HONDA CROSSTOURER 1200 (2012 - 2021) Review

I haven't made adjustments to the suspension yet. I ride curvy steep mountain roads regularly and push it daily hard. There's room for improvement in the fronts handling but what I think it should feel like may be possible with tuning.

This motor has ruined the competition for me. I've considered the mid or big twins in the ADV sector, but this 1237 cc, V4 is just a beast. I'd miss the power, torque and exhaust note.

I've ridden 23,000+ miles problem free. The bike looks great and the performance always impressed.

A set of tires can last over 2 years. Oil changes require 2 filters ont DCT model and cost about $65-70 USD. I always do the final drive oil too. At twice a year that totals nearly $160. The balance goes towards tires in advance.

Mine has every available Honda accessory for this model, even the cover. But I get the most out of the 3 piece luggage set. And they are so easy to remove or remount. I love these.

Bought it to go touring with my wife, lovely and comfortable and handles well especially with a pillion and luggage, but be aware of the weight, very top heavy and unless you only go touring on smooth roads you need to be prepared for plenty of helmet clashes due to the rubbish throttle.

Took a great engine and spoilt it with the electronics, should have left the engine and its associated component's, electronics, throttle cables etc well alone and just changed the VFR in to the Crosstourer by just changing the chassis etc.

Simply not as good as the Honda's of the past, cheaper materials and it seems quantity over quality.

Expensive to run, drinks fuel at anything like 'spirited' riding and the build quality is not as good as it used to be. I didn't have it long enough to get to the first service.

The riding position is really good, I would recommend a rolling road and re map to improve the throttle.

I give this 4 out of 5 because the front suspension could be improved. I have to say that I have never adjusted this, so it may be possible to improve it, but at factory settings the front end can be jarring over the 'wrong' sort of bumps. Otherwise it is very good. The riding position is comfortable over long distances but still leaves you feeling fully in control of the bike. The brakes feel good and have always proved more than adequate. The saddle gets a bit hard after about 2 hours, but I have never felt the need to change anything to address this. Obviously, this is not a sportsbike and I probably would not take it on a track day (though it might surprise some people there) but for any sort of road riding it is wonderful. The bike can make very good progress when required.

The engine is the best feature of the Crosstourer. The engine would not suit a sportsbike, but for a road bike I doubt if there is any engine out there that would be significantly better. It delivers huge quantities of power in a lovely smooth progressive manner from about 2500rpm. The accuracy of the throttle is a joy. Even now, after many years of ownership, when I give it full throttle for an overtake, it can make me laugh out loud.

The build quality is amazing, even by Honda standards. Washing a Crosstourer is a pleasure, just to take in the quality of all the components. The one thing that I believe could be improved is the front forks, which look good but are only average in performance. Reliability is also outstanding. I have owned 3 over an 8 year period doing more than 25,000 miles and not one thing has gone wrong, nothing has rusted (there is almost nothing to rust) and nothing has corroded.

The running costs are typically quite low. Servicing is about what it always costs, the tyres last well provided you do not allow them to become square and the shaft drive is maintenance free. The 16,000 mile service with valve adjustment is, I am told expensive, so I have used this as an excuse to buy a new one!

The Highlander version of the Crosstourer comes with everything I need on a motorbike. It does not have the latest electronic connectivity but I believe it is all the better for that. The dashboard is LCD but is comprehensive and provides everything I need.

Standard rear shock pitiful (Hyperpro spring helped but still not satisfied) so replaced with a hugely impressive Shock Factory M shock, this has improved both ride quality and handling no end. Front springs replaced with Hyperpro and low rating cst 5wt fork oil (Motul). It's a different bike altogether now and the front end is quite plush/compliant to compliment the shock. I ride it to work and for weekend ride outs and find it very comfy, added 25mm bar risers and a tall Givi screen and I can sit at any speed in virtual windless calm. Bridgestone A41 tyres suit the bike well adding plenty of grip, the bike is a little top heavy but once you learn to trust it, it can be hustled along at a fair old pace with minimal effort...it's quite a satisfying lump to ride at any speed but medium/fast A and B road and twisty country roads are where it shines, if you want a bike to sit on a motorway in relaxed comfort too then this might be one to try. Overall I'm quite liking the VFR, more so since sorting the horrid OE suspension.

