Mixed feedback as Honda VFR1200F makes UK debut

UK dealers have reported mixed success from Honda’s nationwide launch weekend for the VFR1200F.  

• Latest news on the Honda VFR1200F

Every Honda dealer in the UK had display and test bikes for the Valentine’s weekend launch event and while some dealers reported confirmed sales and positive customer feedback, others felt the weekend didn’t create enough interest in the bike.  

Sales manager Neil Morris of Lancaster Honda said: “It was a really positive weekend for us with around 250 people attending over the three days. The weather really didn’t help us in terms of test rides because it was really cold and the roads were really greasy. The feedback from the test rides was very positive though.

“They loved the agility of the bikes, the throttle response and the wind protection. We already had three orders and took two more over the weekend. A number of the people are coming back for longer test rides once the weather gets better to have another ride.”

Mike Adlington is the boss of Johns of Romford – one of the biggest dealers in Greater London. He feels the bike would have been more successful if it had been displayed at major shows before it became available.

He said: “So far we have taken one order which will be going out on March 1 with the new registration. I think it was a mistake not showing the bike at shows like the NEC and MCN London Show. We had around 70-odd people over the weekend but no orders. You’ve got to show new bikes off at shows as it builds the interest.

“I’ve ridden the VFR and I know that if people ride it then they will appreciate just how good it is and I can sell more of them from that point.”