2011 Honda Crossrunner 800 models unveiled

[UFO]

Note that this model is powered by the 782cc VTEC that powered the previous generation of VFRs.  This is not a new engine configuration, nor does this model use the new 1200cc engine.  Honda did unveil a more "adventure" oriented Crossrunner that is powered by the 1200 (see 3rd picture below).

North American bound?  Seems like that's always the common question when a new model is released.  It shouldn't be.

800cc Crossrunner


800cc Crossrunner


1200cc Crosstourer concept


2011 Honda Crossrunner 800 | Optional Equipment

Honda Access Europe will be providing a range of tailored optional accessories for the Crossrunner. These have been created alongside the bike and are designed to complement its styling, comfort and versatility.

The motorcycle accessories include:

    * A 29-liter pannier kit. Operated with the motorcycle key, the panniers are aerodynamically shaped and easily detachable. The left pannier can hold most full-face helmets.
    * A sleek 31-liter top box featuring a locking, quick-detach mounting system. Operated with the motorcycle key, the top box can hold a full-face helmet with room for other luggage.
    * Tough and stylish polyester and vinyl inner bags for the top box and panniers. These are black with a Honda Wing logo, and come with carrying straps and handles.
    * A higher windscreen that offers extended wind protection for taller motorcycle riders.
    * A set of two fairing deflectors, offering increased wind protection.
    * A pair of slim heated grips with an integrated controller for maximum comfort and compact design integration.
    * A centerstand that makes rear wheel maintenance easier and provides more secure parking on uneven surfaces.
    * A 12V DC socket for powering additional electrical equipment.
    * An outdoor motorcycle cover that protects the paintwork from UV rays. The fabric is water-resistant and breathable, allowing the bike to dry while parked. A rope is included to tighten the cover and prevent fluttering in the wind. There are two holes in the front to allow use of a U-lock.
    * A U-lock and an Averto motorcycle alarm kit. The alarm has a 118 dB siren, a shock detector with 8 sensitivity settings and features a sleep mode to help prevent the battery from draining.

2011 Honda Crossrunner 800 (ED-type) | Motorcycle Specs

ENGINE

    * Type Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC 90° V-4
    * Displacement 782cc
    * Bore × Stroke 72 × 48mm
    * Compression Ratio 11.6: 1
    * Max. Power Output 74.9kW/10,000rpm (95/1/EC)
    * Max. Torque 72.8Nm/9,500rpm (95/1/EC)
    * Idling Speed 1200rpm
    * Oil Capacity 3.8 liters

FUEL SYSTEM

    * Fuel delivery PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
    * Throttle Bore 36mm
    * Air cleaner Oil-permeated, cartridge-type paper filter
    * Fuel Tank Capacity 21.5 liters

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

    * Ignition System Computer-controlled digital transistorized with electronic advance
    * Ignition Timing 8° BTDC (idle) ~ 50° BTDC (1200rpm)
    * Sparkplug Type IMR9D-9H (NGK); VNH27Z (DENSO)
    * Starter Electric
    * Battery Capacity 12V/11AH (YTZ-12S)
    * ACG Output 386W
    * Headlights 12V; 55W × 1 (low) / 55W × 1 (high)

DRIVETRAIN

    * Clutch Wet, multiplate with coil springs
    * Clutch Operation Hydraulic
    * Transmission Type Constant mesh 6-speed
    * Primary Reduction 1.934 (64/33)
    * Gear Ratios 1 2.846 (37/13)
    * 2 2.062 (33/16)
    * 3 1.578 (30/19)
    * 4 1.291 (31/24)
    * 5 1.111 (30/27)
    * 6 0.965 (28/29)
    * Final Reduction 2.687 (43/16)
    * Final Drive O-ring sealed chain

FRAME

    * Type Diamond; aluminum twin-spar; pivotless

CHASSIS

    * Dimensions (L×W×H) 2,130 × 799 × 1,243mm
    * Wheelbase 1,464mm
    * Caster Angle 25° 45'
    * Trail 96mm
    * Turning Radius 2.8m
    * Seat Height 816mm
    * Ground Clearance 140mm
    * Curb Weight 240.4kg (F: 115.2kg; R: 125.2kg)

SUSPENSION

    * Type Front 43mm cartridge-type telescopic fork with stepless preload adjustment, 165mm axle travel
    * Rear Pro-Link with gas-charged HMAS damper, 7-step preload and stepless rebound damping adjustment, 145mm axle travel

WHEELS

    * Type Front 6-spoke cast aluminum
    * Rear 5-spoke cast aluminum
    * Rim Size Front 17M/C × MT3.50
    * Rear 17M/C × MT5.50
    * Tire Size Front 120/70 R17
    * Rear 180/55 R17
    * Tire Pressure Front 225kPa
    * Rear 250kPa

BRAKES

    * Type Front 296mm dual floating hydraulic disc with 3-piston calipers, C-ABS and sintered metal pads
    * Rear 256mm hydraulic disc with 2-piston caliper, C-ABS and sintered metal pads

[Busy Little Whiner]

Cut my wrist and it will bleed Honda red but this silly thing proves they don't know what to do with a V4...

[djgarrett21]

I really like the idea of this bike but I see two huge problems with it. First is that Honda is marketing it as a street only bike. It is styled as an adventure type bike but Honda says road only? Even some of their marketing shows it on dirt roads. Second is the weight. 530lbs? I know it is not in the same league but I can't help compare it to the Multistrada 1200 which has a much larger engine and weighs 480lbs with all of the gadgets!

I own the 08 CBR1000RR and the reason that is such a wonderful bike is because it is lighter, has an awesome motor, and extremely well put together. It is still beating out much more advanced bikes because of that. Why is Honda producing such pigs now?

