Honda has released pictures and details of its much anticipated VFR1200F, the sophisticated sports-tourer with the daunting task of replacing the aclaimed VFR800F.
The bike is powered by a 1.2-litre, 76-degree V-four with offset crankpins designed to give it the smoother balance characteristics of a 90-degree V, and single overhead camshafts are used for their compactness compared with more common double overhead cams.
Related Articles
Ducati Hypermotard 796
MotoGP Malaysian round preview
Safer riding
MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR review
Agni X01 review Honda says that the bike is an all-rounder with a sporting bias, in the same vein as the current VFR but with a lot more power. Output is quoted as 170bhp at 10,000rpm with a healthy torque peak of 95lb ft of torque at 8,750rpm.
The styling takes its cues from the Fireblade superbike, characterised by its blunt nose, a look which has polarised opinion but which Honda is clearly happy with.
The throttle uses a fly-by-wire system while the brakes are a sophisticated linked front-rear design combined with anti-lock, although other expected advances are likely to appear on later, higher-spec models. These include an automatic twin-clutch transmission and fuel-saving cylinder shut-down on low throttle openings.
The fuel-tank capacity is disappointing at 4.1 gallons. Honda quotes an economy of 43.7mpg, but we generally expect to achieve 10 per cent less, meaning the range will be only 160 miles.
The bike is likely to be available at the end of this year. No price has been announced.
Meanwhile, Kawasaki is introducing an all-new Z1000 street bike for 2010 with radical styling and a 90cc bigger engine at 1,043cc than the current model. The capacity increase is designed to improve low- and mid-range power rather than the peak, although the claimed 136bhp at 9,600rpm should give it strong performance for an unfaired machine.
The engine is all new and features a balance shaft to reduce vibration, with additional mounting points to enhance chassis stiffness. The frame features twin aluminium spars which curve over the top of the engine rather than to either side, as is more usual, a move made to help keep the bike slim and easy to handle.
But it's the style that will grab most attention. The bike has an overtly aggressive look with a menacing visage and its visual weight carried well forward for a muscular, bulldog stance.
It will be available early next year, with the price yet to be announced
No comments:
Post a Comment