FINALLY AN HONEST REVIEW!!!! just got a 2012 second hand nice to know the low down clatter is normal thought it was a problem i agree with everything you said so maybe you should do some more reviews, you could call it real biker review.
Thanks you for the review and your honesty about you experience actually owning the motorcycle. I always prefer to hear from people that actually ride the bike for more than a few months. You have answered many of my questions.
Thanks Antony, A great honest review. I am about to start a 5 month course away from home and will need to do a fair bit of riding in all weathers, so this is helping to make my mind up. Also nice to see a review on my old roads too! I am originally from Porthleven, so proper job.
Hi Anthony, thanks for taking the time to make this review I very much enjoyed it. I've been a VFR owner for nearly 20 years and had a 1200 for 6 years. It was a tough decision to trade in my 800 after reading many biased reviews in the motorcycle press. Almost as soon as I rode my first 100 miles on the new model I fell in love with it. I've now toured extensively across Europe on it and it's been near flawless and brilliant fun. Recently took it in for a recall on the driveshaft issue (wonder if that was your instigating). Whilst in the workshop they rechipped the ecu. Now the bottom end is very smooth and makes the slow speeds very usable. Good job, look forward to your next update.
Hi Anthony. Brilliant review real world riding and opinions. Testing and giving your results in a way we all ride. Your totally correct about MCN and their reviews either the newest bike wins or more often than not a BMW I don't think they have got 21.000 miles on their hole test fleet. Start your own magazine or something similar it's about time somebody tested bikes properly. Keep up the great work.
Great review.I've now owned 2 VFR1200 (both '10 DCT models).I guess I fit Honda's demographic for this bike as an"over 50-ex sport bike-likes more comfort-but still likes a sporty bike" kind of person.I can understand that a lot of people don't "get" this particular model,as it is a hard one to categorise-I guess the best way to put it is that this is Honda's 21'st Century take take on the ubiquitous UJM motorcycle of the 80's-big enough to throw a pillion and carry a bit of luggage for a week-end away or take off the panniers and go for a blast through the hills and with your mates on their sports bikes and not be embarrassed.I'm sure that there would be a multitude of bikes currently in the market-place that would do either or all of these jobs equally as well.However, Honda being Honda,the '12 does this kind of thing very well in my books-no mechanical issues after 38000 km(drive-shaft replaced under warranty by dealer a few months ago due to factory recall-didn't have any problems with my bike at the time).Starts first time,every time (still on the original battery)Ridden in all kinds of weather and taken to a few track days,and I always have a smile on the dial at the end of the day.As I said,not everyone's cup of tea,but it's the type of tea that I like-then again,I also own another one of Hondas"Glorious Failures" a CBX1000 so you could say that I have a certain bias in my opinions.Cheers.
I have a blue, 2012 model. Bought it as a 50th birthday present to myself. It's a superb bike - fantastic performance, the best brakes on any bike that I have had owned. I owned an '84 VF1000F and enjoyed it too, but the VFR1200 is light years ahead of that bike.
I really enjoyed the down to earth in depth review. It has dispelled some myths such as the fuel capacity ect ect. I also enjoyed hearing about the problems and solutions Anthony encountered. I love Hondas and I'm due a change from my battle worn transalp. And this is the type of reviews you need to make that transition. I'm totally agree althea end statement, I'm not going to Base a bike on how modes it has. There is only one mode. Get on and go. All the best.
Love the way you dealt with the initial quality issues. Quite why you needed to push for each resolution is beyond me but you did exactly what was you needed to get Honda to budge. I'm now on my 3rd 1999 VFR800 5th Gen which I still regard as a superb machine but these 1200s are now such good value on the used market that I'll be switching over to one for my next bike. Btw; the blue examples on the used market seem to be a tad cheaper (all else being equal), so I assume they weren't a popular choice and are now not as easy to sell second hand.....I agree with you though; they look really good.
yup spot on my vfr 2010 model had the same sort of issues to start with,same battery issue got replaced ,other than that it eats front pads and tires goes like a rocket for such a heavy bike.brilliant video keep them going.
Great review. Had a 2017 VFR 1200X DCT, which I really liked but it was just a temporary bike until I bought my 2018 Goldwing DCT, non tour, brilliant touring bike. I really would like to get my hands on the F one day. Ride safe…
Hello Anthony. I really appreciate your review of this bike. I've had an eye on this bike for a year now but have been reluctant based on the reviews which focus on the (alleged) short range of the bike rather than the qualities. I'm coming off of a 2012 R1200RT (which I loved) and a 2010 Concours 14 (which I also liked a lot). I have just returned from a test ride and I cannot get over how the bike handled. I love the feedback of the front end and the riding position is just right (for me). I was able to 'throw around' this bike with much more ease than the Concours (in fact the Kawasaki does not come close) and even though I like the Boxer engine, the VFR1200 engine suits me a lot better. Well done. Cheers, Tom
+TheMckfly I like you Tom nearly didn't look at the bike because of media press.but have now had the bike for just over three years and am still impressed by it's turn of speed and handling.Yes they could have made the tank slightly bigger but having toured over a big parts of Europe, including a lap around the Nurburgring ,travelling 1400 miles in one hit.it does not present a problem.It does not do any brilliantly but overall it's a superb bike.
Hi Anthony,Just want to say that based on your review(only) I bought my VFR1200 .Just like you said the bike is absolutely superb ,never raid one before buying this(I had 3 Triumphs) .I live in Maryland and I got the bike from Alabama 800 miles away from my home. I raided home and after 10 hours on the saddle I can say that I LOVE IT, and completely recommended. Got a sweet deal: 2013 vfr1200F with 5200 miles over $4000 in accessory for just $9000. Thanks for your honest review, this bike is a Beast!
Hi Anthony, thanks for the honest review of the VFR1200. I am awaiting delivery of my new VFR1200 and as I have never actually ridden one as yet, I have looked at numerous TH-cam reviews to get an idea of what I am in for. Up to now I have been die-hard BMW rider/owner. I have had numerous K12 and K13 bikes and although I think the BMW is an excellent bike, I have become dissatisfied with BMW Motorrad's attitude to their customers. I have written to them to complain about issues that I have had with my BMW C650GT that I currently own, and about the K1200S I had a few years ago, and they have refused to acknowledge my issues. They have left it to the dealer to sort out. I also own a 1200GS and have been riding BMW's since the 1974, but I have finally decided that BMW does not deserve my business. So when I wanted to buy another sports tourer, BMW was not on my list. I am please to note from your video, that Honda does engage with their customers and responds to the issues. That sounds like a company that I want to deal with. My previous Honda, the retro CB1100A, was extremely well engineered and never gave a day's trouble so never needed to contact Honda. I hope the VFR is as good.
+David Maltby Hi David,well I've just been. for the VFR's first MOT and we are now up to 25,300 miles,the pilot 4GT's are now down to about 3mm and i've just recently stuck in a new set of front pads (genuine Honda this time)apart from that she has been running faultless.Have just purchased a Powercomand V and soon after Christmas will be doing another review about fitting that and setting it up to run along side the ackrapovic and K&N filter.Used town a little BMW K75s a few years ago,what a cracking little bike,but the biuld quality on BMW seamed to be Lacking in the newer models and so switched to Honda.It's not to say that they are not without fault,that bike has not been built yet.I find them well engineered and well built and for me the VFR1200 is a superb sports tourer that I've yet to find anything that betters it all round.Please leave me know how you get on with yours when you get it.All the best Anthony.
Quite curious about your thoughts on it. I've been comparing the K1300s and VFR1200. Good rivals, so the reviews say. I currently have a F800ST, but I'm tired of the expensive repairs and annual service. Look wise, I like the VFR better, but I'm afraid the mileage is bad.
One of the best(if not the best) bike reviews I've yet seen. Very comprehensive and you cover all the relevant stuff. Just wonder how do you find it comfort wise? Ride safe. All the best Tony
+antonoat Thanks for your comment.On the comfort side excellent,although i'ts not the original Vfr seat as i have fitted a Melroy replacement seat from new.The riding position is more to the sports side rather than touring but not to say that it's not able to cover great mileage..(to date 1400 miles in one hit)Going to do another video soon now covered just over 25,000 miles and still loving it.
Thanks for your comments,did not go out with the intention of making the video but road was quiet and was only going out to scrounge a cup of coffee from a mate.I will agree with you that the FJR1300 is a cracking good bike,but what gives the vfr my vote is,it is more weighted to the sports side and less to the touring which at the present time suits me.If your ever down in Cornwall look us up hoping to open motorbike only camp-site next year.
Hi Chris, I live in South Africa and apparently Honda SA is not importing the latest VFR1200 models. Not sure why but this is according to the dealers I spoke to. I considered buying a new BMW K1300s but am very happy with my decision. I have put a few more KM on the bike and find the handling superb. Much lighter feel than the K-bikes, changes direction easier. Overall power is on par, only negative is the wooden feel when braking into a corner. The K bikes seemed to overcome this. I get a lot of thumbs up from other motorists who obviously like the look of the VFR, something the BMW was not able to do.
