Hey All, I currently do not own a VFR 1200 yet but have the hots for this awsome bike. I ride a BMW S1000RR and R1100S and a Honda CX500 Turbo. I feel the new VFR will fit right in. I have seen some pretty good deals on 2010 models but I am convinced that traction control and DCT are a must since you can't modulate gear changes without the clutch lever on the DCT. I wonder if the DCT non TC will allow to downshift like a regular bike causing rear brake to lock? Regards, Riq
The manual model has a slipper clutch, and the dct has an auto blipper. The only restriction on down shifting is that it will not allow a down shift that would cause the engine to over-rev. The traction control is not a factor on down shifting. In fact the only time I have used abs or had the back end lose traction is in the rain and once in some sand/gravel. I think the traction control is of very little value. The increased torque and smoother throttle response down low is a significant advantage. IMHO the bike is not made for TC. It is a sport tourer with the emphasis on sport. An old mans supersport. It does have some advantages. Nice motor, nice ergos, nice wind protection. And disadvantages. Weight, small tank, no cruise control, expensive bags. It is a nice bike of great compromises. It is only a disappointment to those that wanted an un-compromised sport bike or tourer. Those that wanted something in between get what they want.
Great information. As I mentioned I have an all out superbike that the Beemer. I don't want a goldwing type boat. However, as you seem to mention the new software and TC seem to justify the 2012 bike. If I could only find it as cheap I would get my Xmas present. Thanks for the post and be safe. Riq