It's a grunty engine, has a bit of character but does feel a little lacking higher in the rev range although the torque lower down and midrange make up for that. I fitted a Delkevic can which (without baffles) seems to free the engine up a bit, the added pops and bangs can sound quite impressive too. It sounds more like a V4 now, the original muffler seemed too quiet. Power delivery is pretty well linear, it does have a horrible snatchy nature at low revs which can be quite frustrating especially having been used to the silky smooth nature of the carbed BB previously. It can gather pace without any effort but does it so effortlessly it doesn't ever feel particularly quick. Fuel consumption can be high 20's or mid 50's.

Not quite the premium build quality of the Blackbird (not much else is really) but typically Honda nonetheless, mine lives outside uncovered and is used to commute and cleans up well with minimum effort. The previous owner/dealer must of been born from Apes as every nut and bolt was overtightened (some seriously) when checked or removed to apply Copaslip. Air filter was black, oil capacity overfilled, rear tyre had slow puncture so not a good start to ownership but easy to sort.

Excellent on fuel on a run, has a drink problem for commuting/town work but it's a 1200 V4 and weighs too much so expected.

Excellent lights once bulbs changed to Osram lasers, mine had Honda's own heated grips installed which are good on cold mornings, centre stand helps for tyre/shock changes etc. Bar risers added a little comfort but I wouldn't go over 30mm, Bridestone A41's are a good choice of tyre and last an age, a tall screen will allow you to sit in a little bubble of lovely quietness, the hugger keeps the shock protected so get one fitted, std fit mirrors are excellent, change the muffler for a better sound, shaft drive so much nicer than having to much about with chain tension/oilers/grease/cleaning etc.

Adjustable suspension is old skool rather than fancy esa style but is super easy and other than adjusting the rear for a passenger I haven’t found necessary. Many owners replace rear and front springs but that’s gotta be a personable choice. The bike copes with UK potholes easily and the road holding is enough to have no chicken strips if your brave enough to lean a big heavy adventure bike in the real world of greasy roads,tractors dumping mud mid corner and a plethora of man hole covers laced right on the apex of many a bend.

Absolutely stunning V4. Pulls in every gear from any revs. Honda’s legendary V4 has an output of around 127 bhp in this guise, down from the f road bike output of 170 ish.

It’s a Honda. Enough said. If I had to nitpick the fork seals can get a hard life but this is easily remedied before replacement seals are necessary.

Service interval every 8k mile servicing is due every 8k miles with the big valve check service at 16 and 32k miles although those that know say if it starts ok and doesn’t rattle the valves will be fine so many go many many more miles until valve check is done. It’s an easy home service if you are that way inclined but don’t forget if you have the DCT model you have 2 oil filters to change. Fairing removal is daunting first time around but is simple once accomplished. Drive shaft means no chain to lube adjust or change.

The Highlander model comes with everything you will ever need if slightly older tech nowadays. If you need the latest TFT screens and electronic suspension and rider modes to play with this is not for you. If you want equipment that will still work after 200k miles this is for you. It has an led screen that is excellent at giving the rider the information he needs when he needs it. The luggage,heated grips and fog lights are all excellent quality and work really well. The standard seat is comfortable for most right out of the box. It has Honda HISS security system and amazing headlights. The only downside is that this bike DOES NOT have cruise control. The one addition Honda should of added and didn’t.

Have made several trips around France with my wife as pillion and comfort has never been a issue. Long days 8n saddle are not a problem. Only discomfort was in hot weather with slight rubbing of thigh on saddle.

No lag when twisting the throttle so moving into fast lane on motorway does not need a second thought in terms of speed. It has the power, acceleration and speed to get clear of traffic very quickly which gives great peace of mind.

Generally good but forks and engine showing rust even though always kept in dry storage. Never broken down

Quite expensive. Tyre replacement seems very frequent. Insurance is cheap and petrol is acceptable

Recommend a top box for pillion to rest against. Wind screen is excellent. Hand guards are a useful addition. Mirrors are a good size. Horn and full beam lights could be better positioned but I don’t use them too often so that could be the issue. Bike is very manoeuvrable at all speeds. I use panniers, a tank bag and sat nav when travelling

This is a luxury bike and rides like it, handles like a naked street bike with sport tyres fitted. Yes its heavy but you get used to it and it becomes light and quite flickable. It depends what you want if this bike suits you. I love its stability at speed in high winds its rock solid , I mostly ride it like a supermoto but its an impeccable touring bike too. Wind deflection is why I dont own a naked, had a speed triple for a while and the wind blast is silly. On this 100 mph is like 50mph on a naked. Down side only is the weight when moving it in and out of my Garage , there is a knack to it and its not that bad now . Totally worth it. Best bike pound for pound money can buy. Get the DCT model and changing gear on a normal bike will seem like playing an 8 track instead of streaming on your smart speaker !

