Since this motorcycle is supposed to be capable both off-road and for touring duties, it ends up looking like a proper adventure-tourer. It gets its off-road elements from the small protruding beak upfront followed by the spoke wheels and the long travel suspension. It also has an adjustable windscreen. Sadly the single headlight isn't an LED. The rear looks clean along with the stubby exhaust. The design of the VFR1200X truly justifies what it's built for.
The all-digital instrument cluster on the Honda Crosstourer X displays a plethora of information. You get a tachometer up top followed by a speedometer and an odometer. It also displays the clock, air temperature, engine temperature along with twin trip meters and a fuel meter. Tell-tale lights are located on either side of this display. The switchgear is of high quality and is well laid out. The RHS gets an engine kill switch, a switch to toggle between the gears and an engine start button. On the other side, one can find a hazard light switch (a nice touch), a button for the horn along with a button for upshifts and downshifts respectively. Since this motorcycle gets an automatic transmission, it also gets a handbrake adjustment module next to the left switchgear. You can activate the handbrake by just pressing the button.
The wide handlebar along with centre-set footpegs and the low seat height makes the Honda VFR 1200X Crosstourer X apt for touring. The upright riding posture and the adjustable windscreen adds to the comfort. The single-piece seat is comfortable for both the rider and the pillion thanks to the massive dimensions and comfortable cushioning below. The pillion also gets a rear grab rail which can also be used to mount luggage.
The Honda Crosstourer X is powered by a 1237cc, V4 engine which produces 127 HP of power and 126 Nm of torque. The engine has a good mid-range and makes the bike very fun to ride. The punchy engine is very refined. The motorcycle is available with both manual and automatic transmission options. The 6-speed DCT gearbox offers smooth and quick shifts. One can manually take control of the gearbox by using the gear switches.
This bike has a phenomenal ride quality. It absorbs everything on the road and feels stable at all times. At 285 kgs, this Honda might feel heavy on paper, however, it is very easy to manage and doesn't feel heavy when riding on empty roads. It is not meant to handle well or be great at off-roading. It is meant for touring all day, something which it does brilliantly well. It gets twin-discs upfront along with a single disc at the rear with ABS which offers excellent stopping power.
Honda has succeeded in building the perfect touring bike which can also go off-road if needed. It not only has the adventure looks but is also very practical. The automatic transmission is a breeze to use and the ergonomics are spot on. The engine offers punchy performance and has an exhaust note which can be matched by no other motorcycle in the segment. If launched in India, the Honda VFR 1200X Crosstourer X will be more expensive than the Africa Twin.