Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Honda VFR1200FD is a sport touring middleweight powered by a liquid-cooled 1237cc V4 engine paired with an innovative dual-clutch transmission. Best known for combining sporty performance with practicality, it appeals to riders seeking accessible sportbike thrills without sacrificing comfort or reliability. The advanced DCT system and shaft drive make it ideal for those prioritizing smooth acceleration and low-maintenance touring.
General information | |
| Category | Sport |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Emission details | Meets current California Air Resources Board (CARB) and EPA standards. |
| Clutch | Electronic Dual Clutch |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Ignition | Digital transistorized with electronic advance |
| Fuel control | Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
| Fuel system | Injection. Programmed Fuel Injection with automatic enrichment circuit, 44mm throttle bodies and 12-hole injectors |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x Stroke | 81.0 x 60.0 mm (3.2 x 2.4 inches) |
| Compression | 12.0:1 |
| Torque | 129.00 Nm (13.2 kgf-m or 95.2 ft.lbs) @ 8750 RPM |
| Engine type | V4, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1237.00 ccm (75.48 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Die cast aluminium |
| Rear brakes diameter | 276 mm (10.9 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. 2-piston calliper, C-ABS and sintered metal pads |
| Front brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. 6-piston callipers, C-ABS and sintered metal pads |
| Rear tyre | 190/55-ZR17 |
| Front tyre | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear wheel travel | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | Pro Arm single-side swingarm with Pro-Link single gas-charged shock with remote spring-preload adjustability and rebound-damping adjustability |
| Front wheel travel | 119 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Front Suspension | 43mm cartridge fork with spring-preload adjustability |
| Trail | 101 mm (4.0 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 25.0° |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 18.50 litres (4.89 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,544 mm (60.8 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 125 mm (4.9 inches) |
| Overall width | 740 mm (29.1 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,250 mm (88.6 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,220 mm (48.0 inches) |
| Seat height | 815 mm (32.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 277.0 kg (610.7 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Red, white, silver |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders with prior big-bike experience who want a powerful sport-tourer without having to manage a clutch lever. |
| Purpose | Designed for effortless high-speed, long-distance sport-touring with a V4 engine and automated dual-clutch gearbox handling the shifting. |
| Rider Fit | At around 277 kg it demands confident low-speed handling and a decent inseam, though the DCT removes clutch-lever fatigue from the equation. |
| Character | A refined, torque-rich shaft-drive V4 that blends sport-bike urgency with grand-touring smoothness and cutting-edge automated transmission tech. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for off-road riders, lightweight-bike enthusiasts, or purists who insist on a manual clutch and traditional gear lever. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
⚠ Safety Recalls (2)
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2007, 2009-2017 CBR600RR, 2008-2017, 2021 CBR1000RR, and 2010, 2012-2013 VFR1200 motorcycles. The fuel pump impellers may have been improperly molded, which can cause them to deform and result in fuel pump failure.
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump module as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 3, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda's numbers for this recall are KR2, KR3, KR4 and KR5. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 24V-113.
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2010, 2012 and 2013 VFR1200F and VFR1200FD motorcycles. Manufacturing or assembly errors may result in the affected motorcycles having driveshaft universal joint bearings that may prematurely wear which can cause the universal joint to separate or break.
Risk: If the universal joint separates, the motorcycle would stall. If the universal joint breaks, it may interfere with the swing arm and lock the rear wheel. Either condition could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Honda will be notify owners, and dealers will replace the driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began on December 29, 2015, however parts may not be available until mid-2016. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009. Honda's number for this recall is JW2.
Source: NHTSA. View all Honda recalls →
Rider Reviews
MotorcycleDB Review
The 2012 Honda VFR1200FD Dual Clutch Transmission motorcycle offers a unique and advanced transmission system that provides a smooth and seamless riding experience. The DCT allows for quick and efficient gear changes, making it easier for riders to navigate through different road conditions. The VFR1200FD also boasts a powerful 1237cc V4 engine, delivering strong acceleration and impressive performance on the road. With its sporty design and innovative technology, this Honda motorcycle is a great choice for riders looking for a reliable and high-performing bike. Overall, the 2012 Honda VFR1200FD with Dual Clutch Transmission is a top-notch motorcycle that combines cutting-edge technology with impressive performance. The DCT system sets this bike apart from others in its class, providing a smooth and efficient riding experience. With its powerful engine and sporty design, the VFR1200FD is a great option for riders who value both performance and innovation in their motorcycle.Add a Comment
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