Thanks for the review. This is the stuff I want to hear. If I want a sales pitch, I'll visit the dealer! ;) Good to hear (from your comment) that the low throttle issue has been solved with a Power Commander. Have you ever tried taking out the DB killer? Here in Holland the police don't mind. When I took mine out (on an F800ST) I noticed a great increase in the smoothness of the power delivery. Almost as if the bike could breath freely. Perhaps it's worth a try if the police are lenient about it overseas ;).
I've had my 1200 for 10 months now and what a awesome machine it's got 9000 miles on from new and it's a 2010 love it and I've rode many bikes and by far the best tourer yet I've got a vfr 800 as well and the 1200 makes it feel like a 125 Yes mine has the final drive clatter but it's the only bike that makes me smile when going to work honda bring it back
Hi Anthony, great review. I have just bought a VFR1200FD and your review helped my decide :-) I too had a Blackbird and since selling have missed that Honda magic. I just have to sell my GSXR1000k6 now.
+Headshot1002 How does the VFR compare to your K6 GSXR?.I have a K5 and an SP1 but I'm looking for a third bike, something more comfortable for long distance touring. It will either be a VFR 1200 or the K1300s, have you ridden the K1300s?
+nickywr400 Hi, its a completely different animal. I reluctantly sold the GSXR and bought the VFR due to wanting to do more travelling which the GSXR is not really good at. The GSXR is MENTAL and your lucky to get home after a day out whereas the VFR has bags & bags of power and 100mph+ is really easy & smooth to do comfortably. The K1300 Im not sure is that good as spoke to riders how if branded by BMW love it however for the cash & looks I thought the VFR was the bike to own, the pannier set up is brilliant like my old Aprillia RST Futura the clip easily to the side however bar the 130-150 miles the VFR gives to a tank its faultless. Hope that helps?
Thanks for the review Anthony. I have a 2010 DCT model which has now done 37.5k miles. Despite what the majority of biker journalists saying that it is a poor machine compared to BMW's, Yamaha's sports touring bikes, I'm like you, really impressed with the VFR1200....all the owners that I'm in contact with via internet forums are of the same opinion. Agreed, the low down fuelling is not good, causing back lash in the final drive when I first bought it. I have fitted a Power Commander 5 & an autotune together with a Leo Vince end can after a de-cat of the exhaust. I now have a superb smooth bike with no drive chain problems at all. I also have upgraded forks & a Ohlins rear shock and the handling has been transformed. I do 'push buttons' because I have the DCT which is also superb. I have had 2 Fireblades and a 2004 Blackbird (190mph on the clock in Germany) and this bike is just as good as they were (167bhp at the rear wheel). The brakes are the best I've ever had on a bike. Being single, the luggage is plenty big enough for a weeks touring abroad which I do every year. Not had any problems with the bike apart from a smoking engine after the main dealer 'forgot' to replace the O rings at its 32K service!! I would'nt hesitate to buy another VFR1200.
nitenurse48 Thanks for your comments,I will always be classed as biased by owning the VFR1200 but after owning a 2005 Fireblade and 2003 Blackbird.15,000 miles on the Blade and 30,000 on the Blackbird (both at the same time) I feel well qualified to comment on them.When i here the motoring journalists rabbiting on about it's to heavy,to small a tank,does not turn in,the latest Mc news statement of rubbish brakes was almost liable .When they make all there statements what are they comparing the VFR with.It's quicker than the Blackbird, Fjr1300,Bmw RT/RS 1200 It stops better than all three of them,It's more usable than a £15,000 . M1 Yamaha which only does one thing which is playing at being a moto gp bike,try touring,try carrying a passenger for more than 100 miles how many miles does that do to a tank full. No it,s not got the top end speed of the Blackbird; truthfully how many blackbird owners ever topped out on more than one occasion. I would be interested in speaking to you about the power commander unit having considered fitting one as had one fitted to the Blade.Had Ohlins on the Blackbird but the VFR still handles better with it,s standard set up. Have Akrapovic and K&N filter added apart from that at the moment the engine is standard.
+nitenurse48 Yes oh YES, I totally love my VFR 1200 2012. Just bought it second hand with 6K miles on it and changed the tyres to Michilin Pilot Road 4's. What a bike...truly superb. Now I'm interested in doing what you did such as: 1) fit a Power Commander 5 & an autotune together with a Leo Vince end can after a de-cat of the exhaust 2) upgrade forks & a Ohlins rear shock Can you pls send me the details of that to me verygoodsimon@gmail.com
Nice Review, He said he was maybe taller than the average rider at 6.1 lol im 6.6. I have a Honda Blackbird but its never been very comfy for my height,and I get the same wind buffeting that he said he got on the Vfr before getting the 4 inch taller Givi screen,different bikes but similar problem and I'm now looking at Vfr1200,s to replace the bird.He said 269 kg they're actually 276 kg so a good weight but if any thing should make it feel more planted.love the fairings and looks of the Vfr lovely bike .mpg sounds amazing
Great review. This seems to be one of those bikes that's quite polarizing in terms of how it's perceived by journos vice actual riders. Appreciate the real world perspective.
Hi Anthony, I received my new VFR1200F yesterday, had it shipped from a dealer 1000km from where I stay. After unloading and unpacking it I took it down to the gas station for fuel etc then took it for a short ride to check that everything was working properly. I was very pleased with the ride and overall dynamics of the bike. It is as good as and in many respects better than the BMW K1200/1300 bikes I've had. The Honda feels much lighter although it's a similar weight. I'm 5ft 8in and immediately the ergonomics felt right. No getting used to it, felt comfortable straight away. The gearbox is a joy, goes into every gear easily with a positive click, 100% better than the box on my first K1200s, although to BMW's credit, they did improve the boxes on the newer models but they were still prone to selecting false neutrals. No sign of this on the Honda. The brakes are awesome. I always thought that BMW have the best brakes, but the Honda is better. Just not 100% convinced that they should have linked the front brake when one applies the rear brake. Activating the rear when the front is applied makes sense, this is the same as the BMW but BMW applies only the rear when the rear pedal is activated. I prefer this for wet weather riding. I rode with my open face helmet so that I could hear any strange noises, everything sounded good, I was just surprised at the wine that emanates from the engine or drive-line. I've noticed this on various You Tube videos I've watched so suspect it's normal. Unfortunately I'll not be doing much riding on the VFR for the next few weeks but hope to put on some miles in the new year. I'll let you know how it behaves.
+Mark Bolton I would hazard a guess that it is the manual version from David's description (i.e. goes into every gear easily with a positive click). The DCT is apparently completely seamless, you push a button and the next gear is selected without any interruption to the drive.
+David Maltby - You never told us what model year it was? If you got the one with traction control then you shouldn't worry about braking it wet weather!
Thanks Anthony great review. I currently ride a BMW gs1200 but prior to that I have owned 5 Blackbirds which were great bikes but in the end I decided I didn't need that much power. First mistake then.I also found the BB a bit too sporty bar wise so I fitted vfr bars .Given that how does the riding position compare to the BB. As you mentioned this bike got slated by many journos when it came out and this must have affected sales as it certainly put me off of buying one. Its interesting now though as just like your video there are others on here more or less saying the same as you that its a good bike. Not so sure I could feel comfortable riding the clutch less one though.Just suggested trading mine in for a second hand one but apparently we need a new kitchen first. Don't you just love them ! Thanks again and enjoy your riding. I willlook at your other vids now.
The riding position l would say is very much sport bias.Having owned a 2003 injection Black Bird prior to the VFR, that to was a superb sports tourer ;probably like many people were put off by the media response. But having took one for a test drive was immediatly impressed by its braking and handling .Yes top end on the BB is a few miles an hour more but the VFR will get there quicker and stop quicker. 30,000 miles now and running faultless, will almost certainly buy another new one unless somebody comes up with a better all rounder.
Your spot on, I agree with everything you’ve said, I have a 2016 Vfr1200f and it’s everything you said it is. I’ve had it for a about 5 months, I got it with only 4000 miles on the club It’s unreal to ride, I love it
Bought my blue 2012 and took it on a trip. I don’t think it’s great at touring. It works, but it makes a much better sports bike. All in all, it is what I was looking for and do love the bike.
Well said and thank you. Delighted to have a 2012 candy blue. Also get that objection noise to low rpm with low throttle and as you said, drop down a gear or give it a big more juice. Think I'll live with it as opposed to getting a soft tune (stabstef or similar) which i read gives a much smoother power delivery and performance at low rpm. What do you think?
