Ducati Monster 1200 S versus Honda VFR1200 F

Make
Model
Make
Model
Make
Model
Ducati

Ducati Monster 1200 S

Naked
Honda

Honda VFR1200 F

Sporttourer

Year of construction / RRP / Test report

Built von 2014 bis 2020
Built von 2009 bis 2016
RRP 17.490 €
RRP
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Pros:
  • Power
  • precise chassis
  • Comfort
  • Assistance Systems
  • Processing
Pros:
  • Extremely good brakes
  • Drives like an Intercity
  • Touring-ready
  • good pillion comfort
  • beefy engine
Cons:
  • Windbreak
Cons:
  • Traction control only from 2012
  • heavy machine, nothing for beginners
  • Torque weakness up to 3,500 rpm

Dimensions & Weight

Wheelbase: 1.485 mm
Length :
2.156 mm Height : 1.117 mm
Seat :
795 mm until : 820 mm
Weight :
213 kg
Wheelbase: 1.545 mm
Length :
2.250 mm Height : 1.220 mm
Seat :
815 mm
Weight :
267 kg

Engine

Motor design: V 2 Cylinder
Displacement: 1.198 ccm
Hub: 68 mm
Hole: 106 mm
Cooling: flüssig
Drive: Kette
Aisles: 6
Motor design: Four-cylinder four-stroke V-engine 4 Cylinder
Displacement: 1.237 ccm
Hub: 60 mm
Hole: 81 mm
Cooling: flüssig
Drive: Kardan
Aisles: 6

Performance

Maximum speed: 255 km/h
Performance: 147 HP at 9.250 U/Min
Torque: 124 NM bei 7.750 U/Min
Tank contents: 18 Litre
Consumption:
5 l
Reach:
350 km
Maximum speed: 250 km/h
Performance: 173 HP at 10.000 U/Min
Torque: 129 NM bei 8.750 U/Min
Tank contents: 19 Litre

Chassis

Frame type:
Lattice tube (steel)
Rear suspension:
Mono strut (travel 149 mm)
Rear suspension:
Single-arm swingarm
Front suspension:
Telescopic fork with 43 mm tube diameter (travel 109 mm)
Rear suspension:
Single-arm swingarm
Tyres at the front: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyres: 190/55-ZR17

Brakes

Front brake
Double disc ( 330 mm) Rear brake
Disc ( 245 mm)
Front brake
Double disc brake front with six-piston fixed calipers, floating brake discs ( 320 mm) Rear brake
Single disc brake rear with double piston caliper ( 276 mm)

Conclusion - forever young

It is, of course, a toy, one for older children who want to (and can) spend at least 17,290 euros on their gift. Hear my words: Every penny of it is well invested!

Before I forget it: I have now studied the data sheet. The Duc is not only up to date in terms of engine and chassis, but also in terms of assistance systems: series are Wheelie Control, Curve ABS from Bosch, Traction Control, Ride By Wire and three driving modes ...

... not even this prejudice lasts more.

The test bike was provided to us by Ducati Hamburg.

Price / Availability / Colours / Years of Construction

  • Price: €17,290
  • Used (1200s, 3 years old): 9.000€
  • Years built: 1200 since 2014
  • Availability: good
  • Colours: red, grey

Conclusion - what gets stuck

The Honda VFR 1200 F is one of the most beautiful motorcycles for me. She's no less than a design icon and there's no motorcycle that looks like it. Admittedly, design is a matter of taste, but at least the VFR shouldn't leave anyone cold. Their appearance arouses emotions and that's exactly what motorcycles should do, right?

The VFR is certainly not a beginner's motorcycle, but it has far too much power and is too heavy. But if you already have motorcycle experience and stand on big ships, you will be thrilled by the absolutely sovereign idea that the VFR delivers on motorways and country roads. If you are looking for a small, agile motorcycle for the city, you probably won't have read this test article until this one anyway. ;-)

The test motorcycle was kindly provided by Motorrad Ruser.
 

Price/Availability/Colours/Years of Construction

  • Price: 15.000€
  • Used (10 years old): 7.500€
  • Years built: 2010-2016
  • Colours: red, white, silver