Best review by far,got mine mod 17 coupe of month ago ,just brilliant bike in all ways.much cheaper than a gs to buy,got mine brand new for about 120 000 swedish kronor.what surprises me is that this bike doesnt seem to sell that well.everything breaths quality on this baby.i Aldo have a Harley fxst 01,and a husky 501 mod 19.only my bed is mord comfy than the CT .take care ride hard but safe,greetings from sweden
Thanks for the great videos, i'm a kiwi currently living in France. Back home I have an 1150GS. Will be picking up a 2014 Cross Tourer DCT later this week to run around exploring EU. Super excited to get this bike. Every time I watch a review from the so called motorcycling GURU'S, especially the North Americans, they say this bike is no good off road! I then go watch one of your trips videos. I know I've made the right decision. I'll take Thousands of kms of real world riding over some overpaid journalist riding a freebie for 4hrs. Great job Cheers Lance
Well done mate. I've been enjoying your vids. Got my Crosstourer here in the UK from a mate who has just emigrated to Australia. Looking forward to putting in some miles on her.
I've been looking at theVFR crosstourer for a while and I'm definitely going for a test drive, I really like the way guys say it delivers the power, and that engine.
thanks for a great and informative review. I've been riding cruisers on tarmac forever. Now time to explore some gravel roads. We have some amazing country roads to explore in NZ. All my cruisers have been 300+ kgs, so a crosstourer would feel like a lightweight to me. Have researched quite a few duel purpose bikes, but I think I have found the one I want with the crosstourer. The best of both worlds.
The CT is a great bike, I've just returned from a 3500km trip to the Outback and can say I am more impressed with this bike than ever. It is the best of both worlds. I might even ship mine to NZ for a holiday. ;-)
Thanks Mate. Great real world review. I am very excited about finally getting this bike in the States. Can't wait. My only concern is the seat height. At 5'7" it may prove to be too tall for me. But I have been waiting for this bike with the DCT for so long, that I will get it even if it is too tall. I may have to experiment with lowering links.
Fantastic review... thanks for that. I am awaiting delivery here in Vancouver, BC for my 2016 CT with DCT. Recently sold my 2010 VFR1200F... I have been pining for this moto since it came out in 2012. Cannot wait to take the bike through its paces... Coming to me sometime in April.
+Big Bike Adventures HAHA... yeah, obviously a "rebuilding" scenario... for the foreseeable future... I'm really a Blackhawks fan, having grown up in Chicago... married a Canadian girl... but when in Rome...
+Big Bike Adventures I loved the F... Put Helibars on it to give a more tourer feel in the cockpit... I am only 5'7... am I even going to be able to touch the ground??? ;-)
+Brian, I'm 6.1 and can flat foot the bike so you should be ok. Just need to be careful where you park, if it's tipped over too far it can be heavy to lift off the stand. Van is one of my favourite places in the world. Will be back again soon.
Has the Africa Twin come out in Australia yet? I've been contacted by my local dealer offering me a test ride - it went on sale a few weeks ago. I'll probably take them up on their offer when my CT goes in for its service. Only problem is, I am sure I'm going to want it. Those dealers know what they're doing, don't they!
+Motorbiker Hahaha, yes I'm sure they have a plan. I don't think they will have to try too hard to sell them though. We will start seeing them in our shops in April..
My 2016 VFR1200X was delivered today. Wanted to post a picture with this reply but I guess that is not possible. I have only ridden it around the neighborhood but so far there is only one word to describe this bike...AWESOME!ScottTemecula, CA
Thanks for your review. I'm thinking of upgrading to the 1200. I currently ride a 2014 NC700X DCT. I love the DCT for all around riding, it works great in the technical stuff. I'll keep watching your channel for sure. I live in Phoenix, AZ. but I think your trail rides look great especially in your forests and mountains.
Thanks Scott, we do have some nice places to ride, but I've been to Phoenix and there are some great places across that whole region. If you go off road you will notice a massive difference with the bigger front wheel and the spoked rims on the Crosstourer.. I'm getting pretty brave with the bike now but know where it's limits are. Just stay away from deep sand and mud. 😂😂😂
Just bought a 2012 model from the Gold Coast. 22K on the clock with crash bars and Givi panniers. Will be my work hack up and down the Gateway every day. I've planned a big ride to Kurrumba, across to Cairns then back to Brisbane this year and I reckon this bike will be perfect. Thanks for the info. I'll definitely invest in a sump guard and radiator protector
Rjs House Welcome to the club. You’ll love it even though the M1 is not it’s preferred environ, but the trip North will be awesome. If this is your first shafty, it helps if you preload the gear lever before the shift up. It helps smooth things out a bit. Let me know how you get on..
@@BigBikeAdventures Left in May. 5900KM round trip from Brisbane to Cairns (arse caved in around Mackay), up to Cooktown thru the Daintree (ruts and creeks crossings with a caved in arse on a very heavy, loaded up, tall bike with another 2 inches seat height added via a slab of car seat foam was scary) then thru to Karumba and back to Brisbane thru Western Queensland. 10 days on the road. Ilfracombe to Brisbane in 16 hours during a cold snap without fairing protection was very painful. At least that masked the pain from my now destroyed arse. Plenty of bikes in the shed including 2 tourers, a sports tourer, and a Harley. They're all either faster, more comfortable, seats much lower to the ground, or more economical than the VFR, but none could have taken me up the Daintree goat track or from Mareeba thru the dirt and big cows to Chillagoe. :)
Rjs House sound alike a great ride. I usually run a sheep skin on the seat when doing big trips. They are heavy when loaded but once you’re rolling I don’t seem to notice. They are a great all rounder.
good review it really feels that you are natural and know what you talking about. So many reviews are somehow fixed and seems to be sponsored . Nice bike , I like road version more though Cheers
Great videos matey, keep 'me coming! I've been inspired, so much so that I've just sold my 2005 VFR800 pride and joy in readiness to upgrade to a CT :). Had two questions for you. First was around valve clearance checks at 24,000 km - which you answered nicely around 14 mins into the vid, cheers. Second is WEIGHT. Seems to be the "con" listed against the CT in adventure touring comparisons. Have you found the extra weight a hassle? Based on your off-road video antics, I'd assume not, but bought I'd ask. Thanks.