Fantastic bike. I have one since 2011 and cannot sell it because I don’t find anything better. Everybody says : go for a GS pe similar but mine is soooo much besutiful powerful and cheap to maintain ! Also as you say , gas tank has never been an issue. You need to stop anyway after 250 km , don’t you ? Geat video ! Thanks a lot
Yes my 2012 model clatter and clunks a bit on light load, low revs, even with power commander fitted(previous owner). However I forgive it as its such a fantastic bike otherwise.
I don't mind some rider aids. I don't dodge dirt roads no matter what bike I'm on. I've often lived on gravel roads and at times had longer gravel driveways. I do like the new 800 Tiger's dirt ABS setting front on and back off. I ride to work below 0 deg 3 or 4 months a year, I love ABS for kangaroo infested damp cold and icy roads. I remember when my wife and I where first married we rented a farm house with a 600 meter clay drive that was like riding on greased glass in the wet. Fun on my then new 1980 XS750 triple.
Had a 2010 mine had that clonking through the final drive you described . Honda dealer said no fault found had a power commander fitted and dyno work done that smoothed it out somewhat . Later transpired that honda did a recall on all 2010 2011 models for shaft failure only after cases of riders either in the usa or australia being thrown from bike when transmission locked up after failure. If any one is watching this ensure the recall work has been undertook if thinking of buying one other than that loved mine .
Great honest review, thank you, it's helped me make my decision about buying a VFR. Can I just ask about the seat you mentioned, it sounds like you said "Melroy" seat but I can't find anything with that name on the web. It must be an awesome seat if you've done 1400 miles in a day on it (I struggle to do more than 250 miles on my bike before the seat kills.....) where did you get it from please? Was it CM seats Leicester? Thanks.
Still have mine. Like all bikers just haven't had the ride time looks like it will GB riding only this year. Just over 40,000 miles now still goes and looks like new, will post another review shortly.
I would like to see some more graphics for large surface area of fairings and maybe an underslung exhaust kit like the the 800 ? That's just personal opinion.
Thanks Anthony, nice review. Will you also be doing a review about how fiddly and unresponsive those pesky camera buttons are on your handlebar remote? ;-)
+manwithnoname65 Over the time i have tried several places,but have settled for the handle bar mounted position as being the best.It holds two remotes at any one time and is easy to use.In the video spot the idiot mistake when i went to switch off, pressed the wrong bloody button.If you want to know how i made it i could send you some pictures.Cheers Anthony.
In my opinion ALL problems should be addressed to retailer and they should ensure that they have a satisfied customer. It is all too easy for the dealer to say, "You'll have to contact Honda". As for the statement regarding poor paintwork, "We've never had that problem before" simply is not true. My son had exactly the same problem on his new VFR1200. This was his second NEW VFR1200 as the dealer replaced the first one due to a series of problems, which, after 3 months, they could not cure. Honda seem to have acquired a reputation for not backing the retailers in dealing with problems so that they can provide a good after sales service. My local dealer admitted that Honda can be difficult!
Shaft is not keeping up with the wheel at 2.3k to 2.5k so it gives you a huge backlash, resulting in clunking like something is whacking your engine. Then above 5k rpm it gives you vibrations so storng like a bike is trying to throw you off. Despite these, when you accept the short commings, this bike is owesome and I've got for myself a 2016 model. Asside from it - you wont know about it since you have a custom seat - OEM seat eats your back side so hard that you need to stop every 100 miles or so. Otherwise you will be numb for days. What i agree with you is the weigth distribution - its quite low which makes cornering, leaning or even slow speed just a breeze.
+keith johnson Hi Keith.i think that video was taken on a GoPro 3+. the reason i say i think is because i have two GoPro's a 3 and 3+.Also have one of those cheap Chinese sports cam £39 including remote which i use as a road cam,It takes excellent video's and just goes to prove what a rip off the GOPro is.Yes the GoPro has more features but is not worth the nearly ten times the price.The video would have been taken at 960 @ 60 frames per second. Hope thats help full for you,Cheers Anthony Hoskin.
Just got 2013 model had vfrs over the last 25 years traded my 2015 model 800 in for one its only done 7000 miles not done many miles due to weather but what miles i have done it i have liked it very much like the 800 but with more grunt.
Great review! shame the bike kept being compared with the Blackbird. I have owned both and were perfect but completely different. I agree with the final drive assessment being Notchy but dropping a gear with higher revs resolved. I have also noticed the problem of shell and stone off the road (especially in rain) landing on the tank, then settling by your legs on the tank and wearing the paint quite badly. I have never had the issue (as bad) on any other bike. I have now completed 30,000 miles and it is as good as the day i brought it. if your thinking of buying a cheap sports tourer (2nd hand) try one out, i think youll be surprised.
Hi Nice honest review. We tested the VFR back in 2012 back to back with an FJR1300 which also has been a great all rounder with a thumping engine. I do feel looking back that the Honda felt a bit more connected, and steered a little better. The price at the time for the FJR including cruise control luggage heated grips adjustable electric screen was a no brainer. Am looking to perhaps change and noticed the VFR pricing now is good with 0% finance. Am tempted to revisit! Loved my pre VTEC 800 that had 80k and still pulling strong when i had my arm twisted to sell it.
I have been running my 1200 for the last two years and other than gas and switching Michelin tires its been cost free. I ride with a lot of different iron and no one can run away from the little Blue bike. Owned a lot of bikes, this is by far head and shoulders above all of my other iron. I really think Honda Marketing dropped the ball on this one. The bright spot is for what you can buy these for today there is nothing in their price range that comes close to it.
Hi Anthony. Good review. I've had my VFR1200 for 6 years now, and love it. Wanted to ask you: what's that contraption on the left of your handlebars? Is it a fitment for a satnav? Having juts come back from Germany touring and having to stop every five minutes to look at Google maps on my phone, I want to get a satnav, but one that will work with a bagster tankbag and still allow the clocks to be visible. Any ideas? Also, I've noticed the two trips on the odometer only display three digits - i.e. if you do more than a thousand miles on one trip, it doesn't count them.....am I right or have I missed something? Ta
GigaBiker The bracket on the handle bar is for two Gopro remotes. I think you might be missing a trick with the trip unless the early models only had thtee digits. Thirty five thousand miles now and still running like a dream.
GigaBiker As for the sat nav when touring i use a Tomtom 450 mounted on the headstock with a tall mount,i also use a Honda tank bag,had a bagglux bag mounted on a Givi tank mount.
OK thanks...would need a very tall Tom Tom mount to clear my bagster tankbag but will look into it. Re: the trip, and consulting other Honda owners e.g. Pan Europan owners, I’m told it’s a standard feature that the trips zero back to nought after 999 miles! Can you believe it? Crazy, but then, Honda do have some weird quirks like making a sports tourer with no 12V socket or a centre stand or any other frills. Still a great bike though. BTW would you recommend the Akropovic exhaust? Is it any gruntier than stock?
love the rant about pushing buttons lol ..... but your right if i had driver mode i think it would be left in full and forgotten about... i have to say tho i cant see that bike keeping up with a well ridden sports bike on a tight country lane
strud34 Fortunately or unfortunately tight country lanes are what i have been brought up on in Cornwall,but i will agree with you two riders like for like the sports bike would be easier ride.But having owned both the Blackbird and the Fireblade at the same time for five years,it would definitely loose the Blackbird, but would loose to the Blade purely on handling,as performance is similar.In top speed it would be the Blackbird,but as have never managed to find roads clear and safe enough to find it's top end .Did how ever travel the whole length of Germany on the VFR coming home from Austria at a steady 200 kph. on the Autoban,Have pushed the VFR to an indicated 172 mph on the Nurburghring which is probably a good 165 mph.
Thanks for the review, love that blue color. Could you point out the main differences between the 1200f and the blackbird? Who should prefer the bird in your opinion? Thanks
Two totally differant bikes. Top speed Blackbird wins. Acceleration VFR WINS. Handling VFR wins. Brakes VFR wins.. Both have superb engines. Drive train VFR WINS SUPERD Shaftdrive. Tank range Blackbird wins. VFR does suffer from low fuelling causing some minor hesitation when not under power,easily cured by fitting power command or similar remapping. Comfort not a lot in it, but the low center of mass on the VFR makes it handle better at low speed. 42,000 miles and nearly 9 years on the Finish on the Vfr is superb and is running better than new. Value for money the Vfr wins, in time the Vfr will become the same classic that the Blackbird is and deserves.
@@storm5357 From the specs I saw, the balckbird is ~40kg lighter and has a chain, I'd think it would be the better handling bike :) So interesting how they managed it! How about smoothness? which has less vibrations / rpms at say 85mph? Thanks again!
