Motorcycle specifications Honda1200 CROSSTOURER 2012 On the way to the freeway

let's face it, it was high time Honda came up with a new machine to reinvest in the trail-GT segment. The Varadero had fallen out of favor, and we're not ashamed to say good-bye to it, as it had a deserving career. But faced with competition that had become exceptionally fierce, led by an empress BMW R 1200 GS, the Soïchiro-based brand needed a machine that was a cut above the rest. And so Honda unleashed a big trail bike capable of holding its own against many, both technically and on the road: the 1200 Crosstourer.

Since its appearance as a concept bike in 2010, the Crosstourer has lightened and energized its lines. A small beak, fairing panels that aren't too big, comfortable but openwork tank side guards and a small engine cowl: the front end is making a statement! The Crosstourer needs to stand out from the crowd. And behind its styling lies a more than generous mechanical package, that of the VFR 1200.
Honda's approach to creating this hybrid between grand touring and rock is similar to the genesis of the Crossrunner: a sport-GT with trail suspensions. It's no coincidence that the bike's first name is VFR 1200 X! Let's take off all the plastic, the tank and the wheels, and discover the imposing frame borrowed directly from the big VFR. A double perimeter beam in heavy-duty aluminum, capable of withstanding more than 170 horsepower. As you'll have gathered, it's the 1237 cm3 V4 that powers this machine. This makes it the only V4-powered trail bike in its segment (the only other 4-cylinder is Kawasaki's Versys 1000, but it's an in-line engine). A highly accomplished powertrain, here adapted to a less sporty riding style. The camshafts have been redesigned to deliver more low- and mid-range torque, as have the valve timing and the shape of the intake and exhaust ducts. Having forsaken power for availability, the Crosstourer nonetheless produces 129 horsepower at a reasonable 7,750 rpm. Not enough to chase a Ducati 1200 Multistrada, but it doesn't care: that's neither its target nor its desire. Its stronghold is touring, with the added comfort of an automatic gearbox. More precisely, with the DCT evolution dual-clutch transmission. More responsive than the first version introduced on the VFR 1200 in 2010, this robotized gearbox allows the rider to operate in full auto mode (2 maps available, Sport or touring) or in sequential mode, with gear shifting controlled by buttons mounted on the left-hand comodo.

it has been designed to travel far, long and wide. Well, almost everywhere. It may be equipped with spoked wheels and long-travel suspension, but you won't be venturing out into the desert or onto mountain trails with it. Its ground clearance of 180 mm, 55 mm higher than the VFR, allows for a few fleeting detours, but it's a far cry from a KTM Adventure, offering 261 mm (or even 301 mm in its R version).
On the other hand, taking a few side roads, then getting on the freeway and tackling the climb to Alpe d'Huez, that's something he can't get enough of. Thanks to an upright, natural riding position, 3-position adjustable handguards, an equally adjustable bubble, and some fifteen options, the crew can set off from sea to shining sea without a second thought. No worries on the drive side: it's handled by the VFR's single-arm drive shaft. This new generation of Honda's big trailers raises the bar on active safety. The S.U.V comes with combined ABS and traction control as standard. This calms engine power if the 150cc wheel starts to show signs of losing grip.

With its 1200 Crosstourer, Honda offers a worthy descendant of the 1000 Varadero, with more technology, power, technique and ambition. The manufacturer is not content to rest on its laurels, however, and now offers a true 'cross-over' range with the VFR 1200 X, the Crossrunner and the small NC 700 X. Faced with the road, but also with a host of contenders. Up its sleeves are two assets that the competition may envy: its big V4 and robotized transmission.

accessories and optional equipment - The Crosstourer can be customized thanks to a range of accessories and optional equipment:

- Set of polycarbonate side cases
- Inner bags for side cases
- 45-liter top case
- Inner bag for top-case
- High bubble
- Steel fall protection
- Fuel tank protection
- Fog lamps
- Heated grips
- 12V socket
- Center stand
- U-shaped anti-theft device
- Alarm system
- Crankcase guards

M.B - Manufacturer's photos