Tony Edwards Hey mate, it’s a heavy bike, but only when you are manoeuvring around. Once you are rolling it’s a really well balanced bike and able to go some amazing places. I still have my VFR800, I think i always will.
can't wait for mine . just sold 2 junky KTM's , maintenance nightmares . looking forward to some of that annoying Japanese reliability . should get me to Alaska and back no worries .
I love it! A lot of money for me but in 7 or 8 years I will pick up a used one. Until then my R1150gs and my gen 5 VFR will have to do, this bike combines both those into a perfect machine! great video!
Have been watching your vlogs and and following your exploits. Absolutely fantastic. I'm a returning rider and unfortunately had to go through the VIC licensing as my original had lapsed decades ago. So currently riding a GSX650F Lams and probationary to August next year. That's when I'm definitely getting a Crosstourer with DCT. You mentioned the Crosstourer being a great bike for 2-up. Have you had your lady go distance touring with you much and if so did she enjoy it? My wife wants to go touring with me. But I'd like to ensure she can stay comfy over long daily hours in the saddle.
Thanks for watching and commenting. My partner loves the CT. We have ridden a few big bikes including a Goldwing and she was most comfortable on Big Red, but you will need to upgrade the rear suspension as the stock one is not suited to long ranger all roads fully loaded. Here is the link to our 10 day trip to Victoria. th-cam.com/video/_Jbh2IJ4blM/w-d-xo.html
Low RPM torque is definately amazing! But there's also some small issues with it... (I have BMW S1000XR as me second bike so I have something to compare...) I can make the engine dead quite easily. It needs only a wrong gear and a slow down... So if you forget to change the gear the engine will die. This doesn't happen in in-line 4 engine. But as I told... the low rpm is very impressive! It's definately better in the gravelroad and offroad paths than BMW XR.
Great review. I'm watching this in May 2018. I've never heard of the Crossover and I've never seen one on the road. I'm guessing it has the excellent build quality and engineering that all Honda's have.... with that fantastic V4 motor. I went looking on Bike Sales and only a few come up. Relatively cheap (compared with a second hand GS) with low mileages so they could be an interesting alternative for me (currently looking at a GS) so I'm going to go test ride one. I remember the street version of the VFR1200 was a sweet bike... very nice. But here in Oz, it didn't sell. I'm guessing the "X" suffered the same fate? Something I don't really understand considering the quality of Honda product. Meanwhile.... I see BMW GS's everywhere. If that motor is as crap as you say it is then a lot of people fall for the hype and the marketing. Anyway... I'm going to go test ride one of the "X" models and see if I can leave a lot more cash in my pocket (rather than give it to BMW).
astrobusa The Crosstourer is an excellent bike. It has a huge following in Europe but for some reason, like the road going version, it didn’t catch on here That means as second hand bikes they are really cheap. For an all roads two up tourer there is little to compare to that amazing V4 coupled to a shaft drive. Don’t be put off by the static weight of it, once you start rolling you will find it really well balanced and very nimble. The 19” front wheel means it will cope with almost all roads sealed and unsealed. There plenty of forums and Facebook groups for the Crossy and they are great resource. Let me know how you get on?
When the Africa Twin came out,I was ecstatic...Then I found out it was chain driven.That put it down even though I understand why Honda chose to make it that way.Hopefully the Crosstourer will stay on Honda's range despite the newer Africa Twin existing in their lineup. :-)
Hj.Maswady Hj.Amjah disappointingly we can’t buy the CT in Australia anymore, I agree with you that the new 1100cc AT might fill the gap as the all roads big tourer, it’s a pity, because that V4 engine in the CT is wonderful.
Fantastic review! Very informative and better than the professional productions we see on TH-cam. How would you rate this bike to the BMW R1200GS which dominates the market or the KTM 1190 adventure bike which seems to be doing well?
HI Peter, thanks for the comments. It all depends on what you want to do with it and what your budget is. I've just finished a 3500km ride with a 2016 GSA and can say the BWM at twice the price is not twice the bike. On the highway there little difference apart from the Cruise Control on the BWM. Off road, the lack of electronics worked in favour of the Honda and to have access to all the Torque and all the HP all the time made the VFR magic to ride off road. I have a couple of mates with the KTM 1190R and 1290R and both have been back to the dealer a few times each for warranty and repairs on various things. They are a great bike off road, but i wanted a Shaft Drive so didn't even consider them. Im sure on the road the VFR is easily a match. Again 1/2 the price.
Thanks for the video, nice job. Made me smile when you said you were making it for Americans but then rattled off all the numbers in your native units of measure lol us Americans being notorious monoglots struggle with unit conversions as well so it was kind of funny to me, in a good way to be sure. On a serious note, did the radiator guard and bash plate raise the engine temperature very much when operating at slower speeds? Seems like it would restrict air flow and trap heat.
+Joe Strother Hi Joe, I thought I had converted and subtitled the units of measure, but might have missed some. My apologies. The bash plate seems pretty well vented but I have noticed the inside of my right boot is warmer so it might be channeling bit more heat that way. I have not noticed any change in temp with the Rad guard,, but the fans are more active slow riding in the bush, but that's going to be the case with any bike. Weather is starting to cool down for us now so no concerns until next summer. Thanks for your comments.