@@ohreally1021 Yes the Vfr is heavier but the weight is set lower, when I originally test drove the Vfr couldn't believe it was heavier. As for smoothness and vibration There is virtually none. As for the sound,with the factory end can Don't rate it ,I had the Akrapovic can fitted when new and with baffles out it does sound better but I wouldn't say that you can't be the sound of a screaming V4. But that's just a personal taste..
pretty good review. I have an FJR and several sport bikes and some Harleys. Its a large sport bike ... but in general the FJR will out perform it. Aerodynamically the VFR starts to break down at 160 mph. My personal top speed is 161 mph at limiter. The FJR is just slightly faster. The VFR wins a 1/4 mile by just 1/2 a bike link. And no matter what the VFR feels like you won't shake and FJR in the twisty. And there is no way you can keep up with an BMW RR. Personally if you can only get one bike I'd recommend an FJR.. I seldom ride my VFR anymore, it's good at most everything but great at nothing.
Hi David thank you for your comments. As I've said in previous comments did not set out to do a review. don't know what year your Vfr is but I ride and tour with a friend with a fjr1300 and I agree it's an excellent bike but it will has an excellent tank range and good luggage capacity, but will not live with Vfr for performance and top speed.On the twists it's a no contests to the Vfr. The only mods to mine is the Akrapovic fitted from new,power command 5 and K&N.
Hi Anthony. Like previous comments I enjoyed your review and am collecting a VFR1200 in a fortnights time. You mention a Melroy seat but I can find no information about them. Do you have any details please
+Pete Durrant Hi Pete you will find the seats available from MotorBike seats.co.uk on 02476665203. You can find them on the Jaws Blackbird site under the seats section.Will be testing the seat out again as will be heading off to to tour around Europe again in July.All the best Anthony.
You mentioned touring with a ZZR1200. How would you compare the comfort of the ZED with the VFR1200? Asking because I have a ZZR1200 and love it, but am considering buying one of these. Thanks.
Bet you wish you'd kept your Blackbird now! I'm on my second Bird, first was a carb, had to sell it to finance some building work, current one is a 2001 injected, both brilliant bikes.
No way.The Blackbird was and still is a good bike,there is a but.with a better weight balance,absolutely superb brakes ( linked like the Bird which iam not a great lover of)Traction control,an engine that pulls like a bloody train if you twist the old right hand,superb shaft drive,a double layered fairing which if touring in hot weather does keep the heat away, Yes top speed the Bird has a faster top end but having had an immaculate Injection Bird it's not as quick as the VFR and having had the Bird for over two years never did use the top end. The VFR has now clocked 39,000 miles and is running like a dream. So to answer your question no way love it. Modifications: Akrapovic K&N Power Command
I have to agree with Anthony i had a bird for years and loved it but the vfr feels better to me hard to pin down why it just does although i think the bird had a bit better finish to it.
good honest review, bike is sound why the hell dealers always have to be akward... sorry to hear about your battles, should be smooth when you spend that amount of squids
Just got myself a 2015 model, this being my first 1200F. Have had many 800's (still have a 2001 Fi1) but disappointingly have quite a bit of engine vibration at 4-5k rpm. Same when static or moving. Local Honda dealer says it's normal vibeyness (checked under warranty). Hoping someone might read this and offer possible clues... ?
Having now completed just over 37,000 miles and still running faultless i find your comment about vibration a little unusual . Having met quite a few vfr1200 owners thats the first time i have heard any one complain of vibrations. I would say, that some times unless you check the gear your in it will rev so freely and red line without any fuss or vibration. After riding mine for over 5 years now i would have to disagree with the local dealer when they said that's normal it's not,with my experience with bike dealers once you have been sold the bike the after sales service generally leaves a lot to be desired. Is this vibration through the whole bike or just through the bars.
Honda is the ultimate the best and the most long lasting and durable bike ever . I dare u compare to other bike such as kawasaki , yamaha even bmw and i bet all other bike part especially on engine part will broken down after 3years . But not for honda . It will reliable even after 30years of using it .
You sound like a pain in the a7se customer - for which I salute you - why do they make you have to do that rather doing the right thing from the start?! First MPG figure for this bike that I would trust so thank you. My 800vtec used to give me 42 to 45 commuting and touring so I'd be pleased with 51. Will be buying one as soon as we are allowed to visit dealers again.
Still have it,as with every one else this year not done a lot of miles,42000 miles on the clock now still looks like new and goes even better What I have noticed that with the power command fitted the long journey fuel average is still excellent, but short tripping is not quite as good; probably due to the fact that the command .unit is fuelling more at low revs to over come low fuelling issues. A very small price to pay for a turbine smooth motor. .
+E.S. BiH Yes, probably about 15,000 of those miles where two up and it goes and handles without any problems at all.Now just completed just over twenty five thousand miles and will be doing another quick review.
+anthony hoskin Good to know. Thank you. I will subscribe so I know when you review comes out. I have a 2010 VFR 1200 (with only 7800 miles) and I really like the bike. I was thinking about selling it and getting an FJR 1300 or Consours 1400 for two up riding, but now after you said that I may keep it :). I probably will just get another seat with the back rest. Thank you
It is very unfortunate that this happens when it is your first time with any make I think we all have horror stories we can tell,I also had a BMW k75s what a marvellous little bike,they used to suffer from stripped drvershaft splines ,my mate sold his K1300s another great bike but the build quality was horrendous. All that really matters is that your happy with what you've got be it a AJS,BMW or HONDA.Just ride.
@@storm5357 well done !!!! I had one in red years ago on a 12 plate . I bought a new Goldwing 12 months ago after having a ZZR 1400 but I love the VFR and thinking of getting another .
Don't no what they charge for doing it,did mine at about 30,000 miles can't remember now how long it took but I think it was around four or five hours,even at this mileage they were all in tolerance.
It’s a toss up between a 2015 vfr1200 white and black or a brand new 2021 Kawasaki ninja 1000sx both sports tourers both have great reviews but something about the HONDA that looks timeless
When you say the milage I assume you mean to the tank. Really depends on how hard your riding on average I would say it is probably does about 170. But that can rise to near 200. Although it would be great to have a bigger tank the glue is in the model name (sports tourer) and what it doesn't have in tank size it makes up for in being superb all-rounder .
Considering that we have now covered some nearly 28 ,000 miles and just about to probably add another 3,000 travelling around Europe,with the few bits that have gone wrong i would have thought very very little is made in CHINA, although i would say that Hondas customers service is not nearly as good as it has been.Still enjoying this superb all round motor bike.
Hi Anthony. I enjoyed your vid. i've had a 1200 for bout 3 months since I lost me vfr800 in a smash and I have to say its absolutely fantastic. Ive owned a few VFR800s and never thought another bike would steal my heart like my 1200 has. Ill need to post some new vids of it on my channel to share. cheers. +1 sub, check out my vids so far :)
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Just got a 2014 dct model, coming from a Blackbird, which I loved, this is a fenomenal bike. Love it.
FINALLY AN HONEST REVIEW!!!! just got a 2012 second hand nice to know the low down clatter is normal thought it was a problem i agree with everything you said so maybe you should do some more reviews, you could call it real biker review.
Thanks you for the review and your honesty about you experience actually owning the motorcycle. I always prefer to hear from people that actually ride the bike for more than a few months. You have answered many of my questions.
Thanks Antony,
A great honest review. I am about to start a 5 month course away from home and will need to do a fair bit of riding in all weathers, so this is helping to make my mind up.
Also nice to see a review on my old roads too! I am originally from Porthleven, so proper job.
Hi Anthony, thanks for taking the time to make this review I very much enjoyed it. I've been a VFR owner for nearly 20 years and had a 1200 for 6 years. It was a tough decision to trade in my 800 after reading many biased reviews in the motorcycle press. Almost as soon as I rode my first 100 miles on the new model I fell in love with it. I've now toured extensively across Europe on it and it's been near flawless and brilliant fun. Recently took it in for a recall on the driveshaft issue (wonder if that was your instigating). Whilst in the workshop they rechipped the ecu. Now the bottom end is very smooth and makes the slow speeds very usable. Good job, look forward to your next update.
what would your engine life expentancy for a vfr 1200 be? More than 80k miles is with services possible?
@@atillaadn definitely
What an absolutely amazing, honest review. Thanks very much
Hi Anthony.
Brilliant review real world riding and opinions. Testing and giving your results in a way we all ride.
Your totally correct about MCN and their reviews either the newest bike wins or more often than not a BMW
I don't think they have got 21.000 miles on their hole test fleet.
Start your own magazine or something similar it's about time somebody tested bikes properly.
Keep up the great work.
