Honda XL1000V Varadero - 2008 Specifications and Reviews

The 2008 Honda XL1000V Varadero is a versatile adventure sport tourer powered by a 996cc V-twin engine delivering 92.5 horsepower. Best suited for riders seeking comfortable long-distance touring with genuine off-road capability, it excels as an allround middleweight adventure bike. Known for its balanced performance, reliability, and practical design for both road and light trail riding.

4 stars Average rating: 4 from 3 votes
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General information

CategoryAllround
Year2008
ModelHonda XL1000V Varadero

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
IgnitionComputer-controlled digital transistorised with electronic advance
Fuel controlDOHC
Fuel systemInjection. PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Bore x stroke98.0 x 66.0 mm (3.9 x 2.6 inches)
Compression9.8:1
Torque98.00 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 6000
Power92.53
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:996.00 ccm (60.78 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter256 mm (10.1 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter296 mm (11.7 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear suspensionPro-Link damper with 40-step spring preload (and stepless rebound damping) adjustment, 145mm axle travel
Front suspension43mm telescopic fork, 155mm axle travel

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity25.00 litres (6.61 gallons)
Wheelbase1,560 mm (61.4 inches)
Ground clearance181 mm (7.1 inches)
Overall length2,300 mm (90.6 inches)
Seat height838 mm (33.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.3789 HP/kg
Dry weight244.2 kg (538.4 pounds)
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

92.5 hp
Peak Power
4.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track30%
City55%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding70%
Touring90%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with at least some intermediate experience, given the tall seat height and substantial mass to manage at low speeds.
PurposeBuilt primarily as a long-distance adventure tourer that prioritizes comfort and range over outright sportiness or serious off-road capability.
Rider FitRiders will need decent height and strength to comfortably flat-foot the 838mm seat and handle the bike's considerable dry weight when maneuvering off the throttle.
CharacterA relaxed, torquey V-twin workhorse that rewards smooth, unhurried riding over long distances rather than aggressive cornering or acceleration.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for riders seeking sharp, lightweight handling for track days or technical single-track off-road trails.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2008 Honda XL1000V Varadero Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 838mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2008 Honda XL1000V Varadero, with a relaxed knee angle of around 135 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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