V4 with 132 BHP ( with new end can) ! Its not mental fast but its all the power and torque you need to stay out of jail but still have fun , Ive owned a BMW K1300R never used the full power much as you are doing 100 mph most of the time if you do ! Amazing sound , flexible and pulls in any gear at any speed , mine does 149 mph , ive done that twice ( private road obviouly ) 131 as stated is silly.

Easy to work on , bullet proof V4 proven engine, DCT works perfectly . Shaft drive means no chain maintenance nonsense.

All i need is here ABS , TC , shaft drive.hand guards etc The DCT is breath takingly good , faster than any quickshifter , eco or sport full auto or full manual control using the toddle switches, no clutch no gear kicking no need for them ! Honda need this as an option on more bikes Downside of equipment underseat storage is as good as none. No rider modes to choose but I dont want or need them. I use a different aproach to throttle input instead. DCT at low speeds can be a little snatchy at first, feather the throttle and its no issue . When its going the changes are measured in milliseconds !

It just gets on with the job , great all rounder , touring or blasting, 2 to 3 hours mixed B roads twisties and green leaning etc

Erm it’s Hondas V4 - what’s not to love are you mad

To new to ell yet , only time can show if any issues will arise

Got a half price first service when bought new, getting around 46mpg at the moment mixed riding, on social rides out mixed roads inc some green leaning I still get at least 180 a tank thenit starts the count down so should manage 200 to a full tank 😁😁

Ok it has basic screen, but that’s all you need , mileage trip a and b temp countdown when low who needs more when riding

The brakes are very good and progressive, the standard suspension set up needs some adjustments to fine tune it to a riders preference. It's a very easy bike to ride and I have done 350 miles days with ease.

The engine is phenomenal, however the throttle is a little sensitive at low speed and can feel snatchy. Reducing the play in the cable helps. MPG is better on a long run, 50+mpg, but only 43mpg-ish if just pottering around. It revs cleanly to the red line and gets there very quickly, but it's got so much torque you hardly ever need to even approach it. It will out accelerate most supercars with ease.

It's a Honda, reliability is not an issue. Build and finish are excellent. The Honda luggage is light but easily marked.

I use an independent workshop for servicing, can't comment on Honda pricing. Having spoken to other owners the major service at 32000 miles is £560 if carried out by a main dealer.

It's not got much, which is what I like about it. ABS and traction control work well. The height adjustable screen is easy to use, a centre stand is a useful option. Five stage heated grips are okay but not the hottest. The headlight is the best I have ever experienced on a motorbike and improved further by replacing the standard bulb with a high performance one from Osram or Philips. Engine bars and fog lights are standard on the Highlander but a worthwhile option on the standard bike.

At its best anywhere on a road, but a bit wide in traffic. I've done a couple of hours without too much discomfort.

Superb

I've got Givi Luggage on mine. Didn't like the look(or what I heard ),about the Honda stuff. I've put everything on it to bring it up to Highlander Spec.+ Pirelli seem ok.

Seat not comfortable on long hauls. Power delivery good. Honda have really good brakes

Superb V4 motor

Top box cracking at corners and Honda refused warranty claim within 4 year warranty despite my suppying dealer saying they were faulty. Not impressed. No more Honda for me.

Took out a service agreement with dealer. Worked well.

See previous comments. Added a hugger and front deflector. Would benefit from cruise control. Trying to compete with BMW GS but has a long way to go to get near it.

In a word plush! Have never ridden in/driven a Bentley but think of the Crosstourer is a two wheeled equivalent. A very comfortable beast! Toured France for 2 weeks covering +2k miles, with a pillion & fully loaded. It was absolutely brilliant, no issues & could not fault. Suspension & brakes were perfect.

Loved the turbine like, immense smooth power...pretty addictive particularly when the VTEC kicked in. Very conscious that the bike could be a license loser, definitely a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Oozes quality. Exceptional build quality & reliability. No issues in the 2 yrs of ownership

Quite thirsty, averaging between 35 - 42mpg dependent on riding style.

