Honda sharpens VFR800F sports tourer
Honda’s legendary power plant, the iconic V4 engine, has found a new home in the new VFR800F.
The V4 engine configuration is a special one for Honda, going back nearly 40 years. A complex yet compact unit, it has a unique power delivery and a soul all of its own. Honda’s current RC213V Moto GP machine uses a V4, as does the flagship sport-touring VFR1200F.
Honda says the 782cc V4-VTEC engine has received a low and mid-range power boost, to strike the ideal balance of enjoyable sports riding and easy commuting. The VTEC transition has been softened and the resulting power delivery is smooth, strong and linear. It delivers 78 kW at 10 250 rpm, with peak torque of 75 Nm arriving at 8 500 rpm. Combined with the 6-speed gearbox, it should make overtaking at high speeds effortless.
Honda’s Traction Control System (TCS) has also been fitted as standard equipment. A single mode covers a wide variety of riding conditions and situations. The VFR800F is also equipped with Honda’s new self-cancelling indicators.
A newly designed Pro-Arm single-sided swing-arm, 43 millimetre telescopic fork, radial-mount four-piston front brake callipers and redesigned wheels hang from the VFR twin-spar aluminium beam frame. Seat height is adjustable by 20 millimetres and ABS is fitted as standard.
Honda claims fuel consumption of 19.4km/l (5.2l/100km), with a 21.5-litre fuel tank that can offer around 380km plus of cruising range.
The VFR800F comes standard with a complimentary rider training course through the Honda Academy, 12 months free roadside assistance and a 24-month unlimited kilometre warranty. The expected retail price is R141 990.
