after over 165,000km in 5 years without an issue I sold the BMW R1200GS (2007 model) , and bought a used K1300GT same power as the K1600GT without the weight love the K1300GT I'll be coming over to blighty in May on it..I also have a Triumph Thruxton rode it last year to Sardinia and Back (Wish I had gone on the GT.. :D but it's the journey as much as the destination when I ride.

[@danielpork8416]

That V-TEC sounds incredible! Really does sound like a Civic Si, I imagine it's 10x more visceral though

[@georgiesgirl64]

The v tech is awesome

[@johnpro2847]

Hey kids ...not sure who he is talking to ..? Apart from the name calling ..thanks for the review.

[@catalinradulea306]

Tracer 900 is way cheaper and lighter.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

True....

[@pistolpete6321]

Nice bike, great review! Put on an aftermarket exhaust on and that engine would really sound great!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed....

[@camerongeater5404]

TheMissendenFlyer Cool and informative video, as usual.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the kind comments Cameron - much appreciated! All the best - TMF

[@ernieschatz3783]

Honda! It's now 2022 and no cruise control on this long-distance sport tourer?! What gives? The lack of proper updates reeks of a discontinued model in the near future.

[@bikefreak5787]

It’s a 2017 model - and a very good bike too 🙂

[@KindOldRaven]

Great video, like your review style. Gorgeous bike too btw, very nice

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you kindly!

[@lewcarrumjohnson2786]

Lovely bike to ride except on unlit roads at night, terrible headlamp that projects a thin wide beam 15ft in front of you and drops away as you bank on a corner, on a car which corners flat it would be great.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear! Thanks for that…good info

[@kevinpreest3915]

Nice review! Looking forward to the long term test if you get the chance!

[@MrShak236]

i love all your video, possible to do a review on Honda latest NC750X.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'll get there eventually - so many bikes, so little time!

[@matt_adelaide]

...... and a CB500X

[@crustyzimmerman3324]

Where have you been, Dude? Pls allow me to remind you of the much esteemed history of the VFR. In 1986 at Donninington Park, Ron Hallam crashed his bike and went and got a standard VFR out of a local showroom, changed the tyres but left the tax disc holder on and rode it to a podium finish. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f33RmH-nq8iFfJo Thereafter Honda couldn’t make em fast enough. To this day I have a '99 Fi that gives that much weather protection that not much more than my toes get wet. Let me know if want a ride. It was originally meant to be released as a sports bike, but Suzuki released the GSXR750 which was 30Kg's lighter. Oh shit! said Honda, let’s tweet it and call it a sports tourer...

[@Ainsworth-Rider]

One day some one is going to drive over your gloves, great review :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What makes you think they haven't!

[@johncarlson8029]

It sounda ok but would sound waaaay better with the gear cam drive .. like a V8 with a roots supercharger. The technology is awsome but i prefer a more involving ride. Too bad you don't test older bikes, ... or do ya ? 1st Kawasaki zx636. CBR 600F and R. Suzuki Bandit 400, 600 RF 6 and RF 900, i guess 95 through 2000 models

[@donalharrington6462]

Is the the vfr800x is any good for light off road like forestry gravel roads.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes sure…

[@andyg7429]

Morning Mr Flyer, if you like that try the VFR1200 powered Crosstourer. That was my second choice when I bought my GS. See if you can get a long term ride on that I think you will love it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'd love a go on one - must sort that out - stay tuned!

[@TheDervMan]

The CrossTourer is simply too out of date tech wise, needs at least the option of cruise control , LED headlight and electronic suspension.

[@andyg7429]

Yes Sam, I found the gearbox a little clunky to, it does everything very well but characterless compared to the GS

[@PJSScotty]

Just goes to show how good the 781cc V4 is against the 1000cc competition. Great review and thank you.

[@TomHo147]

they put single sided swingarm but ugly fork

[@chrisredfield3240]

Tom Ho cheap fork.

[@bikefreak5787]

+Chris Hart why is it cheap?

[@chrisredfield3240]

I'm a fan of USD forks normal way up just looks so flimsy. The top yoke looks well crap when your riding the bike multi strada 950 has 48mm fork this has 41mm

[@bikefreak5787]

+Chris Hart I am from Denmark, so my english is not very good. Does flimsy means solid? 🤔 (happy owner of an Crossrunner 2017 😊)

[@chrisredfield3240]

They look thin. I'm sure performance is fine.

[@filipepaninho6558]

Wanted to like it... its pretty but too heavy and too expensive. Nothing like a after 2018 Tracer 900 or 900gt!