I am really disappointed with Honda right now. I was really hoping this would be a more advanced and lighter motorcycle. Honda is falling behind the curve. Every vehicle I own is a Honda right now but as it stands now my next motorcycle purchase will be a Ducati and next car will probably be a Ford.

[coho]

530 pounds?  Really?    On purpose?

[gritsngravy]

Love this bike!!  So much for the ol' vfr800 going completely away.        A real full size person could be happy on this thing and with the money Honda saved on R&D hopefully the pricing will be decent.     Hopefully they bring it in like that sweet cb1000r.  

[SuperHans]

I don't get it?

Honda gives us another bike nobody asked for.

[Rincewind]

I believe the 1200cc is called the Crosstourer Concept, not the Crossrunner Concept.  

I sort of like the practical-looking 800cc Crossrunner, except for its weight.  Not that it matters, because I doubt these models will be imported to the US.

[scottzilla]

you can see the VFR hidden by new bodywork.  Pretty neat but seems a little gimickey to me.  

[sammyseaman]

Honda being Honda. Who would have expected anything else  
On the bright side I think they just out-ugly'd the Strom though  

[Paul Barnard]

I am not one to arbitrarily criticize a bike because of its weight.  I have had some light bikes and I have had heavy bikes.  The heavy ones were much more comfortable for touring on and did not cease being fun when the road turned twisty.  The lighter bikes were more fun in the twisties, but ceased being fun on longer trips and gusty conditions.  I suppose if you are in the minority who would push an ST bike to its limits on twisty roads, weight could be an issue, but I have seen the way most of you ride and you would be much better off focusing on skill building than worrying about a few extra pounds of bike weight.  Likewise many of you should go to the gym and knock off a few pounds if it's that important to you.

[scottzilla]

I am not one to arbitrarily criticize a bike because of its weight.  I have had some light bikes and I have had heavy bikes.  The heavy ones were much more comfortable for touring on and did not cease being fun when the road turned twisty.  The lighter bikes were more fun in the twisties, but ceased being fun on longer trips and gusty conditions.  I suppose if you are in the minority who would push an ST bike to its limits on twisty roads, weight could be an issue, but I have seen the way most of you ride and you would be much better off focusing on skill building than worrying about a few extra pounds of bike weight.  Likewise many of you should go to the gym and knock off a few pounds if it's that important to you.

Zing!

[chornbe]

I am not one to arbitrarily criticize a bike because of its weight.  I have had some light bikes and I have had heavy bikes.  The heavy ones were much more comfortable for touring on and did not cease being fun when the road turned twisty.  The lighter bikes were more fun in the twisties, but ceased being fun on longer trips and gusty conditions.  I suppose if you are in the minority who would push an ST bike to its limits on twisty roads, weight could be an issue, but I have seen the way most of you ride and you would be much better off focusing on skill building than worrying about a few extra pounds of bike weight.  Likewise many of you should go to the gym and knock off a few pounds if it's that important to you.

BRA-FUCKING-VO!!! Well stated.

[mr moto]

Honda does it again , I like this 800 crossrunner a lot but , according to todays motorcyclenews it will come with a price tag of around.........wait for it .................£10,000   YEP ! TEN THOUSAND POUNDS   Like I said Honda does it again  
In the current economic climate Honda,s prices are CRAZY ......

[motormike]

Honda does it again , I like this 800 crossrunner a lot but , according to todays motorcyclenews it will come with a price tag of around.........wait for it .................£10,000   YEP ! TEN THOUSAND POUNDS   Like I said Honda does it again  
In the current economic climate Honda,s prices are CRAZY ......

That's too heavy!  

[Rincewind]

 

[DogBoy]

you can see the VFR hidden by new bodywork.  Pretty neat but seems a little gimickey to me.  

Looks like a VFR swallowed a dolphin.


I understand both sides of the weight argument but I have to side with the too heavy crowd on this particular bike. Should it really weigh that much more than a WeeStrom or V-Strom? As for the gym, I don't need to lose 50 or 60 lbs but this bike does.

[Rincewind]

From this angle, the front fairing looks like the Honda CBF bikes.



CrossTourer Concept

[JamesG]

That is a very confused motorcycle.

Something Honda slapped together to compete with the Super Tenere?

[Lawn Dart]

Dear Honda,

Desparate?  

Regards....


That things an atrocity.  The looks are bad.  I'm talking baaaaaaad.  And side mounted radiators on an Adventure type bike?  That's really not smart at all.  And the answer being to cover them up completely and stick crash bars that high up?  

No, I really have a bad feeling on that thing.

[chornbe]

Speaking in terms of the raw aesthetic only.... The CrossRunner looks better than the MTS1200, if you ask me.

But with conventional forks, a 10 year old driveline and mill, if this thing costs more than $10k it's a marketplace flop.

[UFO]

It's bascially a reskinned 6th gen VFR.  Thus the weight and looks.  This is Honda's attempt to jump in to a market with minimal investment.

[chornbe]

It's bascially a reskinned 6th gen VFR.  Thus the weight and looks.  This is Honda's attempt to jump in to a market with minimal investment.

Agreed. they'd better drop the price to "we're serious about selling this thing" prices considering you can still buy 6th gen units in many dealers.

[bubba zanetti]

Cut my wrist and it will bleed Honda red but this silly thing proves they don't know what to do with a V4...

Zactly !!


I will hold a final opinion on aesthetics till I see one in the flesh but from the photos, nothing about this bike is visually appealing in the least.

[Rincewind]

But with conventional forks, a 10 year old driveline and mill, if this thing costs more than $10k it's a marketplace flop.

