The Honda Crossrunner (also called VFR800X) is a versatile touring motorcycle launched by Honda at the 2010 EICMA Milan Motorcycle Show.[1] It went on sale in 2011,[2] with first deliveries later that summer.[3] Its 782 cc (47.7 cu in) V4 engine was derived from the successful VFR800.[1] While the VFR800 was a sport touring motorcycle, the Crossrunner has a low saddle, wide-handlebars, long-travel suspension, and special Pirelli Scorpion tires better suited to "soft roads".

Honda Crossrunner
ManufacturerHonda
Also calledHonda VFR800X
Production2011–present
ClassStandard or adventure touring crossover
Engine782 cc (47.7 cu in) liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC 90° V4
Bore / stroke72.0 mm × 48.0 mm (2.83 in × 1.89 in)
Compression ratio11.6:1
Power74.9 kW (100.4 hp) @ 10,000 rpm
Torque72.8 N⋅m (53.7 lbf⋅ft) @ 9,500 rpm
Transmission6-speed manual, chain final drive
Frame typeTwin spar aluminium
BrakesFront: Dual 296 mm discs with 3-pot calipers
Rear:Single 256 mm disc
combined with ABS
TyresFront: 120/70 R17
Rear: 180/55 R17
Rake, trail25.75° / 96 mm (3.8 in)
Wheelbase1,464 mm (57.6 in)
DimensionsL: 2,130 mm (84 in)
W: 799 mm (31.5 in)
H: 1,243 mm (48.9 in)
Seat height816 mm (32.1 in)
Weight240.4 kg (530 lb) (wet)
Fuel capacity21.5 L (4.7 imp gal; 5.7 US gal)
Oil capacity3.8 L (4.0 US qt)
RelatedHonda VRF800F

Development

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Honda commissioned a European design team to assist in development. Preliminary tests included trying various Crossrunner prototypes in over 120 wind tunnel sessions to establish an optimum design for aerodynamic stability.[2]

In September 2014, Honda Motor Europe announced that the 2015 Crossrunner, to be called the VFR800X, would have a revised 800 cc V4 engine and new bodywork. Also, there would be changes to the suspension, brakes and wheels.[4]

Reception

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A Motor Cycle News (MCN) review said: "The Crossrunner stands out from the crowd and performs as a real world, day-in, day-out bike impressively well."[5] Journalist Kevin Ash added: "It's a fine looking bike with a reassuring and satisfying chassis matched to a characterful and muscular engine that compels you to use it. But there's a downside, and these days it's a big one: fuel consumption."[6]

In an MCN 5-bike review in 2015, the testers felt that the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer was a better bike and better value than all its competitors, namely: a Triumph Tiger 800XRx, a Triumph Tiger Sport, a Honda Crossrunner, and a Ducati Hyperstrada.[7] With a kerb weight of 242kg, the Crossrunner was significantly the heaviest of the group.

References

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  1. ^ a b Madson, Bart (5 November 2010). "Honda Crossrunner First Look". Motorcycle USA. Retrieved 12 November 2010.
  2. ^ a b "Media Information 2011 Crossrunner ABS" (PDF). Honda UK. 2 November 2010. Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 December 2010. Retrieved 12 November 2010.
  3. ^ "Crossrunner is winner at NEC". Motorcycle News. 1 November 2010. p. 2. ISSN 0027-1853.
  4. ^ "HONDA European Media Newsroom". Archived from the original on 2014-10-02. Retrieved 2014-09-24.
  5. ^ "HONDA CROSSRUNNER 800 (2011-2014) Review". Retrieved 26 June 2017.
  6. ^ "Honda Crossrunner review - Ash On Bikes". www.ashonbikes.com. Retrieved 26 June 2017.
  7. ^ Motorcycle News 26 August 2015
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