This beautiful Honda xl1000v Varadero motorcycle is suitable for those who love to travel to various interesting cities and places. One very interesting case helped me get acquainted with the Honda xl1000v Varadero model. I have a good friend, he invited me to go with him for a test drive. This, in turn, is a good reason to look at a cool motorcycle, and also to study and analyze it, and an excellent opportunity to travel around cities.
I think few people would refuse this tempting offer, especially if you are into motorcycles. Another great advantage was that the organizers of this event took on all the expenses themselves; it would, of course, be even better if there was such an opportunity to change motorcycles every day, but there was one strict condition, one motorcycle per person, and you cannot take another vehicle in no case. Participants just need to ride these bikes, take notes and analyze all their emotions from riding this vehicle.
varadero honda
Honda and factories not in Japan
Models from 1999 to 2002 were equipped with a two-cylinder engine with a carburetor fuel supply system.
- Three years after the start of sales ( 2001 ), production moved to factories in Spain , where it was produced for 10 years .
- In 2011, the model moved again, Italy .
The last year of production was 2012 , after which the Varadero became history.
Peculiarities
Since 2003, the motorcycle has received an injection system instead of a carburetor.
The entire time the model was on the assembly line, it was constantly being refined, but dramatic changes occurred in 2003 . The gearbox was replaced, the suspension and generator were updated. The engine was constantly being improved. Therefore, most descriptions divide production into two generations, before 2003 or after.
Although Varadero's place in production was taken by the VFR1200X Crosstourer , it is called the older sister of the Transalp series, which was produced around the same time. It’s no wonder that some parts of the bikes are interchangeable. But the series did not receive a liter or more. The maximum engine capacity for Transalp models is 700 cc .
There is no limit to perfection
Perhaps no one doubts the legendary quality of Honda. Varadero motorcycles are no exception. And yet even they are subject to tuning. Often this concerns solely the modernization of appearance. Still, each bike should have its own face. Upgrading the lighting system and painting are the most common upgrades.
Spare parts for Honda Varadero are easy to obtain today, which is ensured by a developed dealer network. Often these bikes are equipped with additional panniers, because on a long journey you need to take everything you need.
Specifications
They did not invent a new power plant for a motorcycle. The prototype was a sports motor - VTR1000F, launched into series a year earlier.
View from the brake foot side.
View from the gearbox foot.
It was updated, brought to environmental standards and significantly deformed. As a result, the maximum power dropped, but the traction leveled out across the entire rev range. Like its parent, it is a 2-cylinder 4-stroke engine with a V-shaped pistons arrangement :
- working volume - 996 cm3;
- power - 94 hp;
- number of valves - 8;
- cylinders - 2;
- cooling - liquid;
The radiators are located on the sides of the engine; for better cooling, there are cutouts in the fairings.
- fuel supply - Keihin carburetor, 42 mm, PGM-F injector (since 2003);
- ignition - transistor;
- start - electric starter;
- fuel tank - 25 l.
Users noted that despite the depower, the engine is quite powerful, with “diesel” traction. It's easy to screw up the bike .
The generator deserves a separate discussion. According to the owners' reviews, it was not enough to power all the powerful electrics of the bikes of the first versions. But when the generation changed, the generator was redesigned, significantly increasing the output power . On the updated motorcycle, additional devices could be connected to it.
Transmission and clutch
2003 also affected the chassis. The gearbox became 6-speed, the gear ratios were recalculated, and the pedal stroke was made longer.
A peculiarity of the drive is the grinding of the slider and pendulum when the chain is weakened. But this is more likely not a sore of the model, but a lack of maintenance.
However, this did not affect handling. Neutral was easily caught, and gears were switched clearly. According to user reviews, it was possible to get underway in second, but for normal city traffic the third was recommended, according to the tachometer - 6-8 thousand revolutions .
- The clutch control became a cable control again, but the clutch itself remained unchanged. The bike had a multi-disc oil bath design.
- The main drive is standard, chain.
Brakes
Front brakes.
Rear brakes.
The motorcycle received disc hydraulics.