Hi there. Nice review. I'm looking for a bike to chuck a big lap round Straya next year. Did the Gibb River Road on my DR650 from Perth and was overloaded to heck. Caused me a few probs hitting submerged rocks with a big load spongey suspension and no real clue about dirt riding. I fell off so much my travel companions started calling me princess Anne and my bike the submarine. Anyway top contenders are; in no particular order: Africa twin, Caponord 1200 Rally, Vstrom 1200, Triumph tiger X??, 1200, VFR 1200x, and super Tenere. In Straya as you're aware we have long stretches of highway before the dirt, but we've got lotsa dirt. I'll probably get by with a 19" wheel up fron ,but a 21" would be better off road of course. Shaft drive is nice ,but not a war stopper. I own a VFR too and had an Aprilia Tuono, so love V4s and Twins. I think the Caponord is the best bang for the buck for range and ride, but don't know how they handle the rough stuff. Once again likely to be rubbish with me on board, but that's a limiting factor only I can address. Another limiting factor is my short inseam: 30" on a good day. So my question to you is recommendations with the info supplied. I like all bikes, I even own a Harley low rider s, no probs flat footing that. KTM, BMW, too, but pricey and a bit tall @ 890> too. Any pearls of wisdom would be greatly appreciated.
Benny Fitz it’s a big question. I know a few guys that have done the loop including the Cape on the CT. It certainly is a very capable bike in the right hands. I can only comment on the CT because of my own experience. The other bikes you mention are good as well. The CT will eat endless kilometres with ease. You can pick them up pretty cheap now and with the extra cash you can upgrade the suspension. The subframe is like a gerder so you can load the bike up without problems. They are reliable, comfortable and capable. There’s plenty of video on this channel alone of the trips and places you can take a CT. Let me know what you end up with.
Good video. I've just bought a 2015 DCT, been out on it a couple of times and it's awesome. Myself and the wife are getting a bit old (sorry, fat and stiff!!!) for using my gsxr1000 for touring, thought about a fjr1300 yamaha but went for the slightly different option in the vfr1200x!!! :-) My question is... How accessible are the plugs for servicing? I've heard a couple of guys saying you need to drop the engine out of the frame to get to them. Hopefully not! Thanks.
Joe Reape Hi Joe, congratulations on your buy. They are a great bike for 2 up touring. The plugs are not that hard and would only need to be done every 100k. The back bank are accessible just by lifting the tank but the front bank needs to remove the airbox and (from memory) loosen the radiator. Thats the time to check the valves.
I'd give you my opinion but I'm very biased. 😊 I got the Crosstourer because it was the best at long range 2up touring. That V4 is perfect for the job.
+Big Bike Adventures thanks for the feedback, I dont really have the time to go test all the adventurer bikes in the market atm so your videos really help, realistically i dream of going on long offroad trips but i know 80 - %90 will be highway, which is why im leaning towards the vfr1200x
I really like this bike, but I don't know if we can get them here in the USA. I stopped in at a Honda Motorcycle Dealer last week and it looks like they are showing parallel twins only in the dual sport selections. I've herd the cross tour might have a different name here in the USA. Is it the VFR 1200??
G'day, I was set to buy a GS for the dual purpose, upright sitting pos., and shaft drive aspects, the shaft drive limits the choices in my price range. And then I watched some of your videos and as a result I'm picking up a Red 2012 VFR1200x with 15ks on it tomorrow. My use will probably be 90% tar and 10% dirt road with maybe light trails. One thing I don't like about the GS is the gadgetry which on experience over-time will cost. The GS runs a dry clutch which costs $700 as a part and is a 10 hour install. Can you list the brand and model and if poss the suppliers you've used to buy the bash-plate, radiator guard, bars, and the muffler, it's good to hear what you're riding. I don't watch a lot of you Tube stuff but have found your stuff full of good info, so thanks. Greg.
Greg Dee Hi Greg, thanks for your comments. 2nd hand Crosstourers can be picked up for a bargain, so you probably saved a heap with your decision. You won't be disappointed. The bash plate is a Givi Trekker Fender, Tourtech Bars and I'm using an R&G rad guard now, its better in our summer than the pretty chrome one in this video. I also like the look of the R&G engine casing guards and will look at installing them soon.The pipe is a Delkevic, there's a video in here somewhere about it. Let me know what you think after you pick up the Big Bike?
Picked it up last night, what a ride and smooth power delivery, no vibes to speak of, acceleration is similar to a drag bike, I see why TC is included. Muffler has to go so it can be heard instead of looking at the tacho all the time, as these crashbars link top and bottom so would go for these for impact transfer to eachother www.mmotoracks.com/product/engine-guard-crash-bars-for-honda-vfr1200x-crosstourer and a few other changes. With Honda luggage 3-piece kit and a whole 15ks travelled, rego til Jul 17, I paid around 2k less than an 8 yr old GS with 50+ks travelled. I'm 6ft1" and can't flat-foot when stopped unless I push my feet down hard but the weight is not noticed. Riding BMW K100s and Harleys for the last 30 years it doesn't feel as heavy as those. So to all the reviewers that have rubbished these elsewhere compared to a GS, go and ride a Crosstourer. I look forward to more of the the open road, and a Tassie trip planned for next year from Sydney which was the reason I started looking for a replacement.
There's one sitting in a dealership here in Perth. Having taken one for a test ride, I've been quite tempted to pick it up since it's basically a dream bike for me. However, a lot of my riding is to and from the city for work with some weekend squirts and I wonder if it's a bit big for that. Have you (or anyone else reading this) had any issues using it as a work commuter?
There’s a few guys in Perth who follow this channel. One of them commutes daily and loves it. There’s no reason, I won’t do the daily grind. But take it out on the highway occasionally and give it some open road. 🤗😬
@@BigBikeAdventures Might take a chance on one sometime then. I'm about 6'6" so it does seem tailor made for me. Plus it's the only shaft drive bike I've liked. Tiger 1200 is nice, but gets very hot and I wasn't hugely impressed by the 1200GS.
@@BigBikeAdventures I've ridden both the tourer and a 2016 Crossrunner and both are very nice bikes. The 800 may be a bit more suited for my needs, but I'm looking up parts for making it suited for long distance touring for my size, which the tourer is already set to do. At any rate, doesn't seem like you ca go wrong with a Honda V4.