You KNOW it would theoretically cost a lot more than $10k.  They have the old VFR800 for $11,999!

Theoretically because I doubt we'll ever see it here.

[chornbe]

You KNOW it would theoretically cost a lot more than $10k.  They have the old VFR800 for $11,999!

Theoretically because I doubt we'll ever see it here.

Honestly, I hope not. One more thing to take up valuable sales floor room.

[motormike]

Note that this model is powered by the 782cc VTEC that powered the previous generation of VFRs.  This is not a new engine configuration, nor does this model use the new 1200cc engine.  Honda did unveil a more "adventure" oriented Crossrunner that is powered by the 1200 (see 3rd picture below).

This statement needs editing as well as the 800 is the Crossrunner but the 1200 is the CrossTOURER and is only a concept.


A thread that combines an acutal revealed 800 street bike and a concept 1200 adventure touring bike just ads to the confusion in my opinion.

[Dave the slave]

Likewise many of you should go to the gym and knock off a few pounds if it's that important to you.

I gain weight when I go to the gym.  

[SuperHans]

It sure doesn't look like it has much ground clearance.

[gritsngravy]

What is with this light-weight bike fetish lately?   I'm a bigger rider so maybe it's just me but a large ROAD BIKE built to be comfortable for  two is not over weight at 500+ lbs.   There are tons of light weight, uncomfortable,  powerful bikes on the market to choose from.   I think we need more bikes like this comfortable 800cc crossrunner on the market for those who can differentiate between fantasy and reality.  

As far as 10 year old drive trains go, I take my antique vfr everywhere- mountains, interstate, commuting and it has yet to let me down.

 

[scottzilla]

I gain weight when I go to the gym.  

You're not supposed to eat on the way there.

[chornbe]

What is with this light-weight bike fetish lately?   I'm a bigger rider so maybe it's just me but a large ROAD BIKE built to be comfortable for  two is not over weight at 500+ lbs.   There are tons of light weight, uncomfortable,  powerful bikes on the market to choose from.   I think we need more bikes like this comfortable 800cc crossrunner on the market for those who can differentiate between fantasy and reality.  

As far as 10 year old drive trains go, I take my antique vfr everywhere- mountains, interstate, commuting and it has yet to let me down.

My only complaint about the "10 year old drive train" is the "all new bike". It's a re-skin. They also need to keep the price down.

PS... I also agree about the weight. I rarely factor that in as a major point. I don't seem to have trouble taking my "big fat heavy pig" of a Guzzi on any road I want at any speed I want. Didn't have the problem on the porker FJR, the elephant-like Harley or the "cool but way too heavy" sportster.

I'm not riding on the track here; the real world is quite different, and a stout frame to handle quality 2-up riding doesn't come in 378lb packages.

[Sarchi]

Hmmm.  The VFR platform has so much goodness, this bike could end up being more than the sum of its' parts.  It's a bit ugly and it'd be nice if it could lose 50 lbs., but I'll reserve opinions until we see what it's like to ride.

[1KPerDay]

800cc Crossrunner

[bubba zanetti]

When I first saw the bike I had the instant thought that someone dropped a headcrab on a perfectly good bike.

[GRN]

You KNOW it would theoretically cost a lot more than $10k.  They have the old VFR800 for $11,999!

Theoretically because I doubt we'll ever see it here.

I ran across some chat in the UK that indicated they should expect to see pricing near 10K pounds... when the Tiger starts around 6300 pounds... good luck w/ that, Honda.

[Giaka]

You guys are an odd group. This Honda is ugly and the new multistrada is shit hot?    My opinion is this is exactly what the VFR needed, to be NAKED! I want to see it with the factory bags.

[GRN]

You guys are an odd group. This Honda is ugly and the new multistrada is shit hot?    My opinion is this is exactly what the VFR needed, to be NAKED! I want to see it with the factory bags.

Me thinks not many folks consider this naked...

[Rincewind]

I ran across some chat in the UK that indicated they should expect to see pricing near 10K pounds... when the Tiger starts around 6300 pounds... good luck w/ that, Honda.

Wow, that's $16k USD in a straight currency conversion.    

[djgarrett21]

I am not one to arbitrarily criticize a bike because of its weight.  I have had some light bikes and I have had heavy bikes.  The heavy ones were much more comfortable for touring on and did not cease being fun when the road turned twisty.  The lighter bikes were more fun in the twisties, but ceased being fun on longer trips and gusty conditions.  I suppose if you are in the minority who would push an ST bike to its limits on twisty roads, weight could be an issue, but I have seen the way most of you ride and you would be much better off focusing on skill building than worrying about a few extra pounds of bike weight.  Likewise many of you should go to the gym and knock off a few pounds if it's that important to you.

Speak for yourself fattie!    Since we are on "SPORT-touring" I will say that lighter is almost always going to be better. A big ol cruiser may be a little more comfortable and stable riding across the windy planes of Kansas but I'll take a lighter, more powerful bike any day.

[DogBoy]

You guys are an odd group. This Honda is ugly and the new multistrada is shit hot?    My opinion is this is exactly what the VFR needed, to be NAKED! I want to see it with the factory bags.

The Multistrada is shit hot because of the performance specs and components, not because of its looks. I don't see a lot of performance or components to get excited about for this bike. Wait...it does have more "road hugging weight" than the Multistrada.  

[coho]

You guys are an odd group. This Honda is ugly and the new multistrada is shit hot?    My opinion is this is exactly what the VFR needed, to be NAKED! I want to see it with the factory bags.

I like it, too.  I think it's a neat bike, but as an 800cc Stromlike crossover/quasi-enduro roadster it shouldn't be heavier than my fourteen year old BMW 1100.

