Development concept

The guiding principle for engineers and designers during development was: “Just a 300-kilometre ride to have lunch.” The scenario presented envisioned a spontaneous decision on a beautiful day to ride into the mountains with a pillion passenger or a lady friend via the motorway and winding secondary roads to a nice restaurant, to have a delightful meal there and then happily begin the return journey.

Unusual V4 engine

To this end, the liquid-cooled V4 engine was developed, displacing 1237 cc, developing 172 hp at 10,000 rpm and producing usable performance effortlessly. Ninety percent of the ample torque of 129 Newton metres is already available from 4,000 rpm. Refinement, power output and throttle response were to be more than usually satisfying.

The special engine characteristics promise riding enjoyment aplenty. The totally linear, but powerful torque curve, in conjunction with the broad, usable rev band, makes it possible to complete many a series of bends without changing gear.

New V4 layout and big-bang firing order

In the VFR1200F engine, the outer cylinders (Numbers 1 & 4) point forward, while the centre cylinders (Numbers 2 & 3) are inclined to the rear. In addition, the cylinder angle is 76 degrees, as with Honda’s current RC212V MotoGP V4 racing bike. The benefit of this innovative layout is its extremely compact dimensions, the block is very narrow and short. Compared with the engines of a CBR110XX with the in-line engine, the 800-cc VFR and the 1000-cc V2 in the Varadero, the new 1200-cc V4 engine takes up less space. This allows an installation position that is favourable to centralising mass and consequently to agile handling. Furthermore, the chassis design results in beneficial spatial relationships for the rider and his seating position.

A crankpin offset of 28 degrees was chosen to prevent vibration that may result from the cylinder angle that was selected. The use of a balance shaft can be dispensed as a result of this construction. The firing order is not evenly spaced, every 180 degrees of crankshaft revolution as with an in-line four-cylinder or the V4 predecessors. As on the legendary Honda RC30, two cylinders fire one right after the other. Ignition is asymmetrical at 104-256-104-256 degrees. The circumlocution “big-bang” firing order is absolutely appropriate. The pleasant consequence: The new V4 impresses with its first-class drivability, which has been improved once more, and a bewitching deep sound.

Space-saving Unicam camshaft drive

The Unicam four-valve cylinder heads with a single camshaft stand out for their low height, but provide a lot of power nevertheless. Honda has already applied this space-saving technology successfully in CRF four-stroke motocrossers.

Low-reaction drive shaft

The VRF1200F is equipped with shaft drive. This is a first in VFR history. The gearbox output shaft is positioned ahead of the swing arm pivot point, which allows the use of a long swing arm for optimal traction. The drive shaft rotates in the tunnel for the single-sided swing arm, but the (theoretical) longitudinal axes of the two components do not run parallel to each other but form a slight V. This design trick – in conjunction with length compensation as the rear wheel goes through jounce and rebound and with several drivetrain dampers – ensures especially low-reaction operation of the drive shaft under load changes.

Throttle-by-wire

In place of a conventional twist grip throttle, the new V4 Honda has a throttle-by-wire system to activate the throttle valves of the electronic PGM-FI petrol injection with the desired inputs. This “electronic twist grip” pushes drivability and control by the rider to an even higher level. To allow sporty changing down ahead of bends, the VFR1200F is fitted with an anti-hop clutch. This slipper clutch is designed on the same principle that has proved itself on the CBR1000RR Fireblade.

Sound engineering

The exhaust along with two three-way catalytic converters is positioned largely under the engine in an extremely tight space. The chrome-plated end pipe exits on the right side. Extensive sound engineering was undertaken to achieve the exhaust sound characteristics. At medium and higher rpm, when the electronically controlled servo motor opens the exhaust cut-out, the exhaust system produces a deep, fascinatingly sporting V4 sound because of the special firing order.