Roast Goose both of those V4’s while different are excellent engines. The platforms are also different in few ways, the Crosstourer is much more off road ready with 19” front wheel and spoked, while the 800 has 17” alloy wheels. But you are correct, both excellent bikes. The 800 sounds better IMO. 👍
From Athens Greece hi nice video , like the VFR X 1200 price here is 16000 euro dont have but for 2014 model 9-9,5.000 euro 8000 km like new .By many safe km.far not fast.Chris Costopoulos.
The bag on the bike while stationary is a MotoDry and the big bag when I'm riding is an Oxford Sport. I'm not sure they make them anymore. Its pretty old.
Yeah, for sure. I've been to Yosemite and Red Wood forests up NorCal way, Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, but these links you're showing me is the kind of stuff I'm really keen on doing.
Indeed. I'm intimately familiar with Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. I grew up in SoCal and was all over the Sierras in my youth. So I am going to cover a fair bit of southern-central Colorado Rockies on this trip as well as getting my AirBnB experience up and running. I love the old, small western towns as well as the the general mountain topography. Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Glacier NP are truly incomparable. For pure riding the Alps are right up there. But the National Parks just take it to a whole new level. Do you use the editing software that comes with your preferred camera or do you use something else? I think for this trip I'll just take what I can on my smartphone and leave it at that for now.
Nick, I use Final Cut Pro X on my Mac for all my editing. I use the Drift Ghost S as my cameras, It's a lot of work but it's more of a hobby for me. It sounds like a great trip and I'm trying to think of ways to join you. ;-)
Two bikes designed to do the same sort of thing, both do it a little differently. The Honda V4 is a specially bit of kit. The Crosstourer is not loaded down with technology and Honda have gone with simplistic reliability. As for where you can take it, check out some of my other videos.
Big Bike Adventures I see even the NC750X has a LED headlight, wonder why Honda didn't fit one to the CrossTourer when they updated it at the end of last year.
Pablo IA there is a waterproof cover on the back of the headlight, the LED I used had a large heat sync on the back and would not fit inside the waterproof cover. I haven’t tried a smaller one yet.
Drop me a note Steve. scott.roney@verizon.net I just made reservations at the Hotel St. Nicholas in Cripple Creek, Colorado. This will allow me to ride to the top of Pikes Peak, visit Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and explore the area a bit. I also made reservations at the Hotel Ouray, Ouray CO. That is a stunning locale. Last leg is an AirBnB log home in Idaho Springs, CO which puts me near to Rocky Mountain National Park, some interesting ski towns and the climax which is the run up to Evans Peak on the scenic byway and highest road in North America. 😆😎💪✌👊🤘
good marketing but this is not an offroad motorcycle. now even close. Perfect for road touring here is my honest review: th-cam.com/video/Q1a7wnQTHvE/w-d-xo.html
Hi I just got 2016 the DCT and I love the VFR thanks for the great video cheers
Osman Geci congratulations mate. Enjoy that wonderful V4 👌🏻👍
One of the best all-round bikes I've ridden.
Best review by far,got mine mod 17 coupe of month ago ,just brilliant bike in all ways.much cheaper than a gs to buy,got mine brand new for about 120 000 swedish kronor.what surprises me is that this bike doesnt seem to sell that well.everything breaths quality on this baby.i Aldo have a Harley fxst 01,and a husky 501 mod 19.only my bed is mord comfy than the CT .take care ride hard but safe,greetings from sweden
Mange sven Hi Sven, it surprises me also that they didn’t sell more. That V4 is one of Honda’s best engines, I still ride mine all the time.
I've watched A lot of VFR X vids, and yours is BY FAR the best !!
Thanks from NEW Jersey 😊
👍👍
Skip Price kind words. Thanks Mate. 🙏
I love mine! The V4 engine is so sweet...
Reliability .... and comfort, that's honda for ya
Thanks for the great videos, i'm a kiwi currently living in France. Back home I have an 1150GS. Will be picking up a 2014 Cross Tourer DCT later this week to run around exploring EU. Super excited to get this bike. Every time I watch a review from the so called motorcycling GURU'S, especially the North Americans, they say this bike is no good off road!
I then go watch one of your trips videos. I know I've made the right decision.
I'll take Thousands of kms of real world riding over some overpaid journalist riding a freebie for 4hrs.
Great job
Cheers
Lance
Well done mate. I've been enjoying your vids. Got my Crosstourer here in the UK from a mate who has just emigrated to Australia. Looking forward to putting in some miles on her.
+Graham Hawkins They are a great bike, hope you enjoy yours when the weather warms up for you.
I've been looking at theVFR crosstourer for a while and I'm definitely going for a test drive, I really like the way guys say it delivers the power, and that engine.
I've just spent a week on Rental R1200GS and i can tell you the engine in the BMW is not a patch on this V4. I makes the bike.
thanks for a great and informative review. I've been riding cruisers on tarmac forever. Now time to explore some gravel roads. We have some amazing country roads to explore in NZ. All my cruisers have been 300+ kgs, so a crosstourer would feel like a lightweight to me. Have researched quite a few duel purpose bikes, but I think I have found the one I want with the crosstourer. The best of both worlds.
The CT is a great bike, I've just returned from a 3500km trip to the Outback and can say I am more impressed with this bike than ever. It is the best of both worlds. I might even ship mine to NZ for a holiday. ;-)
Thanks for the quick response!! They didn't have them at the store I was at. I'll call around to some other stores in the area.
Good luck. 👍👍 they are a great machine.
Thanks Mate. Great real world review. I am very excited about finally getting this bike in the States. Can't wait. My only concern is the seat height. At 5'7" it may prove to be too tall for me. But I have been waiting for this bike with the DCT for so long, that I will get it even if it is too tall. I may have to experiment with lowering links.