Front brakes:
- number of disks - 2;
- diameter - 296 mm;
- support - 3-piston.
Rear brakes:
- number of disks - 1;
- diameter - 256 mm;
- support - 3-piston.
Already from the first years of production, the motorcycle received combi-breaks . For proper functioning, an additional third piston is installed on each bracket. Since 2003, the Varadero VA . The new symbol in the name indicated the presence of ABS.
Driving characteristics of the XL 1000 V Varadero
A powerful engine and considerable weight make driving the motorcycle very dynamic and comfortable.
The motorcycle's data sheet indicates a maximum speed of 200 km/h. However, according to users, it was no coincidence that the speedometer was marked up to 230 km/h . The ability to gain such speed depended only on the skill of the motorcyclist; there was enough power.
Acceleration to hundreds
Acceleration to 100 km/h also showed good dynamics, the mark was reached in 3.9 seconds .
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption was influenced by the motor's sporting background. The passport data indicated 5.5 liters . But according to reviews from the owners, this could only be seen on a test bench. The actual consumption during a mixed cycle of use is over 6 liters ; when riding only in urban conditions, it was even 8 liters .
"Honda Varadero 1000" in a motorcycle battle
Have you decided to use a heavy-duty tourist for its intended purpose? Well, let's take a closer look at the bike from this point of view.
Those who have had the opportunity to leave hundreds of miles behind them usually speak about Varadero in approximately the same vein. It encourages long journeys. It was created just for them. He can and should be entrusted with a long journey.
Old bikers say that 1000 kilometers a day is a solid indicator for a long journey. Anything less is frivolous, and anything more is an ordinary sports race. The philosophy of long-distance motorcycling implies not only covering as many kilometers as possible, but also not “getting stuck” for several days in the same place. Varadero has all this to offer.
The spacious seat provides the proper level of comfort for both the passenger and the driver. You won’t have to stop and warm up after every hundred, you won’t have to forget about contemplating the surrounding beauties while languishing in pain. The soft suspension with enormous travel seems to be created for Russian roads - it confidently absorbs both bumps and potholes. Another notable option is the huge windshield. It protects from headwinds and seems to encourage the driver to break into speeds that are no longer touring. According to the descriptions of those who have extensive experience riding the Varadero, the motorcycle maintains excellent speed. And although tourism does not imply reckless racing, different situations happen on the road. Sometimes the ability to reach an island of civilization in a minimum amount of time can save someone’s life.
The carrying capacity is also impressive. This already heavy bike, weighing almost a quarter of a ton, will confidently drag two riders along with their luggage.
Dimensions and weight
The external dimensions of the bike were impressive. He had:
- length - 2,300 mm;
- width - 930 mm;
- in height - 1,465 mm.
In 2007, a small modernization was carried out, as a result of which the bike became a little smaller.
The latest models had:
- length - 2,292 mm ;
- width - 924 mm ;
- in height - 1,465 mm .
- Seat height - 838 mm .
- Wheelbase and ground clearance are 1560 mm and 181 mm , respectively.
The large size also determined the weight:
- Dry weight varied from 220 kg (first generation) to 245 kg (since 2007);
- Loaded from 230 kg (first versions) to 269 kg (2007 and later).
The version with ABS weighed 277 kg .
Bike features
Here are the main features of the bike:
- cable clutch;
- six-speed gearbox;
- large weight over 220 kg.
This is one of the best touring enduros not only in terms of its characteristics, but also in terms of design. The model will delight motorcycle aesthetes with well-chosen colors, thoughtful frame curves, and stylish alloy wheels.
For whom is it intended?
The Varadero is designed to be driven with a passenger and luggage, the weight of which is not even felt and does not affect maneuverability at all.
The developers did not answer the question for whom. But the European assembly implied an answer, but there was one BUT!
The seat height meant a comfortable fit for people of average and tall height. However, the windshield was low for them. It was not enough for long trips.
At the same time, bikers of average height noticed that the “sofa” was large and wide, as well as high. The ride is comfortable, but you need to get used to the landing.