Chassis and suspension tuning

The frame is a twin-spar cast-aluminium design. A Pro-Link suspension damps the single-sided rear swing arm by way of a single strut. An reversed telescopic fork locates the front wheel, fitted with cross-bolted six-piston brake calipers. Spring pre-load and rebound damping are adjustable front and rear, the rear even has practical hydraulic adjustment via a hand wheel. The chassis rides on 17-inch tyres, at the front the normal 120/70 size, at the rear there is a novel 195/55 format, previously used on only a few super-sport bikes. The larger cross-section results in a contour that has a beneficial effect on handling as well as grip when the bike is laid over.

The springing was carefully tuned and combines the comfort desired by sportily-inclined riders with safe roadholding when a dynamic riding style is in order.

Dual-layer fairing

Honda is breaking new ground with the fairing for the VFR1200F – and not just with its excitingly attractive design. The side sections are composed of two layers; aerodynamic as well as thermodynamic requirements are met thanks to this innovative design. This patented construction channels the air flow and optimizes stability at higher speeds. Air flow through the water radiator is improved to the benefit of cooling.

Ergonomically well thought out

The ensemble of engine, chassis and fairing reveals itself to have been carefully thought out and coordinated. Particular attention was devoted to seating ergonomics. The wind-deflecting and protective function of the fairing has been carefully worked out to provide the rider with maximum comfort and sufficient freedom of movement at the same time in all weathers. A moderate seat height and a wasp-like waist promote positive feedback and a feeling of control.

It’s not just the rider who can feel optimally integrated into the machine. The aspects of comfort and safety for the passenger were also given due consideration. The seat area for the pillion passenger is generous and comfortable, added to which are strong grab handles and low-positioned foot rests.

Combined-brake system with ABS

The front brake system is equipped with cross-bolted six-piston calipers that grip perforated dual discs (320-mm diameter). At the rear a single disc provides deceleration (276-mm diameter) with a dual-piston brake caliper. Honda’s combined ABS brake system always provides optimal braking force distribution at front and rear and is standard equipment.

Independent design

The VFR1220F was developed with an eye to the European market and will also be offered in Japan and the US as well. The development team was made up of an international mix of Honda employees. The elegant appearance and the combination of functionality and breath-taking visual presence stands absolutely alone and deserves the rating of extraordinary; perhaps one more reason to note that the design project was headed up by a Spaniard who works at Honda R & D Europe in Italy, in Rome – Teófilo Plaza García.

All five previous VFR model generations were the responsibility of Honda head designer Mitsuyoshi Kohama who has already had an honorary membership bestowed on him by the professionally renowned Motorcycle Design Association, just like previous legends such as Massimo Tamburini or Willie G. Davidson.

“Right at the start, there was a meeting in Japan with a handful of engineers,” Teófilo Plaza García recounted at the unveiling in Offenbach, “at which Kohama revealed to us that our task was to be a totally new VFR.” And then he decided that I was to assume design leadership on this project. That almost floored me. Today, I can say that the development of this VFR was the most exciting period of my life.”

Three colours

New painting technologies, specially developed for Honda’s new Kumamoto motor cycle factory (located on the southernmost island of Japan), are used for the VFR1200F. The result is a paint finish with a perfect high-gloss surface and a mirror-smooth look. A choice of three colours is available: Candy Prominence Red, Seal Silver Metallic and Pearl Sunbeam White.

Comprehensive equipment

The cockpit of the VFR1200F is equipped with an analogue rev counter and digital speedometer. LCD displays provide information about fuel level, coolant temperature, fuel consumption, time, ambient temperature, as well as several check lights. There is also a gear display.

The rear of the VFR1200F is provided with brackets for panniers as standard; they are cleverly and unobtrusively integrated in the tail area and the foot rest extensions for the pillion passenger. This ensures easy installation and removal. The optionally available OEM Honda panniers are harmoniously integrated into the lines.

The VFR1200F is fitted with an ergonomically optimised instrument panel and switches. Turn indicator switch and horn are repositioned and the design of the switchgear has been rethought.

Original Honda accessories

The factory range of accessories for the new VFR1200F includes:

- 35-litre pannier kit, matched to the standard equipment brackets. The lockable panniers are available with lids painted in body colour whose carefully designed hinges should more than satisfy even critical users in practical use. The left pannier provides space for a full-face helmet.

