The New Honda VFR1200F, a VFR with Long-Distance Capability

Honda not so long ago broke the cover of the massively awaited Honda VFR1200F, claiming a mix of the latest race-track bred technologies, adapted and evolved to please all types of riders. Honda's goal was to create a sportsbike with long-distance capabilities.

The Honda VFR1200F's engine, a liquid-cooled 4-stroke UNICAM 76 degree 1237cc V4, has been designed to provide high speed and rapid acceleration. The engine's performance is delivered via a linear torque curve, focused in the low and mid range, making it possible for the rider to simply roll on and off the throttle while powering through bends.

The new V4 engine produces more than 80 percent of its maximum torque at 3,000rpm, allowing the rider to access drive low down in the rev range.

Instead of the traditional V4 cylinder configuration, with the cylinders evenly spaced front-to-rear, the Honda VFR1200F's rear cylinders are placed side by side but close together, while the front cylinders are more widely spaced. This layout allows for a slim, compact fit, and aids mass centralization.

A new Symmetrically Coupled Phaseshift Crankshaft (S.C.P.C.) operates with a 28 degree throw, reducing primary vibration and noise, and eliminating the need for a power-sapping balance shaft.

The Honda VFR1200F features a shaft drive system claimed to feel like chain drive, with an offset pivot point that eliminates 'rise' and a sliding cv joint that takes up any variations in length during the rear wheel's arc of travel. Cunning, if it really works.

The throttle is fly-by-wire and there's a slipper clutch to prevent any nasty moments when you're getting a bit lively with it. Honda claims 170 horsepower, and a kerb weight of 267kg. The fork is pre-load adjustable only, and the shock is pre-load and rebound adjustable, while it features ABS, but not CBS braking.

The Honda VFR1200F is one of the most important motorcycles for Honda since the Fireblade...