Challenge accepted
Some believe that this was something of a throwing down of the gauntlet towards the BMW concern, which was very successful in touring and enduro building. It was not in vain that Honda made ambitious plans to conquer this market segment, because the experience with Transalp and Africa Twin was very successful. The new creation embodies the best traditions of the manufacturer, its constant quality standards and the most advanced developments.
Modifications
Varadero became an intermediate version, on which the Japanese worked out solutions that later appeared on models designed to compete with European tourists - Honda VTR1000X, VFR1200X .
Therefore, they were not interested in modifications to the bike. Only the Varadero VA , the only difference being the standard ABS .
At the same time, another motorcycle of the concern received this name - Honda XL125V Varadero .
Apart from the cubic capacity, which was reduced by 8 times, this bike had all the capabilities of its older brother. Long-travel suspensions, a large amount of plastic, a good volume of the fuel tank, an injector (from the second generation). Even in external dimensions, the younger brother could compete with the older one. The parameters differed by 3–5 cm . Having all the capabilities of a large touring enduro, the owner of this version spends half as much on fuel.
Production
It was no coincidence that the bike was produced for over ten years. The machine is one of the most powerful touring enduros of our time. Of course, as the industry continues to grow in power, the XL 1000 V is also one of the most powerful class bikes in history.
Flaws
Honda XL 1000 Varadero is an excellent bike for traveling on roads with any surface from asphalt to dirt, but still on roads! It’s better not to go into real off-road conditions on it.
Among the disadvantages of the bike are:
- Heavy weight . It is difficult to reverse out of the garage, difficult to turn at speed.
- Saddle . Comfortable and wide, it requires some getting used to.
- Wide steering wheel . With such dimensions it is difficult to shoot between rows.
- Fuel consumption . When cruising at 160 km/h on the highway you will spend 7 liters .
- Inconvenient position of radiators on the sides . When hit, they break along with the plastic.
At the same time, many owners note that most of the disadvantages in some cases can become advantages.
and dignity
Honda has long proven itself to be indestructible in its motorcycles, and the Varadero is no exception.
But there are also net advantages:
- Clearance . In the city, you can easily jump on the curb without slowing down and drive over speed bumps.
- Pendant . Although there are not a large number of settings, what is available allows you to roll freely both on rough dirt roads and on good asphalt.
- Reliability . Even used versions work fine.
- Good dynamics.
- Great motor . Pulls well and does not create vibrations.
- Doesn't heat up . Even in hot weather, the temperature gauge is slightly above zero.
- Floating indicator light . All lights, except for the turns, and ABS, have different brightness. As the problem grows, the brightness of the glow increases.
But also an advantage is the seating height, which allows you to clearly see the road conditions over the roofs of cars.
Little brother
Honda Varadero 1000 is not the only member of the family. It has another brother of the same name, but with a 125 cc engine.
It has less weight (149 kg) and much less power. This model is positioned as a city bike. You can accelerate this fast iron horse up to 115 kilometers per hour, but it has excellent dynamics. The undeniable quality of Honda, economical fuel consumption, availability of spare parts and excellent handling are the distinctive features of the Honda Varadero 125 motorcycle. It makes no sense to compare it with a powerful liter unit; these “brothers” have completely different purposes and different fates. Each of them has its advantages.
Needless to say that the small car "Varadero" inherited the same sports-tourist soul? Is it possible to ride into the blue distance on this motorcycle as boldly as on its liter relative? Everyone seeks answers to these questions on their own. After all, the owner always knows his bike better than all the experts and researchers combined. And in the long-distance motorbike race, some people even ride “Yubrik” bikes.
In other words, objectively evaluate your plans and the tasks that the motorcycle will have to perform. And if you liked this motorcycle family, but you do not plan to drive on the highway for a long time, but spend most of your time in the city, then the Honda Varadero 125 can become your faithful companion and reliable friend. It fits perfectly into the fast pace of a modern city, feels at ease in the face of traffic jams, and does not require too much troublesome maintenance. This bike accelerates quickly and shows excellent stability on the road surface. And his appearance is modern, stylish and expressive. What else does a good city bike need?