Great review.I've now owned 2 VFR1200 (both '10 DCT models).I guess I fit Honda's demographic for this bike as an"over 50-ex sport bike-likes more comfort-but still likes a sporty bike" kind of person.I can understand that a lot of people don't "get" this particular model,as it is a hard one to categorise-I guess the best way to put it is that this is Honda's 21'st Century take take on the ubiquitous UJM motorcycle of the 80's-big enough to throw a pillion and carry a bit of luggage for a week-end away or take off the panniers and go for a blast through the hills and with your mates on their sports bikes and not be embarrassed.I'm sure that there would be a multitude of bikes currently in the market-place that would do either or all of these jobs equally as well.However, Honda being Honda,the '12 does this kind of thing very well in my books-no mechanical issues after 38000 km(drive-shaft replaced under warranty by dealer a few months ago due to factory recall-didn't have any problems with my bike at the time).Starts first time,every time (still on the original battery)Ridden in all kinds of weather and taken to a few track days,and I always have a smile on the dial at the end of the day.As I said,not everyone's cup of tea,but it's the type of tea that I like-then again,I also own another one of Hondas"Glorious Failures" a CBX1000 so you could say that I have a certain bias in my opinions.Cheers.
I have a blue, 2012 model. Bought it as a 50th birthday present to myself. It's a superb bike - fantastic performance, the best brakes on any bike that I have had owned. I owned an '84 VF1000F and enjoyed it too, but the VFR1200 is light years ahead of that bike.
Thanks for the review ...am getting this bike
I really enjoyed the down to earth in depth review. It has dispelled some myths such as the fuel capacity ect ect. I also enjoyed hearing about the problems and solutions Anthony encountered. I love Hondas and I'm due a change from my battle worn transalp. And this is the type of reviews you need to make that transition. I'm totally agree althea end statement, I'm not going to Base a bike on how modes it has. There is only one mode. Get on and go. All the best.
Love the way you dealt with the initial quality issues. Quite why you needed to push for each resolution is beyond me but you did exactly what was you needed to get Honda to budge.
I'm now on my 3rd 1999 VFR800 5th Gen which I still regard as a superb machine but these 1200s are now such good value on the used market that I'll be switching over to one for my next bike. Btw; the blue examples on the used market seem to be a tad cheaper (all else being equal), so I assume they weren't a popular choice and are now not as easy to sell second hand.....I agree with you though; they look really good.
yup spot on my vfr 2010 model had the same sort of issues to start with,same battery issue got replaced ,other than that it eats front pads and tires goes like a rocket for such a heavy bike.brilliant video keep them going.
Excellent Explanation good service to Humanity and Riders Thanks next time give some technical details thanks
Great review. Had a 2017 VFR 1200X DCT, which I really liked but it was just a temporary bike until I bought my 2018 Goldwing DCT, non tour, brilliant touring bike. I really would like to get my hands on the F one day. Ride safe…
Hello Anthony. I really appreciate your review of this bike. I've had an eye on this bike for a year now but have been reluctant based on the reviews which focus on the (alleged) short range of the bike rather than the qualities. I'm coming off of a 2012 R1200RT (which I loved) and a 2010 Concours 14 (which I also liked a lot). I have just returned from a test ride and I cannot get over how the bike handled. I love the feedback of the front end and the riding position is just right (for me). I was able to 'throw around' this bike with much more ease than the Concours (in fact the Kawasaki does not come close) and even though I like the Boxer engine, the VFR1200 engine suits me a lot better. Well done.
Cheers,
Tom
+TheMckfly I like you Tom nearly didn't look at the bike because of media press.but have now had the bike for just over three years and am still impressed by it's turn of speed and handling.Yes they could have made the tank slightly bigger but having toured over a big parts of Europe, including a lap around the Nurburgring ,travelling 1400 miles in one hit.it does not present a problem.It does not do any brilliantly but overall it's a superb bike.
Fairplay, proper down to earth review.
Hi Anthony,Just want to say that based on your review(only) I bought my VFR1200 .Just like you said the bike is absolutely superb ,never raid one before buying this(I had 3 Triumphs) .I live in Maryland and I got the bike from Alabama 800 miles away from my home. I raided home and after 10 hours on the saddle I can say that I LOVE IT, and completely recommended. Got a sweet deal: 2013 vfr1200F with 5200 miles over $4000 in accessory for just $9000. Thanks for your honest review, this bike is a Beast!
Hi Anthony, thanks for the honest review of the VFR1200. I am awaiting delivery of my new VFR1200 and as I have never actually ridden one as yet, I have looked at numerous TH-cam reviews to get an idea of what I am in for. Up to now I have been die-hard BMW rider/owner. I have had numerous K12 and K13 bikes and although I think the BMW is an excellent bike, I have become dissatisfied with BMW Motorrad's attitude to their customers. I have written to them to complain about issues that I have had with my BMW C650GT that I currently own, and about the K1200S I had a few years ago, and they have refused to acknowledge my issues. They have left it to the dealer to sort out. I also own a 1200GS and have been riding BMW's since the 1974, but I have finally decided that BMW does not deserve my business. So when I wanted to buy another sports tourer, BMW was not on my list.
I am please to note from your video, that Honda does engage with their customers and responds to the issues. That sounds like a company that I want to deal with. My previous Honda, the retro CB1100A, was extremely well engineered and never gave a day's trouble so never needed to contact Honda. I hope the VFR is as good.
+David Maltby Hi David,well I've just been. for the VFR's first MOT and we are now up to 25,300 miles,the pilot 4GT's are now down to about 3mm and i've just recently stuck in a new set of front pads (genuine Honda this time)apart from that she has been running faultless.Have just purchased a Powercomand V and soon after Christmas will be doing another review about fitting that and setting it up to run along side the ackrapovic and K&N filter.Used town a little BMW K75s a few years ago,what a cracking little bike,but the biuld quality on BMW seamed to be Lacking in the newer models and so switched to Honda.It's not to say that they are not without fault,that bike has not been built yet.I find them well engineered and well built and for me the VFR1200 is a superb sports tourer that I've yet to find anything that betters it all round.Please leave me know how you get on with yours when you get it.All the best Anthony.
Quite curious about your thoughts on it. I've been comparing the K1300s and VFR1200. Good rivals, so the reviews say. I currently have a F800ST, but I'm tired of the expensive repairs and annual service. Look wise, I like the VFR better, but I'm afraid the mileage is bad.
One of the best(if not the best) bike reviews I've yet seen.
Very comprehensive and you cover all the relevant stuff.
Just wonder how do you find it comfort wise?
Ride safe.
All the best
Tony
+antonoat Thanks for your comment.On the comfort side excellent,although i'ts not the original Vfr seat as i have fitted a Melroy replacement seat from new.The riding position is more to the sports side rather than touring but not to say that it's not able to cover great mileage..(to date 1400 miles in one hit)Going to do another video soon now covered just over 25,000 miles and still loving it.
Buying a 2012 blue this weekend. One owner, 7kmi. Can’t wait to take it on some trips and some fast canyon runs!
Excellent, well done to you ….
Thanks for your comments,did not go out with the intention of making the video but road was quiet and was only going out to scrounge a cup of coffee from a mate.I will agree with you that the FJR1300 is a cracking good bike,but what gives the vfr my vote is,it is more weighted to the sports side and less to the touring which at the present time suits me.If your ever down in Cornwall look us up hoping to open motorbike only camp-site next year.
Hi Chris, I live in South Africa and apparently Honda SA is not importing the latest VFR1200 models. Not sure why but this is according to the dealers I spoke to. I considered buying a new BMW K1300s but am very happy with my decision. I have put a few more KM on the bike and find the handling superb. Much lighter feel than the K-bikes, changes direction easier. Overall power is on par, only negative is the wooden feel when braking into a corner. The K bikes seemed to overcome this.
I get a lot of thumbs up from other motorists who obviously like the look of the VFR, something the BMW was not able to do.
Goo honest review I Enjoyed it,thank you.
Thanks for your comments. I am riding a 22 year old CBR1000F, which is a Sport/Tourer... I will be taking a closer look at a VFR1200F.
At last.The Victor Meldrew of motorcycle review!You were never tempted by the DCT?Very reminiscent of my Fazer 600.
Thanks for the review. This is the stuff I want to hear. If I want a sales pitch, I'll visit the dealer! ;) Good to hear (from your comment) that the low throttle issue has been solved with a Power Commander. Have you ever tried taking out the DB killer? Here in Holland the police don't mind. When I took mine out (on an F800ST) I noticed a great increase in the smoothness of the power delivery. Almost as if the bike could breath freely. Perhaps it's worth a try if the police are lenient about it overseas ;).
I've had my 1200 for 10 months now and what a awesome machine it's got 9000 miles on from new and it's a 2010 love it and I've rode many bikes and by far the best tourer yet
I've got a vfr 800 as well and the 1200 makes it feel like a 125
Yes mine has the final drive clatter but it's the only bike that makes me smile when going to work honda bring it back
Hi Anthony, great review. I have just bought a VFR1200FD and your review helped my decide :-) I too had a Blackbird and since selling have missed that Honda magic. I just have to sell my GSXR1000k6 now.
+Headshot1002 How does the VFR compare to your K6 GSXR?.I have a K5 and an SP1 but I'm looking for a third bike, something more comfortable for long distance touring. It will either be a VFR 1200 or the K1300s, have you ridden the K1300s?