+Dave Kermani Don't worry, I am same height as you, get the lower seat on it, you will be fine.
Fantastic review... thanks for that. I am awaiting delivery here in Vancouver, BC for my 2016 CT with DCT. Recently sold my 2010 VFR1200F... I have been pining for this moto since it came out in 2012. Cannot wait to take the bike through its paces... Coming to me sometime in April.
+Brian awesome mate, let me know what you think of it compared to the 1200F.
PS what's happened to the Canucks this year?
+Big Bike Adventures HAHA... yeah, obviously a "rebuilding" scenario... for the foreseeable future... I'm really a Blackhawks fan, having grown up in Chicago... married a Canadian girl... but when in Rome...
+Big Bike Adventures I loved the F... Put Helibars on it to give a more tourer feel in the cockpit... I am only 5'7... am I even going to be able to touch the ground??? ;-)
+Brian, I'm 6.1 and can flat foot the bike so you should be ok. Just need to be careful where you park, if it's tipped over too far it can be heavy to lift off the stand.
Van is one of my favourite places in the world. Will be back again soon.
Nice review. I've had the DCT model for a few months now. Really good fun to ride.
+Motorbiker Thanks mate. I think the DCT would be a much better match for this bike. Not so sure on the Africa Twin though.
Has the Africa Twin come out in Australia yet? I've been contacted by my local dealer offering me a test ride - it went on sale a few weeks ago. I'll probably take them up on their offer when my CT goes in for its service. Only problem is, I am sure I'm going to want it. Those dealers know what they're doing, don't they!
+Motorbiker Hahaha, yes I'm sure they have a plan. I don't think they will have to try too hard to sell them though. We will start seeing them in our shops in April..
Had my DCT 2 years now, love it!
I think my next one will be a DCT.
My 2016 VFR1200X was delivered today. Wanted to post a picture with this reply but I guess that is not possible. I have only ridden it around the neighborhood but so far there is only one word to describe this bike...AWESOME!ScottTemecula, CA
Congratulations Nick, I wish you many years of safe and enjoyable riding. And yes they are AWESOME.
Just added this leg to my upcoming Colorado Rockies trip. www.colorado.com/articles/colorado-scenic-byway-mount-evans
+Nick Raphael what amazing country. I follow a couple on Insta (2uptogether) who spend their time doing all the high passes in Colorado. So jealous.
Thanks for the review Im here in the states waiting for a bike like this it looks amazing and I like that it's a Honda
Thanks mate, let me know what you think when you get it.
Thanks for your review. I'm thinking of upgrading to the 1200. I currently ride a 2014 NC700X DCT. I love the DCT for all around riding, it works great in the technical stuff. I'll keep watching your channel for sure. I live in Phoenix, AZ. but I think your trail rides look great especially in your forests and mountains.
Thanks Scott, we do have some nice places to ride, but I've been to Phoenix and there are some great places across that whole region. If you go off road you will notice a massive difference with the bigger front wheel and the spoked rims on the Crosstourer.. I'm getting pretty brave with the bike now but know where it's limits are. Just stay away from deep sand and mud. 😂😂😂
Thanks.
I appreciate your turn of phrase, Keep it up, Top video.
Thanks mate.
The the bike looks solid, awesome review 5star
Thank you
Thanks MrBertybee, I appreciate the comment.
Very informative video just purchased the cross tour 1200 X not actually used it as such off-road all round seems to be working fine
Just bought a 2012 model from the Gold Coast. 22K on the clock with crash bars and Givi panniers. Will be my work hack up and down the Gateway every day. I've planned a big ride to Kurrumba, across to Cairns then back to Brisbane this year and I reckon this bike will be perfect. Thanks for the info. I'll definitely invest in a sump guard and radiator protector
Rjs House Welcome to the club. You’ll love it even though the M1 is not it’s preferred environ, but the trip North will be awesome. If this is your first shafty, it helps if you preload the gear lever before the shift up. It helps smooth things out a bit. Let me know how you get on..
@@BigBikeAdventures Left in May. 5900KM round trip from Brisbane to Cairns (arse caved in around Mackay), up to Cooktown thru the Daintree (ruts and creeks crossings with a caved in arse on a very heavy, loaded up, tall bike with another 2 inches seat height added via a slab of car seat foam was scary) then thru to Karumba and back to Brisbane thru Western Queensland. 10 days on the road. Ilfracombe to Brisbane in 16 hours during a cold snap without fairing protection was very painful. At least that masked the pain from my now destroyed arse. Plenty of bikes in the shed including 2 tourers, a sports tourer, and a Harley. They're all either faster, more comfortable, seats much lower to the ground, or more economical than the VFR, but none could have taken me up the Daintree goat track or from Mareeba thru the dirt and big cows to Chillagoe. :)
Rjs House sound alike a great ride.
I usually run a sheep skin on the seat when doing big trips.
They are heavy when loaded but once you’re rolling I don’t seem to notice.
They are a great all rounder.
Excellent review! Congratulations from Spain!
good review
it really feels that you are natural and know what you talking about. So many reviews are somehow fixed and seems to be sponsored .
Nice bike , I like road version more though
Cheers
hussar80 thanks mate. I really like the road version as well, we just have so many dirt roads in Australia.
Thanks for the vid. Looking forward to buying one here in the states this spring!
My pleasure. Let me know what you think after you get it.
Great videos matey, keep 'me coming! I've been inspired, so much so that I've just sold my 2005 VFR800 pride and joy in readiness to upgrade to a CT :). Had two questions for you.
First was around valve clearance checks at 24,000 km - which you answered nicely around 14 mins into the vid, cheers.
Second is WEIGHT. Seems to be the "con" listed against the CT in adventure touring comparisons. Have you found the extra weight a hassle? Based on your off-road video antics, I'd assume not, but bought I'd ask. Thanks.
Tony Edwards Hey mate, it’s a heavy bike, but only when you are manoeuvring around. Once you are rolling it’s a really well balanced bike and able to go some amazing places.