The Crosstour concept is pretty cool too.  Much better looking than the Varadero, but not quite as gee-whiz as the 1200 Multistrada.

[chornbe]

Well, it's not new - it's a 6th gen VFR.

What'd they weigh? 500lbs bone dry, if memory serves.

[Xanth]

Honda listed on their website a curb weight of 540lb. for the 2009 VFR. The specs listed here for the Crossrunner say 530lb. curb weight. Honda shaved a few pounds off.  

I'm guessing if Honda brings it to the US they'll shoot for around $13k, give or take.

[Flightar]

I really like it...we need more bikes like the GS series BMW's in the USA. I love the one with the bags, crash bars and trunk.

But then again I have wanted a real BMW GS 1200 for quite a while now...

[Rigger]

From this angle, the front fairing looks like the Honda CBF bikes.



CrossTourer Concept

Both bikes look better than the models sitting on them.  Just sayin  

[marc11]

Both bikes look better than the models sitting on them.  Just sayin  

They were hoping to sit on nicer bikes but Honda was fresh out, so they were a bit pissed....btw why do some pics show wire wheels and some cast?

[Rigger]

Differant bikes

[chornbe]

They were hoping to sit on nicer bikes but Honda was fresh out, so they were a bit pissed....btw why do some pics show wire wheels and some cast?

two different bikes.

One is the production 800 CrossRunner, the other is the 1200 CrossTourer (concept).

[marc11]

two different bikes.

One is the production 800 CrossRunner, the other is the 1200 CrossTourer (concept).

Oh duh, Honda makes my head hurt.

[Rogue]

They give us the CBR1000 then one big WTF?

I'm glad I got my 6th Generation VFR before they butchered it.  

[squeezer]

Oh duh, Honda makes my head hurt.

They make my heart hurt. I believe an innovator has lost its way.

[chornbe]

I'm withholding all judgment until I see pricing on the CBR250, the CB1000R and this vfr thingy.

[squeezer]

I'm withholding all judgment until I see pricing on the CBR250, the CB1000R and this vfr thingy.

A wiser decision.

[chornbe]

A wiser decision.

I figure, they could really surprise us and price the CB1000R competitive with the Z1000, the CBR250 with the Ninja 250 and this vfr thingy right in line with Trumpet's upcoming 800.

The Trumpet is easy to price-guess and get really close. I guessed high on the Spring-GT and I bet I'd guess high on the 800.

What do I think will REALLY happen with Honda's pricing...? *snerk*

I think we all know that, don't we? But still... it's best to wait and see.

The competitiveness and usefulness of these bikes hinge solely on price, IMO.

[BlueRidgeKat]

The CrossTouer looks alot  like the Super Tenere to me..... big, heavy and ugly.

[atadaskew]

Word on the street has it that Honda will not ship the entire bike to the US.
What they will do is ship the bodywork, which dealers will attach to current unsold VFRs which are languishing on show-room floors and in warehouses.

Quite crafty actually.

[marc11]

Word on the street has it that Honda will not ship the entire bike to the US.
What they will do is ship the bodywork, which dealers will attach to current unsold VFRs which are languishing on show-room floors and in warehouses.

Quite crafty actually.

That can't be true.  Those bikes would still be X model year and not 2011, I can't see how they would title and sell them under a new model designation unless of course they aren't going to have a new model, but still the year would be an issue.

[chornbe]

Just some quick numbers...

Model	UK Price	USA Price
Shadow black/phantom	6750	7999
VFR1200	12075	15999
VFR800 Interceptor	9525 (includes ABS)	11999 (add $1000 for ABS)
CB1000R	8525	Mid 12s???
VFR800CR	est 10k	High 13s, low 14s???

These are not FX-rate calculated, these are comparing prices in the UK to prices in the USA for the same bikes. Just doing FX-rate conversions on vehicles is not a viable comparison.

[Rincewind]

Just some quick numbers...

Model	UK Price	USA Price
Shadow black/phantom	6750	7999
VFR1200	12075	15999
VFR800 Interceptor	9525 (includes ABS)	11999 (add $1000 for ABS)
CB1000R	8525	Mid 12s???
VFR800CR	est 10k	High 13s, low 14s???

These are not FX-rate calculated, these are comparing prices in the UK to prices in the USA for the same bikes. Just doing FX-rate conversions on vehicles is not a viable comparison.

What makes you think this bike is coming to the US?  Honda hasn't had a horse in that race since the Transalp 20 years ago.

[GRN]

Just some quick numbers...

Model	UK Price	USA Price
Shadow black/phantom	6750	7999
VFR1200	12075	15999
VFR800 Interceptor	9525 (includes ABS)	11999 (add $1000 for ABS)
CB1000R	8525	Mid 12s???
VFR800CR	est 10k	High 13s, low 14s???

These are not FX-rate calculated, these are comparing prices in the UK to prices in the USA for the same bikes. Just doing FX-rate conversions on vehicles is not a viable comparison.

Right, did some of the same between Triumph and BMW models, neither of which were linear with FX calcs. I'll still bet ya nickle the new 800 doesn't fall a penny south of $13K though... at least not until the dust builds.

[chornbe]

Mindless speculatin'

[atadaskew]

Just some quick numbers...


[

CB1000R

8525

Mid 12s???

These are not FX-rate calculated, these are comparing prices in the UK to prices in the USA for the same bikes. Just doing FX-rate conversions on vehicles is not a viable comparison.

You had better be wrong Chris.  I'm diggin the CB, love the headers, love the look, even ok with the rumoured 110 rwhp.  Butt it has to be priced at Kawi Z1000 levels.  A bike that apparently offers much more motor.

What's the price spread on the Z1000 in the UK vs USA?

I'm not gonna pay a Harley tax for a Honda...
 

[Xanth]

Just some quick numbers...

CB1000R	8525	Mid 12s???	$11k - $12k
VFR800CR	est 10k	High 13s, low 14s???	$13k - $14k

These are not FX-rate calculated, these are comparing prices in the UK to prices in the USA for the same bikes. Just doing FX-rate conversions on vehicles is not a viable comparison.

I forgot to take ABS into consideration on my earlier guess. Though I'm not looking at this style of bike at the moment, it's always good to have more bike options. Let's see if they bring the Crossrunner over.

[chornbe]

I'm not gonna pay a Harley tax for a Honda...
 

3 VFR1200 owners and 1 DN-01 owner globally say you're wrong!  

[Giaka]

You girly men and your 530lb wet weight heaviness issues. My god you guys bitch more than 20 menstruating women locked in a dark closet with the heat stuck on 95.

[chornbe]

You girly men and your 530lb wet weight heaviness issues. My god you guys bitch more than 20 menstruating women locked in a dark closet with the heat stuck on 95.

It takes a better rider to pilot 700lbs of big heavy ST machine at a good clip than a 370lb surgical track weapon.  

[atadaskew]

You girly men and your 530lb wet weight heaviness issues. My god you guys bitch more than 20 menstruating women locked in a dark closet with the heat stuck on 95.

That reminds me, I'm all out of Pamprin

[1KPerDay]

You guys are an odd group. This Honda is ugly and the new multistrada is shit hot?    My opinion is this is exactly what the VFR needed, to be NAKED!

You keep using that word. I don't think it means what you think it means.
/inigo

[atadaskew]

You keep using that word. I don't think it means what you think it means.
/inigo

You killed my father.  Prepare to die.

[UFO]

It takes a better rider working harder to pilot 700lbs of big heavy ST machine at a good clip than a 370lb surgical track weapon.  Just think what that better rider could do on a 370 lb bike!  

FTFY

[bubba zanetti]

You killed my father.  Prepare to die.

This will help you be recognized.

[GRN]

It takes a better rider to pilot 700lbs of big heavy ST machine at a good clip than a 370lb surgical track weapon.  

Some folks who learn to throw the weight of the heavier ST's very proficiently ride them better because they don't trust the feel or perceived instability of a bike half the weight... odd, but true. Even after 18K miles on my Sprint, I doubt I could have kept up with myself on my ST13.

[atadaskew]

Some folks who learn to throw the weight of the heavier ST's very proficiently ride them better because they don't trust the feel or perceived instability of a bike half the weight... odd, but true. Even after 18K miles on my Sprint, I doubt I could have kept up with myself on my ST13.

Sumfink must be messed up wid ma Ducati St4s, cuz it's much more stable than ma old Wing 1800.

[JamesG]

Photos deleted from post for mercy's sake.

Both bikes look better than the models sitting on them.  Just sayin  

Yah.  They should have plopped a coupla' big boned bull dykes on them instead.  Would make the bike look both smaller and more attractive.

[sammyseaman]

Yah.  They should have plopped a coupla' big boned bull dykes on them instead.  Would make the bike look both smaller and more attractive.

Oh crap, the Honda faithful just put you on their list. You'll probably get 2 to 3 ignores because you just disrespected their kid.

[JamesG]

I'm pretty sure I'll live.  Thanks though.

[forester]

Nice looking bikes from an obvious quality conscious manufacturer, but too status quo in design.

BMW seems to be the only one who is getting it right these days.

[coho]

It takes a better rider to pilot 700lbs of big heavy ST machine at a good clip than a 370lb surgical track weapon.  

That 700lb. ST bike probably has 130+ hp and 100 lb/ft. to help it get out of its own porky way, too.

Just sayin.

[Nodaclu]

From this angle, the front fairing looks like the Honda CBF bikes.



CrossTourer Concept

Good lord!!! Underweight models on overweight bikes. I need some cheeseburgers for one group and a couple treadmills for the other....stat!!!!  

Judging from those pictures, it would take about 6 of those models to equal the weight of 1 Honda Crossrunner 800.  

Seriously though....like the idea. The execution really isn't that bad, but the pricing.....like Chris, I'll withhold judgment until we see if (a) all of these bikes make it to the States and (b) whether Honda decides to move product or continue to pretend they are BMW's.

[JamesG]

Hmmm... If they'd have married the shaft drive onto the 800cc VFR mill with this 1200's long travel suspension I might have been interested. It would have been a good foil for the Triumph Tiger 800s, and bracketed nicely Stroms and the assorted 1200cc "adventure" (big road bikes with offroad pretensions) bikes.

But I really can't understand this "Butch VFR" and "Fat Varadero"...

I can hear Soichiro Honda grumbling from here.

[spd2918]

You girly men and your 530lb wet weight heaviness issues. My god you guys bitch more than 20 menstruating women locked in a dark closet with the heat stuck on 95.

Stolen for my sig line, thank you.  

[Paul Barnard]

Speak for yourself fattie!    Since we are on "SPORT-touring" I will say that lighter is almost always going to be better. A big ol cruiser may be a little more comfortable and stable riding across the windy planes of Kansas but I'll take a lighter, more powerful bike any day.

I just looked at the Sport-Touring site logo above.  There is no emphasis placed on either word.  Tell me about some of the touring you have done on your SPORT-Touring bike.  Tell me about how you have been handicapped on a sport-tour on a heavy bike.  I am genuinely interested.  Fattie?  giggle.

[motrhead]

 Are those the latest Chinese bikes? If those guys ever hire some real stylists they may be able to sell some bikes in Europe and North America...they're too  fugly for me

[chornbe]

I just looked at the Sport-Touring site logo above.  There is no emphasis placed on either word.  Tell me about some of the touring you have done on your SPORT-Touring bike.  Tell me about how you have been handicapped on a sport-tour on a heavy bike.  I am genuinely interested.  Fattie?  giggle.

+1

[sammyseaman]

I just looked at the Sport-Touring site logo above.  There is no emphasis placed on either word.  Tell me about some of the touring you have done on your SPORT-Touring bike.  Tell me about how you have been handicapped on a sport-tour on a heavy bike.  I am genuinely interested.  Fattie?  giggle.

+1

-10

[chornbe]

I think he's asking a fair question.

I get that people like different bikes - and hey, I loved flicking my CBR around around, but he's asking fair questions objectively, I think. So... +1

[sammyseaman]

I think he's asking a fair question.

I get that people like different bikes - and hey, I loved flicking my CBR around around, but he's asking fair questions objectively, I think. So... +1

-100 I can keep this up all day pally




























 

[chornbe]

damn it. i can't even swing back because... ya know... monkey abuse!  

[sammyseaman]

damn it. i can't even swing back because... ya know... monkey abuse!  

 

[tomek]

Road bike - 500 or 550 pounds,honestly,who gives a fcuk  ? Are you bunch of girly man ? Where are your man cards ?

Track/race bike -  even 10 pounds weight penalty is unacceptable.

That Hondah does look indefinitely better then Multi 12 ,old technology,etc but it will probably go 200k miles with nothing more then couple voltage regulators and valve shims.
 

[djgarrett21]

I just looked at the Sport-Touring site logo above.  There is no emphasis placed on either word.  Tell me about some of the touring you have done on your SPORT-Touring bike.  Tell me about how you have been handicapped on a sport-tour on a heavy bike.  I am genuinely interested.  Fattie?  giggle.

Sorry, meant no offense. To each his own but to me a sport bike should have a higher power-to-weight ratio and the touring side should be obvious. Combine those and you have a sport-touring machine. IMO the Crossrunner is at least 50 lbs overweight. If you like heavier bikes then that is ok with me!

[Paul Barnard]

Sorry, meant no offense. To each his own but to me a sport bike should have a higher power-to-weight ratio and the touring side should be obvious. Combine those and you have a sport-touring machine. IMO the Crossrunner is at least 50 lbs overweight. If you like heavier bikes then that is ok with me!

I really am interested in hearing about the touring you have done on your Sport-Touring bike.  Boast away!

[Xanth]

Sorry, meant no offense. To each his own but to me a sport bike should have a higher power-to-weight ratio and the touring side should be obvious. Combine those and you have a sport-touring machine. IMO the Crossrunner is at least 50 lbs overweight. If you like heavier bikes then that is ok with me!

I agree completely, as a sport bike (RR) this thing is a fat pig. Good thing it isn't a sport bike (RR).

Kidding aside, sport-touring can encompass anything from a feather weight RR bike to an over weight touring bike. This thing falls somewhere in the middle while trying to look like an adventure bike. The old VFR is a damn fine street-sport. Could Honda have shaved off a few more pounds when they built this off of that platform? Certainly, but for the intent of this bike it was irrelevant.

[mtrider16]

I wish I had those handle bars on my '07 VFR.  Lots less wrist pain.

I think it looks like a nice standard.  It might compete with the FZ1.  

David

[Sarchi]

But I really can't understand this "Butch VFR" and "Fat Varadero"...

I can hear Soichiro Honda grumbling from here.

"Haha, Butch and Fats good friend of mine.  Tuesday night for swinging, bitch!"

[JamesG]

 

[gritsngravy]

Road bike - 500 or 550 pounds,honestly,who gives a fcuk  ? Are you bunch of girly man ? Where are your man cards ?

Track/race bike -  even 10 pounds weight penalty is unacceptable.

That Hondah does look indefinitely better then Multi 12 ,old technology,etc but it will probably go 200k miles with nothing more then couple voltage regulators and valve shims.
  

Great point!  

I'm loving that Honda continues to put the 800 v-tec to good use.    

On any given pleasure ride I'll hit open interstate, mountain road, and narrow two lane country roads.    I've never felt my horribly fat antique vfr was too heavy in any scenario.   Maybe it's because I also ride a truly heavy cruiser but the vfr feels like an extension of my body,  it never feels heavy.

[chornbe]

Great point!  

I'm loving that Honda continues to put the 800 v-tec to good use.    

On any given pleasure ride I'll hit open interstate, mountain road, and narrow two lane country roads.    I've never felt my horribly fat antique vfr was too heavy in any scenario.   Maybe it's because I also ride a truly heavy cruiser but the vfr feels like an extension of my body,  it never feels heavy.

Maybe it's because you're a rider and not a bench racer.

People who bitch about 50 lbs here and there... they focus too much on the machine and not on riding. I've had a ball tearing up some truly epic roads on some truly, epically slow and overweight machines... and still had to go back and find the people who couldn't keep up.

On the track, I'll grant the weight argument all day long.
On the road... pffffft. Learn to ride a heavy pig fast, and everything else just gets easier.  

In short, learn to ride well, buy the bike you like and that serves your needs, and piss on the naysayers.  

[marc11]

Maybe it's because you're a rider and not a bench racer.

People who bitch about 50 lbs here and there... they focus too much on the machine and not on riding. I've had a ball tearing up some truly epic roads on some truly, epically slow and overweight machines... and still had to go back and find the people who couldn't keep up.

On the track, I'll grant the weight argument all day long.
On the road... pffffft. Learn to ride a heavy pig fast, and everything else just gets easier.  

In short, learn to ride well, buy the bike you like and that serves your needs, and piss on the naysayers.  

100% fair points and I agree 100%, except, when you are comparing two similar bikes, spec sheet to spec sheet three things seem to stand out in importance, 1) Price, 2) Power and 3) Weight.  Give me a lighter bike for the same price and the power isn't as important (to a point) because well the lighter bike, in theory should be easier to manage stopped and moving; and at some point more power doesn't always mean the same relative amount of more faster on the street.

Of course all things aren't equal and how a bike carries its weight is important, but I do not think you just dismiss a bikes weight when shopping comparative models.  IMHO of course.

[chornbe]

Absolutely fair points... I was speaking in general terms. Seems to be the day for that.

Like "the FJR should shave 50 lbs!" ok... why 50? why not 100? why not 35? Why not 35 off the bike and 15 off the rider?

And so forth...

The arbitrary and seemingly random things that get tossed around are what I find amusing.

[UFO]

Road bike - 500 or 550 pounds,honestly,who gives a fcuk  ? Are you bunch of girly man ? Where are your man cards ?

Track/race bike -  even 10 pounds weight penalty is unacceptable.

That Hondah does look indefinitely better then Multi 12 ,old technology,etc but it will probably go 200k miles with nothing more then couple voltage regulators and valve shims.
  

Looks are subjective.  The Crossrunner looks...okay I guess.  But I've owned a VTEC powered VFR, and let me tell ya...there will be no comparison between throwing a leg over a relatively light 150 hp, Ohlin's hung MTS and a 100 hp, relatively heavy Crossrunner.

I buy bikes that I think excite me.  The Crossrunner looks like a perfectly utilitarian (and good) bike...but it doesn't excite me.  And just for Chris, there are plenty of ultra-light bikes that don't excite me either.

[crispiegee1]

Wow, I'm late to this game!


My thoughts, if anyone gives a rat's ass, which I doubt:  

- I am unconcerned with weight, unless someone else makes a similar bike that weighs much less.

- I am unconcerned with power, unless someone else makes a similar bike that is significantly more powerful.

- I am unconcerned with price, unless someone else makes a bike that's just as good for a lot less money.


In this case, if I wanted a bike that weighed 530 pounds, I pay the penalty of an extra 20 pounds and get a Stelvio. If I wanted to spend around $13 grand, I get a Tiger 800 and enjoy 50-70 pounds less weight (depending on which spec you read).

While it's true that some people on this board have unrealistic demands (a sub-400 pound bike that is super comfortable, can go cross country or off-road, with 180 horsepower, tons of torque, heated grips, great wind protection and -oh yeah- sells for $9000), asking Honda to be slightly competitive is certainly not asking too much.

[sammyseaman]

Wow, I'm late to this game!


My thoughts, if anyone gives a rat's ass, which I doubt:  

- I am unconcerned with weight, unless someone else makes a similar bike that weighs much less.

- I am unconcerned with power, unless someone else makes a similar bike that is significantly more powerful.

- I am unconcerned with price, unless someone else makes a bike that's just as good for a lot less money.

In this case, if I wanted a bike that weighed 530 pounds, I pay the penalty of an extra 20 pounds and get a Stelvio. If I wanted to spend around $13 grand, I get a Tiger 800 and enjoy 50-70 pounds less weight (depending on which spec you read).

While it's true that some people on this board have unrealistic demands (a sub-400 pound bike that is super comfortable, can go cross country or off-road, with 180 horsepower, tons of torque, heated grips, great wind protection and -oh yeah- sells for $9000), asking Honda to be slightly competitive is certainly not asking too much.

This is where Honda drops the ball. A lot.

[XLR8]

I am not one to arbitrarily criticize a bike because of its weight.  I have had some light bikes and I have had heavy bikes.  The heavy ones were much more comfortable for touring on and did not cease being fun when the road turned twisty.  The lighter bikes were more fun in the twisties, but ceased being fun on longer trips and gusty conditions.  I suppose if you are in the minority who would push an ST bike to its limits on twisty roads, weight could be an issue, but I have seen the way most of you ride and you would be much better off focusing on skill building than worrying about a few extra pounds of bike weight.  Likewise many of you should go to the gym and knock off a few pounds if it's that important to you.

One of the most reasonable things I've heard here in a while. Of course it's subjective and speaking for myself, I think a ST bike needs a certain amount of weight to give it a nice feel over longer distances.

[crashtech]

I was interested until I saw the estimated price...OMG!!! Pretty stout for a basically carry-over model....WOW
If they priced it reasonable they could not keep them in stock...shame really...

[XLR8]

I was interested until I saw the estimated price...OMG!!! Pretty stout for a basically carry-over model....WOW

But it's a VFR?  

[Rogue]

800cc Crossrunner


1200cc Crosstourer concept


2011 Honda Crossrunner 800 | Optional Equipment

I think the Crosstourer is the model that should be sold exclusively, not the more street oriented Crossrunner.  The Tourer has the right look of an adventure tourer.  It certainly won't have the offroad capability of the closest competitor, the BMW F800 GS, due to its weight, but the Honda will have the top end power for the highway.  It may have a future in this guise.

[GRN]

I think the Crosstourer is the model that should be sold exclusively, not the more street oriented Crossrunner.  The Tourer has the right look of an adventure tourer.  It certainly won't have the offroad capability of the closest competitor, the BMW F800 GS, due to its weight, but the Honda will have the top end power for the highway.  It may have a future in this guise.

The crosstourer is a 1200 in the R-GS, Super Tenere segment, not 800... and in the 800 market don't forget the Tigers.

[Rogue]

I'm sorry for the confusion.  

I guess my point was to have the Crossrunner look more like the Crosstourer 1200.  It's too bad that it is just a re-skinned VFR.  

[DangerMoney]

CrossTourer Concept

Honda figured out what BMW has known for years: Weight, price and ugliness aren't obstacles to world-wide sales.

[chornbe]

I've got a GS in my garage at the moment. Doesn't feel anywhere near as heavy as the numbers might indicate. Felt like a featherweight moving it around.

[crispiegee1]

I've got a GS in my garage at the moment. Doesn't feel anywhere near as heavy as the numbers might indicate. Felt like a featherweight moving it around.

My ex-girlfriend was the same way.

[djgarrett21]

Hadn't seen this video posted yet. Here is an interview of one of the designers.

http://youtu.be/9mHwjPGBqLM

[Busy Little Whiner]

Hadn't seen this video posted yet. Here is an interview of one of the designers.

http://youtu.be/9mHwjPGBqLM

Kid... do you have any sport in your blood???

[GRN]

Hadn't seen this video posted yet. Here is an interview of one of the designers.

http://youtu.be/9mHwjPGBqLM

How many ways can you say vanilla?

[crispiegee1]

How many ways can you say vanilla?

Ugh... I do marketing for a living and I hate marketing BS. People can see right through it.

I enjoyed reading the interview of Triumph's project manager (Simon something), who was quite blunt when asked if they had done mockups of the Tiger 800 using the existing 675 engine. He said yes, but that "it looked like shit," with everything pieced into place to see how it worked together.    It makes you more likely to believe him when he says the final product is satisfactory.

Customers will always appreciate honesty, even when a company says, "Oops, we fucked up."  That's one of my cardinal rules to my clients: Never try to BS your customers.

[Tar Snake]

In the Maroon color I like it.  

Other than that I'll wait for if it shows up in the US and price.

[GRN]

In the Maroon color I like it.  

Other than that I'll wait for if it shows up in the US and price.

Talked to the dealer where I taught this weekend and they hadn't even heard of it. Big surprise.

[marc11]

Why is it every single dealer in the entire country lacks internet access?  I find it incredible how many "never heard of it" lines from dealers when the web is crawling with pics, specs, release dates, prices, etc.  I guess they really do think we are a bunch of idiots and believe what they say....then again, people are still paying freight and prep.  

[sammyseaman]

Why is it every single Japanese dealer in the entire country lacks internet access?  I find it incredible how many "never heard of it" lines from Japanese dealers when the web is crawling with pics, specs, release dates, prices, etc.  I guess they really do think we are a bunch of idiots and believe what they say....then again, people are still paying freight and prep.  

FTFY  

[marc11]

Fair enough  

[Davy F.]

I've seen the CrossDresser in the 'flesh' and IMO, it is even more bland than the pictures suggest. Having owned three VFR,s and now preferring a more sit-up riding position, it should appeal, but it just looks like a modern kitchen appliance. I also think that Honda want to eak out the final few sales of the Vtec engine by slotting it into what they say is a new trend in motorcycles. Maybe they did't notice Yamaha,s TDM850 released in 1991.  

As for the CrossTourer concept, well, it's the most production ready concept I've ever seen and if this bike isn't released for sale before the end of 2011 (at least in Europe), I'll eat my Arai !! It had some beautiful details about it and as a direct rival for the mighty R1200GS/Adventure, it will sell well to those who want that style of bike without going into BMW ownership.

[Bryan217]

Where did you see the CrossDresser? I havent heard if it's going to be at the NYC IMS show, but I hope so. I'm not in the market for s new bike, but owning a VFR, I'm curious to see how this looks/feels in comparison.

[Nitro]

So that is finally the different VFR  some of us were looking for!  I alomost like this, but  of course they have to put those stupid ammo can suitcases on it so it looks  "adventurous"  Yuk!
Y'know, a nice looking  set of bags that match the rest of the bike and it  might have been a nice vfr update. Just dump the vtech pia part of it.

[Rincewind]

Where did you see the CrossDresser? I havent heard if it's going to be at the NYC IMS show, but I hope so. I'm not in the market for s new bike, but owning a VFR, I'm curious to see how this looks/feels in comparison.

He's not in the US.  This bike won't be coming ashore, other than the rare beaching.  

[UFO]

Where did you see the CrossDresser? I havent heard if it's going to be at the NYC IMS show, but I hope so. I'm not in the market for s new bike, but owning a VFR, I'm curious to see how this looks/feels in comparison.

Smeggie is across the pond, they always get stuff before North America.

What is the famous and elusive Smeghead riding these days?  Update your profile.

[Kraz]

I really like the way the white one looks - better than a late VFR imho.

Price is the big factor obviously, but also the ass pain of VTEC maintenance, and did Honda ever figure out how to make R/R's that work?  

That Hondah does look indefinitely better then Multi 12 ,old technology,etc but [the honda] will probably go 200k miles with nothing more then couple voltage regulators and valve shims.
  

Agree with Tomek on this one... I've had less than impressive experience with Ducati so I'll probably never buy one again, no matter how much I like them.  I had a 5th Gen VFR and it had some stuff go hinky with sensors and a notched clutch basket at less than 30k.

[Davy F.]

Smeggie is across the pond, they always get stuff before North America.

What is the famous and elusive Smeghead riding these days?  Update your profile.

Done.  

[McHack]

Huh, my Great Grand Father Sloan immigrated from Belfast to the US...

[Davy F.]

This was much more interesting than the CrossRunner. Obviously pitched against the mighty BMW R1200GS (Adventure), it looks ready to sell although the Big H say it's only a concept.