+nickywr400 Hi, its a completely different animal. I reluctantly sold the GSXR and bought the VFR due to wanting to do more travelling which the GSXR is not really good at. The GSXR is MENTAL and your lucky to get home after a day out whereas the VFR has bags & bags of power and 100mph+ is really easy & smooth to do comfortably. The K1300 Im not sure is that good as spoke to riders how if branded by BMW love it however for the cash & looks I thought the VFR was the bike to own, the pannier set up is brilliant like my old Aprillia RST Futura the clip easily to the side however bar the 130-150 miles the VFR gives to a tank its faultless. Hope that helps?
Good no bullshit review 👍
Thanks for the review Anthony. I have a 2010 DCT model which has now done 37.5k miles. Despite what the majority of biker journalists saying that it is a poor machine compared to BMW's, Yamaha's sports touring bikes, I'm like you, really impressed with the VFR1200....all the owners that I'm in contact with via internet forums are of the same opinion. Agreed, the low down fuelling is not good, causing back lash in the final drive when I first bought it. I have fitted a Power Commander 5 & an autotune together with a Leo Vince end can after a de-cat of the exhaust. I now have a superb smooth bike with no drive chain problems at all. I also have upgraded forks & a Ohlins rear shock and the handling has been transformed. I do 'push buttons' because I have the DCT which is also superb. I have had 2 Fireblades and a 2004 Blackbird (190mph on the clock in Germany) and this bike is just as good as they were (167bhp at the rear wheel).
The brakes are the best I've ever had on a bike. Being single, the luggage is plenty big enough for a weeks touring abroad which I do every year. Not had any problems with the bike apart from a smoking engine after the main dealer 'forgot' to replace the O rings at its 32K service!! I would'nt hesitate to buy another VFR1200.
nitenurse48 Thanks for your comments,I will always be classed as biased by owning the VFR1200 but after owning a 2005 Fireblade and 2003 Blackbird.15,000 miles on the Blade and 30,000 on the Blackbird (both at the same time) I feel well qualified to comment on them.When i here the motoring journalists rabbiting on about it's to heavy,to small a tank,does not turn in,the latest Mc news statement of rubbish brakes was almost liable .When they make all there statements what are they comparing the VFR with.It's quicker than the Blackbird, Fjr1300,Bmw RT/RS 1200 It stops better than all three of them,It's more usable than a £15,000 . M1 Yamaha which only does one thing which is playing at being a moto gp bike,try touring,try carrying a passenger for more than 100 miles how many miles does that do to a tank full.
No it,s not got the top end speed of the Blackbird; truthfully how many blackbird owners ever topped out on more than one occasion.
I would be interested in speaking to you about the power commander unit having considered fitting one as had one fitted to the Blade.Had Ohlins on the Blackbird but the VFR still handles better with it,s standard set up.
Have Akrapovic and K&N filter added apart from that at the moment the engine is standard.
+nitenurse48
Yes oh YES, I totally love my VFR 1200 2012. Just bought it second hand with 6K miles on it and changed the tyres to Michilin Pilot Road 4's. What a bike...truly superb. Now I'm interested in doing what you did such as:
1) fit a Power Commander 5 & an autotune together with a Leo Vince end can after a de-cat of the exhaust
2) upgrade forks & a Ohlins rear shock
Can you pls send me the details of that to me verygoodsimon@gmail.com
Nice Review, He said he was maybe taller than the average rider at 6.1 lol im 6.6. I have a Honda Blackbird but its never been very comfy for my height,and I get the same wind buffeting that he said he got on the Vfr before getting the 4 inch taller Givi screen,different bikes but similar problem and I'm now looking at Vfr1200,s to replace the bird.He said 269 kg they're actually 276 kg so a good weight but if any thing should make it feel more planted.love the fairings and looks of the Vfr lovely bike .mpg sounds amazing
Great review. This seems to be one of those bikes that's quite polarizing in terms of how it's perceived by journos vice actual riders. Appreciate the real world perspective.
Hi Anthony, I received my new VFR1200F yesterday, had it shipped from a dealer 1000km from where I stay. After unloading and unpacking it I took it down to the gas station for fuel etc then took it for a short ride to check that everything was working properly.
I was very pleased with the ride and overall dynamics of the bike. It is as good as and in many respects better than the BMW K1200/1300 bikes I've had. The Honda feels much lighter although it's a similar weight.
I'm 5ft 8in and immediately the ergonomics felt right. No getting used to it, felt comfortable straight away.
The gearbox is a joy, goes into every gear easily with a positive click, 100% better than the box on my first K1200s, although to BMW's credit, they did improve the boxes on the newer models but they were still prone to selecting false neutrals. No sign of this on the Honda.
The brakes are awesome. I always thought that BMW have the best brakes, but the Honda is better. Just not 100% convinced that they should have linked the front brake when one applies the rear brake. Activating the rear when the front is applied makes sense, this is the same as the BMW but BMW applies only the rear when the rear pedal is activated. I prefer this for wet weather riding.
I rode with my open face helmet so that I could hear any strange noises, everything sounded good, I was just surprised at the wine that emanates from the engine or drive-line. I've noticed this on various You Tube videos I've watched so suspect it's normal.
Unfortunately I'll not be doing much riding on the VFR for the next few weeks but hope to put on some miles in the new year. I'll let you know how it behaves.
+David Maltby - Which model did you get The DCT or 6 speed?
+Mark Bolton I would hazard a guess that it is the manual version from David's description (i.e. goes into every gear easily with a positive click). The DCT is apparently completely seamless, you push a button and the next gear is selected without any interruption to the drive.
+Mark Bolton I've noticed a comment below from David confirming that he does have the manual version.
+David Maltby - You never told us what model year it was? If you got the one with traction control then you shouldn't worry about braking it wet weather!
Hi,
What is your owners experience with your VFR1200 so far?
Thank you
Thanks Anthony great review. I currently ride a BMW gs1200 but prior to that I have owned 5 Blackbirds which were great bikes but in the end I decided I didn't need that much power. First mistake then.I also found the BB a bit too sporty bar wise so I fitted vfr bars .Given that how does the riding position compare to the BB. As you mentioned this bike got slated by many journos when it came out and this must have affected sales as it certainly put me off of buying one. Its interesting now though as just like your video there are others on here more or less saying the same as you that its a good bike. Not so sure I could feel comfortable riding the clutch less one though.Just suggested trading mine in for a second hand one but apparently we need a new kitchen first. Don't you just love them ! Thanks again and enjoy your riding. I willlook at your other vids now.
The riding position l would say is very much sport bias.Having owned a 2003 injection Black Bird prior to the VFR, that to was a superb sports tourer ;probably like many people were put off by the media response.
But having took one for a test drive was immediatly impressed by its braking and handling .Yes top end on the
BB is a few miles an hour more but the VFR will get there quicker and stop quicker.
30,000 miles now and running faultless, will almost certainly buy another new one unless somebody comes up with a better all rounder.
How nice to get a review that actually makes sense, isn't full of self promoting bullshit, and tells it how it is. Thank you.
Your spot on, I agree with everything you’ve said, I have a 2016 Vfr1200f and it’s everything you said it is.
I’ve had it for a about 5 months, I got it with only 4000 miles on the club
It’s unreal to ride, I love it
Still have it nearly 50,000 just done a trip to South of France clocked up nearly 3,000 miles still runs like new.
Yeah your right you don't need buttons to control the bike as it's got gears leaves and throttle just got to use the right.
That Wendron road can sneak up on you -almost caught me out a couple of times.
Bought my blue 2012 and took it on a trip. I don’t think it’s great at touring. It works, but it makes a much better sports bike. All in all, it is what I was looking for and do love the bike.
Well said and thank you. Delighted to have a 2012 candy blue. Also get that objection noise to low rpm with low throttle and as you said, drop down a gear or give it a big more juice. Think I'll live with it as opposed to getting a soft tune (stabstef or similar) which i read gives a much smoother power delivery and performance at low rpm.
What do you think?
Great review. Vfr750 rider.
excellent review 👍
Fantastic bike. I have one since 2011 and cannot sell it because I don’t find anything better. Everybody says : go for a GS pe similar but mine is soooo much besutiful powerful and cheap to maintain ! Also as you say , gas tank has never been an issue. You need to stop anyway after 250 km , don’t you ? Geat video ! Thanks a lot
Yes my 2012 model clatter and clunks a bit on light load, low revs, even with power commander fitted(previous owner). However I forgive it as its such a fantastic bike otherwise.
I don't mind some rider aids. I don't dodge dirt roads no matter what bike I'm on. I've often lived on gravel roads and at times had longer gravel driveways. I do like the new 800 Tiger's dirt ABS setting front on and back off. I ride to work below 0 deg 3 or 4 months a year, I love ABS for kangaroo infested damp cold and icy roads. I remember when my wife and I where first married we rented a farm house with a 600 meter clay drive that was like riding on greased glass in the wet. Fun on my then new 1980 XS750 triple.