I still have my VFR800, I think i always will.
can't wait for mine . just sold 2 junky KTM's , maintenance nightmares . looking forward to some of that annoying Japanese reliability . should get me to Alaska and back no worries .
+wombatmountain1000 Well done mate, I'll look forward to some pictures from the Deep North...
+Big Bike Adventures my only concern is how much California emissions crap i will have to remove before it runs right .
Eeek, let me know.
thanks for the awesome review
Thanks mate.
I love it! A lot of money for me but in 7 or 8 years I will pick up a used one. Until then my R1150gs and my gen 5 VFR will have to do, this bike combines both those into a perfect machine! great video!
JUSTIN D thanks mate, they are already appearing on the 2nd hand market at low prices. The motor will still be strong in 10 years.
Our baby.
Excelent Vid Big Bike.
Thanks Igor.
Flying in Scotland! Went from Portugal to John O´Groats. Loved it! :D
Awesome mate.
Have been watching your vlogs and and following your exploits. Absolutely fantastic.
I'm a returning rider and unfortunately had to go through the VIC licensing as my original had lapsed decades ago. So currently riding a GSX650F Lams and probationary to August next year. That's when I'm definitely getting a Crosstourer with DCT.
You mentioned the Crosstourer being a great bike for 2-up. Have you had your lady go distance touring with you much and if so did she enjoy it?
My wife wants to go touring with me. But I'd like to ensure she can stay comfy over long daily hours in the saddle.
Thanks for watching and commenting. My partner loves the CT. We have ridden a few big bikes including a Goldwing and she was most comfortable on Big Red, but you will need to upgrade the rear suspension as the stock one is not suited to long ranger all roads fully loaded. Here is the link to our 10 day trip to Victoria. th-cam.com/video/_Jbh2IJ4blM/w-d-xo.html
Low RPM torque is definately amazing! But there's also some small issues with it... (I have BMW S1000XR as me second bike so I have something to compare...)
I can make the engine dead quite easily. It needs only a wrong gear and a slow down... So if you forget to change the gear the engine will die. This doesn't happen in in-line 4 engine.
But as I told... the low rpm is very impressive! It's definately better in the gravelroad and offroad paths than BMW XR.
Hi Mika, yes the rev limiter comes up very quickly at times, another reason the DCT might be a better option for this model.
Great review.. Love your videos
mate, good honest Aussie opinion... Love it
Beautiful.
Great review. I'm watching this in May 2018. I've never heard of the Crossover and I've never seen one on the road. I'm guessing it has the excellent build quality and engineering that all Honda's have.... with that fantastic V4 motor. I went looking on Bike Sales and only a few come up. Relatively cheap (compared with a second hand GS) with low mileages so they could be an interesting alternative for me (currently looking at a GS) so I'm going to go test ride one. I remember the street version of the VFR1200 was a sweet bike... very nice. But here in Oz, it didn't sell. I'm guessing the "X" suffered the same fate? Something I don't really understand considering the quality of Honda product. Meanwhile.... I see BMW GS's everywhere. If that motor is as crap as you say it is then a lot of people fall for the hype and the marketing. Anyway... I'm going to go test ride one of the "X" models and see if I can leave a lot more cash in my pocket (rather than give it to BMW).
astrobusa The Crosstourer is an excellent bike. It has a huge following in Europe but for some reason, like the road going version, it didn’t catch on here That means as second hand bikes they are really cheap.
For an all roads two up tourer there is little to compare to that amazing V4 coupled to a shaft drive.
Don’t be put off by the static weight of it, once you start rolling you will find it really well balanced and very nimble.
The 19” front wheel means it will cope with almost all roads sealed and unsealed.
There plenty of forums and Facebook groups for the Crossy and they are great resource.
Let me know how you get on?
Will do !
hey did you get the test ride? what do u think?
sduru Yes, but it took me a while. I was impressed. It's certainly still on the list.
Superb review, thank you.
Fine review. Great editing. Many thanks
Thanks Joe, I appreciate the comments.
Great review thankyou, think I will be trading my Varadero in very soon now, 👍
Neil Toplis the Varadero are a great bike, the CT will be a nice upgrade.
When the Africa Twin came out,I was ecstatic...Then I found out it was chain driven.That put it down even though I understand why Honda chose to make it that way.Hopefully the Crosstourer will stay on Honda's range despite the newer Africa Twin existing in their lineup. :-)
Hj.Maswady Hj.Amjah disappointingly we can’t buy the CT in Australia anymore, I agree with you that the new 1100cc AT might fill the gap as the all roads big tourer, it’s a pity, because that V4 engine in the CT is wonderful.
Fantastic review! Very informative and better than the professional productions we see on TH-cam.
How would you rate this bike to the BMW R1200GS which dominates the market or the KTM 1190 adventure bike which seems to be doing well?
HI Peter, thanks for the comments. It all depends on what you want to do with it and what your budget is. I've just finished a 3500km ride with a 2016 GSA and can say the BWM at twice the price is not twice the bike. On the highway there little difference apart from the Cruise Control on the BWM. Off road, the lack of electronics worked in favour of the Honda and to have access to all the Torque and all the HP all the time made the VFR magic to ride off road.
I have a couple of mates with the KTM 1190R and 1290R and both have been back to the dealer a few times each for warranty and repairs on various things. They are a great bike off road, but i wanted a Shaft Drive so didn't even consider them. Im sure on the road the VFR is easily a match. Again 1/2 the price.
Thanks for the video, nice job. Made me smile when you said you were making it for Americans but then rattled off all the numbers in your native units of measure lol us Americans being notorious monoglots struggle with unit conversions as well so it was kind of funny to me, in a good way to be sure. On a serious note, did the radiator guard and bash plate raise the engine temperature very much when operating at slower speeds? Seems like it would restrict air flow and trap heat.
