Honda VFR1200F DCT - Long-Term Update

Honda’s 2010 VFR1200F DCT is the latest addition to our long-term test fleet. This is the push-button, paddle-shift-equipped Dual Clutch Transmission version of the new shaft-drive, 1237cc V-Four sportbike that debuted earlier this year.

Our early production example arrived at Cycle World's Newport Beach editorial offices this past August equipped with a variety of accessories that should lend themselves well during the coming months to both commuting and sport-touring. Chief among these welcome additions are 29-liter saddlebags ($1399.95), a 31-liter rear trunk ($599.95) and a rear carrier ($399.95). The latter provides the mounting points for the trunk and doubles as passenger grab handles. Co-riders will also appreciate the support offered by the contoured trunk pad ($99.95).

While only the trunk will handily swallow a modern full-face helmet, all three bags snap on and off easily and quickly using the ignition key. Another nice touch: The VFR’s flawless Candy Red body paint is perfectly replicated on the clamshell-type lids. Additional accessories installed on our test unit include an adjustable windscreen deflector ($249.95), fairing wind deflector set ($174.95), heated grips ($349.95), rear tire hugger ($129.95) and centerstand ($249.95). Total cost for the aforementioned accessories is $3654.55, bringing the as-tested retail price of our VFR DCT to $21,153.55.

Not cheap but, hopefully, worth the money.