Market Position:
The Honda VFR1200X Crosstourer is positioned as a premium adventure touring motorcycle, blending sport-touring prowess with off-road capability and long-distance comfort.
Competitors:
Competes with other large-displacement adventure motorcycles such as the BMW R1250GS/R1200GS, Triumph Tiger Explorer, Yamaha Super Ténéré, and Kawasaki Versys 1000.
Key Features:
Long-travel suspension, comfortable ergonomics, powerful V4 engine, available DCT, shaft drive, robust build quality, ABS.
Value Proposition:
This manual is essential for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair their 2016-2017 VFR1200X/XD models, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. It provides the same detailed information as used by certified Honda technicians.
Engine:
Full engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, specifications, tuning
Transmission:
Standard Manual Transmission (clutch, gearbox) and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) system (operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, control unit)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (PGM-FI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, sensors, EVAP system
Electrical System:
Ignition system, charging system, starter motor, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, bleeding procedures, component inspection and replacement
Suspension:
Front telescopic fork (cartridge type), rear Pro-Link single shock absorber, adjustments, overhaul
Chassis:
Frame, swingarm, steering head, wheels, tires, bearings
Bodywork:
Fairings, body panels, seats, luggage system components
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant, water pump
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, muffler, catalytic converter
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, inspections, adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and replacement
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of required special tools for specific procedures
Adjustment Procedures:
Detailed procedures for clutch, throttle, brakes, and suspension adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and DCT system specifics.
Engine Type:
Unicam 4-stroke 16-valve SOHC V4
Bore X Stroke:
81 mm x 60 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 125.9 hp @ 7,500 rpm (92 kW)
Torque:
Approx. 129 Nm (95 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) with two throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Ignition:
Digital transistorized with electronic advance
Lubrication:
Wet sump, with oil cooler
Standard Transmission Type:
6-speed manual (VFR1200X)
Optional Transmission Type:
6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with automatic and manual shift modes (VFR1200XD)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate (manual); Dual Clutch (DCT)
Dct Modes:
Automatic (MT and D modes), Manual (6-speed sequential via handlebar buttons)
Length:
Approx. 2,285 mm (89.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 920 mm (36.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,345 mm (53.0 in) (adjustable windscreen)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,595 mm (62.8 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 185 mm (7.3 in)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 274 kg (604 lbs) for VFR1200X; Approx. 286 kg (631 lbs) for VFR1200XD (DCT)
Fuel Capacity:
21.5 liters (5.68 US gal)
ABS:
Standard Combined ABS (C-ABS) on most models, including cornering ABS technology in later iterations (verify specific 2016/17 features)
Traction Control:
Honda Traction Control System (TCS) - standard on 2016/2017 models
Braking System:
Combined Braking System (CBS) linked to ABS
Lighting:
Dual LED headlights, LED taillight
Ergonomics:
Upright riding position for rider comfort and control
Instrumentation:
Multi-function LCD display with analog tachometer, digital speedometer, gear indicator, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, trip meters, TCS indicator, ABS indicator, ambient temperature display.
Traction Control System:
Honda Selectable Traction Control System (TCS) with two modes (Mode 1 and Mode 2) plus OFF. Helps manage rear wheel spin.
ABS System:
Combined-ABS (C-ABS) with front and rear wheel speed sensors, enhancing braking stability and preventing lock-up.
Power Outlet:
Optional 12V accessory socket available for charging devices.
Throttle Control:
Throttle By Wire (TBW) system for precise engine management and integration with TCS.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact specification).
Oil Filter Replacement:
At each engine oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 24,000 km (15,000 miles). (Refer to manual for specific type and gap).
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Inspect every 12,000 km (7,500 miles), clean or replace as needed. Replace approximately every 24,000 km (15,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 4 years, then every 2 years thereafter.
Shaft Drive Oil Change:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified (e.g., Honda Pro Honda GN4 or equivalent).
Coolant:
High-quality motorcycle coolant, Honda recommends Pro Honda HP Coolant or equivalent (50% solution).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 conforming to FMVSS No. 116.
Shaft Drive Oil:
API GL-4 SAE 80 hypoid gear oil (e.g., Pro Honda HP Gear Oil).
Common Issues:
While generally reliable, some owners report occasional DCT 'hesitation' in specific low-speed scenarios. Clutch lever free play adjustment is crucial for smooth engagement. Shaft drive requires proper maintenance to prevent wear.
Potential Weaknesses:
High-performance V4 engine can be sensitive to fuel quality. DCT system complexity requires specialized diagnostic tools and knowledge for repair.
Brand Heritage:
Honda has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for reliability, engineering innovation, and performance across various segments, including sportbikes and touring motorcycles. The VFR lineage is renowned for its V4 engines and sporty touring capabilities.
Model Introduction:
The VFR1200X Crosstourer was introduced in 2012 as Honda's entry into the burgeoning adventure-touring segment, leveraging the powerful V4 engine from the VFR1200F sport-tourer but adapted for greater versatility.
2016 Updates:
While the fundamental platform remained, the 2016 model typically received minor updates. For 2016, the VFR1200X received styling revisions, improved ergonomics, and an upgraded DCT system. Specific updates may include revised ECU mapping for smoother power delivery and potentially updated suspension settings.
Production Location:
Assembled in Japan.