+Joe Strother Hi Joe, I thought I had converted and subtitled the units of measure, but might have missed some. My apologies. The bash plate seems pretty well vented but I have noticed the inside of my right boot is warmer so it might be channeling bit more heat that way. I have not noticed any change in temp with the Rad guard,, but the fans are more active slow riding in the bush, but that's going to be the case with any bike. Weather is starting to cool down for us now so no concerns until next summer. Thanks for your comments.
Nice ride. thinking of one of these bad boys as commuter.
What helmet you got? looks good...
Hi there. Nice review. I'm looking for a bike to chuck a big lap round Straya next year. Did the Gibb River Road on my DR650 from Perth and was overloaded to heck. Caused me a few probs hitting submerged rocks with a big load spongey suspension and no real clue about dirt riding. I fell off so much my travel companions started calling me princess Anne and my bike the submarine.
Anyway top contenders are; in no particular order: Africa twin, Caponord 1200 Rally, Vstrom 1200, Triumph tiger X??, 1200, VFR 1200x, and super Tenere. In Straya as you're aware we have long stretches of highway before the dirt, but we've got lotsa dirt.
I'll probably get by with a 19" wheel up fron ,but a 21" would be better off road of course. Shaft drive is nice ,but not a war stopper. I own a VFR too and had an Aprilia Tuono, so love V4s and Twins. I think the Caponord is the best bang for the buck for range and ride, but don't know how they handle the rough stuff. Once again likely to be rubbish with me on board, but that's a limiting factor only I can address. Another limiting factor is my short inseam: 30" on a good day. So my question to you is recommendations with the info supplied. I like all bikes, I even own a Harley low rider s, no probs flat footing that. KTM, BMW, too, but pricey and a bit tall @ 890> too. Any pearls of wisdom would be greatly appreciated.
Benny Fitz it’s a big question.
I know a few guys that have done the loop including the Cape on the CT. It certainly is a very capable bike in the right hands.
I can only comment on the CT because of my own experience. The other bikes you mention are good as well.
The CT will eat endless kilometres with ease.
You can pick them up pretty cheap now and with the extra cash you can upgrade the suspension.
The subframe is like a gerder so you can load the bike up without problems.
They are reliable, comfortable and capable.
There’s plenty of video on this channel alone of the trips and places you can take a CT.
Let me know what you end up with.
Interesting videos and just watched your tour vids.
How many miles/km do you often change the oil and filter?
Hey Roger, I drop the oil and filter every 6000ks.
Excellent - once again! Cheers.
Oz Bloke thanks mate.
Hi,
Great review! What kind of exhaust you have on the bike?
Dániel Pozsár hey mate.
That’s the Delkevic SS70
@@BigBikeAdventures Thanks! Greetings from Hungary! Keep up making the videos!
fantastic real review
Thanks LEViDO
Good video. I've just bought a 2015 DCT, been out on it a couple of times and it's awesome. Myself and the wife are getting a bit old (sorry, fat and stiff!!!) for using my gsxr1000 for touring, thought about a fjr1300 yamaha but went for the slightly different option in the vfr1200x!!! :-) My question is... How accessible are the plugs for servicing? I've heard a couple of guys saying you need to drop the engine out of the frame to get to them. Hopefully not! Thanks.
Joe Reape Hi Joe, congratulations on your buy. They are a great bike for 2 up touring. The plugs are not that hard and would only need to be done every 100k. The back bank are accessible just by lifting the tank but the front bank needs to remove the airbox and (from memory) loosen the radiator. Thats the time to check the valves.
came out in the U.S. back in 2014
How tall are you mate? lovely bike, subscriber from the UK!!
Hey mate. I’m 6 1 in imperial speak. 😎😊🤘
Excellent review :)
+TheBirkin7 Thanks mate, appreciate the comment.
looking now, cant choose 1200 super tenere 1190 ktm or this....
I'd give you my opinion but I'm very biased. 😊 I got the Crosstourer because it was the best at long range 2up touring. That V4 is perfect for the job.
+Big Bike Adventures thanks for the feedback, I dont really have the time to go test all the adventurer bikes in the market atm so your videos really help, realistically i dream of going on long offroad trips but i know 80 - %90 will be highway, which is why im leaning towards the vfr1200x
I really like this bike, but I don't know if we can get them here in the USA. I stopped in at a Honda Motorcycle Dealer last week and it looks like they are showing parallel twins only in the dual sport selections. I've herd the cross tour might have a different name here in the USA. Is it the VFR 1200??
I think you guys call them the VFR1200X in the states, there were released in July.
G'day, I was set to buy a GS for the dual purpose, upright sitting pos., and shaft drive aspects, the shaft drive limits the choices in my price range. And then I watched some of your videos and as a result I'm picking up a Red 2012 VFR1200x with 15ks on it tomorrow. My use will probably be 90% tar and 10% dirt road with maybe light trails. One thing I don't like about the GS is the gadgetry which on experience over-time will cost. The GS runs a dry clutch which costs $700 as a part and is a 10 hour install. Can you list the brand and model and if poss the suppliers you've used to buy the bash-plate, radiator guard, bars, and the muffler, it's good to hear what you're riding. I don't watch a lot of you Tube stuff but have found your stuff full of good info, so thanks. Greg.
Greg Dee Hi Greg, thanks for your comments. 2nd hand Crosstourers can be picked up for a bargain, so you probably saved a heap with your decision. You won't be disappointed. The bash plate is a Givi Trekker Fender, Tourtech Bars and I'm using an R&G rad guard now, its better in our summer than the pretty chrome one in this video. I also like the look of the R&G engine casing guards and will look at installing them soon.The pipe is a Delkevic, there's a video in here somewhere about it. Let me know what you think after you pick up the Big Bike?