Had a 2010 mine had that clonking through the final drive you described .
Honda dealer said no fault found had a power commander fitted and dyno work done that smoothed it out somewhat .
Later transpired that honda did a recall on all 2010 2011 models for shaft failure only after cases of riders either in the usa or australia being thrown from bike when transmission locked up after failure.
If any one is watching this ensure the recall work has been undertook if thinking of buying one other than that loved mine .
Oh shit... will investigate!!
Great honest review, thank you, it's helped me make my decision about buying a VFR. Can I just ask about the seat you mentioned, it sounds like you said "Melroy" seat but I can't find anything with that name on the web. It must be an awesome seat if you've done 1400 miles in a day on it (I struggle to do more than 250 miles on my bike before the seat kills.....) where did you get it from please? Was it CM seats Leicester? Thanks.
I found the seat on the Jaws Web site for the Honda Blackbirds .They don't sell them but recommended them and had the site address on theiri site.
Good review
you should start your youtube channel. you speak truth with out trying to be clever a**. good man thanks
I think you just convinced me to buy one - Nice
Still have mine. Like all bikers just haven't had the ride time looks like it will GB riding only this year. Just over 40,000 miles now still goes and looks like new, will post another review shortly.
I would like to see some more graphics for large surface area of fairings and maybe an underslung exhaust kit like the the 800 ?
That's just personal opinion.
Thanks Anthony, nice review.
Will you also be doing a review about how fiddly and unresponsive those pesky camera buttons are on your handlebar remote? ;-)
+manwithnoname65 Over the time i have tried several places,but have settled for the handle bar mounted position as being the best.It holds two remotes at any one time and is easy to use.In the video spot the idiot mistake when i went to switch off, pressed the wrong bloody button.If you want to know how i made it i could send you some pictures.Cheers Anthony.
Brilliant ☘️
In my opinion ALL problems should be addressed to retailer and they should ensure that they have a satisfied customer. It is all too easy for the dealer to say, "You'll have to contact Honda". As for the statement regarding poor paintwork, "We've never had that problem before" simply is not true. My son had exactly the same problem on his new VFR1200. This was his second NEW VFR1200 as the dealer replaced the first one due to a series of problems, which, after 3 months, they could not cure. Honda seem to have acquired a reputation for not backing the retailers in dealing with problems so that they can provide a good after sales service. My local dealer admitted that Honda can be difficult!
Shaft is not keeping up with the wheel at 2.3k to 2.5k so it gives you a huge backlash, resulting in clunking like something is whacking your engine. Then above 5k rpm it gives you vibrations so storng like a bike is trying to throw you off. Despite these, when you accept the short commings, this bike is owesome and I've got for myself a 2016 model. Asside from it - you wont know about it since you have a custom seat - OEM seat eats your back side so hard that you need to stop every 100 miles or so. Otherwise you will be numb for days. What i agree with you is the weigth distribution - its quite low which makes cornering, leaning or even slow speed just a breeze.
Good video, thanks.
Can i ask which action camera you use? Good quality.....works well with external Mic
+keith johnson Hi Keith.i think that video was taken on a GoPro 3+. the reason i say i think is because i have two GoPro's a 3 and 3+.Also have one of those cheap Chinese sports cam £39 including remote which i use as a road cam,It takes excellent video's and just goes to prove what a rip off the GOPro is.Yes the GoPro has more features
but is not worth the nearly ten times the price.The video would have been taken at 960 @ 60 frames per second.
Hope thats help full for you,Cheers Anthony Hoskin.
Just got 2013 model had vfrs over the last 25 years traded my 2015 model 800 in for one its only done 7000 miles not done many miles due to weather but what miles i have done it i have liked it very much like the 800 but with more grunt.
Great review! shame the bike kept being compared with the Blackbird. I have owned both and were perfect but completely different.
I agree with the final drive assessment being Notchy but dropping a gear with higher revs resolved. I have also noticed the problem of shell and stone off the road (especially in rain) landing on the tank, then settling by your legs on the tank and wearing the paint quite badly.
I have never had the issue (as bad) on any other bike. I have now completed 30,000 miles and it is as good as the day i brought it. if your thinking of buying a cheap sports tourer (2nd hand) try one out, i think youll be surprised.
“when i said being compared to the Blackbird, I meant in general not the reviewer”
Good review but I must say the fuel tank size issue is what kept me from buying one here in Australia, Damn shame that!
Hi Nice honest review. We tested the VFR back in 2012 back to back with an FJR1300 which also has been a great all rounder with a thumping engine. I do feel looking back that the Honda felt a bit more connected, and steered a little better. The price at the time for the FJR including cruise control luggage heated grips adjustable electric screen was a no brainer.
Am looking to perhaps change and noticed the VFR pricing now is good with 0% finance. Am tempted to revisit! Loved my pre VTEC 800 that had 80k and still pulling strong when i had my arm twisted to sell it.
I have been running my 1200 for the last two years and other than gas and switching Michelin tires its been cost free. I ride with a lot of different iron and no one can run away from the little Blue bike. Owned a lot of bikes, this is by far head and shoulders above all of my other iron.
I really think Honda Marketing dropped the ball on this one. The bright spot is for what you can buy these for today there is nothing in their price range that comes close to it.
Its called a . "Sports Tourer" in Australia
Very nice
Hi
Great review. Do you still have it, and if so did you have any other problems with it.
Still have it 43000 miles and has never missed a beat.
Hi Anthony. Good review. I've had my VFR1200 for 6 years now, and love it. Wanted to ask you: what's that contraption on the left of your handlebars? Is it a fitment for a satnav? Having juts come back from Germany touring and having to stop every five minutes to look at Google maps on my phone, I want to get a satnav, but one that will work with a bagster tankbag and still allow the clocks to be visible. Any ideas?
Also, I've noticed the two trips on the odometer only display three digits - i.e. if you do more than a thousand miles on one trip, it doesn't count them.....am I right or have I missed something?
Ta
GigaBiker The bracket on the handle bar is for two Gopro remotes.
I think you might be missing a trick with the trip unless the early models only had thtee digits.
Thirty five thousand miles now and still running like a dream.
GigaBiker As for the sat nav when touring i use a Tomtom 450 mounted on the headstock with a tall mount,i also use a Honda tank bag,had a bagglux bag mounted on a Givi tank mount.
OK thanks...would need a very tall Tom Tom mount to clear my bagster tankbag but will look into it. Re: the trip, and consulting other Honda owners e.g. Pan Europan owners, I’m told it’s a standard feature that the trips zero back to nought after 999 miles! Can you believe it? Crazy, but then, Honda do have some weird quirks like making a sports tourer with no 12V socket or a centre stand or any other frills. Still a great bike though.
BTW would you recommend the Akropovic exhaust? Is it any gruntier than stock?
GigaBiker Just been and checked my trip meter and it is registering over 6000.
love the rant about pushing buttons lol ..... but your right if i had driver mode i think it would be left in full and forgotten about... i have to say tho i cant see that bike keeping up with a well ridden sports bike on a tight country lane
strud34 Fortunately or unfortunately tight country lanes are what i have been brought up on in Cornwall,but i will agree with you two riders like for like the sports bike would be easier ride.But having owned both the Blackbird and the Fireblade at the same time for five years,it would definitely loose the Blackbird, but would loose to the Blade purely on handling,as performance is similar.In top speed it would be the Blackbird,but as have never managed to find roads clear and safe enough to find it's top end .Did how ever travel the whole length of Germany on the VFR coming home from Austria at a steady 200 kph. on the Autoban,Have pushed the VFR to an indicated 172 mph on the Nurburghring which is probably a good 165 mph.
Thanks for the review, love that blue color.
Could you point out the main differences between the 1200f and the blackbird? Who should prefer the bird in your opinion? Thanks
Two totally differant bikes.
Top speed Blackbird wins.
Acceleration VFR WINS.
Handling VFR wins.
Brakes VFR wins..
Both have superb engines.
Drive train VFR WINS SUPERD Shaftdrive.
Tank range Blackbird wins.
VFR does suffer from low fuelling causing some minor hesitation when not under power,easily cured by fitting power command or similar remapping.
Comfort not a lot in it, but the low center of mass on the VFR makes it handle better at low speed.
42,000 miles and nearly 9 years on the
Finish on the Vfr is superb and is running better than new.
Value for money the Vfr wins, in time the Vfr will become the same classic that the Blackbird is and deserves.
@@storm5357 From the specs I saw, the balckbird is ~40kg lighter and has a chain, I'd think it would be the better handling bike :) So interesting how they managed it!
How about smoothness? which has less vibrations / rpms at say 85mph?
Thanks again!
@@ohreally1021 Yes the Vfr is heavier but the weight is set lower, when I originally test drove the Vfr couldn't believe it was heavier. As for smoothness and vibration
There is virtually none.
As for the sound,with the factory end can
Don't rate it ,I had the Akrapovic can fitted when new and with baffles out it does sound better but I wouldn't say that you can't be the sound of a screaming V4. But that's just a personal taste..
Love the video and the color of the bike - I have a 2012 VFR 1200! I also posted a review (after 36,000 miles). I would love your feedback.
pretty good review. I have an FJR and several sport bikes and some Harleys. Its a large sport bike ... but in general the FJR will out perform it. Aerodynamically the VFR starts to break down at 160 mph. My personal top speed is 161 mph at limiter. The FJR is just slightly faster. The VFR wins a 1/4 mile by just 1/2 a bike link. And no matter what the VFR feels like you won't shake and FJR in the twisty. And there is no way you can keep up with an BMW RR. Personally if you can only get one bike I'd recommend an FJR.. I seldom ride my VFR anymore, it's good at most everything but great at nothing.
Hi David thank you for your comments. As I've said in previous comments did not set out to do a review. don't know what year your Vfr is but I ride and tour with a friend with a fjr1300 and I agree it's an excellent bike but it will has an excellent tank range and good luggage capacity, but will not live with Vfr for performance and top speed.On the twists it's a no contests to the Vfr. The only mods to mine is the Akrapovic fitted from new,power command 5 and K&N.
There was a drive shaft recall on some models. Did u replace the drive shaft? What year is your bike?
dry509 Mine is a 2012 model and the drives haft was replaced by Honda.
did you say mpg was 50? 50 miles per gallon?
Any updates?
Is the button on the fairing - left of the tank, full traction control or is it one that just lowers the torque like the crossrunner has.
Neal Brown it's to turn off traction control.
Hi Anthony. Like previous comments I enjoyed your review and am collecting a VFR1200 in a fortnights time. You mention a Melroy seat but I can find no information about them. Do you have any details please
+Pete Durrant Hi Pete you will find the seats available from MotorBike seats.co.uk on 02476665203. You can find them on the Jaws Blackbird site under the seats section.Will be testing the seat out again as will be heading off to to tour around Europe again in July.All the best Anthony.
Enjoyed your review a lot. Ride the bike instead of pushing buttons😂😂👍🏾
You mentioned touring with a ZZR1200. How would you compare the comfort of the ZED with the VFR1200? Asking because I have a ZZR1200 and love it, but am considering buying one of these. Thanks.
Hi
Did you ever get the vfr1200?. I have just sold my zzr1200 and also looking to get the vfr1200.
@@Willsey I didn't. Found a killer deal on a BMW K1300s and am loving it so far.
Bet you wish you'd kept your Blackbird now! I'm on my second Bird, first was a carb, had to sell it to finance some building work, current one is a 2001 injected, both brilliant bikes.
No way.The Blackbird was and still is a good bike,there is a but.with a better weight balance,absolutely superb brakes ( linked like the Bird which iam not a great lover of)Traction control,an engine that pulls like a bloody train if you twist the old right hand,superb shaft drive,a double layered fairing which if touring in hot weather does keep the heat away,
Yes top speed the Bird has a faster top end but having had an immaculate
Injection Bird it's not as quick as the VFR and having had the Bird for over two years never did use the top end.
The VFR has now clocked 39,000 miles and is running like a dream.
So to answer your question no way love it.
Modifications: Akrapovic
K&N
Power Command
I have to agree with Anthony i had a bird for years and loved it but the vfr feels better to me hard to pin down why it just does although i think the bird had a bit better finish to it.
good honest review, bike is sound why the hell dealers always have to be akward... sorry to hear about your battles, should be smooth when you spend that amount of squids
I got the manual model, I would have liked to get the DCT but none were available in red.
+David Maltby Hi David, why were there no DCT versions available in red? Have you but a used/nearly new bike (so no red + DCT in stock)?
Just got myself a 2015 model, this being my first 1200F. Have had many 800's (still have a 2001 Fi1) but disappointingly have quite a bit of engine vibration at 4-5k rpm. Same when static or moving. Local Honda dealer says it's normal vibeyness (checked under warranty). Hoping someone might read this and offer possible clues... ?
Having now completed just over 37,000 miles and still running faultless i find your comment about vibration a little unusual .
Having met quite a few vfr1200 owners thats the first time i have heard any one complain of vibrations.
I would say, that some times unless you check the gear your in it will rev so freely and red line without any fuss or vibration.
After riding mine for over 5 years now i would have to disagree with the local dealer when they said that's normal it's not,with my experience with bike dealers once you have been sold the bike the after sales service generally leaves a lot to be desired.
Is this vibration through the whole bike or just through the bars.
Honda is the ultimate the best and the most long lasting and durable bike ever . I dare u compare to other bike such as kawasaki , yamaha even bmw and i bet all other bike part especially on engine part will broken down after 3years . But not for honda . It will reliable even after 30years of using it .
You sound like a pain in the a7se customer - for which I salute you - why do they make you have to do that rather doing the right thing from the start?! First MPG figure for this bike that I would trust so thank you. My 800vtec used to give me 42 to 45 commuting and touring so I'd be pleased with 51. Will be buying one as soon as we are allowed to visit dealers again.
Still have it,as with every one else this year not done a lot of miles,42000 miles on the clock now still looks like new and goes even better
What I have noticed that with the power command fitted the long journey fuel average is still excellent, but short tripping is not quite as good; probably due to the fact that the command .unit is fuelling more at low revs to over come low fuelling issues. A very small price to pay for a turbine smooth motor.
.
it is a luxury sports bike
Great Review. Thank you.
How is two up riding any experience there?
+E.S. BiH Yes, probably about 15,000 of those miles where two up and it goes and handles without any problems at all.Now just completed just over twenty five thousand miles and will be doing another quick review.
+anthony hoskin Good to know. Thank you. I will subscribe so I know when you review comes out.
I have a 2010 VFR 1200 (with only 7800 miles) and I really like the bike. I was thinking about selling it and getting an FJR 1300 or Consours 1400 for two up riding, but now after you said that I may keep it :). I probably will just get another seat with the back rest.
Thank you
It is very unfortunate that this happens when it is your first time with any make I think we all have horror stories we can tell,I also had a BMW k75s what a marvellous little bike,they used to suffer from stripped drvershaft splines ,my mate sold his K1300s another great bike but the build quality was horrendous. All that really matters is that your happy with what you've got be it a AJS,BMW or HONDA.Just ride.
One question!!! Did you upgrade / change when you said you would?
No still have it. 42.000 and still as good as new.
@@storm5357 well done !!!! I had one in red years ago on a 12 plate . I bought a new Goldwing 12 months ago after having a ZZR 1400 but I love the VFR and thinking of getting another .
Very good review!'It's not a sports bike, it's not a tourer, this is wrong that is not ok'What a b#llsh@t! It's a great bike, love it every kilometer!
Is getting the valve clearances checked expensive, compared to other bikes.. maintenance cost?
Don't no what they charge for doing it,did mine at about 30,000 miles can't remember now how long it took but I think it was around four or five hours,even at this mileage they were all in tolerance.
It’s a toss up between a 2015 vfr1200 white and black or a brand new 2021 Kawasaki ninja 1000sx both sports tourers both have great reviews but something about the HONDA that looks timeless
I hope you're right, I just ordered one.
Rob Mitchell
***** If you've got any questions about the VFR you can email me on anthonyhoskin@btinternet.com and i'll give you my number. Happy riding.
Thanks heaps.
oow arghh!
May I ask, what is the mileage like?
When you say the milage I assume you mean to the tank. Really depends on how hard your riding on average I would say it is probably does about 170. But that can rise to near 200. Although it would be great to have a bigger tank the glue is in the model name (sports tourer) and what it doesn't have in tank size it makes up for in being superb all-rounder .
Wonder how much of this model is manufactured in China? Just thinking quality control issues ... Possibly ...
Considering that we have now covered some nearly 28 ,000 miles and just about to probably add another 3,000 travelling around Europe,with the few bits that have gone wrong i would have thought very very little is made in CHINA, although i would say that Hondas customers service is not nearly as good as it has been.Still enjoying this superb all round motor bike.
honda made in china dont make me laugh...
What's the mpg you get
Depending on how I ride but any between 38-50 to the gallon.
Even better start your own TH-cam channel..
its too bad they don't make this bike anymore in North America.
Is this a review or a list of grievances??
If you watch it all you will see it's a review and at 40,000 miles still got it and runs good as new still.
Hi Anthony. I enjoyed your vid. i've had a 1200 for bout 3 months since I lost me vfr800 in a smash and I have to say its absolutely fantastic.
Ive owned a few VFR800s and never thought another bike would steal my heart like my 1200 has. Ill need to post some new vids of it on my channel to share. cheers. +1 sub, check out my vids so far :)