- A 31-litre top box in body colour.

- Matching them, high-quality inner bags of grey nylon. The bags with carrying straps can be zip-fastened together to make them even easier to carry.

- A tank-mounted bag with a 13-litre capacity.

- A seat with a luxurious Alcantara cover.

- A three-position adjustable add-on-screen that attaches to the production windscreen and improves wind protection for tall riders.

- A low replacement seat so that shorter riders (male or female) can reach the ground with their feet.

- Newly developed heated handlebar grips with controller that are only minimally thicker, warm the fingers more than the ball of the thumb and are provided with an integral on/off switch to the side in the rubber of the grip.

- A motor-cycle navigation device with mounting kit and earphone. The device allows operation without removing the hands from the handlebars.

At dealers in the spring of 2010

The VFR1200F will reach Honda dealers in the spring of 2010, probably in February. You can sign up for a test ride as of now. The suggested retail price will be announced at a later time. It has already been determined that the warranty period will be three years and service intervals will be 12,000 kilometres.

After 30 years of experience with V4 engine technology, the next chapter for 2010 is being opened – with the new VFR1200F. The Honda VFR with the 800-cc V4 engine will continue to be available in the model range.

Technical data/Specifications VFR1200F (ED-model)

ENGINE

Liquid-cooled, V4 four-stroke engine, cylinder angle 76 degrees, four-valve UNICAM cylinder heads
Swept volume 1237 cc
Bore x stroke 81 x 60 mm
Compression ratio 12 : 1
Maximum power 127 kW (172 hp)/10,000 rpm (95/1/EC)
Maximum torque 129 Nm/8740 rpm (95/1/EC)
Oil capacity 4 litres

FUEL SYSTEM

PGM-FI electronic petrol injection
Fuel tank capacity 18.5 litres

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Computer-controlled digital transistorized ignition with electronic advance
Electric starter
Battery 12 V / 11.6 AH (YTZ14)
Alternator 570 W
Headlights 12 V, 55 W x 1 (dipped) / 55 W x 1 (full beam)

POWER TRANSMISSION

Multi-disc clutch in oil bath, with anti-hop function
Hydraulically operated clutch
6-speed constant mesh

Primary reduction 1.738 (73/42)
Gear ratios
1 2.6000 (39/15)
2 1.7368 (33/19)
3 1.3636 (30/22)
4 1.1600 (29/25)
5 1.0322 (32/31)
6 0.9393 (31/33)

Final drive ratio 2.6990
Final drive shaft

FRAME

Aluminium twin-spar

Dimensions
(L×W×H) 2,250 × 755 × 1,220 mm
Wheelbase 1,545 mm
Steering head angle 64.55 degrees
Trail 101 mm
Turning radius 3.5 m
Seat height 815 mm
Ground clearance 125 mm
Weight with a full tank 267 kg
Maximum permissible mass 463 kg

SUSPENSION

Front: 43 mm Ø upside-down fork, spring pre-load and rebound damping infinitely adjustable, spring travel 120 mm

Rear: Pro-Link suspension, pressurized-gas shock absorber, spring pre-load infinitely adjustable via hand wheel, rebound damping adjustable via hand wheel, spring travel 130 mm

WHEELS

Front 5-spoke, cast aluminium
Rear 7-spoke, cast aluminium

Rim size
Front 17M/C × MT3.50
Rear 17M/C × MT6.00

Tyre size
Front 120/70 ZR17M/C (58W)
Rear 190/55 ZR17M/C (58W)
Tyre pressure f/r. 2.5/2.9 bar

Front combined ABS, dual floating disc brake, 320 mm Ø, six-piston brake caliper, sintered metal brake pads

Rear: Combined ABS, single disc, 276 mm Ø, dual-piston brake caliper, sintered metal brake pads, ABS

All information subject to change without notice. The right is reserved to make changes to technical specifications and equipment

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