All this engine work adds up to impressive figures, with 170hp at 10,000 rpm, a maximum torque of 95 lb-ft at 8,750 rpm, and, most important, 90% of that torque available from 4,000 rpm. 'Nuff said - the bike moves!

Solid chassis for a high performance machine
Traction on hard tires was too low to validate handling, but the usual kit is all there: aluminium perimeter frame, preload-adjustable front fork, new six-piston calipers in front and two-piston calipers at the rear, squeezing, respectively, twin 320mm in front and a 276mm discs out back, and preload and rebound adjustable rear shock. A new, more solid single sided swingarm transmits power to the rear wheel, where a nice and capable 190 rear tire provides traction and solidity without affecting handling like the monster 200+ sizes we see on the latest power cruisers.

The bike naturally features the excellent Combined-ABS (C-ABS) braking system, as we tested it on the 2009 CBR1000RR and the CBR600RR. This system, and a similar one on some Kawasaki cruisers, offers an unparalleled degree of safety for the rider and passenger, literally a life-saver.

Sporty ergos
The riding position is pure VFR, higher than sport bikes but also lower than sport tourers such as the ST1300, Concours 14, K1300GT, or even the Yamaha YZF1300. The sculpted saddle fits my wide-ish bum to perfection, and thinner testers also felt at home on the rider throne.

You can spot the trailing edge of the red outer fairings, as well as the high placement of the swingarm pivot point (That big nut on the frame), for better handling and smooth behaviour of this sporty bike.

Aerodynamics are playing a greater role than ever in bike design, and the two-layered fairing side panels, as well as the studiously sculptured nose show how much work was done in that area. The idea is to produce a turbulence- and rain-free "bubble" for the rider and passenger, better evacuate heat from the engine, and improve stability at speed. A high speed run and some street riding in early 2010 will let us verify how well Honda did in those areas.

The bike was designed in Italy, where the average adult is a little shorter and lighter than in America, but the seating position and grip - seat - footpegs triangle is certainly roomy enough for full-size adults, while the narrow seat and rear of engine make it easy for shorter riders to touch the ground.

Riding a category King
The new VFR1200 impresses, at first sight as well as first ride. Power flows irresistibly, a pure delight when you will ride your favourite piece of twisty road or attend a Track Day at a wide open track. The throttle-by-wire combines faultless operation with good feel, while the slipper clutch smooths out corner entries when riding harder. It was too easy to break rear traction in the cold weather on the day we rode the bike, so you need to trust us on this one until the warmer weather comes back. More in March from Roebling Roads and Florida streets!

The first ride confirmed the potential of this new machine. We can't wait for spring and a longer ride and a track session to let the 170 hp have their say.

The Good Old Days are coming. Enjoy!




Photo Credit : Honda