Delkevic Video...th-cam.com/video/ZPIQDSfaCRg/w-d-xo.html
Picked it up last night, what a ride and smooth power delivery, no vibes to speak of, acceleration is similar to a drag bike, I see why TC is included. Muffler has to go so it can be heard instead of looking at the tacho all the time, as these crashbars link top and bottom so would go for these for impact transfer to eachother www.mmotoracks.com/product/engine-guard-crash-bars-for-honda-vfr1200x-crosstourer and a few other changes. With Honda luggage 3-piece kit and a whole 15ks travelled, rego til Jul 17, I paid around 2k less than an 8 yr old GS with 50+ks travelled. I'm 6ft1" and can't flat-foot when stopped unless I push my feet down hard but the weight is not noticed. Riding BMW K100s and Harleys for the last 30 years it doesn't feel as heavy as those.
So to all the reviewers that have rubbished these elsewhere compared to a GS, go and ride a Crosstourer. I look forward to more of the the open road, and a Tassie trip planned for next year from Sydney which was the reason I started looking for a replacement.
Greg Dee good work mate. Congratulations. It just keeps getting better from here. 👍
Hey if you replaced the rad guard are you interested is selling it? Cooler down here.
There's one sitting in a dealership here in Perth. Having taken one for a test ride, I've been quite tempted to pick it up since it's basically a dream bike for me. However, a lot of my riding is to and from the city for work with some weekend squirts and I wonder if it's a bit big for that. Have you (or anyone else reading this) had any issues using it as a work commuter?
There’s a few guys in Perth who follow this channel. One of them commutes daily and loves it. There’s no reason, I won’t do the daily grind. But take it out on the highway occasionally and give it some open road. 🤗😬
@@BigBikeAdventures Might take a chance on one sometime then. I'm about 6'6" so it does seem tailor made for me. Plus it's the only shaft drive bike I've liked. Tiger 1200 is nice, but gets very hot and I wasn't hugely impressed by the 1200GS.
Roast Goose let me know what you decide? Have you taken it for a ride yet?
@@BigBikeAdventures I've ridden both the tourer and a 2016 Crossrunner and both are very nice bikes. The 800 may be a bit more suited for my needs, but I'm looking up parts for making it suited for long distance touring for my size, which the tourer is already set to do. At any rate, doesn't seem like you ca go wrong with a Honda V4.
Roast Goose both of those V4’s while different are excellent engines. The platforms are also different in few ways, the Crosstourer is much more off road ready with 19” front wheel and spoked, while the 800 has 17” alloy wheels. But you are correct, both excellent bikes. The 800 sounds better IMO. 👍
From Athens Greece hi nice video , like the VFR X 1200 price here is 16000 euro dont have but for 2014 model 9-9,5.000 euro 8000 km like new .By many safe km.far not fast.Chris Costopoulos.
Hi Chris, thanks for the comments. a used 12X is still a good bike. Good luck.
Tank bag ..make & model ?????
OXFORD ?
The bag on the bike while stationary is a MotoDry and the big bag when I'm riding is an Oxford Sport. I'm not sure they make them anymore. Its pretty old.
SUPER!!!!!!!!
u interested in Yellowstone and the other great parks of the west?
Yeah, for sure. I've been to Yosemite and Red Wood forests up NorCal way, Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, but these links you're showing me is the kind of stuff I'm really keen on doing.
Indeed. I'm intimately familiar with Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. I grew up in SoCal and was all over the Sierras in my youth. So I am going to cover a fair bit of southern-central Colorado Rockies on this trip as well as getting my AirBnB experience up and running. I love the old, small western towns as well as the the general mountain topography. Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Glacier NP are truly incomparable. For pure riding the Alps are right up there. But the National Parks just take it to a whole new level. Do you use the editing software that comes with your preferred camera or do you use something else? I think for this trip I'll just take what I can on my smartphone and leave it at that for now.
Nick, I use Final Cut Pro X on my Mac for all my editing. I use the Drift Ghost S as my cameras, It's a lot of work but it's more of a hobby for me. It sounds like a great trip and I'm trying to think of ways to join you. ;-)
How does it stack up to the GS?
Two bikes designed to do the same sort of thing, both do it a little differently. The Honda V4 is a specially bit of kit. The Crosstourer is not loaded down with technology and Honda have gone with simplistic reliability. As for where you can take it, check out some of my other videos.
Big Bike Adventures Thanks mate.
How tall are you?? Thanks!!
John Laing 6'1
What's the headlight like at night?
DervMan not bad, I've upgraded mine to a higher Watt bulb, but it's a plastic lens so you can't go too big. LED won't fit in.
Big Bike Adventures I see even the NC750X has a LED headlight, wonder why Honda didn't fit one to the CrossTourer when they updated it at the end of last year.
@@BigBikeAdventures is it not possible to fit a led lamp in the headlight?
Pablo IA there is a waterproof cover on the back of the headlight, the LED I used had a large heat sync on the back and would not fit inside the waterproof cover.
I haven’t tried a smaller one yet.
Drop me a note Steve. scott.roney@verizon.net
I just made reservations at the Hotel St. Nicholas in Cripple Creek, Colorado. This will allow me to ride to the top of Pikes Peak, visit Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and explore the area a bit. I also made reservations at the Hotel Ouray, Ouray CO. That is a stunning locale. Last leg is an AirBnB log home in Idaho Springs, CO which puts me near to Rocky Mountain National Park, some interesting ski towns and the climax which is the run up to Evans Peak on the scenic byway and highest road in North America. 😆😎💪✌👊🤘
You have mail
th-cam.com/video/vs4eJURvM8U/w-d-xo.html
IF you drop one of them your into big problems,i wouldnt take the chance
good marketing but this is not an offroad motorcycle. now even close. Perfect for road touring here is my honest review: th-cam.com/video/Q1a7wnQTHvE/w-d-xo.html
to each his own mate, this thing is a weapon off road.
th-cam.com/video/XOnn_WEIris/w-d-xo.html
Good zombie apocalypse unit........will it run past a nuke barrage...?!?..😏😳😉😂🤔😜
th-cam.com/video/CEtTHpbqFr4/w-d-xo.html
Awesome