Sounds dull but the screen/aerodynamics. Have never ridden a bike with such a relatively small screen but is almost a work of genius. I’m tall, v.tall for a m’bike ride, but the combination of front end ‘styling’ & screen creates such a clean air flow (for me) that cruising a high speed was no issue. Coming from a Tiger 955i (admittedly a v.low baseline) it was a breath of fresh air....literally!Standard plastic panniers scratch easily, didn’t think they would be up to the life of touring but were remarkable durable in my experience.

I find it the most uncomfortable Honda I have owned out of 6 from new bikes. Seat is rubbish.

Luggage is not the best and cracks on boxes accepted by dealer but not by Honda under warranty.

After 12,000 miles the rear brake has only 10% wear. I will get the front pads replaced after this season (if we get one!) and better brake lines to give a little more bite. Front pre-load tweaked up a bit to reduce dive under braking. Highlander pack a must. Very good value.

Smooth and powerful. Pulls like a train.

Only thing which was replaced under warranty was floppy gear selector switch (for DCT) on right handlebar. OE tyres lasted for 8,200 miles.

My son is a Honda UK mechanic so covers that. I only have to purchase consumables.

Continental tyres, Contitrailattack 2 suit it better than OE items. Much better in the rain. I have used it extensively on solo continental trips in complete 500 miles a day comfort. I am 5'10" and 90kg. Needed the lower seat option and adjustable foot-pegs to get both feet flat on the ground. It is a heavy bike, top heavy when pushing it around. Hugger, Fender extender and radiator grill all effective accessories.

I'm not a Valentino on the bike, and didn't buy it for outright speed. The bike is fast when cranked up. However bike is at its best on A roads and pushing along. It is a good all rounder and you can easily ride for 3 hours plus if you have too. Pillion found bike comfortable and roomy, back box makes a big difference.

Engine is smooth and responsive at the same time. Great engine.

Build is typical Honda and reliability is typical Honda. Never had a problem

Need to go to my local Honda dealer who takes advantage of distance to next dealer. Next dealer is £145 and more friendly but a distance away.

Highlander is well equipped. Will change the tyres to Michelin Road Pilots when time comes. Best feature is the seating position.

I am 70 so probably 150 miles and have not had a pillion passenger on any distance more than a few miles

Instant

I have only had the bike for 7 months, so too early to comment

Thirsty on fuel

Tall screen & great handling so

Smooth and quick

As all round year rider, cheaper than previous bikes

Got all I need

I would do a world tour on this bike. 300 plus miles a day in comfort with suitable breaks. Laps up the bumpy roads, gearbox (auto) is excellent on manual (extra foot changer fitted) and super lazy on auto. Brakes are excellent. Never faded. On second set of pads changed at 12000 approx. The bikes permanently fitted with panniers and any speed you wish is there. Totally stable in all the miles i've done so far. MPG is much better than the press have said - typically 220 to a tank. Only complaint is a slightly vague front end at low speeds. The more speed the more feel you get. You can outrun GS's on the straight but in the curves the CoG is too high for me to really find out if it can out turn them - my balls ain't big enough to find out!

Pulls like a train. Super smooth with a hint of V4 vibe to remind you its there. Tireless and loads of torque and pulls from 500 rpm and just keeps going and going until your license is at risk. It's the engine that's the absolute star of this bike. If you love low torque, low revving power houses its for you.

Almost faultless. One fork seal failed (fixed FOC under warranty). One front caliper was dragging (slightly sticky piston possibly due to ingress of dirt). Everything is built like a Swiss watch. Fitted aftermarket Aluminium panniers - better built and better designed than Honda's flimsy offerings. Totally reliable.

Owner serviced so just my time. I use top oil, OEM filters and tyres of my choice. It's a little heavy on tyres - in 16000 miles it's on the 4th set. Pirelli's , Conti's and Bridgestones all around 4000 miles - its a torquey heavy bike. Best so far are Dunlop front an Avon rear heading for 6000+ miles.

I'd avoid the Honda luggage and buy top quality aluminium kit (I fitted German kit). Standard screen is surprisingly good. Tyre wear can be poor if you choose soft tyres. but that's the price of shaft drive and weight. If you can afford the bike just buy the tyres or twist the throttle more gently! Avon tyres are proving to be very good on the bike.

A bit thirsty but then again I never got into biking to watch the fuel gauge I just did it for enjoyment