VFR1200F long-termer

We just can't get enough of Honda's VFR1200F V-four sportstourer - with the emphasis on sport. Since we attended the Aussie press launch, we've put it up against the BMW K 1300 S in a head-to-head slugfest, and then along came the dual clutch automatic version.

The auto really has the ability to mark new territory, as it chugs along perfectly in D (and chews less fuel), and then really increases its hostility rating in S mode, with more immediate and aggressive throttle control as it takes the power argument by the throat. For those with a more sporting bent, S's definitely more menacing - but just oh-so inviting with that 173hp guttural-sounding shaft-driven V-four.

Alas, we didn't manage to procure a dual clutch long-termer to sit in the Bikesales Network garage for a few months, but the 'consolation' was the standard six-speeder.

And we're still as happy as the proverbial, because we are currently putting together quite a travel itinerary for the VFR, as well as a tonne of commuting and short trips to test its mettle in all environments. The word exhaustion springs to mind.

It also looks like I'll be heading west for this year's Australian Safari, and I'd love to ride the VFR across the Nullarbor - that's if Honda and my boss will allow it… No harm in asking though.

Over the past few weeks, there's been plenty of rain in Victoria (check out the news on the television at the moment), and it's been a nightmare keeping the big Viffer clean.

But on the flipside, I have enjoyed riding the bike in the slop. The VFR looks bigger than it really is, and riding in the wet has really highlighted that. The bike feels planted and sure-footed, and it's a joy to sweep through turns on -- wet or dry roads.

Still though, constant rain does become a tiresome - the girls at work run away from me when they see me walk through the corridors, dripping water from every orifice - so let's hope the weather does take a turn for the wetter so we can  enjoy the great outdoors a little more.

So what do we have in store for the VFR? There won't be wholesale changes, but we hope to give you an insight of what it's like riding the bike day-in day-out.

All the Bikesales Network staffers will get their say, and all come from different riding backgrounds. That alone should provide some quality insight.

And if you'd like to provide some insight as we embark on the VFR journey, do not hesitate to fire us off an email (using the comments link at the end of the articles).

To kick things off, here's what Bikesales Network staffer Matt Brogan had to say after he rode the VFR for the first time.

It's the end of a long, cold winter in Melbourne, and a sunny Sunday afternoon is all the excuse needed for a ride through South Gippsland's postcard perfect Strzelecki Ranges and on to the delightfully entertaining coastal road between Inverloch and Cape Paterson.

The inquisitive boredom of the local constabulary aside, these roads offer a veritable spectrum of tight turns, sweeping bends and punchy straights, the clean country air (albeit occasionally punctuated with the delicate aroma of dairy-shed ablutions) an ideal backdrop for stretching the legs of our long-term VFR1200F.

Climbing above mid-tach Viffer's all-new V-four engine exhibits a distinctive, rich growl under load, the unique two-in/two-out cylinder arrangement creating a curious but grin-inspiring warble on overrun, quite unlike any other same-sized sportstourer on the market.

But this 1200 doesn't just talk the talk. With 173hp on-tap, the VFR makes short work of even the most precipitous incline, and this with a pillion on board for most of the afternoon! It also means cog swapping is kept to a minimum. When required, the quick-shifting six-speed is precise of action, a slipper clutch novel but welcome on a bike of such stature.

Although my pillion found the rear pew quite comfortable, up front the riding position is a little cramped -- taller riders may find the pegs set too high for any real comfort when long distance touring. On the flip side, shorter riders will appreciate the lower seat height.

Seat position aside, the business end of the beast is a pleasant enough place to be. Instrumentation is simple, if not dated, but well positioned enough so that information is easily read at a glance, without the need to lower your chin. In fact the only other drama of any real note is a little wind buffeting off the top of the screen, an extra quarter-inch would make all the difference.

WHAT MATT LIKES

CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame type: Cast
Front suspension: 43mm cartridge-type telescopic, oil-dampened
Rear suspension: Pro-link, gas-dampened (adjustable)
Front brakes: 320mm dual discs, dual six-piston calipers, ABS
Rear brakes: 276mm disc, single two-piston caliper, ABS
Tyres: Front 120/70-17, rear 190/55-17

PERFORMANCE
Claimed maximum power: 173hp (127kW) at 10,000rpm
Claimed maximum torque: 129Nm at 8750rpm

OTHER STUFF
Price: $24,990
Options: None fitted
Colour: Candy Prominence Red, Seal Silver Metallic (as tested)
Bike supplied by: Honda Australia (www.hondamotorcycles.com.au)
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres