Honda VFR800X Crossrunner – updated ready-for-action feeling bike

Updated Honda VFR800X Crossrunner

The growing trend of buyers moving into cross-over is not only visible in the car segment but also in bikes.  Honda launched their VFR800X Crossrunner to cater for this type of buyer.

Back in 2011, this was the first model in the cross-over “X” labeled range, and the Crossrunner part says exactly what it does. 

Keeping the VFR800F sports touring platform and an upright adventure-bike riding position, it created this multi-purpose bike.  The engine is a V4, and is designed for corners or the daily commute.  

For 2015, it is updating this model.  Its engine and chassis are revised, gets the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system, LED lights, a more upright riding position, and sharper styling, and an automatic turn signal canceller (apparently this critical safety feature is not yet standard on all motorbikes).

Ready-for-action feeling

The Honda VFR800X Crossrunner is a motorcycle created to have a ready-for-action feeling.

The 782cc liquid-cooled V4 V-Tec engine is a DOHC 16-valve, with boosted lower and mid-range torque for a fluid effortless drive.  Top-end power has improved compared to the previous model.  Power of 78kW peaks at 10250 r/min, and torque is 75Nm delivered at 8500.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system

What does HSTC do for the rider?  As found on its bigger brother, the VFR1200X Crosstourer, HSTC will detect an imminent loss of rear-wheel traction, and seamlessly reduce torque to allow the tyre to grip the surface.  Think of it as traction control.

Updated frame, styling and LED lighting

The single-sided aluminium swing-arm is made stiffer and lighter, and suspension has longer travel.  ABS braking is fitted as standard.  Full LED lighting adds a new modern look – low and high beam and taillights are LED.

Seat height is adjustable, and the seat has a slimmer frontal area.  The LCD dash is redesigned, using a reverse display against a white LED backlight.  The 5-stage heated grips have an indicator to show which heat setting is selected.  A quick-shifter can be fitted to the gear lever as an accessory – this makes it easier and quicker to shift gears, as it plugs into the ECU which adjust engine power to make for gears to slot home instantly.

Mechanical parts are finished in Lights Silver, with engine covers and wheels in contrasting Matt Black.  The 3 paint colour options for Honda VFR800X Crossrunner are Candy Arcadian Red, Pearl Glare White and Matt Gunpowder Black metallic.

Pricing

The updated Honda VFR800X Crossrunner is available at Honda wing (motorcycle) dealerships, including a 2-year unlimited km warranty and 1-year roadside assistance, at R 141 990.